Marriott International’s Fiji-based Area General Manager and Vice President Pacific Islands, Neeraj Chadha, discusses hotel performance and future opportunities in market.
Tell us a bit about Marriott International’s Fiji portfolio to date and any pipeline properties.
Marriott International currently operates five iconic properties across Fiji: Fiji Marriott Resort Momi Bay, Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, Sheraton Denarau Villas, Sheraton Resort & Spa, Tokoriki Island, and The Westin Fiji Golf Resort & Spa, which is undergoing a multi-million-dollar refurbishment. Pipeline properties: stay tuned. We had our President and CEO for Marriott International, Anthony Capuano, with Marriott’s C-Suite Senior Executive team visit Fiji earlier this year if that is any indication of what is potentially over the horizon.
How is the portfolio performing this year?
2025 is seeing normalisation settle in and Fiji is facing rate pressure as supply growth is increasing by 4% and outpacing current arrivals that is expected to increase further. We are seeing single-digit RevPar year-on-year growth with market stabilising; double-digit Marriott direct bookings.
Reinforcing need to elevate value proposition through product enhancements and elevated guest experiences: new adult wing at Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort; premium culinary experiences including the launch of Cellar & Barrel – Fiji’s only premium speakeasy bar, beach club experience offered at the iconic Sandy Point and more to come. Sheraton Denarau Villas is currently on a refurbishment schedule too.
Is this a market that you are exploring further opportunities? If so, what locations are of interest?
Our region within ANZP has a three-year strategy and the Pacific Islands especially Fiji plays a critical role in the journey. In growing forward, the Pacific Islands strategic framework aligns with Marriott’s overall purpose to connect people through the power of travel. Fiji has potential for growth and the Marriott’s development team have Fiji on the radar. Fiji has over 300 islands so there are opportunities to explore further.
What are your expectations for the travel and tourism landscape in Fiji over the next 12–18 months?
The next two quarters of 2025 and Q1 2026 looks positive. Emerging markets like China is on the recovery around the world including Fiji that augurs well for our market as they travel in the off season. The US represents a great opportunity with the strength of Marriott brand and power of 200M+ Bonvoy Members as Fiji Airways increases capacity in this key source market. Overall, Fiji will have a redefined premium value as a travel destination with most hotels completing refurbishment plans in 2025 and The Westin Fiji Golf Resort & Spa coming on online late Q4 2025 offering a more sophisticated experience.