Even as renovations continue at the Fairmont Hamilton Princess, visitors who have had the opportunity to stay in the Poinciana Wing’s upgraded guest rooms have praised the improvements.

Phase two of a $90 million renovation and restoration project is under way, resulting in a large part of the hotel being closed to the public until work is completed in May.

However, rooms in the Poinciana Wing were opened last year and the improvements were noted by overseas visitors who stayed at the hotel during Bermuda Marathon Weekend.

Thom Gilligan, president of Boston-based Marathon Tours and Travel, which each January arranges travel and accommodation for groups of overseas runners participating in the Island’s running festival, gave the upgraded rooms the thumbs-up.

“I have been staying at the Fairmont Hamilton for about ten years for the Bermuda Marathon Weekend,” he said.

“The rooms in the Poinciana Wing will meet the comfort and expectations of the most discriminating traveller.

“The staff seem proud of the improvements and are eager to assist you in any way.”

Mr Gilligan, who raced on all three days of the Bermuda Marathon Weekend to complete the Bermuda Triangle Challenge, added: “I look forward to my return when the rest of the renovations are completed.”

The Poinciana Wing was included in phase one of the renovation work, which began in the second half of 2013 and was completed ahead of last year’s summer season.

The hotel has 410 guest rooms. Phase two of the renovation work is now being carried out on other guest rooms, the Heritage Court and outside areas leading off from the main lobby. The Gazebo Room is being transformed into a new restaurant, which will be headed by celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson.

Roydell Neverson, the hotel’s director of rooms, said: “This weekend was an exciting one for the Fairmont Hamilton Princess as the hotel welcomed marathon runners from overseas for Bermuda Marathon Weekend.

“Since we opened the Poinciana Wing in May last year, feedback from guests has been very positive.

“Visitors love the upgraded guest rooms and suites as well as the expanded balconies and views overlooking the harbour.

“They also enjoy the new infinity pool as well as the opportunity to overlook the water while dining at 1609.

“Due to overwhelming demand, 1609 is open for lunch and cocktails all winter, which also has been well received by patrons.”

She added: “Our teams have worked hard on the renovations and continue to do so and I believe guests will only be more pleased once we unveil phase two renovations this summer.”