Hanoi is a very hep and happening place, it has 10 international schools, many international banks and management consultancies, huge Gucci and Louis Vuitton stores, a range of historic French buildings, a buzzy young designers scene and some gorgeous lakes and pagodas.
Did I mention great food ? But for our family the experience of staying at the Sofitel Metropole Legend hotel is what will stand out for a long time. 
Steeped in history the Metropole hotel was first opened by 2 Frenchmen in 1901 and remained in French hands till 1954 when the Government took over the hotel. In fact the hotel is still owned by the Vietnamese government but is run and managed (very well) by the Sofitel/Accor group.
Split into the older, historical wing and the more contemporary Opera wing, the overall feel is one of a characterful place to rest your weary heads. From the serious wooden staircases (think Downton Abbey) to the beautiful and abundant floral arrangements (such as the obscenely large white lilies flown in from Dalat) every detail in this hotel has a story.
The famous Bamboo Bar has just been reopened, they have a very French epicerie and patisserie where well heeled Vietnamese come to do their grocery shopping and they have even uncovered an underground bunker at the hotel, go on a historical tour to find out the details but be sure to book beforehand as the tours are popular.
With products from France and Thailand the hotel has some of the most romantic 1930s style spa treatment rooms I have ever seen. Breakfast is served in the most amazing room with high ceilings around an impossibly long French style wooden table where a basket of perfectly baked croissants and pastries appear as soon you sit down.
No Edith Piaff in the background but Angelina Jolie, Brad Pitt, Graham Greene and even Charlie Chaplin have all stayed here. Tempting though it might be to just never leave the hotel, do go out and visit Hanoi. And if you need advice on visas for Vietnam, transfers, and great places to eat in Hanoi, then drop me a comment in the box below and I’ll answer you.
Do remember to like and share this post using the buttons below… Thanks Monica. And if this has whetted your appetite for more luxury in Vietnam
