Thousands of travellers found themselves suddenly homeless this week after a major hotel chain partnering with Marriott unexpectedly collapsed into bankruptcy, forcing immediate evictions across multiple countries.
Sudden Collapse Sparks Global Chaos
Sonder filed for Chapter 7 liquidation on Monday, triggering immediate consequences for guests worldwide. The company, which operated 140 properties in partnership with hospitality giant Marriott, saw its licensing agreement terminated abruptly following the bankruptcy announcement.
Guests from Dubai to America received shocking news mid-stay that they needed to vacate their rooms immediately. Social media platforms quickly filled with videos of travellers dragging luggage through streets, their accommodation plans in tatters.
Personal Stories of Travel Disruption
One affected guest, Avery, documented her experience on TikTok after being forced to leave her Montreal hotel room with three nights remaining on her booking. "Trying to maintain my composure while dragging my luggage down the street after Marriott Hotels & Sonder Hotels broke up with each other on a random Sunday and told us to get out," she wrote.
The disruption proved particularly devastating for those with important life events. Steve McGraw had booked a 17-day stay in New York to meet his new granddaughter when the eviction notice arrived. "We ended up spending several thousand dollars more to find a new place. It was very, very disruptive. They treated us so poorly," he told Business Insider.
Wedding Plans Thrown Into Disarray
Perhaps most dramatically affected was Craig Murphy, whose daughter's wedding plans faced complete upheaval. The bankruptcy news forced him to secure new accommodation costing over £1,300, but the financial impact represented only part of the problem.
"This does not take into account the time and frustration of renegotiating the cost of three limousines, rescheduling a hair stylist, flower delivery, and informing all guests to deliver any wedding gifts to the new location," Murphy explained, highlighting the extensive logistical nightmare created by the sudden accommodation change.
Marriott's Response and Refund Promise
Marriott International has moved quickly to address the situation, though for many guests the damage has already been done. The company issued a statement confirming that any customers who booked Sonder locations directly through Marriott channels would receive full refunds.
The hospitality giant outlined its immediate priorities: "Marriott's immediate priority is supporting guests currently staying at Sonder properties and those with upcoming reservations. Marriott will be contacting guests who booked directly through Marriott channels, including marriott.com, the Marriott Bonvoy App and Marriott's worldwide reservation centres, to address their reservation and booking needs."
For those who booked through third-party travel agencies, Marriott directed affected guests to contact those organisations directly. The company emphasised its commitment to minimising disruption to travel plans, though for thousands of travellers worldwide, the disruption has already proven significant and costly.
