Escape to nature with an urban retreat at Le Meridien Sentosa, Singapore
It’s not really a retreat unless you’re kinda out of the island, right? Sentosa probably gives that illusion of a vacation, knowing that home’s still an Uber/Grab away.
Sentosa staycations aren’t as well-received for a few reasons:
- The distance from one attraction to another
- The need to pay an entrance fee or exorbitant parking charges
- The lack of food options
But since the advent of bike-sharing companies, getting around became an activity by itself, riding on the convenience of the ubiquitous bicycles. And with a hotel confirmation form, you actually don’t pay any entrance fee, and you can park your car free of charge at the property!
Le Meridien Sentosa encourages just that – and on top of that, provides a pair of passes to explore some of Sentosa’s popular attractions.
Where contemporary meets colonial heritage
The hotel simply oozes historical flavour and charm with the colonial architecture, adorned with overhanging greenery for that added aged elegance. Long passageways of white-washed walls that were once corridors are now sealed with glass for that extra insulation from the tropical heat.
The Merlion Suite of Le Meridien Sentosa
This is as literal as it gets but the Merlion Suite is named duly after the majestic view of the 12-storey high statue. Previously part of the Heritage Suite series, the suite has now been renamed due to specific requests for the view. Most of the features of the room have been picked to reflect characteristics of Singapore. Let’s see how many you can spot…
Delectable treats lay in wait for you when you check into the hotel.
Contemporary and clean lines with slate walls adds the chic factor to the bathroom. And don’t forget to take a soak in the large tub with bath salts provided!
Found the parts of the decor that oozes local influence yet? From the bamboo dim sum trays to the lamp that resembles the pails that are used to fetch water, little details like these adds more character to the otherwise modern concept.
To infinity, and beyond (the pool)
While this doesn’t command the height of the Westin’s infinity pool, it most certainly takes the prize for a relaxing atmosphere surrounded with lush greenery. Chill by the pool with a cocktail in hand, or take a few laps in the generous expanse of it.
Eclectic eclairs and the discovery high tea set at Latest Recipe
Savour uniquely local eclairs at Le Meridien, with infusions of kaya and coconut in the traditional french pastry. Our favourite was the Pandan Kaya which oozed a smooth, creamy custard that blended well with the kaya crust – the sweetness was just perfect.
For those who like a balance, the Discovery High Tea Set comes with other interesting savoury selections such as the chilli crab brioche, smoked salmon vol au vent, and more.
Breakfast at Latest Recipe was unsurprisingly a myriad of local delights amidst international fare. From an egg station where you can have your eggs however fancy you like, to a Laksa station where fresh ingredients are prepared right under your nose.
This October, plan your escape with Marriott and SPG hotels where a plethora of deals await you with bookings of 2 nights and more. From complimentary breakfasts to high teas with additional F&B credits, take the weekend off to pamper yourself.
The good: Sentosa simply has so much to do! Le Meridien Sentosa sits right outside the Imbiah Station which makes it ultra-convenient to move around the island from beaches to the bustling Universal Studios. And the best part, after a long day, you know you can just retreat to your room within a stone’s throw.
The bad: Food options are rather limited in the area so be prepared to shell a little more on touristy Sentosa, or simply make it more worth it by booking their Escape packages that comes with F&B credits.
Hotel rating: 7.5/10
Le Meridien Sentosa, Singapore
23 Beach View, Sentosa, 098679
Reservations: +65 – 6818 3388 or via their website
