Meghan Markle is facing harsh criticism after a luxury wellness retreat in Sydney, with attendees claiming they expected far more time with the Duchess of Sussex than they received. Some guests now reportedly want refunds after Markle appeared for a short time at the “Her Best Life” event. Notably, the ticket packages cost thousands against her brief appearance.
Meghan Markle facing criticism after very brief appearance luxury retreat, claims source
Meghan Markle’s retreat took place at the InterContinental Coogee Beach Hotel and promoted itself as an “ultimate girls’ weekend,” with a busy schedule that included wellness sessions and a gala dinner. But Radar Online reported that complaints began almost immediately after guests realized Markle would not take part in most of the weekend activities.
An insider claimed that the hotel itself frustrated the attendees, telling Radar, “Front desk complaints already coming in… People paid thousands for a girls’ weekend with Meghan, not a short two-hour appearance,” adding, “This is misleading marketing.” The insider also claimed, “Organizers owe answers and I know some girls are asking for refunds.”
Another source told the outlet, “A friend of mine is absolutely furious… she paid all that money and was promised a whole weekend full of fun, food, drinks, and activities — only to find out Meghan stayed 30 minutes.” And the guest allegedly felt “confused as to what was happening,” because she expected more access to Markle across the retreat.
Furthermore, an onlooker described Markle leaving the venue soon after arriving. They claimed, “Meghan just departed the InterContinental Coogee Beach en route to Allianz Stadium, accompanied by security,” adding, “Many women are not happy!”
While some coverage suggested Markle stayed for about two hours for the gala dinner portion, multiple attendees still felt her appearance came across as much shorter, which added to the anger over price versus experience.
Ticket packages for the retreat reportedly started around $1,930, with VIP options priced higher and marketed with perks such as closer seating for Meghan Markle’s Q&A and a group photo opportunity.
