The Maslow finds a new rhythm as guests return

One of the lessons learnt was that it “takes longer to open a hotel than to close one”. “A closed property deteriorates so quickly. Dirt, dust, leaves, long grass, pests… Rooms also had to be sanitised completely. It took about three weeks to be ready to open our doors.”

When he heard The Maslow was to re-open, he was apprehensive. “We limited our staff complement due to extremely low levels of business, but also to minimise the risk of infection. I wasn’t sure if we would be able to deliver, especially since staff had been on a six-month break and were out of practice.” However, Swart was pleasantly surprised at the willingness to return and get stuck into work. 

Once the pandemic is over, some of the measures that have worked well will remain standard practice. “We will keep the pre-packaged food items in our breakfast buffet, as these have proven to work well for our customers who are often more inclined to grab ‘n go.” Washable covers for the TV remote controls and coffee station trays in rooms will also remain a feature.

Swart said he was hoping for a busy December, due to the upshift in local leisure.

“We aren’t going to see significant international travel until June 2021. That is, of course, if we don’t hit another wave of infections that will necessitate further restrictions.”

When he finally gets to travel again, Swart (and his dog) will visit his farm in the Outeniqua Mountains outside Mossel Bay. “I am also looking forward to going to Qatar to meet my grandson, who was born during lockdown.”