(Disclaimer: this review is based on my experience at this hotel during its transition from Le Meridien Versailles to its current branding. Some Le Meridien features were retained and some Bonvoy benefits were honoured to an extent)
Being a follower of Marriott brands, sometimes it’s nice to have a breakaway from the cookie-cutter same ol’ stuff from the big brands. That’s why I chose the Le Meriden, and even more so when the hotel reached out to me pre-arrival about its planned transition away from Marriott Bonvoy – I was excited to try out something relatively new for once, and my experience here was great.
From the get-go the hotel felt very boutique-y and not typical for the big name-brands – the lobby was very small but cozy in a good way, the hallways were compact but not claustrophobic. Check in was efficient and pleasant, and I was proactively upgraded to a corner “suite”. Though not a full suite, the room was very sizeable and functional.
There was a historical vibe throughout the hotel, but the thoughtful design touches mostly eliminated the stale feeling. The integration of lighting as a part of the overall design was a pleasant surprise, but should you really expect less in Montreal?
The view was surprisingly good even on a low floor, and I LOVED the window in my bathroom – this is an awfully rare luxury in North American hotels for some reason.
I used valet parking and it was awesome and reasonably priced as well considering the lack of other handy options nearby. The restaurant seemed to be a part of the hotel but not really, as I heard it was independently operated, or at least this was the reason why they were not able to offer breakfast as a welcome gift option, even though other benefits (including upgrades) were offered while the hotel was in transition.
I have to say although it was a unique boutique-y experience, it was sad to see the only representation of the Le Meridien brand in Canada decided to part ways with Marriott. But, at the same time, I’m excited to see the already diverse hotel market in Montreal welcome another independent player. You (almost) never go wrong if you stick with the big brands for consistency, but the local touches sometimes are worth the risk. Welcome to Montreal!
RealScore
Service: 7.5
Design and Room Size: 8.5
In-room Amenities: 7
Bathroom Size and Layout: 8
View from (my) Room: 7
Hotel Location: 7
Available Guest Facilities: 6
Food Quality: N/A
Food and Beverage Service: N/A
Executive Lounge Quality: N/A
Final RealScore: 7.55
Final RealRating: A
Hotel is built/opened: 1969
Total number of rooms: 108
Length of stay: 1 night
Membership level at check-in: Platinum* (partially honoured due to transition)
Room type experienced: Corner Studio
Hotel4Real! 
Leave a comment