Downtown hotel to open in fall

After nearly two years of work, the Homewood Suites by Hilton Moab is almost ready to open its doors to guests from around the world.

The new hotel at 132 N. Main St., which Houston-based Vista Host will manage, will be Moab’s newest extended stay, all-suites hotel in the area when it opens in early fall.

General Manager Paula Olesen returned to the Moab area to lead the hotel’s team. She comes to the job with more than 21 years of hospitality experience behind her.

“We are all so glad she is ready to be delivered,” Olesen told the Moab Sun News. “She’s a 96-room beauty!”

Starting her hospitality career in Rapid City, South Dakota – the home of Mount Rushmore – Olesen has worked as an ambassador to the tourist industry, and said she thrives on making sure that guests experience five-star satisfaction during their stays.

In the past, she has led her hotel teams to many awards small and large, including the Presidential Award. The award recognizes property general managers for leading their teams to the highest overall levels of guest satisfaction, along with increasing sales, revenue and occupancies.

Olesen said she is thrilled to be back permanently in the Moab community, and to be close to friends and family.

Assistant General Manager Daniel Haughan has been with Vista Host for two years, serving as the food and beverage manager at the Hilton Garden Inn in Cranberry Township, Pennsylvania.

Haughan said his passion for the service industry started at a very young age, and he is thrilled to move out West, while being an active part of the community.

General manager has roots in Moab