Hotel Review: Le Méridien Taipei
Introduction
If you're seeking the epitome of luxury and comfort during your visit to Taipei, look no further than the Le Meridien Taipei. During my recent stay at this old but beautiful establishment, I had the privilege of staying in the Deluxe King Room, ate everything in their buffet breakfast offerings, and enjoyed their vast fitness center and spa facilities.
For its current age, the Le Meridien Taipei represents itself as an underrated luxury hotel compared to its brighter and more attention-seeking sibling, the W Taipei. However, I’d almost prefer the Le Meridien Taipei with its vast base rooms and better breakfast settings. Given that that I was staying here only a night, I used a Marriott 50K free night certificate that I picked up with my Marriott Bonvoy Business Card, which netted me close to $400 USD in cash value.
Location | Le Meridien Taipei
Le Méridien Taipei sits in the heart of the Xinyi District, a short 7–10 minute walk from Taipei City Hall Metro Station (Blue Line) and about 12–15 minutes to Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station (Red Line), making subway access quick and convenient; the hotel is also a brief taxi ride from Taipei 101 (around 3–5 minutes) and within easy walking distance of the Xinyi shopping and dining belt, which includes upscale malls like ATT 4 FUN and Taipei 101 Mall, a wide selection of Taiwanese and international restaurants, trendy cocktail bars, and night markets, with many notable eateries and attractions concentrated along Songzhi and Xinyi Roads.
If you’re coming from Taipei Taoyuan International Airport, you can get here within 35-45 minutes via taxi. You can also take the newly built subway line from the airport to Taipei Main Station and transfer to the blue line to City Hall station. The surrounding areas are all shopping and restaurants, along with the famed Taipei 101 and its plethora of activities. This location is fantastic for first time travelers to Taipei, and even better for those with families.
Check-in was a breeze and the front desk agent was fantastic and incredibly kind. Because I had checked in a bit too early, she apologized profusely and gave me access to their spa facilities to shower and unwind. Due to the weekend crowds of Mid-Autumn Festival, they were all booked out, thus no room was available for my timeframe. Luckily, Taipei is such a fun place to travel around, so I went out for a bit to visit some old stomping grounds, and got back around 1:00pm, just in time for my room, #603 to be ready.
Deluxe King Room
First impressions: the room immediately impressed with its generous proportions and restrained, elegant decor. Attention to detail approached Japanese standards of service—every element felt considered, and the overall design read as deliberately curated to convey quiet luxury.
The plush king bed was a highlight. Sheets were supremely soft, the mattress struck an ideal balance of support and give, and the bedding created an enveloping sense of comfort that promoted a deep, restorative sleep. Having stayed at properties such as the Westin, the W and the JW Marriott, I can say their beds deliver similarly indulgent rest; this property’s offering stood comfortably alongside them.
The only slight drawback is the less-than-deal humidity that most other Taipei hotels have - there a slight humidity musk if your AC isn’t on. I would recommend leaving the AC on to reduce the humidity.
In sum, the Deluxe King Room delivered a refined, tranquil experience that exceeded expectations. It married sophisticated design with thoughtful amenities, providing a restful sanctuary from the city and an ideal retreat after a long day of travel.
Bathroom | Le Meridien Taipei
Upon entering the bathroom, you'll immediately notice the exquisite design and attention to detail. The space is beautifully appointed with marble countertops, sleek fixtures, and elegant lighting. The overall ambiance exudes a sense of sophistication and tranquility. The amenities are from Malin+Goetz, a premium boutique brand based in New York City, and is often selected as one of the top skincare, fragrances and candles in this luxury section. There is a plethora of amenities that you can select from in the Marriott app as well, from toothbrushes to shavers to towels to water bottles.
Breakfast | Le Meridien Taipei
The hotel's restaurant serves a delectable spread of both local and international dishes, catering to a variety of palates. From freshly baked pastries to traditional Taiwanese breakfast items and made-to-order omelets, there's something to satisfy every craving. The attentive staff and elegant dining atmosphere enhance the breakfast experience, making it a memorable way to start your day in Taipei. I ended up devouring everything that was Asian on the menu and found myself downing 5 glasses of watermelon juices within minutes.
Personally, I’d recommend the breakfast buffet only if you’re a Platinum or Titanium member to get the free breakfast, as the cost out of the pocket isn’t necessarily worth it. There are ton of places to eat outside of the hotel and in the Taipei vicinity, so i highly recommend only eating here if you have the respective Bonvoy status. Save some money otherwise and enjoy the amazing breakfast culture of Taipei!
Amenities | Le Meridien Taipei
Le Meridien Taipei's amenities truly elevate the customer experience. The hotel boasts a vast fitness center, a tranquil spa, and a stunning rooftop pool with panoramic city views. Whether you're looking to stay active, relax, or simply soak in the mesmerizing cityscape, these amenities have you covered. Additionally, the hotel's concierge and front desk staff are always on hand to assist with any inquiries or special requests, ensuring that your stay is both comfortable and convenient.
Case in point, when I was about to head out, the concierge realized it may rain, and got me an umbrella right before I stepped out. That’s the kind of details and service at the Le Meridien Taipei.
Conclusion
Le Meridien Taipei sets a remarkable standard for luxury accommodations in Taipei, despite its age. The Deluxe King Room offers a haven of comfort, the breakfast is a culinary delight (for those with status), and the amenities provide a well-rounded and indulgent experience. Whether you're visiting Taipei for business or leisure, this hotel is sure to make your stay unforgettable. I wholeheartedly recommend Le Meridien Taipei to anyone seeking an opulent and memorable stay in the heart of the city.
Curated for Class Final Score | 38.5/50
Le Méridien Taipei stands as a great alternative to the W Taipei where the vibrant pulse of Xinyi meets the refined soul of European "chic." A renovation would most likely greatly benefit this hotel in the near future with upcoming luxury hotels just around the horizon.
Ambiance: 8/10
Room: 7.5/10
Food & Beverage: 7.5/10
Service: 8/10
Does it Feel Special: 7.5/10