Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi has begun its 125th anniversary celebrations, bringing a year-long programme of experiences under the theme “125 Years of a Legend.” The celebrations honour the hotel’s heritage since 1901 while looking towards the future with its signature French art de vivre, culture and hospitality.

Throughout 2026, guests can experience a mix of gastronomy, wellness, entertainment, art and curated stays that showcase the history and character of the iconic Hanoi property.

“We are thrilled to open a new chapter in the Metropole’s legendary story,” said George Koumendakos, General Manager of Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. “For 125 years this hotel has been the beating heart of Hanoi,  witnessing history, welcoming the world, and setting the standard for refined hospitality. This anniversary allows us to honour that remarkable legacy while inviting guests to experience the timeless soul of the Metropole in fresh, unforgettable ways as we look confidently to the future.”

The “Live the Legend Experience” offers guests a stay inspired by the hotel’s 125-year history. The package includes daily breakfast for two, a Vietnamese lunch at Spice Garden for two and the Path of History and bomb shelter tour, led by the hotel’s resident historian. Guests also receive guaranteed early check-in from 11am, late check-out until 2pm and a complimentary upgrade to the next non-suite room category, subject to availability. The offer is available for bookings and stays until Sept. 30, with a minimum stay of two nights.

The “Sensations Orientales” wellness journey combines Eastern traditions with French refinement. The 90-minute treatment begins with a body exfoliation using enzymatic gel, followed by Sothys’ Digi-Esthétique® techniques, combining acupressure with modelling movements inspired by Eastern and Western traditions. The treatment also features warm amber and myrrh notes and flowing massage movements. It is available through the end of the year and includes a special gift for guests to continue the experience at home.

At Bamboo Bar, the “Carnet de Voyage” cocktail collection takes inspiration from the 1920s journey across Indochina and beyond envisioned for André Ducamp, the Metropole’s co-founder and first “directeur.” The collection brings together exotic flavours and the atmosphere of a bygone era, allowing guests to enjoy the cocktails beside the pool.

Operating in its current space since 1901, Le Beaulieu is believed to be the oldest continually operating restaurant in Vietnam. For the anniversary, the restaurant presents a special three-course menu featuring classics such as Lobster Bisque and Crêpe Suzette with guéridon service. The recipes are linked to the restaurant’s earlier years and have been passed down through generations of chefs.

Club Bar celebrates the hotel’s history with signature cocktails inspired by former guests and cultural icons including Charlie Chaplin, Graham Greene and André Ducamp. The menu also introduces “The Last Telegram” to the Legendary Cocktail Collection, along with the “1901” Burger, combining French refinement with premium ingredients.

At Spice Garden, the hotel’s elevated Vietnamese restaurant, guests can experience a special pho created around a broth simmered for 125 hours. The recipe draws from culinary traditions that flourished at the hotel during the 1920s. The dish features Wagyu beef, gold leaf short rib and dramatic tableside pouring, bringing together Hanoi’s culinary heritage and the Metropole’s own history.

The cocktail lounge, whisky bar and restaurant angelina has introduced “Metropole Liquid Chapters,” a menu inspired by important moments in the hotel’s history. The collection includes “1901,” marking the hotel’s beginning, “1968,” inspired by the wartime bunker beneath the property, and “2026,” representing a new chapter for Hanoi by night.

La Boutique and gourmet deli and patisserie L’Epicerie are offering a collection of Metropole-branded products and exclusive special editions. Guests can also explore e-vouchers designed to share Metropole experiences for different occasions. The first anniversary exhibition launched in June across the Heritage Wing, located within the hotel’s original 1901 structure, and the Opera Wing. The exhibition features rare photographs tracing the Metropole’s story from early 20th-century colonial Indochina through periods of conflict to the present day.

More exhibitions will be introduced throughout 2026, featuring painting, mixed media and photography while exploring the artistic legacy of the Indochine era, Hanoi’s cultural heritage and Vietnamese life. The hotel has also introduced Le Petit Journal, a bi-monthly newspaper featuring updates, special moments and experiences from Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi.

Guests can also explore the Metropole History Book, which brings together stories and milestones from the hotel and the city. The book is available at La Boutique or through the E-Shop. Through these experiences, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi is marking 125 years by bringing its history, culture, food and hospitality together while creating new memories for guests throughout 2026.

Kandy is set to come alive with drums, fire, traditional performances and grand elephant processions as the Esala Perahera returns from 18 to 28 August 2026. The ten-night festival is one of Asia's oldest living festivals and is held in Kandy, Sri Lanka's hill capital.

The festival brings together two ancient traditions. One dates back to the third century-BCE and is linked to prayers for rain to the island's guardian deities. The second is the Dalada Perahera, which honours the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha, enshrined at the Sri Dalada Maligawa since the relic arrived from India in the fourth century CE. According to legend, the relic was brought to Sri Lanka hidden in the hair of a princess. It has since been worshipped as a sacred symbol believed to safeguard the island.

The 2026 programme begins with the Kap Situveema blessing on 18 August, followed by five nights of Kumbal Perahera and four nights of Randoli Perahera.

The celebrations will reach their main highlight with the Grand Randoli Perahera on 27 August, when the procession moves around Kandy Lake and the Temple of the Tooth. The streets will feature thousands of dancers, drummers, acrobats, jugglers, fire-eaters, mask dancers, flag bearers, sword carriers and ceremonial musicians. Elephants dressed in colourful ceremonial garments will also form an important part of the procession, led by the Maligawa Tusker bearing the relic casket.

Traditional dance, music, lights and performances will fill the streets of Kandy as the festival builds towards its closing ceremony. The Esala Perahera concludes the following morning with the Diya Kepeema water-cutting ceremony at the Mahaweli River. The same river flows past Jetwing Kandy Gallery, A Luxury Reserve, giving the property a convenient location for visitors looking to experience the festival.

The 26-room hotel is located beside the Mahaweli in Gurudeniya, around 10 minutes from central Kandy. Guests can experience the processions during the evenings and return to the property's riverside infinity pool, spa and butler service during the day. The hotel's Riverscape restaurant also offers authentic Sri Lankan dining.

“Guests get proximity to one of the world’s great living festivals without sacrificing the calm that makes a trip to Sri Lanka worthwhile,” said Hashan Cooray, Director - Marketing and Development, Jetwing Hotels.

The Esala Perahera runs 18–28 August 2026. Rooms at Jetwing Kandy Gallery during the festival period are limited and best reserved well in advance.

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi has announced two key leadership appointments to strengthen its food and beverage operations. The iconic luxury hotel has named Kevin Danet as Director of Food and Beverage and Liam Nealon as Director of Culinary, reinforcing its commitment to delivering world-class dining experiences.

The appointments come as the hotel celebrates its 125th anniversary, with a year-long programme of immersive culinary experiences planned throughout 2026.

Kevin Danet brings more than a decade of hospitality experience in Vietnam to his new role. Having previously served as Assistant Director of Food and Beverage at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi for nearly two years, he has a deep understanding of the local market and the hotel's operations. He will now oversee the property's eight food and beverage outlets, including the renowned French fine dining restaurant Le Beaulieu.

Speaking about his approach to hospitality, Kevin said:

“Beautiful venues and exceptional cuisine are important, but what guests remember most is how we made them feel.”

Joining him is Liam Nealon, who takes on the role of Director of Culinary. With 25 years of international experience across Australia, Asia and Europe, Liam most recently served at Four Seasons Resort Bali. He is recognised for his focus on high-quality ingredients, natural flavours and creating engaging dining experiences.

Sharing his vision, Liam said:

“I am particularly passionate about collaborating closely with service teams to foster meaningful guest connections and memorable moments.”

Commenting on the appointments, George Koumendakos, General Manager of Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, said:

“We are delighted to work with Kevin and also welcome Liam to the Metropole family and further strengthen the synergy between the kitchen and the dining room. Their combined expertise and passion will further elevate our culinary offering as we celebrate 125 years of legendary hospitality in Hanoi. This is an exciting new chapter that perfectly aligns with our commitment to delivering exceptional, memorable experiences for our guests.”

As part of its anniversary celebrations, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi will continue to host a curated calendar of gastronomic experiences across its acclaimed restaurants and bars throughout 2026, blending timeless elegance with fresh culinary ideas and exceptional hospitality.