Even as Grandvrio Resort Saipan prepares for its temporary closure, Mayor Ramon “RB” Camacho is holding onto hope. Urging management to reconsider a permanent shutdown, Camacho voiced his belief that the hotel—a fixture on Saipan’s tourist landscape—will ultimately reopen for the community it has served for decades.
In a statement to Variety, Saipan Mayor Ramon ‘RB’ Camacho expressed hope that the management might reconsider, adjust operations, and avoid a total closure.
“I hope the management reconsider their decision and adjust their operations accordingly and not to close completely,” the Saipan local chief executive said.
The mayor’s optimism is shared by others in government and industry. The Office of the Governor issued a statement voicing concern about Grandvrio’s closure, calling it a substantial loss for employees, their families, and the broader community.
The governor’s office praised the hotel staff and management for their contributions to the tourism sector, and noted that the reduction and suspension of direct flights have driven down occupancy rates to the lowest since 1992 (excluding the pandemic period). The administration remains committed to restoring and expanding air service, working with HANMI, hotel operators, and private partners to stabilize and grow the economy.
“We remain resolutely optimistic about the future of the CNMI economy. This period of unprecedented difficulty presents an opportunity for innovation and diversification,” the statement read.
HANMI
The Hotel Association of the Northern Mariana Islands (HANMI) has issued a statement acknowledging the planned temporary closure of Grandvrio Resort Saipan, effective April 1, 2026. HANMI Chairman Dennis Seo said the decision reflects the resort’s struggle with years of unprecedented challenges, including the lingering impacts of COVID-19 and continued limitations in air service to the Marianas.
“We understand that this decision follows several years of unprecedented challenges, including the ongoing impacts of COVID-19 and continued limitations in air service to the Marianas, which have significantly affected the tourism and hospitality sector,” Seo said. He added that HANMI respects the resort’s leadership for prioritizing long-term viability and expressed confidence in its intention to reopen once market conditions improve.
Seo emphasized that HANMI remains committed to supporting all hospitality operators during the recovery period. The association continues to work with industry partners, government stakeholders, and airlines to restore visitor arrivals and strengthen tourism for the Marianas.
Chamber, GCEA
Joe C. Guerrero, president of the Saipan Chamber of Commerce and co-chair of the Governor’s Council of Economic Advisers, on behalf of SCC, acknowledged the recent announcement of temporary closure of Grandvrio Resort, a pioneer resort that was loved by our community for decades.
“Their decision, while difficult, is a direct response to the ongoing challenges posed by low tourism arrivals, which have significantly impacted our local economy. Now, more than ever, the CNMI
government (Marianas Visitors Authority, Commonwealth Ports Authority, Governor’s Council of Economic Advisors, and other agencies), along with the private sector, are working collaboratively to enhance tourism recovery post-pandemic. Together, we are exploring innovative strategies, new product development, destination enhancements, and promotional efforts to reinvigorate interest in our beautiful islands and attract visitors once again. We recognize the invaluable contributions that Grandvrio Resort has made to Saipan over the years, including job creation and support for local businesses. As we navigate this period of extreme difficulty, we remain committed to uniting our efforts to revitalize our tourism sector and support the recovery of our hospitality industry. We look forward to the day when Grandvrio Resort can reopen its doors and welcome visitors back to our beautiful islands. In the meantime, we encourage everyone to continue to support our remaining local businesses and find ways to help keep our islands beautiful, clean, and welcoming for all.”
Grandvrio, formerly Hafa Adai Hotel, is operated by Japan’s Solare Hotels & Resorts and is one of Saipan’s largest hotels, with more than 400 guest rooms. The resort has been a cornerstone of the island’s tourism industry, hosting international visitors, conferences, and community events. Earlier, HANMI reported a 23.18% average occupancy rate among 11 member hotels for October 2025, 27% lower than 31.62% in October 2024 and the lowest occupancy rate recorded since 1992, excluding October 2020 at the height of the coronavirus pandemic. The Marianas Visitors Authority reported 10,793 arrivals in October 2025, down nearly 30 percent from 15,226 in October 2024.
