The resort that never opened: Sheraton Rarotonga, Cook Islands.
Around the world there are numerous tales of failed hotel projects, but in the South Pacific at least, this is a celebrated case. If ‘celebrated’ is the right word.
The project was kicked off by a shady Italian who managed to enlist numerous backers. He seduced the tiny island nation of the Cook Islands and the project ran wildly over budget.
Building works were invoiced and paid, but never actually completed.
And the backers and insurers eventually said, “enough” and stopped all the funds when the place was within a whisker of opening. Several attempts to restart the project have all failed. Hilton were brought in at one stage, but their attempt also stalled. The last work to be done was around 1993.
Bathrooms were tiled and fitted out. Air conditioning wired and installed.
Some rooms were even furnished to ‘lock up’ stage.
Some 200 rooms were constructed. A few are occupied by careful squatters, others by gangs, the rest are just ruins.
Windows broken and open to the elements.
Nature reclaiming the common walkways and corridors.
Once almost ready to receive guests, now just hosting weeds and debris.
The main reception area.
This wing is where the gangs have their headquarters. Dont go in there.
Under the main reception building.
Out onto the expansive central courtyard, gardens and pool.
Auxiliary buildings at rear. Maybe laundry or something?
Offices in a shambles.
A true ‘Heartbreak Hotel’
Four-legged guests now patrol the grounds.
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