Le Méridien Singapore: This Heritage Hotel In Sentosa Will Get You The Best Out Of Your Getaway

The beautiful Le Méridien Singapore, Sentosa stands on the grounds of what was once Movenpick.

Since Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. adopted Le Méridien into its family, they’ve been doing well, having the sun shine (literally) upon them. So here’s what this newly revamped hotel has to offer.

For out-of-town friends who’d like to jump into Singapore’s cultural heritage without getting lost in the rest of Sentosa, Le Méridien is a good place to start. Built upon what used to be army barracks from the 1940s, this space today holds 191 specially-designed guest rooms.

Main attractions and theme parks are right in the vicinity, and the Sentosa Monorail Station is just eight to 10 minutes walk away. In fact, the Monorail brings you to Resorts World Sentosa, Universal Studios Singapore, and right to Vivocity and Harbourfront within minutes!

But that’s just a bite of the huge pie that this hotel has to offer.

Le Meridien’s Unlock Art Programme

Le Méridien’s engagement with guests go beyond hotel walls. Partnering with local arts establishments, your hotel keycards open doors to fully experience arts and culture in Singapore.

Currently exhibiting the largest collection of modern art in South-East Asia, the National Gallery Singapore holds several prestigious tourism awards, working towards being the international heart of South-East Asian works.

From now until 31 December 2017, present your room keycard and visit the National Gallery Singapore for free general admission! The Children’s Biennale 2017 is still on if you need a reason to go.

Hotel Amenities, Lounges & Open Spaces

The lounge is a comfy place to chill out at when you’re done soaking up arts and culture. Le Méridien’s specially curated relaxing soundtrack plays throughout the entire hotel, so I wouldn’t blame you for dozing off.

On the other side of the window, a deck allows for small private events and barbecues while getting the best view of the hotel pool.

There is an adequately-sized gym nearby on the same floor, but with such good weather and a glistening pool, why stay indoors?

Intricate & Detailed Decoration

I’m no interior designer, but I appreciate running themes and motifs. The attention to detail makes you gawk in admiration for the creative team behind all of it.

These panels, for instance, that are found running along the hotel walls are inspired by the imagery of a very Asian staple that goes back a long way – rice. True to being a Heritage Hotel, little pieces of history can be found woven into the modern design. 

When I said “pieces of history” just now, I did actually mean it literally. Encased in the glass-topped side-tables are pieces of roofing from the 1940s, when the building still functioned as army barracks!

Colonial & Contemporary-Styled Rooms

The lobby is located in the Contemporary Wing, which holds the 105 Classic Rooms, 24 Suites and the much-talked about Onsen Suite. Le Méridien has themed guest-rooms and suites, the majority of which make up the Classic Rooms (prices start from $425 per night).

After passing through the refreshingly sun-lit lobby, one might be quite taken aback by the corridors leading to the rooms in this wing. Non-air conditioned and dark, it is a very stark contrast to the impeccable foyer you’ll be leaving behind you.

Don’t let this put you off though, because you’re just being eased into ultimate comfort.

Suites In The Contemporary Wing

Japanese-inspired, the 19 Onsen Suites comprise a living area, a bathroom that includes your very own steam room, and is completed with a tranquil outdoor area. For big families, adjoining rooms are also available.

With prices starting at $760 per night, the Onsen Suite is true luxury, allowing you to soak in your outdoor jacuzzi while getting your zen on. Nama’sayin’?

If you’re not a fan of being nekkid on your own outdoor patio, these Executive Suites ($1096 and up) are good for business travellers or small families planning on exploring Sentosa.

P.S. My favourite thing about the Executive Suite is the pretty bathroom. All-day bubble bath – yes please!

Rooms In The Heritage Wing

The Heritage Wing juxtaposes the Contemporary Wing with its warmth and cosiness. I appreciated having our room away from the lobby – fewer bustling guests.

Located in the Heritage Wing are the Heritage Premium Rooms, Heritage Merlion Rooms ($626 and up) and the Heritage Suites ($559 and up).

We were put up in one of the 20 Heritage Merlion Rooms, a choice pick for most guests. As its name suggests, you really do get an impeccable view of the Merlion. This block used to be the administrative offices in the 1940s. It’s hard to picture it now, but the bedrooms on this stretch used to be no more than a corridor.

Monthly Destination-Inspired Cuisine

In 1986, en route to Paris, my parents took a “quick break” at a truckers’ cafe; They only rolled out the restaurant four hours later.

Hospitality is characteristic of the French and you can expect nothing less from this Paris-born brand. Let Latest Recipe‘s Chefs do the unlocking of your tastebuds with the Discovery High Tea Set ($39++ for two) and the Taste of Discovery Buffet ($29 – $65++) on Friday and Saturday nights.

Discovery High Tea Set

If you prefer sweet and intimate, award-winning Pastry Chef Leow impresses with the Discovery High Tea Set. We loved the Chilli Crab Brioche – generously filling a bite-sized brioche, I’d willingly trade half my dessert for an extra one.

If you’re just in for a taster, Le Méridien Signature Éclairs are available at $10++ for a set of four, or a set of two with TWG tea and coffee. Created with a local spin, indulge in flavours of Chocolate Gold, Vanilla, Raspberry Coconut and Pandan Kaya.

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Singapore has more history than many realise. Personally, the charm is in the stories this Heritage Hotel offers, and all the ones that haven’t yet been found.

If you’re looking for a hotel with a little bit of everything that Singapore has to offer, Le Méridien Singapore, Sentosa is the perfect setting for your getaway.

Le Méridien Singapore, Sentosa: 23 Beach View Sentosa, Singapore 098679 | Tel: +65 6818 3388 | Bookings | Website