By Erasmus Shalihaxwe

Strand Hotel Swakopmund, a subsidiary of Ohlthaver & List Group (O&L) Leisure and one of the luxury hospitality establishments in Namibia, is celebrating its 10th anniversary at the coastal town. O&L Leisure managing director Seven Thieme, said ten years ago, the Strand Hotel Swakopmund opened on the historic Mole, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey that redefined luxury hospitality on Namibia's coast, evolving into one of the country's most celebrated beachfront destinations.

Explaining that since 2015, the hotel has achieved extraordinary recognition, earning ‘’Namibia's Leading Beach Hotel" at the World Travel Awards for three consecutive years from 2022, 2023 and 2024. With the Ocean Cellar Oyster & Wine Bar's honoured as "Namibia's Best Restaurant 2024" at the World Culinary Awards to further solidifies culinary excellence.

"The absolute highlight has been our strategic repositioning in 2023," says Sven Thieme, Managing Director of O&L Leisure. "We've invested in renovating our restaurants and elevating every aspect of the guest experience,’’ said Thieme.

According to him, the hotel has welcomed distinguished guests in recent years, including American actor Tom Cruise, His Majesty King Philippe of Belgium, Will Smith and numerous Namibian presidents. While the hotel has also created 250 permanent jobs and hosting beloved events like the Sandman Marathon, and the Strand has become woven into Swakopmund's social fabric.

‘’Today, ranked number out of 21 hotels in Swakopmund with 8.6-8.7 ratings on Booking.com, the Strand Hotel embodies O&L Leisure's promise of gentle luxury and authentic Namibian hospitality,’’ added Thieme.