By the end of September, Marathon’s Holiday Inn Express will officially be a Fairfield Inn & Suites, part of the Marriott flagship. The hotel on the east end of the island has been undergoing big renovations all summer long — new exterior paint, for example, and a new outdoor breakfast area.
“Our team of conscientious and friendly associates look forward to introducing Marathon visitors to the Fairfield Inn & Suites brand,” said general manager Michael Weber. “We are focused on providing a warm welcome and heartfelt service to all our guests.”
Other, bigger improvements are just around the corner.
“The views from our new complex of suites are just amazing,” said Paige Guiliano, the local director of sales. “All 27 suites have ocean views and a kitchen. It’s great for an extended stay or family groups.” The suites are expected to be ready by the beginning of November and are in addition to the 100-plus traditional hotel rooms in the main building.
The new building is fronted by a second pool and a new tiki area.
The existing pool next to Sparky’s Landing restaurant has been refreshed with new patio furniture and inviting hammocks have been added.
Right next to Sparky’s will be another focal point of activity — the water activity concession by Deep Blue Dive, a brand new fitness center, and Market. The Market will have a fishing corner and dive gear for sale, as well as drinks and snacks. Deep Blue Dive will offer Jet Ski tours, kayak and paddleboard rentals, fishing trips and sunset cruises. The fitness center boasts equipment ranging from free weights to elliptical machines. The hotel even has off-site trailer parking for guests who bring their own boats.
Marathon’s Fairfield Inn & Suites is part of OTO Development and its parent company The Johnson Group which currently owns or operates 70 hotels. OTO acquired the Keys property in December 2018.
“We are delighted to unveil the fresh new look and new brand. When we purchased this property, we had a distinct vision of how we could enhance this incredible location with modern but relaxed design elements, furthering our partnership with Marriott,” said Corry Oakes, CEO of OTO Development.
