Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Named Among Fodor’s 100 Most Incredible Hotels

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Named Among Fodor’s 100 Most Incredible Hotels

By Hariharan U

Published on November 11, 2025

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.imageThe 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.


Sayaji Hotels Launches Enrise by Sayaji in Bareilly

Sayaji Hotels Launches Enrise by Sayaji in Bareilly

By Hariharan U

Published on January 13, 2026

Sayaji Hotels Limited has announced the launch of Enrise by Sayaji, Bareilly, strengthening its footprint in Uttar Pradesh and bringing contemporary hospitality to one of the region’s culturally rich cities. Located at Station Road, Civil Lines, the hotel offers convenient access for travellers, situated just 13 km from Bareilly Airport and 500 metres from Bareilly Railway Station.

The property features 36 well-appointed rooms across four categories, designed to meet the needs of business, transit, and leisure guests. The room mix includes Deluxe Rooms, Superior Rooms, Superior Balcony Rooms, and Suites, each reflecting modern design sensibilities while staying true to Sayaji’s signature “Yours Truly” service philosophy.

Enrise by Sayaji, Bareilly also brings together a diverse food and beverage offering under one roof. Guests can choose from Horizon, a rooftop multicuisine fine-dining restaurant; Momentt, a relaxed coffee shop; 99 Degree, a classic bar suited for evening conversations; and Infinity Club & Bar, positioned as a lively social and celebration space. Together, these outlets aim to make the hotel a dining and social hub for both residents and visitors.

The hotel is equipped with two banqueting venues designed to host weddings, corporate meetings, and social events. Jewel Hall and Crystal Hall offer flexible layouts and capacities, supported by tailored food and beverage services and professional event management, enabling seamless execution for gatherings of varying scales.

Commenting on the launch, Rajendra Joshi, Associate General Manager, Sayaji Hotels, said the Enrise by Sayaji brand has been developed for modern travellers seeking comfort, functionality, and value, adding that Bareilly is a strong addition to the company’s growing portfolio across emerging Indian cities.

Ankur Vig, Managing Director, Unique Complex Private Limited, noted that Bareilly’s rising commercial and travel significance makes the timing of the hotel’s launch particularly relevant, with the partnership aiming to deliver national hospitality standards while staying connected to local sensibilities.

With Bareilly’s increasing demand for organised hospitality infrastructure, Enrise by Sayaji is positioned as a preferred choice for business stays, leisure travel, dining, and social celebrations, reinforcing Sayaji Hotels’ broader strategy of expanding into high-potential markets across India.


IHCL Signs Tree of Life Resort in Sakaleshpur, Karnataka

IHCL Signs Tree of Life Resort in Sakaleshpur, Karnataka

By Hariharan U

Published on January 11, 2026

The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL) has announced the signing of a Tree of Life resort in Sakaleshpur, Karnataka, expanding its footprint in one of the state’s emerging leisure destinations. The signing reflects IHCL’s focus on boutique and experiential hospitality in underexplored markets with strong tourism potential.

Sakaleshpur, known for its plantation landscapes and heritage appeal, is steadily gaining attention as tourism becomes an important economic driver in the region. The destination’s calm setting and natural beauty have led to a growing interest in immersive and personalised stays, especially among travellers seeking quiet, nature-focused getaways.

Commenting on the development, Ms. Suma Venkatesh, Executive Vice President, Real Estate & Development, IHCL, said,
"Sakaleshpur is a pristine destination in Karnataka that blends heritage with plantation landscapes. With tourism emerging as a strong economic driver here, experiential and boutique stays are witnessing growing demand. This signing marks IHCL’s early entry into an underpenetrated micro-market, enabling us to cater to discerning travellers seeking immersive leisure experiences. The Tree of Life resort will strengthen our presence along the Western Ghats and reinforce IHCL’s boutique positioning in this evolving destination belt. We are delighted to partner with Mystica Retreats LLP for this project."

Set amidst the Western Ghats, the 40-key Tree of Life Sakaleshpur is envisioned as a peaceful retreat surrounded by forests and a perennial stream. Staying true to the Tree of Life philosophy, the resort will focus on calm, comfort, and connection with nature. Planned facilities include an all-day dining restaurant, a bar, wellness amenities such as a swimming pool, treatment room, yoga space, and a range of thoughtfully designed guest experiences.

Sharing their views on the partnership, Mr. Sharanabasava Meti and Mr. Kemparaju of Mystica Retreats LLP said,
"We are pleased to partner with IHCL for this project and look forward to creating a unique getaway for travellers seeking a quiet escape."

Sakaleshpur offers a mix of trekking trails, heritage sites, and plantation tourism, with attractions such as Manjarabad Fort, Kaginahare Fort, Bisle Ghat Viewpoint, Jenukal Gudda, and the ruins within the Kaginahare Forest, making it an attractive destination for slow and meaningful travel.

With this signing, IHCL’s portfolio in Karnataka will grow to 34 hotels, including 19 under development, further reinforcing the company’s long-term commitment to the state.

Mystica Retreats LLP is promoted by Mr. Sharanabasava Meti and Mr. Kemparaju, both experienced entrepreneurs with interests across infrastructure, hospitality, real estate, agriculture, cinema, and education. Their collaboration with IHCL aims to create a refined yet relaxed retreat aligned with the destination’s natural character.

IHCL and its subsidiaries bring together a wide range of hospitality brands, offering a blend of Indian warmth and global service standards. With a strong domestic and international presence, the company continues to expand across leisure and business destinations, strengthening its position as India’s largest hospitality company.


Golden Tulip to Debut in Virat Nagar, Jaipur

Golden Tulip to Debut in Virat Nagar, Jaipur

By Hariharan U

Published on January 10, 2026

SeaHorse Hospitality Consulting has successfully brought together Green Oasis Hospitality Pvt Ltd and Sarovar Hotels to introduce Golden Tulip in Virat Nagar, Jaipur. This strategic brand partnership marks an important addition to Rajasthan’s growing hospitality landscape, with the upcoming property positioned as a premium four-star hotel.

Planned as a 110-room development, Golden Tulip Virat Nagar is designed to serve a balanced mix of business and leisure travellers, while also emerging as a preferred destination for large-format social gatherings. Located on the outskirts of Jaipur, Virat Nagar has been identified as a high-potential micro-market, particularly for destination weddings, corporate offsites, and upscale retreats.

SeaHorse Hospitality Consulting played a key role in aligning the hospitality asset with the right brand to unlock long-term value. By bringing Golden Tulip, part of the Sarovar Hotels portfolio, to the project, Green Oasis Hospitality gains access to a strong global distribution network and professional hotel management expertise, setting the stage for sustained revenue growth from the outset.

Highlighting the vision behind the partnership, Sandeep Roy, Founder & CEO, SeaHorse Hospitality Consulting, said, "Jaipur’s periphery is evolving into a powerhouse for high-end social events and leisure retreats. Facilitating this partnership between Green Oasis and Sarovar Hotels ensures that Virat Nagar gains a premier asset designed to capture the growing demand for large-format weddings and upscale staycations."

Golden Tulip Virat Nagar, Jaipur is being thoughtfully planned with a strong focus on events and premium guest experiences. The hotel will feature 110 spacious luxury rooms, each with a minimum size of 400 square feet, including a select number of exclusive plunge pool rooms.

The property’s food and beverage offerings will include a signature all-day dining restaurant and a contemporary lounge bar, catering to both resident guests and event attendees. For social and corporate functions, the hotel will house a grand banquet hall spanning 6,500 square feet, supported by multiple conference halls suited for meetings and MICE requirements.

One of the key highlights of the development is its expansive outdoor event infrastructure. The hotel will offer multiple landscaped lawns, with the largest covering 13,000 square feet, specifically designed to host large-scale destination weddings and celebratory events. Additional amenities will include a swimming pool, a fully equipped gym and spa, and a dedicated kids play area, ensuring a complete leisure experience for families and groups.

With this signing, Virat Nagar is set to gain a landmark hospitality asset that aligns with Jaipur’s evolving demand for premium stays and large-format event venues, further strengthening the region’s appeal as a luxury wedding and leisure destination.

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