Metropole Hanoi Unveils Wartime Bunker Tours to Commemorate 50 Years of Peace

Metropole Hanoi Unveils Wartime Bunker Tours to Commemorate 50 Years of Peace

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 24, 2025

As the world remembers the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War’s end, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi is inviting its guests to step into a unique chapter of history—literally. The hotel has launched a commemorative edition of its signature “Path of History” tour, featuring a guided visit to its underground bomb shelter, which once sheltered renowned guests like Joan Baez and Jane Fonda during wartime air raids.

Discovered by accident in 2011 beneath the Bamboo Bar, the shelter had remained sealed since the war ended in 1975. Now, it stands as a poignant reminder of the resilience and courage that defined that era.

image

Led by the hotel’s own historian, the tour—available exclusively to in-house guests at 5 pm and 6 pm daily—blends powerful storytelling with rare visual artefacts. From century-old room keys to black-and-white photographs of famous guests like Charlie Chaplin, the experience brings the hotel’s storied legacy to life. But the emotional highlight remains the descent into the bomb shelter itself, where guests are immersed in the haunting audio of Joan Baez’s “Where Are You Now, My Son,” echoing with the sounds of air raid sirens and wartime reflections.

image

Adding to the commemorative spirit, the hotel recently welcomed back Uzaki Makoto, a former journalist with Japan’s Nihon Denpa News, who lived at the Metropole between 1971 and 1974. During his return, Uzaki revisited the very room he once worked from and reflected on moments spent huddled in the shelter alongside Baez during the 1972 bombings. His presence served as a living link to a time when the hotel stood as both sanctuary and silent witness to history.

Now 124 years old, Metropole Hanoi continues to blend heritage with luxury. Last year, its historic Heritage Wing, comprising 103 rooms and suites, was revitalized through a 21-month renovation project. The restoration honoured the building’s original charm while incorporating contemporary comforts and vivid elegance.

image

From its three iconic suites named after legends like Graham Greene and Charlie Chaplin to its vibrant dining options—ranging from the classic French Le Beaulieu to the sophisticated Angelina lounge—the Metropole remains a timeless symbol of Hanoi’s cultural richness.

For bookings or more information, guests can contact +84 24 3826 6919 (ext. 8500), email metropolehanoi.reservations1@sofitel.com or visit www.sofitel-legend-metropole-hanoi.com.


InterGlobe’s Miiro Opens Second Vienna Property with Miiro Spittelberg

InterGlobe’s Miiro Opens Second Vienna Property with Miiro Spittelberg

By Author

Published on April 6, 2026

InterGlobe Enterprises’ lifestyle hospitality brand Miiro has strengthened its European presence with the opening of Miiro Spittelberg, marking its second property in Vienna.

Located in the historic Spittelberg District, just behind the MuseumsQuartier, the hotel is set within one of the city’s most culturally vibrant neighbourhoods. Known for its cobbled streets, artisan heritage, independent galleries, and lively café culture, the area offers an authentic window into Vienna’s contemporary creative scene.

Miiro Spittelberg features 132 guestrooms and suites, designed with a blend of warm neutrals, bold accents, natural textures, and soft lighting. Staying true to Miiro’s ‘Brilliantly Considered’ design philosophy, the rooms are crafted to provide a calming yet refined atmosphere, complete with plush beds, rainfall showers, cosy reading nooks, and premium toiletries.

The hotel’s design combines sleek modern lines with creative details, offering guests a space that feels both stylish and comfortable. Whether exploring Vienna’s iconic landmarks or unwinding within the property, the experience is designed to feel immersive and connected to its surroundings.

Dining at the hotel reflects a seamless all-day concept inspired by European café culture with an Italian twist. The experience is anchored by Poco, an Italian-inspired urban pizzeria and bar, adding a vibrant social element to the property.

Art plays a central role in the hotel’s identity, highlighted by an immersive ceiling mural that encourages personal reflection. This is complemented by a curated collection of works by Austrian and international artists displayed throughout the space. Additional amenities include a library, a 24-hour gym, and Miiro’s signature Refresh Room.

Commenting on the opening, Neena Gupta said, “The opening of Miiro Spittelberg marks an exciting milestone as we continue to grow Miiro in culturally rich European cities. Vienna’s artistic spirit and deep-rooted heritage make it a natural home for not just one but two of our properties, and the neighbourhood of Spittelberg reflects the lively, local energy we seek to celebrate.”

With this launch, Miiro continues to expand its footprint across Europe, with a growing portfolio spanning cities such as Paris, Barcelona, London, Gstaad, and Vienna, while InterGlobe’s broader international presence extends to destinations including Amsterdam, Munich, Prague, Budapest, Hamburg, and Melbourne.


Fairmont Launches New “Special Happens” Global Experiences

Fairmont Launches New “Special Happens” Global Experiences

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 6, 2026

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts has introduced six new experiences under its “Special Happens…” series, expanding its global portfolio with curated offerings that focus on culture, nature, and memorable guest moments. The launch reflects the brand’s continued effort to create unique and meaningful experiences across its properties worldwide.

The newly unveiled experiences are designed across four themes – “After Dark”, “In the Wild”, “Around the Table”, and “In the Spotlight”. Each offering is rooted in local culture while reflecting Fairmont’s signature approach to service and storytelling.

Among the highlights is a private helicopter tour of the Great Wall of China at Fairmont Beijing, offering guests a unique aerial view of one of the world’s most iconic landmarks. The experience also includes a luxury stay, curated dining, and a personalised mixology session.

In Canada, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge introduces an Indigenous-led foraging journey, where guests explore the natural landscape with a local expert, followed by a curated culinary experience inspired by the ingredients gathered during the trip. In Kenya, Fairmont Mount Kenya Safari Club offers the Acacia Horizon Experience, combining guided wildlife exploration with a private dining setup in a scenic outdoor setting.

Under the “After Dark” category, guests can take part in a night tour of the Yellow Crane Tower at Fairmont Wuhan, dressed in traditional Hanfu attire, blending cultural heritage with a modern light and sound experience. Another standout offering is the solar eclipse evening at Fairmont Tazi Palace Tangier on August 12th, where guests can witness the celestial event alongside curated dining and live entertainment.

In Scotland, Fairmont St Andrews introduces a stargazing experience along the East coast, featuring a private observation dome, guided exploration of the night sky, and a chef-led dining experience under the stars, paired with rare Scottish whisky.

Commenting on the launch, Claudia Kozma Kaplan, Chief Brand Officer, Fairmont Hotels & Resorts said, "Delivering remarkable experiences is fundamental to Fairmont Hotels & Resorts' DNA. With these brand new 'Special Happens...' experiences, we're not just continuing this legacy, we're actively bringing the essence of Fairmont to life for everyone. This next chapter is about expanding unforgettable journeys, crafting authentic moments within each community, and designing them with meticulous care so our guests can connect more deeply, celebrate more often, and truly make special happen."

With this launch, Fairmont continues to focus on experiential travel, offering guests opportunities to connect with destinations through curated, one-of-a-kind experiences across its global network.


Sarovar Hotels Expands Nepal Presence with Royal Tulip Launch

Sarovar Hotels Expands Nepal Presence with Royal Tulip Launch

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 6, 2026

Sarovar Hotels has expanded its footprint in Nepal with the launch of Royal Tulip Shivapuri National Park Kathmandu, its fourth property in the country. Developed in partnership with Classic View Resort LTD, the new opening further strengthens the presence of Louvre Hotels Group in South Asia while expanding the premium Royal Tulip brand in the region.

Located in Budhanilkantha at the foothills of Shivapuri National Park, the hotel offers wide views of the Kathmandu Valley and is close to the Budhanilkantha Temple. Known for its natural surroundings and spiritual significance, the destination attracts both leisure and experience-driven travellers looking to explore nature trails and cultural spots.

The property features 75 rooms and villas, designed with a mix of contemporary comfort and nature-inspired elements. Guests can dine at Guras, the all-day restaurant serving global and local dishes, or unwind at Aairak, the bar offering premium beverages. The hotel also includes an outdoor swimming pool and large banqueting and conference spaces that can host up to 800 guests, making it suitable for weddings, corporate events, and social gatherings.

The hotel is located around 17 km from Tribhuvan International Airport, offering easy access for both international and regional travellers. With its setting and facilities, the property is also well positioned for wellness-focused stays and destination-led travel experiences.

Commenting on the launch, Ajay K. Bakaya, Chairman, Sarovar Hotels & Director, Louvre Hotels India, said: “Nepal is a culturally rich and rapidly evolving tourism market, attracting travellers seeking spirituality, adventure and immersive experiences. The launch of Royal Tulip Shivapuri National Park Kathmandu reflects our commitment to expanding our international footprint while bringing globally recognised hospitality brands to distinctive destinations. With its exceptional location and elevated hospitality offering, the hotel is poised to become a preferred choice for both international and domestic travellers visiting Kathmandu.”

Mukunda Raj Kunwar, Chairman, Classic View Resort LTD, added: “We are delighted to partner with Sarovar Hotels and Louvre Hotels Group to introduce the Royal Tulip brand to this extraordinary location in Kathmandu. Budhanilkantha and the Shivapuri region offer a unique blend of spirituality, natural beauty and growing tourism appeal. Through this collaboration, we aim to create a destination that offers world-class hospitality while showcasing the cultural and natural richness of Nepal.”

With this addition, Sarovar Hotels continues to grow its presence across key destinations in South Asia while supporting the expansion of Louvre Hotels Group brands in emerging tourism markets.

Stay up-to-date with the latest Hospitality news and trends in the Hospitality industry!

Subscribe to Hospitality news e-magazine for free and never miss an issue.

By clicking subscribe for free you agree to the Terms & Conditions and acknowledge our Privacy Policy.

Advertise With Us

We have various options to advertise with us including Events, Advertorials, Banners, Mailers, etc.