2005

The renovations retain the hotel’s original colonial architectural style, charm and history that established Sofitel Metropole Hanoi as one of the region’s most renowned hotels. The work began in late 2003 with a complete renovation of the hotel’s award winning Le Beaulieu Restaurant.

Bangkok-based P49 Deesign, an internationally recognized interior design firm, executed the renovation work. A new lobby design was inspired by French classical architecture with a touch of Vietnamese flair. It combines a liberal use of luxurious woods, rattan and marble, fresh new fabrics and ceramics while incorporating vibrant colors: deep blue, gold, dark brown, effectively creating a bold, new entrance. The reception desk was relocated at the end of the lobby lounge, opening up the library area and giving guests a spacious feeling on arrival.

These defining characteristics were also included in the redesign of all 109 guestrooms and suites in the hotel’s original Metropole Wing. Each room is resplendent with its elegant furnishings, timeless ceiling fans, tasteful woodwork and ceramic lamps, while historic photos of Hanoi’s bygone era hang from the walls.

All guest rooms now feature Sofitel's state-of-the-art ‘MyBed’, as well as new broadband Internet access. WiFi connectivity has also been introduced into meeting rooms and all public areas.

The ‘MyBed’ concept features a unique ‘feather bed’ on top of extra-thick and oversized box springs and mattress. This is complemented with large down-filled pillows and an ultra-light plush goose down duvet, eliminating both sheets and blankets while offering comfortable softness.

Sofitel Metropole Hanoi General Manager, Philippe Bissig, said launching ‘MyBed’ at Sofitel Metropole Hanoi was an important part of the hotel’s renovation programme.

“It meant identifying the latest technology, reviewing surveys and studies by top specialists and testing scores of materials. More than simply a new bed, ‘My Bed’ ushers in a whole new era of comfort, with a guarantee of plush softness that has never been experienced before.”

Other improvements include removing the carpet from rooms in the hotel’s newer Opera Wing and replacing it with polished wood floors. New magnetic door locks and CNN satellite news have been added in all rooms, upgraded fitness centre facilities, and the hotel shopping quarter has been re-located to the ground floor, grouping together some luxurious brand names such as Louis Vuitton.

Sofitel Metropole Hotel Hanoi  Hotel Sofitel Metropole Hanoi is located right in the heart of the capital, within walking distance of the administrative, business and retail centres and close to the prestigious Opera House. Restaurants, art galleries and handicraft shops can be found within easy reach from the hotel.