Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Unveils Mexico Plaque, Celebrates Shared Legacy

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Unveils Mexico Plaque, Celebrates Shared Legacy

By Nishang Narayan

Published on June 4, 2025

As Vietnam and Mexico mark 50 years of diplomatic relations, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi has added a meaningful tribute to their shared history. On May 30, the iconic Hanoi hotel unveiled a commemorative plaque to honor its role as the site of Mexico’s first embassy in Vietnam between 1976 and the early 1980s.

The plaque was installed at Room 215, the former location of the Mexican Embassy, during a special ceremony attended by dignitaries and representatives from both nations. This unveiling is part of a broader initiative by the Mexican Embassy in Vietnam to strengthen cultural diplomacy and friendship.

“This gesture not only celebrates the past but also reaffirms our shared values of respect, collaboration and cultural understanding,” said George Koumendakos, General Manager of Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi.

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“It reflects the early presence of Mexican diplomacy in Hanoi and the values of friendship, solidarity and mutual respect that have guided our relationship ever since,” added Ambassador Alejandro Negrin of Mexico to Vietnam.

The hotel, which was then known as the Reunification Hotel, served as the diplomatic home for Mexico during a formative time in bilateral relations. The occasion serves as a reminder of the deep-rooted connections between the two nations and Metropole’s unique role in history.

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To celebrate this legacy, the hotel has also revived its “Mexican Culinary Fiesta” at angelina, its signature cocktail bar and restaurant. Running from May 16 to June 15, this food and beverage experience brings a taste of Mexico to Hanoi with authentic cuisine, UNESCO-recognized culinary traditions, and bespoke tequila cocktails created by in-house mixologists.

Located in the heart of Hanoi since 1901, the Metropole is no stranger to history. The hotel has long hosted luminaries, statesmen, and cultural icons, and its 358 rooms—across the Heritage Wing and Opera Wing—combine French elegance with Vietnamese charm. Dining experiences here span from fine French fare at Le Beaulieu to local flavors at Spice Garden, Parisian street vibes at La Terrasse, and indulgent cocktails at Le Club Bar and Bamboo Bar.

This commemorative gesture and cultural celebration continue to highlight Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi’s role as a living symbol of international friendship and refined hospitality.


Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor Hosts New Exhibition Featuring Leading Khmer Artists

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor Hosts New Exhibition Featuring Leading Khmer Artists

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 5, 2025

Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor, the iconic 93-year-old luxury retreat near Cambodia’s ancient Angkor sites, has launched a new art exhibition titled “Harmony.” The show highlights the works of two of Cambodia’s most prominent contemporary artists, Morn Chear and Nak Noy, both natives of Siem Reap.

Curated by Nat Di Maggio from Tribe Art Gallery, the exhibition captures the intricate beauty of Cambodia’s natural environment through vivid depictions of birds, elephants, fish, and other wildlife. Beyond artistic expression, these creatures serve as symbols of Khmer heritage, folklore, and everyday life. At a time when environmental concerns are more pressing than ever, “Harmony” invites viewers to reflect on the importance of preserving nature for future generations.

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The exhibition is on display in the hotel’s elegant public spaces, and guests can also enjoy private guided tours led by the resident artists. Running through September, this initiative is part of the hotel’s ongoing cultural series, which began earlier this year with a showcase by renowned Khmer painter Channy Chhoeun.

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Opened in 1932 as a haven for explorers and archeologists visiting Angkor Wat, Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor continues to celebrate Cambodia’s rich heritage. Its ‘Curated Journeys’ and in-house ‘Resort Programme’ offer immersive experiences that connect guests with local culture and traditions.

Adding to its legacy, the hotel was recently named one of the world’s ‘500 Best Hotels’ by Travel + Leisure for the fourth year in a row.


Sarovar Hotels Debuts in Nepal with Royal Tulip Chitwan

Sarovar Hotels Debuts in Nepal with Royal Tulip Chitwan

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 4, 2025

Sarovar Hotels, the Indian arm of Louvre Hotels Group, has launched its premium Royal Tulip brand in Nepal with the grand opening of Royal Tulip Chitwan. Developed by KTM Hospitality, a subsidiary of KTM Group Holdings, the resort is located near the renowned Chitwan National Park and spans 4 acres of lush landscape.

Royal Tulip Chitwan features 65 well-designed rooms and villas, including Pool Villas, Water Villas, and unique Machan accommodations. Each space is crafted to offer guests a luxurious and immersive experience with sweeping views of nature. The resort also includes a spa, fitness center, swimming pool, and an array of dining options, such as Majhighar, Forest Flame, the revolving deck Machan, and the lively Tanavi Sports Bar.

Ajay K. Bakaya, chairman of Sarovar Hotels and director of Louvre Hotels India, said, “Nepal is fast emerging as a preferred destination for both Indian and international travelers. We are thrilled to introduce the Royal Tulip brand in this beautiful country with a resort that offers a seamless blend of luxury, adventure, and local culture.”

Rameshwar Shah, chairman of KTM Hospitality, added, “Royal Tulip Chitwan, a place covered by nature where the wild watches over you, is our tribute to the natural beauty and cultural richness of Nepal. This resort is more than just a hospitality project, it is our commitment to enhancing the region’s tourism appeal, creating local employment opportunities, and setting a new benchmark for luxury in Chitwan.”

With this strategic launch, Louvre Hotels Group continues to grow its footprint in South Asia, reaffirming its focus on expanding into high-potential tourism destinations. Royal Tulip Chitwan is expected to become a preferred retreat for travelers seeking serenity, wildlife, and refined hospitality in the heart of Nepal.


Taiwan Sees Over 30% Growth in Indian Tourists from January to May 2025

Taiwan Sees Over 30% Growth in Indian Tourists from January to May 2025

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 3, 2025

Taiwan has recorded a 30.73% rise in Indian tourist arrivals during the January to May 2025 period, with a total of 19,202 visitors. This growth reflects a significant recovery and rising interest among Indian travellers following the country’s renewed focus on India as a key tourism source market.

The momentum comes on the heels of Taiwan Tourism Administration’s (TTA) post-pandemic re-entry into the Indian market in early 2024. With a 360-degree promotional strategy in place, TTA has been rolling out campaigns targeting niche segments such as golf tourism and wellness travel, along with outreach programs in East India.

In 2024, Taiwan welcomed 38,158 Indian tourists, showing a 20.81% increase over 2023 figures. This growth rate significantly outpaced the overall Indian outbound travel growth of 8.44%, placing Taiwan’s numbers at nearly 2.5 times the average.

Paul Shih, Director of the TTA Singapore Office, said, “We are very bullish about India’s outbound tourism potential for us. Over the last one and a half years, we have worked extensively and hard to build strong tourism ties with India’s ever-growing outbound tourism market, particularly focusing on strengthening partnerships with the Indian trade.”

As part of the global "Taiwan – Waves of Wonder" campaign, TTA has been promoting luxury and golf experiences tailored to Indian high-net-worth travellers. Recent efforts have included roadshows in cities like Kolkata, aimed at East India’s growing travel market.

By partnering with golf tour operators, OTAs, and luxury travel providers, TTA is offering curated experiences that combine golf, spa, culinary, and wellness offerings to attract Indian travellers. India has now emerged as Taiwan’s top South Asian source market both in terms of visitor numbers and travel spending.

TTA plans to continue its investments in both trade partnerships and consumer campaigns to strengthen Taiwan’s presence as a premium and accessible destination for Indian tourists.

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