Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Welcomes the Year of the Horse with Immersive Tet Celebrations

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Welcomes the Year of the Horse with Immersive Tet Celebrations

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on February 10, 2026

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, the iconic 125-year-old luxury hotel in the heart of the Vietnamese capital, is ushering in the Year of the Horse with an immersive Tet celebration that honours the country’s rich cultural heritage, traditions, and spirit of renewal. The hotel has unveiled a thoughtfully designed programme of cultural activities and festive experiences, inviting guests to engage deeply with the essence of Vietnam’s most significant celebration.

At the heart of the festivities is the Metropole Tet Space, where guests are welcomed into a vibrant atmosphere filled with traditional performances and interactive experiences. The programme includes lively lion dances, traditional puppet shows, ca trù singing performances, and a curated exhibition of traditional paintings. Guests are also encouraged to participate in hands-on cultural workshops such as Chung cake preparation, daffodil bulb trimming, and tea appreciation, offering a closer connection to age-old Vietnamese customs.

A key highlight of the celebrations is the “Reawakening Lien” series, which pays tribute to the revival of Hue calligraphy, a treasured art form that had faded for over a decade. The initiative features insightful discussions, curated showcases, and interactive sessions led by master artisans, allowing guests to explore the artistry and cultural significance of this revived tradition.

Embracing one of Tet’s most cherished customs, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi continues the tradition of lì xì, symbolising wishes of health, happiness, and prosperity. Guests staying at the hotel during the festive period receive a specially prepared lì xì in the form of a voucher, redeemable for exclusive Metropole-branded gifts available at La Boutique and L’Epicerie.

Adding to the festive spirit, the hotel presents an elegant selection of Tet hampers from L’Epicerie, thoughtfully curated and fully customisable for gifting to friends, family, and business associates. These hampers blend premium European imports with authentic Vietnamese delicacies and signature Metropole-branded products, reflecting a seamless harmony of luxury and tradition.

Culinary experiences play a central role in the celebrations. Spice Garden, the hotel’s renowned Vietnamese restaurant, showcases a special Tet set menu highlighting authentic regional delicacies, complemented by traditional accompaniments. Meanwhile, angelina introduces an exclusive Tet cocktail collection that reinterprets classic Vietnamese New Year flavours through modern mixology. Guests can also indulge in the hotel’s elegant Afternoon Tea at Le Club Bar, where British tradition is elevated with French finesse and local influences.

The festive journey continues at Le Beaulieu with the hotel’s iconic Sunday Brunch, now reimagined with a themed approach. The Tet-inspired edition brings together refined French culinary craftsmanship and Vietnamese cultural symbolism, featuring signature seafood, premium meats, artisanal cheeses, decadent desserts, and live jazz performances.

Through these thoughtfully curated experiences, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi reaffirms its commitment to celebrating Vietnamese culture with authenticity, elegance, and heartfelt hospitality, offering guests a meaningful and immersive Tet experience that reflects the joy of new beginnings.


Chef Ravinder Singh Negi Joins The Imperia by Dhaba as Assistant Chef

Chef Ravinder Singh Negi Joins The Imperia by Dhaba as Assistant Chef

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 10, 2026

The Imperia by Dhaba, a well-known Indian fine-dining destination in New Jersey and part of a reputed family-owned restaurant group with a strong presence across New York City and New Jersey, has announced the appointment of Chef Ravinder Singh Negi as Assistant Chef.

In his new role, Chef Negi will focus on bringing out rich and traditional Indian flavours, with special attention to curry-based dishes and tandoor preparations. He will also take charge of menu development and culinary innovation, supporting the restaurant’s vision of offering an elevated dining experience that blends authenticity with a modern touch.

Chef Negi brings with him a strong professional background, having worked with several respected hospitality brands in India. He most recently served as Executive Chef at Sarpanch Bagh Restaurant, where he ensured high standards in food quality and safety, managed costs efficiently, and maintained strict hygiene practices. His experience in handling large-scale kitchen operations also contributed to the restaurant’s consistent performance.

Earlier in his career, he worked with Old World Hospitality (OWH) at the Commissary Kitchen in Okhla, New Delhi, as a Chef de Partie. He also held the role of Demi Chef de Partie at the India Habitat Centre, Lodhi Road, known for its cultural and culinary excellence. Additionally, he was associated with Chor Bizarre Restaurant in Noida, a brand recognised for its unique take on Indian heritage cuisine.

With experience across these well-known establishments, Chef Negi has developed strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of regional Indian cooking techniques, which he now brings to The Imperia by Dhaba.

Commenting on his appointment, Chef Ravinder Singh Negi said, “I am honored to join The Imperia by Dhaba. I look forward to bringing authentic Indian flavors to the forefront while creating memorable dining experiences for our guests through innovation and passion.”

The management of The Imperia by Dhaba shared that they are confident his experience and culinary expertise will further strengthen the restaurant’s offerings and enhance the overall guest experience.


Atmosphere Core Promotes Christopher Baker as Vice President Operations

Atmosphere Core Promotes Christopher Baker as Vice President Operations

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 9, 2026

Atmosphere Core has announced the promotion of Christopher Baker as Vice President Operations – Atmosphere Hotels and Resorts. In his new role, he will oversee operational performance and support growth across the brand’s portfolio in India, Italy, Maldives, and Nepal.

He will also focus on improving efficiencies, raising service standards, and supporting the launch of key upcoming properties. These include BORGO MONCHIERO HERITAGE by Atmosphere in Langhe Piedmont, Italy; STILLWOOD RETREAT, a Signature Atmosphere property in Coorg, India; and AARUNYA NATURE RESORT by Atmosphere in Banepa, Nepal.

With over 30 years of experience in the global hospitality industry, Christopher brings strong expertise across luxury and lifestyle resorts. He has worked in senior roles with leading brands such as Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts, Marriott Resorts, and Rosewood Hotels & Resorts. Over the years, he has built a reputation for driving financial performance, delivering quality guest experiences, and encouraging innovation. He has also been recognised across the industry, including being named among the Top 100 Hotel General Managers in the World 2024 by Luxury Lifestyle Awards.

Sharing his thoughts, Christopher Baker said, “From city hotels to quiet island resorts, one truth has followed me everywhere, that exceptional hospitality is never accidental. It grows from clear systems, smart planning, and teams that feel confident to own their work. I’m honoured by the trust placed in me by the Atmosphere Core leadership, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to the company’s growth.”

Ashwin Handa, Chief Operating Officer of Atmosphere Core, added, “At Atmosphere Core, our strategy is centred on nurturing talent and fostering growth from within the company. We’re proud to see Christopher evolve and grow with us, and with his proven expertise in operational excellence, team development, and guest-centric service, he is well positioned for success in this new role.”

This move reflects Atmosphere Core’s focus on strengthening leadership as it continues to expand its presence across international markets.


Outletcity Metzingen Retains Top Spot as Germany’s Leading Outlet Destination

Outletcity Metzingen Retains Top Spot as Germany’s Leading Outlet Destination

By Hariharan U

Published on April 8, 2026

Reinforcing its position at the forefront of European retail, Outletcity Metzingen has once again been ranked as Germany’s leading outlet centre in the Outlet Centre Performance Report Europe 2025.

Published by ecostra in collaboration with French research institute magdus, the report highlights Metzingen’s consistent performance and growing influence across the European outlet landscape.

A major highlight this year is the recognition of Outletcity AG as Europe’s best operator for the sixth time since the study began. The operator category evaluates management professionalism, brand attractiveness, and the strength of partnerships with tenants, making it one of the most respected benchmarks in the industry.

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Speaking on the achievement, CEO Regine Schöllkopf-Pinakidis noted that the recognition reflects a continued commitment to excellence in brand management, service quality, and destination development. The strong endorsement from international partners further underlines the trust placed in Metzingen as a long-term retail hub.

On a broader European scale, Outletcity Metzingen has also secured a place among the top ten in the category of “Most Economically Successful Outlet Centre in Europe 2025.” Based on tenant feedback, this ranking positions the destination among the continent’s most impactful retail centres.

Widely recognised as Europe’s largest outlet destination, Metzingen continues to set benchmarks in destination management. Its strong portfolio of premium and luxury brands, along with the presence of the world’s largest BOSS store, enhances its appeal as a global shopping hotspot.

The latest recognition reflects a long-term strategy focused on consistent quality, a strong brand mix, and innovation across both physical and digital retail experiences. The destination’s sustained leadership in Germany is particularly notable, with no other outlet centre achieving a similar level of engagement from international brands.

This continued dominance highlights Outletcity Metzingen’s economic strength, brand appeal, and future-ready positioning in an increasingly competitive retail environment.

About AVIAREPS:

AVIAREPS is a global leader in aviation, tourism, and hospitality representation, with a presence across 76 offices in 71 countries. Founded in Germany in 1994, the company supports over 250 clients worldwide with services spanning sales, marketing, public relations, digital strategy, and business development, helping brands expand across international markets.

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