Built in 1901, the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi has been host to many celebrities, politicians, and dignitaries. The 364 guest rooms are situated in two wings, with 106 rooms in the original Metropole wing and 236 rooms, including 18 suites, in the newer and more contemporary Opera Wing. The majestic and opulent lobbies of the two wings pay homage to both the historic and the modern themes. Fresh flowers, crystal chandeliers, and at-hand staff are fixtures of both eras, with the utmost importance placed upon luxury service and spotless accommodations.
In the heart of the vibrant and bustling city of Hanoi is the beautiful Old Quarter. With historic design, European charm, and world-class shopping at every turn, Hanoi is inspired by French architecture and rich Vietnamese history. Don't be surprised when greeted with a “Bonjour!” in the stunning Indochinese location. There may be a French-inspired Opera House right around the corner, but guests are treated to distinct Vietnamese hospitality.
Rooms in the Metropole Wing are a classic style with rich decorative woodwork, windows that open up to the blossoming trees outside, and hand carved wooden headboards. Radiating with Old World charm, well-known guests that have stayed at the property include Charlie Chaplain, W. Somerset Maugham, and Jane Fonda. The central atrium and original French Restaurant, Le Beaulieu, which opened in 1901, are both fixtures of Hanoi. Sofitel Metropole even has its own iconic Parisian sidewalk café, La Terrasse, allowing guests to sit and watch the city stroll by while enjoying a steaming cup of fresh coffee.
The Opera Wing is much more contemporary, affording rooms with beautiful mosaic tile work, crocodile headboards, meticulous accent lighting, and a claw foot tub in the sprawling bathrooms. Dark wood floors contrast with the crisp white beds, while rich tones throughout the rooms make guests feel as they have stepped inside a jewelry box within the city. Renovations to an old office building created the Opera Wing of the hotel, which were completed in 2006. Complete with Club Level and Imperial Suite, the Opera wing has been host to guests such as President Clinton, the Queen of Denmark, Francis Ford Coppola, and the Crown Prince of the Netherlands. The hip and swanky wing is also home to the Angelina Restaurant, an energetic nightspot for visitors and locals alike that was aptly named for the famous actress who visited the property with Brad Pitt.
Service is paramount at Sofitel Legend Metropole. From the velvet-swathed front desk attendants who are prompt and attentive, to the concierge who offers tours of the city from the back of a Mercedes, 5-star service is continually experienced throughout the property. The relaxed atmosphere of the poolside Bamboo Bar and the attention to detail within the rooms themselves (who doesn’t want a rose-petal foot soak before bed?), showcases the way in which the staff at Sofitel go above and beyond expectations.
A gold standard for business and luxury guests alike, the numerous lounges, restaurants, and cozy alcoves are just the beginning of Sofitel Metropole. The hotel’s most recent addition, Le Spa du Metropole, opened in 2009, and is already one of the best luxury Spas in the city having received Asia's “Urban Spa of the Year” award for 2011. With over 1,300 square feet of spa facilities overlooking the central courtyard, the seven treatment rooms in the two-floor spa are a sprawling oasis waiting to be enjoyed. From the lemongrass scent wafting through the air to the candle-lit stairways, relaxation begins as soon as you enter the door.
Because the Sofitel Legend Metropole is located in the Old Quarter, the city is just steps away. The hustle and bustle of the streets, the quiet walks around the nearby Sword Lake and other national monuments, as well as the vibrant energy of the Hanoi residents are treasures to be experienced at every turn. Most historic sites and museums have an entrance fee of only $1 or $2, so soaking in the rich culture is an absolute must, and self-guided tours of the city are easily explained by the front desk staff. The war is a relic of the past and the Vietnamese welcome tourists, as well as the bright future of the country, with open arms.
Visitors can catch a pedi-cab or hire a car for the day to navigate the narrow roads. Hidden jewels such as pagodas and temples can be found within the labyrinths of city streets neighborhoods. Guided tours are suggested by the tour concierge at the hotel in order to fully experience all that Hanoi has to offer. Explore the historic military sites such as the “Hanoi Hilton,” or book a cruise in Halong Bay, one of the seven wonders of world. From businessmen closing multi-national deals to flower vendors smiling from the sidewalks, the city of Hanoi is a cultural hub and magnificent travel experience.
A stroll through the manicured central courtyard, a dip in the fountain-fed infinity pool, a visit to the Chocolate Buffet, or the chance to enjoy a live jazz performance make Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi a phenomenal place to stay in Vietman. Located just feet away from Armani, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, the caliber of the luxury experiences provided by Legend Metrople are unmatched.
For more information, or to make reservations at Sofitel Metropole, visit http://luxuryprivatetravel.com/luxury-hotels/sofitel-legend-metropole-hanoi.10.html or write to us sales@luxuryprivatetravel.com.
