Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, the city’s most celebrated heritage hotel, has been named one of the “100 Most Incredible Hotels in the World” by Fodor’s, the globally respected travel authority.

The 124-year-old landmark is the only hotel in Vietnam and one of just 15 hotels in Asia to earn a place on the 2026 Fodor’s Finest Hotels list one of the most coveted recognitions in the global travel industry.

In its citation, Fodor’s described the property’s 358 rooms as being divided between two distinctive wings, the Heritage Wing, renovated in 2023 yet steeped in French colonial elegance and Vietnamese character, and the Opera Wing, known for its neoclassical design and bold palette of black, white, and red.The publication also praised the hotel’s culinary excellence, spotlighting the Michelin-selected Le Beaulieu, which offers refined French dining, and Spice Garden, renowned for its elevated Vietnamese cuisine.

According to Fodor’s editors, there are over 765,000 hotels and resorts worldwide, and the list was curated from recommendations by hundreds of seasoned experts from writers to hospitality professionals, narrowing down properties they “love and would recommend visiting in 2026.”

This global honour follows a string of recent accolades for what many call Vietnam’s “Grande Dame since 1901.” In October, the Metropole received a MICHELIN Key in Vietnam’s inaugural MICHELIN Guide, with editors noting, “Not every hotel can get away with using the word ‘legend,’ but there’s nothing else quite like the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi.”

Earlier recognitions include being named among the Best Business Hotels in Asia-Pacific 2025 by Business Traveller and earning the “Iconic Historic Hotel in Hanoi” title from Robb Report Hong Kong’s Best of the Best 2026. The property was also listed among the 72 best hotels and resorts globally by Condé Nast Traveler and featured in Travel + Leisure’s “World’s 500 Best Hotels” list.

A timeless icon since 1901, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi blends French colonial charm with modern sophistication. It offers 358 rooms, six restaurants and bars, lush gardens, a heated outdoor pool, Le Spa du Metropole, and exclusive shopping experiences through La Boutique and L’Epicerie.

The hotel continues to be a favourite among dignitaries, artists, and world travellers alike, standing as a symbol of Hanoi’s hospitality and heritage.

Taj Wellington Mews Chennai, South Asia’s first luxury service residence managed by women, has been awarded the prestigious EDGE Zero Carbon Certification, a distinguished global recognition for sustainable buildings. The hotel also marks a historic milestone by becoming the first in South Asia to achieve the Zero Carbon certificate under EDGE (IFC - The World Bank). This accomplishment underscores the hotel’s ongoing commitment to environmental responsibility, in alignment with Indian Hotels Company Limited’s (IHCL) ESG+ framework, Paathya.

To earn this certification, Taj Wellington Mews Chennai achieved an EDGE Advanced rating, surpassing the required benchmarks of 40% energy savings and 20% savings in both water and materials. The property then qualified for the EDGE Zero Carbon rating by demonstrating net-zero on-site carbon emissions, reflecting a holistic focus on sustainability in design, construction, and daily operations.

Speaking on this milestone, Mandeep Kaur, General Manager, Taj Wellington Mews, Chennai, said, “We are immensely proud to achieve the EDGE Zero Carbon Certification, a recognition that underscores our commitment to sustainable luxury and responsible hospitality. It inspires us to further our commitment to the planet while delivering the timeless warmth and care that defines quintessential Tajness.”

EDGE (Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiencies) is a global green building certification system developed by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, and issued by Sintali, the authorised EDGE certifier. The certification aligns with major global sustainability benchmarks, including GRESB, ICMA, CBI, and CDP, making it one of the most credible recognitions in the field of green building and sustainable finance.

This achievement positions Taj Wellington Mews Chennai as a leading sustainability benchmark in India’s hospitality industry and reinforces IHCL’s leadership in advancing eco-conscious practices across its portfolio of hotels.

Lemon Tree Hotels Limited, one of India’s fastest-growing mid-scale and premium hotel chains, has announced the opening of its newest managed property, Lemon Tree Premier, Thiruvananthapuram.

This launch adds another milestone to the brand’s expansion across southern India and marks its sixth property in Kerala, further strengthening its presence in the state.

Located in the heart of Thiruvananthapuram, the capital city of Kerala, the new hotel enjoys proximity to both business and leisure hubs. The city, known for its blend of heritage and modernity, is home to the Padmanabhaswamy Temple, scenic Kovalam Beach, and the thriving Technopark IT hub, making it a key destination for travellers.

Designed with Lemon Tree’s signature contemporary style, the hotel combines comfort, service, and a refreshing atmosphere. The property features 80 well-appointed rooms and suites, offering a relaxed yet elegant stay experience.

Guests can dine at the Citrus Café, a multi-cuisine restaurant, or enjoy authentic Indian flavours at Kebab Theater. The hotel also houses Slounge, a lively bar and lounge, along with a pastry shop, banquet and meeting spaces, a fitness centre, spa, salon, and swimming pool all designed to deliver a complete leisure and business experience.

Commenting on the opening, Vishvapreet Singh Cheema, President, Lemon Tree Hotels, said, “With the opening of Lemon Tree Premier, Thiruvananthapuram, we are pleased to further extend our footprint across Kerala. This hotel in a prime location is ideal for both the business and leisure traveller.”

With this addition, Lemon Tree Hotels continues its journey of growth across India, bringing its signature blend of comfort, hospitality, and value to more destinations.