Charlie Chaplin Returns to Metropole Hanoi in Rare Exhibition

Charlie Chaplin Returns to Metropole Hanoi in Rare Exhibition

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 27, 2025

The spirit of Charlie Chaplin returns to the historic halls of Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi with a rare new exhibition titled “Charlie Chaplin: Echoes of a Legend,” on view until July 22. Showcasing an intimate collection of memorabilia, the exhibition features items from the personal archives of Australian collector Paddy Macdonald—one of the world’s largest private Chaplin collections.

The showcase includes century-old film posters, original sheet music, and a rare 1925 TIME Magazine issue featuring Chaplin as the first actor to grace the cover. Carefully sourced from nearly 50 countries including France, Cuba, Ireland, the US, and Australia, the items paint a compelling picture of Chaplin’s global legacy.

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Held across the Heritage Wing and Opera Wing lobbies, the exhibition was inaugurated on June 24, with Macdonald sharing his admiration for Chaplin’s timeless cultural relevance. Quoting the star, he noted, “Culture does more to change things than legislation or academic papers – it gives us heroes and helps us accumulate inner strength.”

George Koumendakos, General Manager of Metropole Hanoi, shared,

“This is the first time a portion of Macdonald’s collection is being exhibited in Asia. It’s an honour to host it here, especially since one of our suites proudly carries Chaplin’s name.”

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Indeed, Chaplin’s history with the hotel is notable. The legendary actor honeymooned at Metropole Hanoi in 1936 with actress Paulette Goddard, and today the Charlie Chaplin Suite stands as a tribute to his legacy. Featuring elegant wood floors, bespoke furniture, and a romantic balcony view of Con Coc Park, the suite offers a timeless blend of privacy and charm.

Recently renovated, the Heritage Wing—home to the Charlie Chaplin Suite—underwent a 21-month restoration project and reopened in early 2024. The reimagined interiors stay true to their colonial roots while offering upgraded comforts, smart technology, and vivid design.

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Metropole Hanoi, established in 1901, has hosted generations of notable guests including writers, royalty, politicians, and cultural icons like Chaplin. The hotel remains a beacon of French-inspired elegance, celebrated for its rich history and legendary service.

For more information, visit sofitel-legend-metropole-hanoi.com or call +84 24 3826 6919.


Banyan Tree Samui Named Thailand’s Best Spa Resort for 2026

Banyan Tree Samui Named Thailand’s Best Spa Resort for 2026

By Hariharan U

Published on April 2, 2026

In a significant recognition for luxury wellness hospitality, Banyan Tree Samui has been named the “Best Spa Resort – Thailand” at the Global Spa Awards 2026, presented by The Luxury Spa Edit.

The award reflects a combination of expert panel evaluations, insights from global travel journalists and sustainability specialists, and over 85,000 public votes, reinforcing the resort’s strong positioning in the global wellness space.

At the heart of this recognition is the resort’s integrated approach to holistic wellbeing. The spa experience at Banyan Tree Samui goes beyond traditional treatments, offering a thoughtfully curated journey rooted in its “8 Pillars of Wellbeing” philosophy, focusing on rest, nourishment, mindfulness, movement, and personal growth.

A standout feature is its signature hydrotherapy facility, The Rainforest, which takes guests through a multi-sensory circuit of water jets, saunas, steam rooms, ice fountains, and vitality pools. This immersive experience has become a defining element of the resort’s wellness offering.

Speaking on the achievement, Naphasawan Badklang, Spa & Gallery Manager, credited the team’s rigorous training at the Banyan Spa & Wellbeing Academy and their commitment to delivering personalised guest experiences. Each treatment begins with a detailed consultation, followed by customised herbal oils and signature rituals that include sound healing, breathwork, and traditional techniques.

The award also coincides with the rollout of Banyan Tree Spa 2.0, an evolved concept that blends ancient Asian healing practices with modern wellness techniques. From personalised therapies to curated closing rituals featuring herbal foot cleansing and tea ceremonies, the experience is designed to create a deeper sense of relaxation and renewal.

Set against the scenic backdrop of Koh Samui’s Lamai Bay, the resort’s 88 private pool villas further enhance the sense of seclusion and calm. Complemented by curated dining experiences, wellness programmes, and nature-integrated design, the property continues to offer a sanctuary for travellers seeking both luxury and restoration.

With this recognition, Banyan Tree Samui strengthens its reputation as one of Asia’s leading wellness destinations, setting new benchmarks for immersive and experience-driven hospitality.


The Leela Gandhinagar Marks Earth Hour with Sustainability Initiatives

The Leela Gandhinagar Marks Earth Hour with Sustainability Initiatives

By Hariharan U

Published on April 1, 2026

The Leela Gandhinagar marked Earth Hour 2026 with a focused set of sustainability-driven initiatives, reinforcing its commitment to responsible hospitality and environmental stewardship.

As part of the global movement, the hotel switched off non-essential lighting and reduced power consumption across key areas for 60 minutes, from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm. The symbolic gesture reflected a collective effort towards climate awareness while maintaining the refined standards associated with luxury hospitality.

Beyond the hour, the initiative underscored the hotel’s broader sustainability philosophy. From energy-efficient systems to responsible resource management, environmentally conscious practices are integrated into its day-to-day operations, aligning with the evolving expectations of modern travellers.

Speaking on the occasion, Vikas Sood said, “Earth Hour reminds us that meaningful change begins with small yet consistent actions. At The Leela Gandhinagar, sustainability remains integral to how we operate and deliver thoughtful luxury experiences.”

Through its participation, the hotel continues to build on its commitment to sustainable hospitality, contributing to a more responsible and environmentally aware future.


Novotel Jodhpur ITI Circle Marks Three Years of Hospitality and Guest Experiences

Novotel Jodhpur ITI Circle Marks Three Years of Hospitality and Guest Experiences

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on March 31, 2026

Novotel Jodhpur ITI Circle marked its third anniversary on 28th March, celebrating three years of hospitality, memorable guest experiences, and a growing presence in the city. Over this period, the hotel has welcomed guests from across India and abroad, hosted over 30 distinguished celebrities, and maintained a strong position among top properties on TripAdvisor since its opening.

While these milestones highlight its journey, the hotel places equal importance on the moments it has shared with its guests. Over the years, it has grown into more than just a place to stay, becoming a space where people come together for celebrations, conversations, and memorable experiences. The return of familiar faces and continued guest trust have played a key role in shaping its journey.

A key part of the hotel’s identity is its dining approach. Known for its 100% vegetarian, sattvic cuisine, the hotel focuses on meals that are prepared with care and authenticity, while also keeping well-being in mind. This thoughtful approach has helped create a strong connection with guests who value both taste and mindful dining.

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Speaking on the occasion, Ritesh Mudgal, General Manager, said:

"These three years have been incredibly special for us. Beyond numbers and milestones, it’s the relationships we’ve built and the memories we’ve been part of that truly define our journey. We are deeply grateful to our guests for their continued trust and support."

Looking ahead, Novotel Jodhpur ITI Circle remains focused on growing further while continuing to offer experiences that reflect warmth, comfort, and flavour.

Three years. Countless memories. Infinite flavours.

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