Popular Hotel in Sentosa Sudden Stopped Operations with Less Than 24 Hours’ Notice

Last Updated on 2020-11-04 , 10:32 am

Hotels are one of Covid-19’s biggest victims.

Due to border restrictions, hotels all over the world are struggling to survive, with no one to sleep on their lush beds or consume ridiculously expensive drinks from their mini fridge.

And it’s not just the small businesses that are getting infected; even 5-star hotels have been forced to cease operations, as the coronavirus doesn’t seem to care how swanky and luxurious your hotel is.

That’s why it’s no longer surprising when a hotel announces its closure in 2020.

What will shock residents, however, is if it ceases operations less than 24 hours after an announcement.

Popular Hotel in Sentosa Sudden Stopped Operations with Less Than 24 Hours’ Notice

If you were married in Sentosa or have money pouring out of your butt, you may be familiar with Le Méridien, a 5-star hotel at Sentosa.

Image: Le Meridien

Located opposite Imbiah Station, the hotel is known for its Japanese-inspired Onsen Suites, as well as its gorgeous vantage point of the Merlion.

Image: Facebook (Le Meridien)

The hotel, which has 191 guestrooms, was a popular venue for wedding ceremonies, thanks to its beautiful views and huge function space.

Sadly, couples will no longer be able to celebrate their special day at this Parisian abode.

On Saturday (31 Oct), Le Meridien made a shock announcement on Facebook:

In a move which no one saw coming, the hotel announced it would be ceasing operations on the very same day. 

Typically, a business that closes down would give prior notice to its customers, employees, and the general public.

This is so employees will have ample time to look for another job, and customers can make other plans.

It’s unclear if their customers, especially those who planned to have their wedding ceremony there, were informed of the closure a while back.

The hotel did not give reasons for its closure, but it’s safe to assume that the coronavirus pandemic had a part to play in their decision.

In their post, Le Meridien thanked their guest for their support over the years.

“We would like to take this moment to thank all of our past and present guests, business partners and associates for all for your support over the past couple of years. It has been a true pleasure welcoming you all to the compelling destination of Sentosa Island.”

Undergoing Rebranding?

According to Mothership, the hotel may be undergoing rebranding.

Back in 2018, the Far East Organization was reportedly looking to buy the hotel. The Business Times reported that the organisation was in “advanced talks” at the time to take over Le Meridien.

This was supported by Lianhe Zaobaowho reported that the hotel was bought by the Far East Organization in mid-2019, meaning it’s no longer affiliated with Marriott International Group.

The report claimed that Le Meridien is expected to reopen in mid-2021 with a brand new look.

The existing staff of Le Méridien Hotel may also be integrated into the new work team.

Nothing has been confirmed by the hotel yet, though.

Let’s hope that for the sake of their employees, as well as future couples who want to spend their wedding with the Merlion, that the hotel will be back soon to serve more customers.