70% of star hotel rooms booked in Vizag as IFR & MILAN begin

Visakhapatnam: As the city hosts three major naval events from February 15 to 25, star hotels are witnessing a surge in demand. With over 70% of rooms already booked for the week, the hospitality sector is cashing in on the International Fleet Review (IFR), Exercise MILAN-2026, and the IONS Conclave. Stakeholders say the influx of foreign delegates will boost trade and tourism across the Vizag region.Initially, most rooms in five-star and deluxe hotels were blocked in anticipation of large international participation. "As confirmations have now been received from some countries, we expect part of the blocked inventory to be released in the coming days," said MV Pavan Kartheek, president of the Hotels and Restaurants Association of Andhra Pradesh.Many officers and naval personnel will be accommodated on ships, while senior officials and distinguished delegates are expected to stay in city hotels. Gala dinners and official hospitality events are also being organized, with leading hotels catering for the President of India's dinner and other official banquets.Despite the heightened activity, hotel rooms will remain available for business and leisure guests. "There is no shortage of accommodation, and the hospitality sector is well prepared to manage the event smoothly," Kartheek added.