Le Meridien, property of MFAR hotels & resorts has merged with Marriott International
Overlooking the serene backwaters is the majestic Le Meridien Hotel, a property of the MFAR hotels and resorts that has now merged with the Marriott International, forming the world’s largest hotel company, capable of providing unparalleled guest experience. The Le Meridien that sprawls across 15 acres, with its perfectly manicured gardens has 60,000 square feet of air-conditioned indoor space – making it one of the largest convention centres in Kochi! The property, designed in a contemporary style with all modern amenities has 223 guest rooms and 13 banquet halls offering the best of service and luxury to its guests.
RITZ takes a property tour of this magnificent hotel which remains one of Kochi’s most exclusive MICE addresses since it began operations in 2000.
Text: Riya Sonny Datson
Photography: Arun A Menon
Le Meridien is strategically located in terms of its affinity to all the important destinations across the city be it tourist hotspots, shopping destinations, the railway station or the hospitals. Yet it is also tucked away from the blaring traffic, offering its guests the perfect spot to relax and unwind. “We cater to both leisure and business travellers and it is our constant endeavour to surpass our guests’ expectations in terms of service and experience. Our hotel stands secluded from the outside world and enables our guests to experience nature up close. The lush green environment, alluring backwaters, chic restaurant, the large format convention centre and the hotel’s tactical location, free from the chaos of city life – all make it one of the most preferred destinations for our guests,” says Monica Suri, the dynamic General Manager of Le Meridien, Kochi.
Guest Rooms
Le Meridien offers six different types of rooms with its suites ranging from duplex, executive honeymoon to the luxurious presidential suite that offers the ultimate indulgence with its modern décor and generous room size of 82.81 square metres. The honeymoon suite offers a touch of romantic luxury with a private Jacuzzi, a contemporary décor and a charming pool view. The suite offers 891 sq. ft. of comfort space with traditional glass painted bathroom walls and pleasant wood work. The guest rooms are defined with privileges of 42″ plasma TV, WIFI high speed Internet access, separate sofa seating, individually controlled air-conditioning, international direct telephone lines, a hair dryer and an in-room safe. Bottled water, complimentary newspaper and coffee/tea making facilities are replenished daily. The guestrooms are further complemented with a bathroom having rich quality toiletries.
Restaurants
The property has two restaurants – Ember and Latest Recipe that offer relaxed, all-day dining that will absolutely tantalise your taste buds. The lounge – the Longitude 76, is the perfect city night hub with a popular cosy bar.
Ember
Ember unfolds the unexpected and promises to ignite your senses. Relax at the high octane lounge which transforms itself into a sparkling club by weekends. Relish the divine tastes of the scrumptious appetizers and delectable delicacies on their exotic menu and you will surely return for more!
Latest Recipe: This multi-cuisine restaurant serves seasonal specialities – both local and international dishes, and as the name implies, the menu changes every day. The restaurant has an open interactive kitchen, popular for its Continental, Chinese and Indian cuisines. The elaborate Sunday brunch offers an extensive selection of delectable delights!
Longitude 76: By day, Longitude 76 has the rich aroma of fresh-brewed coffee and by night, it transforms into a classy bar with innovative mocktails, cocktails and energising music. An ideal hang out to pamper yourself and unwind with a drink.
Éclair: Indulge your sweet tooth at the Éclair that offers an array of pastry delights. A perfect spot to relax with a cup of tea or a drink to compliment your favourite pastry.
Ayurveda and Fitness
“Le Revive is our authentic Ayurvedic spa offering a variety of services to refresh the mind and mend the body. The 5,000-year-old healing system of Ayurveda is a holistic, natural therapy that aims to restore the wellbeing of the individual through a series of personalized treatments and medicines. An experience at the spa leaves you feeling rested and refreshed,” explains Monica Suri.
The fitness centre on the top floor has a spectacular view of the backwaters. The qualified instructors plan customized fitness programmes suited for each of its clients. The state-of-the-art gym is equipped with a steam room and sauna.
Leisure and Relaxation
Enjoy a relaxed and quiet morning at the peaceful Yoga Centre with hymns, meditation and breathing exercises under the guidance of a trained yoga instructor. The three-tier outdoor swimming pool has a separate whirlpool, Jacuzzi, and children’s pool. And if that’s not all, outdoor sports facilities such as a jogging track, water sports, sunset cruise, fishing, an art gallery and a well-equipped library promise to keep you and your family entertained.
One cannot leave God’s Own Country without a backwater cruise in the traditional Kettuvalam (traditional Kerala house boat). The mesmerising scenic beauty unfolds as you cruise along the beautiful water bays, a journey that transports you to yet another world. The houseboats can be booked for day cruises as well as overnight stays.
Convention Centre
The 60,000 square feet of air-conditioned indoor space of the world-class International Convention Centre comprises of distinctive venues with a contemporary look. The facilities meet specifications for corporate gatherings, exhibitions, product launches, dealer meets, formal board meetings, press conferences, weddings, and concerts. Three outdoor venues highlight the surrounding tropical paradise.
“Oman Hall, the largest pillar-less hall in South India and one of Kochi’s most unique venues for banqueting and receptions, can cater to 2,500 guests. With refined grandeur, CSM Hall and Nayanar Hall are ideal for the most prestigious events. The four Manappuram Halls are exact replicas of each other and ideal for breakaway sessions. The Amphitheatre overlooks the backwaters and offers an intriguing venue for dinner dances, wedding receptions, and banquets,” describes Monica Suri.
Guest Services
A 24-hour business centre, offering high speed internet access is available at the property. A tour desk, unisex beauty salon, florist, express check-in and check-out, disabled accessible facilities, non smoking facilities, 24-hour concierge service, medical services, secretarial service and currency exchange are the other services offered at this grand property.
