Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi

TRIED AND TESTED HOTEL

BACKGROUND The Metropole opened in 1901, although it has changed names for substantial periods since then and has been completely rebuilt, albeit in the style of the original hotel, and subsequently expanded. As an example, the 135-room Opera Wing and an office tower were completed in 1996, with the office block converted into guestrooms in 2008, bringing the total to 364 rooms and suites. At present, however, the heritage Metropole Wing is closed until at least 2024 for renovations, and so the room inventory is currently 255. The 'Legend' part of the hotel's title indicates it has an illustrious history, which it certainly does, complete with a bunker under the hotel dating back to the Vietnam War. A free 30-minute hotel history tour is conducted every afternoon at 5pm. It's worth noting there are a lot of stairs in this hotel, and getting from one part of the hotel to another can be cumbersome.

WHERE IS IT? In Hanoi's French Quarter and in the heart of the commercial and business district. Noi Bai International airport is a 45-minute drive away.