Le Meridien Vienna, Austria [Master Thread]
 

If you like the Whotels, check out this hotel. It looks very nice, and received positive reviews on TripAdvisor.com. Has high-speed internet access in each room as well, which I don't think the Starwood hotels have. Not to mention, it seems to be at least 100E less!

http://www.lemeridien.com/austria/vi...l_at1806.shtml

I'm going to Vienna in April, and am going to convince my travel companion to stay there with me. I'll let you know how it is if you're interested.

Of course, you couldn't earn or use *points, but if you want to stay in a nice hotel, I'd pick this one over the Bristol and Imperial (from appearance and reviews on tripadvisor)

It looks like they're running a promotion similar to Hyatt also (with Visa instead of Mastercard) http://www.lemeridien.com/visa/index.shtml

As an entry level "Meridian Moments" member, I got upgraded to a top floor room in Le Meridien, with a beautiful view of the Burggarten, the Opera House, and the Imperial Palace.

Sehr schön!

Oh, did I mention that every room has flat panel LCD TVs?

There is one thing that this hotel doesn't have that Whotels tend to have...attitude!

Staff are sehr freundlich, and sprechen Englisch auch sehr gut!

Definitely worth staying here for the free high speed internetand free minibar alone (unheard of!), IMHO

As nobody else has posted, I shall report on my recent stay: a one-night award.

The hotel is located a block along the Ringstrasse in the opposite direction from the Opera to the Bristol and Imperial. It is adjacent to the museums district, so very convenient in this regard. And a quick walk into the centre of the old town.

Although having a classic exterior -- in the front and side -- the building has been thoroughly rebuilt on the inside and is Philipe Stark contemorary. Even cooler than any Ws I've stayed at, but actually not as cold as I find the majority of Ws. Staff was also friendly and not at all haughty. As a Gold I was told I was upgraded to an Executive Room, though it was an odd location, one of a pair of rooms in an outcrop overlooking the interior court. (When I checked in, I handed my Gold card to the clerk...she made a mild "oh" remark and said I was showing in their system as a Platinum. "Doh!" I thought in my best Homer Simpson blunder...had I not showed my SPG card I would have been upgraded to a huge suite and given all sorts of goodies...just like the good old days when I was a SPG Plat (well, not as many suites as I'd have hoped for).

However, the room offered their standard free minibar or juices, water and Austrain beer. There was a nice selection of petit-fors delivered midday while I was out, with a large bottle of specialty water and a welcome note. And two large green ables sitting in a bowl shaped like the palm of a hand!

As noted, the decor is uber modern, plasma TV on the wall, minimal light oak furniture, integral art and other designer items like their drinking glasses (sit on the table at an angle!) or coffee cups (brushed metal, but did not get hot from the contents). Unfortunately, the coffee on offer was run of the mill Euroean instant Nescafe! Very comfortable bed with lots of down pillows -- and a catalog of others that can be ordered for the stay. The bathroom is also ultra modern with separate tub and shower (one of those seamless open to the floor).

All this basically makes selecting a Starwood property in this city a most difficult one, though one can certainly find a hotel that reflects one's personality or sense of style, from the baroque Bristol, to the aristocratic Imperial, to the contemporary if not futuristic Meridien.

BTW did stop by the Imperial to buy a couple of their renowned cakes. (I actually prefere these to the Sacher Tort, having been spoiled by the samples I was gifted with on my stay there a couple of years ago as a Plat.) Since these are sold from their café, I asked if I might use my SPG card and get points for the purchase -- hey, these are not cheap cakes and the bill was as much as a night at a Four Points! -- and the maitre d' obliged.

LM on Ringstraße
 

Having left the Bristol, I went up the street to LM, where my experiences were similar to those of Shareholder, above:

It looked to me as though two buildings were joined together, as there were some differences of level within the same floor... but back to his point: to me what made this hotel a lot better than most Ws was the staff—there was no attitude at LM, even as the hotel was über-cool and with art projects and installations at every turn (the rounded staircase was great!).

As a platinum, I was upgraded to corner suite on Ringstraße, though unfortunately only on the second floor (I was told that one on the fifth floor would not be available until ~5, as another plat would be checking out at four :D ). Had a welcome letter, sparkling water and petit-fors waiting for me, and for my amenity (on the recommendations of the staff), I chose a bottle of a very decent Grüner Veltliner. The room was beautiful, but it proved to have some problems.

First, the ethernet ports seem to be malfunctioning (the hotel's own tech support was able to locate a working port, but I could not get an IP address on my Mac, and the service provider's support was unable to solve the issue). Fortunately, I was getting a strong WiFi signal from the lobby/bars below, so the management readily comped me WiFi access to insure I would have the free internet access included in my rate ^.

In the evening I noticed that one of the bedside lights would go in and out at whim. Fiddling a little with it, I figured that the problem was in the wall attachment (it's a suspended light). And during the night, every so often a 'clunk' would come from HVAC system; not very loud, but loud enough to keep me up when half-awake. In the morning I noted these things, and I was promptly moved to another suite (not a corner one, but I found this one to be more comfortable, anyway). The staff's and management's handling of all of these things was absolutely fantastic. Well, I found the staff to be fantastic, cheery and engaging in all aspects—they cared and they showed it. Concierge service was very good too!

Maybe they've upped the offerings since Shareholder was there, but my rooms included (in addition to nescafe) ground coffee for the Coffee presses ^, which came in handy one morning; as did throughout the day the free minibar (replenished during turndown service ^).

My second room had plasma TVs in both the living room and the bedroom. I liked the layout of the bathroom better, too. The showers are a stand-alone column in a glass-enclosed room with two nozzles along its height in addition to the overhead one. The controls allow for complete control over which nozzles operate ;) . The bathtubs are modern recreations of the free-standing claw-footed bathtubs of old, but with über-chic fittings and contouring for comfort.

The hotel has a fully equiped gym with cardio- and weight-machines and free weights and trainer. There is also a pool and hot tub, though the pool is not very big (certainly not like the Munich LM's). The sauna and steam room facilities were very very good ^. Unfortunately, the gym/sauna hours are short. There is also a spa, but I can't tell you much about its offerings or treatments.

The LM is great addition to the *W portfolio in Vienna, and for me, it was a welcome and refreshing change after a disappointing stay at the Bristol.

Le Meridien Wien
 

Clean, comfortable, classy.

Friendly, smart staff as well.

But I bet the internet is no longer free now that it is part of *W.

It's not a "old-style" European hotel, but not an American clone either. It actually reminds me of "modern" Vienna in general. Unlike in some cities that seem to shun American culture, le Meridien has taken some American traits of hotels (ie: big soft comfy beds) and incorporated them without becoming a complete clone of an American hotel. If you don't believe this, ask yourself why the Westin Paris would not have the trademark Heavenly Bed.

Le Meridien Vienna from VIE airport
 

Does anyone know the best way to get there from the airport?

I know this thread has AMAZING directions to the Bristol:
http://flyertalk.com/forum/showthrea...hlight=bristol

I thought I'd ask in case anyone has similar info - as well as any advice for a short stay (I already found great info searching this site).

Thanks in advance.

no problem, you can use the same direction as to the bristol. le meridien is nearby - ~ 250 meters away. take the same station, the bristol is on the right site of the kaernter ring before the opera house. the le meridien is on the left site of the kaerntner ring - round about 200 - 300 meters after/behind the (bristol and) the opera house.
enjoy your stay, the le meriedien is my absolute favorite hotel in vienna.^

LM Vienna
 

I agree with all the other replies about the LM (I've stayed there 3-4 times). Fantastic hotel, super modern, great service. I'm an SPG Gold and had a complementary fridge with beer, water, and juice refilled everyday.

The location is great too - ~ 1 block from the Opera and the Kartnerstrasse (the main pedestrian street).

I am trying to recall, but I am almost positive that the internet (wired) is free too - so hard to find in Europe.

Yep, free mini bar, but it's really just a fridge that they put 2 bottles of water, 2 beers, and 2 juices in. They replenish each day. A very nice touch if you ask me!! I made use of the fridge by going to the Grocery Store and stocked up on yogurts, etc.

These may be off-topic questions. Is the LM within a walking distance to a ticketing booth to buy a same-day discounted opera/concert ticket? Are there any convenient store nearby as well?

yes & yes ^ both places are in a short walking distance.
the state opera house is opposite of the LM ~ 3 minutes
some stores are behind the LM and a bigger one around the corner ~ 3-5 minutes.

"Access to the delightful history of the city is only a step away. Le Méridien Vienna is set at the edge of the Ringstrasse, the hottest entertainment and shopping area in Vienna. Trams and the train station are mere minutes from the hotel. The legendary Vienna State Opera – one of the most divine opera houses in Europe and the venue of the annual New Year’s Gala – is in walking distance, as are the Imperial Hofburg Palace, Albertina, Secession, and the Museumsquartier."

http://www.starwoodhotels.com/lemeri...ropertyID=1852

and a link to the opera house:

http://www.wiener-staatsoper.at/Cont...2/en/index.php

and be aware, it's not so easy to get tickets for the opera.

have fun>>jue

Does the LM concierge help hotel guests buy opera tickets in advance? If not, is it much cheaper just go to the State Opera to get a discounted ticket the same day of the concert?

The LM concierge will certainly help you to buy opera tickets. I do not believe that you will be able to get discounted tickets for the day of the performance unless it is a piece of music nobody wants to see or it is absolutely off peak season. You might wish to check on www.staatsoper.at. You can buy tickets online.

Does the Le Meridien have a car park? How much per night?

The hotel has both self and valet parking available. I have only used valet- IIRC it is the same price as the Bristol- 35 EUR per night with unlimited SLOW in/out privileges. You may want to check if it makes sense to have a car in Vienna- I only arrive with one when I drive from Italy- but if you are flying into Vienna a car probably does not make a lot of sense. Just something to think about...

Agree that Plats are treated well at this hotel. I stayed last month for a business meeting. I was with a group of 6 people...3 people in the group were Plats, and all of us were automatically upgraded to suites 1000+ sq feet or bigger.

The rooms are very modern, with extremely high ceilings (the highest I've ever seen at a hotel...and I spend 100+ nights a year at a hotel). All rooms have a complimentary minibar with 2 juices, 2 sodas and 2 beers. And the showers...are just heavenly...

Transport to/from the airport was very easy. I cabbed it, but others in the group took the train and said it was a short walk off the nearest stop.

The LM and Bristol are within a couple of blocks of each other - both are in a great area for shopping and dining, so I don't think you can go wrong with either hotel in terms of location.

Stayed for 2 night at LM Vienna. Unfortunately, my experience as a Platinum wasn't too impressive.

1 hour prior to arrival, I called and ask if there was a suite available for us as an upgrade. The front desk man said yes. I looked online and saw suites were available for sale.

Upon check-in, the reception lady gave me a key. When I asked to confirm that it was for a suite, she said "No. We have upgraded you to a Deluxe Room" When asked about a suite, she proceeded to say "We have no suite available".

I hate confronting front desk staff about this game, but since I just spoke with a front desk staff an hour before, I felt like I had to say something.

Luckily, the gentleman with whom I spoke earlier was there. He corrected the situation and upgraded us to a 'Junior Suite' on the 8th Floor.

When we got to the 8th Floor, our key didn't work! Luckily the bell boy was with us, so he opened the door with his key and went downstairs to get a new key made.

There was no mention of amenity and frankly, the original "no suite" comment in the beginning and some attitude from the front desk made me uninterested in dealing with them further.

And get this... the junior suite we got on the 8th floor, wasn't something I'd call a junior suite. It was a larger room with 2 chairs. Since it is on the highest floor, the ceiling slants about half way of the room, makes the room feels even smaller.

That evening we ordered room service. Food arrived within 20 minutes as promised. After we finished our meal, we called to have the table removed. 30 minutes passed, no one came. We called again. 40 minutes passed, no one came. Close to midnight, we pushed the table out and left it in front of our door.

Next evening we ordered a bottle of wine for room service. 20 minutes passed, no wine. We called again and the operator was surprised it wasn't delivered and promised it'd be up soon. Another 25 minutes went by, so we called and canceled the order.

Frankly, the game and lies about unavailability of suites turn me completely off from frequenting Starwood. At least in Hyatt, if they can't grant you Lounge access, they will give you certificates for breakfast IN ADDITION to amenity.

This LM Vienna experience convinced me not to remain loyal to SPG. In my experience, the Platinum treatment varies greatly from hotel to hotel, it is not worth choosing a hotel just because it's a Starwood property.

Stayed at the LM Vienna during the Christmas fairs last month and received excellent treatment (I'm surprised at some of the negative comments in this thread). As a Gold on pts, was upgraded to a "Superior" room that I would consider a suite with a seating area w/dining table separated from the bed by a large TV on a swivel post. Room also featured a 2nd 1/2 bath.
Really liked the style of the hotel and the only complaint we had was that the drain seemed to be partially clogged and the water from the shower was at risk of running into the bathroom.
We listed this on the provided comment card and just received a signed personalized note from the GM and Quality Manager - something that I never experienced before, even as a Plat.
I'd say its one of the best *Wood properties we've stayed in and we would certainly stay again.

Interesting to note that you got a room with what sounds like a Junior Suite (from SPG website) but called 'SUPERIOR'

We got what's called a Junior Suite but felt more like a 'superior room" -- no dining table, seating area consists of 2 lounge chairs and we have only 1 bath.

The hotel needs to get their room types in order.

I recently had my first stay at Le Méridien Vienna.

Service was overall pleasant, except for the fact that even though I had to remind the check-in staff twice about my choice of Plat amenity, I still have not received the 500 pts. In addition, the breakfast was IMHO too expensive for the quality and variety of the food. I don't mind paying about the same price as at the GB in Athens, but I expect better quality. Finally, the service at breakfast was quite lackadaisical, interested only in asking me for my room number, far less in providing me with a double expresso.

The upgrade to a Junior Suite was nice and I found the decoration elegant and pleasant, but there was plumbing noise until early morning, so not very restful. Free Internet was a nice touch as well as the (basic) free mini-bar. Unfortunately, I lacked the time to go down to the swimming pool.

I'll be willing to give Le Méridien Vienna another chance, but my recent experiences at the IC, the StadtPark Hilton, and even the Hilton Vienna Danube (!) were more in line with my expectations in terms of price/performance ratio.

The noise- I found was with the HVAC- did not notice it with the plumbing? In any event it does make for a bit of a distraction.
As for the basic free mini-bar, my understanding is that Bristol also offers this? It seems to be an unpublished benefit- and as such I don't know that it is always in place? Free internet is great!

IC agree with you, the Hiltons?? I find the StadtPark Hilton to normally price as high or higher than the Bristol in my experience. The Hilton Vienna Danube I am interested in- over on the Hilton board it seems to get pretty "beat up" by their members?? Also, it terms of external esthetics, the IC is nothing pretty if that matters at all :)

Regarding the noise, it could have been the HVAC ..., I just tried to filter it out ;).

Given the low price I can sometimes find at the Hilton Vienna Danube, my expectations there are very, very, low, so it usually is difficult for that property to disappoint me ;) (On the other hand, on some dates, I have found the Hilton Vienna Plaza to be cheaper than the Vienna Danube ...). As to the Stadtpark Hilton, I only have access to public fares and it is usually cheaper (in my personal experience) than the Bristol. I would definitely choose the Bristol over the Stadtpark Hilton, given the opportunity.

Advice required: Meridien Vienna
 

I am currently booked for a 2 nights award stay (using AC aeroplan miles, not *wood) at this hotel. My other options in Vienna are the Best Western Premiers or the Hilton Vienna (that one on Hilton points).

After having read a few threads on FT, I felt that the Meridien looked like a reasonable option (location, decor, modern hotel,...) even though I would not benefit from any extra perks (no status with *wood, Diamond at Hilton). This is also the hotel that offered the best value in terms of point redemptions.

After having reviewed a few recent posting on a "trip review website", I am somehwat concerned. There seems to be more and more people complaining about service levels at the Meridien.

I'd love to hear from FTers who have had a recent stay at this hotel. Has the service been going downhill recently or mostly just a perception issue. Any other tips to make this a great experience while there would be appreciated. Keep in mind - although I am an SPG member, no status.

FAB ! Its just pure FAB ! If this is what le Meridien hotels are heading towards, I'd give it all the extra points!

Hotel is centrally located. Lobby is nice , chic cool. Somewhere in between a W and a Westin.

Rooms are comfy and artsy. Beds are comfortable. There's a restaurant that looked cool but I didn't try. Staff is really good and friendly. And efficient. No idea why people were complaining. This is Europe after all, and it is very good by European standards.

There is a bar at night that people hang out at... and a cafe in the day time where one may have coffee, hot choc, cakes etc.

It really is a nice hotel. I wouldn't even go for the Hilton.

My last stays there were Jan and March 2008, and will be staying there again in Sep and any other time I can get to VIE!

great hotel
 

I've stayed there 4-6 times in the last year and always really happy with it. Have always gotten a big suite, free minibar, free internet. It's right across the street from the Opera.

No complaints!

I think when traveling to classic European cities, such as Vienna it is best to avoid generic chain hotels and try something local and historic.

Although, the Maridien does apprear to be a chic hotel with good service, it has nothing characteristic of Vienna. It could easily be in London or Berlin!

So, I choose The Imperial for my July trip!:)

It'd seem so, if the recent refurb of the LM Barcelona is anything to go by. Pity the refurb wasn't complete when I was there and I ended up with one of those unrefurbed rooms with dark wood and weird looking antiques all over. But at least it was a big and spacious suite. I did manage to glance into one of the new rooms as the maid was cleaning it - it looked SO cool!

I've also booked the LM Wien for my visit to VIE. :)

I find Starwoods in most European cities to be rather lacking in choice - it's either the Old Europe stuff or nothing else. Hence I think that the chic and trendy look is really the way forward for LMs, along with the worldwide expansion of Ws - they provide a great alternative for those of us who're averse to historic properties. :)

Thanks to all!
 

Thanks to all so far for your posts, as it does provide me with a bit more perspective.

I should have been more specific in my OP stating that I had already consulted the "Bristol vs Meridien" thread on the site (which is what lead me to originally book LM) but the last entry dated back to Feb and was not Meridien specific, hence the new thread!

I did also consider the Imperial for my stay as a more "characteristic" Vienna Hotel but it just became available on Aeroplan and at a significant premium over LM (60% more points/night). I am all for "going for the real thing" - if the price is right!

I agree, Starwood does not offer much choice in Europe!

It's either the deluxe Imperial type hotels at very high prices or cheaper hotels that lack flavor and service!

Take Paris for example. You can stay the Prince De Gaulle or the Westin for around 300-500 EUR per night or you can check into one of the cheaper LM's that have terrible tripadvisor reviews!

I am currently logged-in using the free internet, drinking from the free minibar, having been given a junior suite for my two night stay. ;) I am very pleased with this hotel. ^

Le Meridien Wien
Opernring 13

Situated on the Ringstrasse, the Le Meridien Wien is in great proximity to all that Vienna has to offer. The Opera House, museums, restaurants, coffee houses, pubs and bars - they're all within walking distance or a short subway ride away with a subway station right outside (ish) the hotel.

The public areas of the hotel were quite funky. On arrival you step into the very minimalist lobby, and given the LM101/Art + Tech project you're greeted by sounds of water running or birds chirping as you enter. There were also exhibits of contemporary art around the lobby. I especially like the v industrial decor of the Shambala Bar. The acoustics weren't the best though, as the music was thumping but not especially atmospheric - and just seemed loud. Other than that, the bar was quite a hopping place on Friday night when I went for a few after hour tipples. Some v interesting pictures in Cafe Boulevard (more on this cafe later) and unlike most of other coffee places in Vienna other than Starbucks, this place does lattes with soy milk.


http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...8/DSC00642.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...8/DSC00644.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...8/DSC00645.jpg

I received an upgrade to a v large Executive Suite on the 2nd floor, and they'd even set up a spare Queen sized bed as I'd booked this room for 2 initially. It is a v nice room with a lounge, an ensuite bedroom containing a bright pink bathtub (and separate showers) in the bathroom, and another smaller bathroom for guests. Free in-room wifi, so that was appreciated. The room rate also comes with a free mini bar, which contained 2 bottles of juices, 2 bottles of Coke, water and 1 bottle of beer (beer absent on first night). Not the most generous 'free minibar' in the world.

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...8/DSC00652.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...8/DSC00646.jpg
bedroom

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...8/DSC00647.jpg
wardrobe with mini bar and safe

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...8/DSC00648.jpg
living room

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...8/DSC00650.jpg

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...8/DSC00651.jpg
main bathroom

http://i20.photobucket.com/albums/b2...8/DSC00649.jpg
2nd bathroom

Contrary to the promises of LM101, I wasn't all that inspired by the decor of the room. The room is best described as 'generic chic' - it is v contemporary in an IKEA kind of way, and continues the minimalist theme of the lobby. However, i couldn't consider it edgy, or even designer material. It certainly didn't cause me to view the world in a 'new perspective.' It IS a very nice room, and the contemporary decor is v much appreciated; however it is frustrating when theory doesn't meet application. Stylish and modern? Yes. Forward looking and breaking new ground? No.

The service was generally pretty good, with rather young (and some rather good looking) staff. Most staff members I interacted with were v friendly and accomodating. Concierge service (Ambassador desk or whatever it's called) was more mixed. jhm, phaleesy and I asked one of the concierge staff about decent places for brunch, and got directed to a rather touristy cafe which locals probably turn their noses up at (most of the clientele there were holding maps, and the menu didn't look all that good). However I asked a different staff member the same night about nightlife on a Sunday and he not only identified the places but also launched into detailed explanations about them and how I should plan my night. Pretty much spot on too.

On balance a pretty satisfactory stay, and a rather solid property. As far as SPG goes, the LM is a great alternative to the Imperial or the Bristol if you're desiring something modern. Just don't take the LM101 design concept so seriously (like myself...) and you won't be disappointed.

Next: Sighted in Vienna

Having read through this thread, this hotel gets generally good to v good reviews for location, rooms, staff etc. The only downside I can see (and perhaps I've become rather spoilt in this regard ;)) is that there is no lounge for breakfast? Am I correct? Am looking at booking three nights here later in the month.
Thanks in advance

Excellent Stay!!!
 

First some background, I am a Starwood Platinum Member. I stayed here using points and notified the hotel the trip was to celebrate my birthday.

Pre stay communication: very responsive, I was responded to by the Reservations Manager and Concierge I was that would be upgraded to a Executive Suite and was given all the information I needed regarding area and transporation.

Check In: Check In was pleasant with host informing about my room the Free Mini Bar--Water, Soda and Beer restocked each day.

Room: The Room was large and comfortable, We were in the older side of the hotel so the refurbished Room had some of the highest hotel room ceiling I have seen. I knew about the showers ahad of time so I was prepared.

Executive Lounge: NA

Room Service: Did not use. My room included a fruit basket and wine the fruit was refilled each day.

Service: Excellent always polite and can do service.

Location: Right on the Ringstrasse across from the Opera Hall. Best Location in Vienna in my opinion. walking distance to most sights with the Metro right around the corner.

UAPremExecFlyer,

You are correct, there is no lounge, but the small coffee shop on the first floor more than makes up for it with variety and value. We stayed there for 3 days and each morning we had a filling meal for less than 9 Euros combined... and I'm the guy that the Sheraton Albuquerque Old Town lounge attendant used to order more food when I walked in the door :eek:

We had a warm sandwich one AM, a quiche one AM and a Salad (for her) and pastries (for me) one AM, with coffee and juice.

-- CaptainG

sdcarver...

I'm quite sure the LM Vienna has no executive check in on the 7th floor. Were you talking about the Hotel Grand Bretagne, an LC property?

CaptainG,
I had indeed copied and pasted the wrong review--thanks for catching it and good call on the Grand Bretagne.

sdcarver

How far is the hotel from the railway stations Wien Sudbahnhof and Wien Westbahnhof ?

Thanks

We took a taxi from the hotel to Wien Westbahnhof and it was 9€. Could have probably easily done it on the U-bahn but didn't want to fool with it with luggage.

I read a couple of reviews on TripAdvisor of this hotel that complained about glass walls/doors on the bathroom and the resulting lack of privacy, but a lot of other reviews didn't mention this. Can anyone shed some light? Looking to stay here with a non-romantic travel companion -- will the bathroom setup be awkward?

You cant see through the bathroom door anyway, so I dont see it as being an issue unless 2 person are using the bathroom at the same time. I believe the "complaint" was on the lack of individual doors for the shower and wc areas.

Having said that, my major complaint on this property is the sound/vibration which seems to transmit through to neighbouring rooms whenever someone shuts any of the doors in their room.

Just wanted to add my raves to the LM Vienna -- a trip a month ago confirmed that all the greatness is still there -- the free mini-bar (though the beer is kinda week), the exceptional location (near the subway, the Opera House and the museums), and the modern, trendy facility.

I booked an award stay, so even though I was a Platinum, I wasn't upgraded to a suite. The room was still really pleasant, with huge vaulted ceilings, flat screen TV, and good Internet.

My quibbles is the bathroom area -- while spacious with a large, separate bathtub, my shower area didn't have a door! After a shower, you end up soaking the entire bathroom floor with water. I think that they tried a little too hard to be trendy in this room. Noise does get to be occasionally a problem, both inside and out, since the Operaring is a pretty busy thoroughfare.

All in all, I would book here again. It's a model Le Meridien, that's for sure.