Evergreen Laurel Hotel found itself in hot water after a Chinese content creator’s TikTok video went viral. The video showed the creator’s frustration at the lack of a Chinese flag among the Olympic decorations at the hotel’s Paris branch. This sparked a heated debate online, with some supporting the hotel’s decision and others criticizing the creator’s actions.
An Unwelcome Omission
The hotel’s Paris branch faced criticism for its Olympic display. The creator, who had a reservation, refused to check in after noticing that the Chinese flag was missing. He and his team tried to persuade the hotel staff to add the flag, even offering to provide one themselves.
The front desk staff explained that the hotel manager’s permission was required. However, they couldn’t contact him over the weekend. The frustrated content creator and his team ultimately decided to leave, paying a cancellation fee.
A Twist in the Tale
Later, a Chinese member of the hotel’s kitchen staff claimed that a Chinese flag had been included initially but was removed by a Taiwanese manager. This revelation added fuel to the fire, further fueling the controversy.
When the content creator returned on a weekday, he was informed that the national flags in the Olympic display had been randomly selected, and the Chinese flag was simply omitted. He was also told that the display was about to be taken down anyway.
The creator insisted that a Chinese flag should be put up before the display was removed, but his request was denied. This exchange was captured on TikTok, further amplifying the controversy.
A Growing Debate
The TikTok videos quickly spread among Mandarin-speaking communities, igniting a heated debate. Some netizens supported the hotel’s position, criticizing the content creator’s actions. Others defended the creator, highlighting the importance of representing all countries fairly.
The controversy didn’t end there. Several Chinese travel websites removed the Paris and Shanghai branches of the Evergreen Laurel Hotel from their booking services. This action reflected the growing displeasure among some Chinese travelers.
A Public Apology
In response to the public outcry, the hotel issued a public apology on their website, expressing regret for the controversy and disappointment among their patrons. They pledged to improve their hospitality experience and service in the future.
The hotel also emphasized their late chairman’s dedication to cross-strait trade cooperation, stressing their commitment to maintaining peaceful relations.
The Evergreen Laurel Hotel’s flag controversy serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural sensitivity in a globalized world. It highlights the potential for misunderstandings to arise, particularly in matters involving national identity and representation. This incident also underscores the power of social media in shaping public opinion and impacting business decisions.
