The Tribune

Grand Bahama's Pelican Bay resort last week celebrated its 12th anniversary, after being the only hotel to stay open following Hurricane Matthew.

The 184-room hotel suffered significant damage from the Category Four storm, but this did not dampen the mood of staff who attended the anniversary celebration in its lobby.

"We have worked hard to maintain our standards during a very difficult time for our island," said Magnus Alnebeck, Pelican Bay's general manager.

"My staff was exceptional in keeping our doors open, and our success is due to them and our consistent work to improve our quality of product and service."

He added: "We are very pleased to announce that our company will now reinvest back in our hotel as we undergo over $1 million in renovation work, creating rooms that maintain our island feel but offer modern amenities and technology for our tourist and business clientele."

In addition to the upgrades, Pelican Bay recently added a spa service and is finishing work on an in-house gym.

"It's been a great year despite Hurricane Matthew," said Della Bridgewater, Pelican Bay's operations manager. "Our staff has helped us fulfill our motto of being the 'happiest hotel' on the island, and our guests have been very accommodating and supportive both during the storm and after. We are excited about the future and improving our product for Grand Bahama's success."