Stays by oil workers provide lifeline to struggling hotels

A screening booth set up at the entrance of the Cara Lodge hotel

As businesses in the hospitality sector reel from the impacts of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic, the major hotels here have said that occupancy is relatively low but some are benefitting from stays by workers from the oil and gas industry.

These hotels, which have strict measures in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19, are accommodating workers who have been working on ExxonMobil and supporting firms’ oil operations offshore Guyana.

Notwithstanding, during a visit by Stabroek News to some of the hotels, it was observed that little activities were taking place as lobbies and dining facilities were empty. It was indicated that mostly a skeleton staff, comprised of mainly management, maintenance and security staff, were working.