What is Christmas Island Resort?
Christmas Island Resort is a luxury resort located on Christmas Island, a territory of Australia located in the Indian Ocean. The resort, which has become a popular tourist destination, offers breathtaking views of the island’s natural beauty and provides a wide range of amenities and activities for its guests.
History of Christmas Island: A Brief Overview
Christmas Island was discovered by Captain William Mynors of the British East India Company in 1643. The island was later annexed by the British in 1888 and used as a phosphate mining site. In 1958, the Australian government took over control of the island and it became a territory of Australia. Today, Christmas Island is known for its unique flora and fauna, including the annual migration of the red crab population, which has become a popular tourist attraction.
Development of Tourism in Christmas Island
Tourism on Christmas Island began in the 1970s with the opening of a small hotel. In the following decades, more hotels and guesthouses were established on the island, and tourism became an important industry. In the early 2000s, the Australian government recognized the potential for further development of the tourism industry and began investing in infrastructure and marketing campaigns to attract more visitors to the island.
The Emergence of Christmas Island Resort
As tourism on Christmas Island continued to grow, there was an increasing demand for a luxury resort that would cater to the needs of high-end travelers. In response to this demand, a group of investors began planning the construction of a luxury resort on the island.
The Creation of Christmas Island Resort: A Timeline
Early Planning Stages of the Resort
In 2004, a group of investors formed Christmas Island Resort Pty Ltd, with the aim of building a luxury resort on Christmas Island. The investors conducted a feasibility study and developed a concept plan for the resort, which would be located on a 14-hectare site on the island’s western coast.
Construction and Development of the Resort
Construction of the resort began in 2008, with the first stage of the project including the construction of 16 villas, a restaurant, a bar, and a swimming pool. The second and third stages of the project involved the construction of additional villas, a spa, and a conference center. The total cost of the project was estimated to be around AUD 30 million.
Grand Opening of Christmas Island Resort
The grand opening of Christmas Island Resort took place on December 1, 2010. The event was attended by local dignitaries and members of the Australian government, as well as the resort’s investors and management team. The resort was officially opened by the Governor-General of Australia, Quentin Bryce.
Reception and Feedback from Visitors
Since its opening, Christmas Island Resort has been well-received by visitors, who have praised the resort’s luxury amenities and stunning location. The resort has also been recognized by the tourism industry, winning awards such as the 2011 Western Australian Tourism Awards for best new tourism development.
Christmas Island Resort Today
Today, Christmas Island Resort continues to attract visitors from around the world and has become one of the island’s most popular tourist destinations. The resort offers a range of activities, including snorkeling, diving, and birdwatching, as well as luxury amenities such as a spa and fine dining restaurant.
Conclusion: The Significance of Christmas Island Resort
The creation of Christmas Island Resort was a significant development in the history of tourism on Christmas Island. The resort has not only provided a much-needed luxury accommodation option for visitors to the island but has also contributed to the growth of the island’s tourism industry and economy.
References and Further Reading
- Christmas Island Resort. (2021). About Us. https://www.christmasislandresort.com.au/about-us/
- Christmas Island Tourism Association. (2021). History. https://www.christmas.net.au/about/history/
- Australian Government Department of the Environment and Energy. (2013). Christmas Island – A Natural Wonder. https://www.environment.gov.au/system/files/pages/2a52d773-e6a2-4b3e-8c8e-29aa7eecc646/files/christmas-island-factsheet.pdf
