The iconic Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi has once again been named one of the world’s “500 Best Hotels” by Travel + Leisure magazine, securing a place among the most elite properties in global hospitality for the sixth consecutive year.

Celebrating its landmark 125th anniversary this year, the legendary Metropole Hanoi was one of only 12 hotels in Vietnam to appear on the 2026 list – and one of only two in the capital. The annual “World’s Best” awards, published in Travel + Leisure’s May 2026 issue, are among the most respected benchmarks in the international travel industry.

“Being recognized in Travel + Leisure’s ‘500 Best Hotels’ is a tremendous honor. As we celebrate 125 years of legendary hospitality rooted in our extraordinary past, this award inspires us to continue crafting even more remarkable experiences for our esteemed guests and the Metropole,” said Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi General Manager George Koumendakos.

The recognition comes on the heels of several other major international accolades for the luxury hotel. Metropole Hanoi was recently named one of the “100 Most Incredible Hotels in the World” for 2026 by Fodor’s, a leading international travel authority for more than 80 years.

Last year, Metropole was awarded a coveted MICHELIN Key in the MICHELIN Guide’s inaugural edition in Vietnam. Business Traveller magazine named Metropole Hanoi one of the “Best Business Hotels in Asia-Pacific” for 2025, and Robb Report Hong Kong spotlighted Metropole in its “Best of the Best” for 2026.

In June, the Metropole was named the best city hotel in Vietnam in the annual Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025. Condé Nast Traveler also recognized Metropole as one of the 72 best hotels and resorts in the world in the magazine’s prestigious Gold List 2025.

For more information on Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, please call 0243 826 6919, email metropolehanoi.info@sofitel.com or visit www.sofitel-legend-metropole-hanoi.com/.

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The two-day programme brought over 300 Chelsea supporters and Ascott Star Rewards members together for immersive fan experiences, including the Night with the Blues event at Hanoi’s newest integrated events and hospitality destination

The Ascott Limited (Ascott), the Official Hotels Partner of Chelsea Football Club, has concluded its fourth edition of The Famous CFC, Chelsea’s international fan engagement programme. The Hanoi showcase marked the programme’s Vietnam debut and featured Chelsea legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink, a two-time Premier League Golden Boot winner. An electrifying atmosphere filled the Ho Tay Ballroom as Chelsea fans and Ascott Star Rewards members came together to celebrate their favourite club. Held across Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi, Oakwood Residence Hanoi and Somerset West Point Hanoi on 17 and 18 April 2026, the two-day programme brought together more than 300 fans and Ascott Star Rewards (ASR) members for a curated series of fan engagements, including a fireside chat, an exclusive member meet-and-greet, and the newly introduced Night with the Blues event.\ The Hanoi edition marked two notable milestones. For Hasselbaink, it was his first official club visit to Vietnam, a moment long anticipated by the country’s Blues community. For Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi, it signalled the official debut of its international convention centre: a purpose-built event destination anchored by the Ho Tay Ballroom – the largest pillarless ballroom in Hanoi – one of 13 meeting venues. The convention centre is part of the 1,165-room integrated property scheduled to open fully later this year. Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink said: “Spending the weekend with so many Chelsea fans in Hanoi was an amazing experience. You could really feel the passion for the club, and Ascott created an environment that brought fans closer to the Chelsea spirit. Moments like these help strengthen the connection between the club and its supporters.” Chelsea legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink took time to visit young beneficiaries of the Centre for Supporting Community Development Initiatives John Rogers, Head of Partnerships at Chelsea Football Club, said: “Hanoi showed exactly what The Famous CFC, presented by Ascott, is all about. Our passionate fans brought great energy to the event and made it an unforgettable experience. The turnout and engagement from Chelsea supporters and Ascott Star Rewards members further proves the incredible connection we share with our established fanbase across Southeast Asia. We’re proud of what we’ve built through our partnership with Ascott, and excited to take it even further in the seasons ahead.” Tan Bee Leng, Chief Commercial Officer, Ascott, said: “Every edition of The Famous CFC is designed to introduce new experiences, and Hanoi was no exception. Southeast Asia is home to more than 30% of Ascott’s global portfolio, with Vietnam among our most active markets for new openings. This edition brought together two firsts – Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink’s inaugural official club visit to Vietnam, and the official debut of Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi’s international convention centre – creating a distinctive experience for Chelsea fans and Ascott Star Rewards members alike.” “The Famous CFC reflects how Ascott’s partnership with Chelsea translated into real value for our members and guests. Ascott Star Rewards is built on our ‘Stay Rewarded’ promise, and through this partnership, we continue to extend that promise beyond stays into curated experiences – from close interactions with club legends to early access to key properties across our portfolio,” she added. Highlights from The Famous CFC Hanoi As a devoted Chelsea fan, getting up close with a club legend is something The two-day programme kickstarted on Friday, 17 April, when Hasselbaink joined a coaching session for young beneficiaries of the Centre for Supporting Community Development Initiatives (SCDI), a Hanoi-based non-profit organisation supporting the social inclusion of vulnerable communities. During the session, Hasselbaink shared football tips and encouraged the participants, drawing on personal lessons from his journey as a professional player. The activity reflected The Famous CFC’s focus on engaging local fan communities and aligned with Ascott’s ongoing commitment to community engagement through its sustainability programme, Ascott CARES. Following the community initiative, Hasselbaink visited Oakwood Residence Hanoi to experience the brand’s signature warmth and comfort food philosophy before participating in an intimate fireside chat at Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi. There, he recounted some of his fondest memories as one of Chelsea’s most celebrated forwards, including defining goals, team culture and lessons that have remained with him beyond his playing years. The session brought together a Chelsea legend with Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi, a world-class venue designed to host landmark international events. On the second day on Saturday, 18 April, Hasselbaink took time to explore the city before joining Ascott Star Rewards members for an exclusive meet-and-greet at Somerset West Point Hanoi. In keeping with Somerset’s emphasis on shared experiences, the session provided members with the opportunity to engage directly with the Chelsea legend through a Q&A segment and photography opportunities. Night with the Blues at Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi The programme culminated with Night with the Blues at Ascott Tay Ho Hanoi‘s Ho Tay Ballroom, which was transformed for the occasion into a football-themed event space that brought the energy of London’s Stamford Bridge right to the heart of Hanoi. For the more than 300 fans, some of whom had travelled in from across the region, the electrifying matchday atmosphere arrived well before kick-off. The event combined Ascott’s signature hospitality, fan activations and extended engagement with Hasselbaink, building to a crescendo as Chelsea prepared to face Manchester United later that evening. Said Supachok Pornsri, a Chelsea fan and ASR member who travelled from Bangkok, Thailand to attend The Famous CFC in Hanoi: “Meeting Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink in person was a dream come true. As a devoted Chelsea fan, getting up close with a club legend is something I will not forget. Having attended past editions of The Famous CFC in Bangkok and Jakarta, this Hanoi edition once again showed how seamlessly Ascott brings together world-class hospitality with fans’ passion for Chelsea. That is what makes being an ASR member truly worthwhile. I hope ASR continues to offer experiences like this, and Ascott will definitely be my first choice for future travels.” For the latest updates on exclusive offers from Ascott’s partnership with Chelsea, including the upcoming editions of The Famous CFC, please visit https://www.discoverasr.com/en/ascott-chelseafc.

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There’s a coffee you don’t expect. Not because of its color or its aroma, but for what it hides inside: an egg yolk whipped into a sweet, creamy cloud. You discover it while walking through the streets of Hanoi, in Vietnam, among the scents of a city that never sleeps. Plastic tables take over the sidewalks, stools sit low to the ground, and everywhere people sip something dark, topped with a pale yellow, almost golden foam. It doesn’t look like coffee. And yet, it is.

Café Giang, at 39 Nguyen Huu Huan Street

Cà phê trứng, Vietnam’s egg coffee, is neither a tourist gimmick nor a modern culinary experiment. Its story begins in wartime, when milk was scarce and hunger outweighed tradition. It was 1946 in Hanoi, and Nguyen Van Giang, a bartender at the Sofitel Legend Metropole — then an elegant French colonial residence — faced empty shelves. Coffee was plentiful; Vietnam, though not yet the global giant it would become, had inherited coffee cultivation from the French in the Central Highlands. But fresh milk was nowhere to be found. And without milk, there was no café au lait for European guests who demanded it every morning.

Giang glanced at the kitchen, spotted the eggs — always available, even in the hardest times — and thought: why not try? He beat an egg yolk with sugar and condensed milk, added a touch of butter, until he achieved a thick, velvety cream. He poured it over a cup of hot, bitter Robusta coffee, served in a glass. The result was astonishing: not a compromise, but a revelation. That golden foam softened the bitterness of the coffee, transforming it into something new, almost dessert-like. At first the guests were surprised, then intrigued, and finally enchanted.

Thus, in the heart of a war-torn city, one of Southeast Asia’s most iconic drinks was born. Giang left the hotel and opened Café Giang, at 39 Nguyen Huu Huan Street. It still stands today, on the second floor of a modest building, with worn walls and windows open to the city. No flashy signs are needed: just follow the aroma in the air, the sound of egg yolks being whisked by hand, and the waiters rushing up and down with steaming trays. Giang’s son, Tri Hoa Nguyen, still prepares the coffee using the original recipe, with a secret ingredient never revealed. Perhaps a touch of brandy, perhaps a special honey. Or perhaps it’s just time itself, turning necessity into legend.

I wasn’t looking for this drink. I didn’t even know it existed. After a bowl of phở, sitting on a chair far too low, I just wanted a coffee. A real coffee. For us Italians, it’s a matter of principle: coffee is not a break, it’s a ritual, a pleasure.

The author with a good cup of egg coffee

And yet, too often while traveling I’ve had to give it up. In many countries it’s too long, watered down, lukewarm. Or it’s instant — that gray broth “not even fit for dogs.” So I learned to make do, reluctantly, with whatever was available. But in Hanoi, things were different. On the menu I read simply cà phê trứng. I asked what it was, hesitated: a raw egg in coffee? It could have been a gastronomic nightmare, if I hadn’t already tasted something similar in Bologna. Then I thought: if you’ve come all this way to explore local cuisine, you can’t stop at the threshold of taste. You must cross it.

The first cup arrived hot, steaming, with that yellow cream trembling slightly. I stirred it slowly with a spoon, watching the dark coffee rise to the surface. Then I tasted. A cautious sip, and immediately I understood: it wasn’t just coffee, it wasn’t dessert, it wasn’t liquid or solid. It was a unique balance of bitter and sweet, warmth and creaminess. It recalled a liquid tiramisù, a coffee zabaglione, a crème brûlée you could drink. But most of all, it was good. Deep. Comforting.

Since then, every time I’ve returned to Hanoi, egg coffee has been a ritual I never miss. A mandatory stop was Ciao Coffee, connected to the tour operator Ciao Travel, which until my last visit stood just beyond Chuong Gate. Despite its Italian-sounding name, it was a purely Vietnamese place, where skilled hands offered true delights to my palate.

various qualities of coffee you. an find in Hanoi

Watching Ms. Nhung whisk an egg yolk, even now with the help of an electric mixer — an inevitable concession to modern times — remains a gesture of resistance against the rush. It’s a ritual, slow and meditative. And as I wait, I think about the strange destiny of food: how often what is born from scarcity becomes a symbol of abundance.

Today, the tour operator I collaborate with has moved about a kilometer away and closed its restaurant section. But Ms. Nhung is still there, and she promised me that every time I return to Hanoi, she’ll prepare her unmistakable, exquisite egg coffee.

Coffee, after all, is a story of adaptation, ingenuity, and dignity. It’s proof that when what you think is essential is missing, you can create something new, even better. It’s no coincidence that Vietnam, now one of the world’s top three producers, is home to such a unique specialty. Here, coffee is not a borrowed culture but a living part of national identity.

antichi macina caffè

Condensed milk, another symbol of this tradition, was introduced by the French during World War I to compensate for the lack of fresh milk. The Vietnamese adopted it and made it their own: today a simple cà phê sữa means black coffee, brewed with a phin filter, blended with a generous spoonful of condensed milk.

But cà phê trứng goes beyond. It’s a poetic evolution of the same principle: turning what you have into something memorable. Today, there are versions with coconut milk, cocoa, or served cold with ice. I myself tried to make it at home. I followed every step of Ms. Nhung’s ritual. Decent, yes. But it’s not the same. It lacked the trained, skilled hand. It lacked the air of Hanoi, the noise of traffic, the feeling of being in a place where time moves differently. It lacked the barista who looks at you and smiles, as if knowing you’ve just crossed an invisible border.

Today, egg coffee is no longer just Hanoi’s treasure: you’ll find it in Saigon, Hue, Hoi An. In trendy cafés it comes in elegant glasses, ready for Instagram. But the heart remains in the old quarter, where someone walks in every day, looks at the cup with suspicion, and then says: “It’s good. I don’t know what it is, but it’s good.”

vietnamese egg coffee

And that, perhaps, is the true miracle of cà phê trứng: it doesn’t win you over immediately; it challenges you. But once you try it, you realize it’s not the flavor that changes you, but the very idea of coffee. That doesn’t have to be bitter, quick, and functional. It can be soft, slow, and complex. It can be a moment you don’t fully understand, but one that feels right.

Because sometimes, the most authentic pleasure doesn’t come from what you know, but from what you don’t expect.

Photos by Guglielmo Zanchi (Pluto)

Click HERE and enjoy our video on Vietnamese egg coffee!!

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Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, the storied luxury hotel in the Vietnamese capital, was named one of the “100 Most Incredible Hotels in the World” by Fodor’s, a leading international travel authority for more than 80 years. The Metropole was one of 15 hotels in Asia – and the only hotel in Vietnam – to be selected for the 2026 list of “Fodor’s Finest Hotels,” one of global travel’s most sought-after distinctions.

“The hotel’s 358 rooms are divided between two wings: the historic Heritage Wing, renovated in 2023 yet still rich with French colonial charm and Vietnamese influences, and the Opera Wing, styled with neoclassical touches and bold black, white, and red accents,” Fodor’s said.

Fodor’s also praised Metropole Hanoi’s exceptional dining experiences, highlighting the Michelin-selected French fine dining restaurant Le Beaulieu and the elevated Vietnamese restaurant Spice Garden.

Fodor’s editors estimate there are more than 765,000 hotels and resorts in operation globally. Their team of hundreds of experts – “from globetrotting writers to hotel professionals” – helped narrow their picks “to a list of hotels that we love and would recommend visiting in 2026.”

The recognition from Fodor’s follows other major accolades this year for Vietnam’s “Grande Dame since 1901.”

In October, Metropole was awarded a coveted MICHELIN Key in the MICHELIN Guide’s inaugural edition in Vietnam, with the editors saying, “Not every hotel can get away with using the word ‘legend,’ but there’s nothing else quite like the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi. There are other luxury hotels that retain their 1901-vintage facades, but few so effectively convey the sense of traveling through time.”

Business Traveller magazine named Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi one of the “Best Business Hotels in Asia-Pacific” for 2025, and Robb Report Hong Kong spotlighted Metropole in its “Best of the Best” for 2026, giving it an award for “Iconic Historic Hotel in Hanoi.”

In June, the Metropole was named the best city hotel in Vietnam in the annual Travel + Leisure Luxury Awards Asia Pacific 2025. Earlier, Condé Nast Traveler recognized the Metropole as one of the 72 best hotels and resorts in the world in the U.S. magazine’s prestigious Gold List 2025. Metropole was also named one of the “World’s 500 Best Hotels” by Travel + Leisure.

For more information on Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, please call 0243 826 6919, email metropolehanoi.info@sofitel.com or visit www.sofitel-legend-metropole-hanoi.com/.

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There is a city that welcomes you not with order, but with a loud embrace full of sounds, smells, and intertwined movements. Hanoi is like that: it never reveals itself in silence. The first impression is a symphony of honking motorbikes, constant chatter in narrow alleys, the smell of broth boiling on gas stoves along the sidewalks, and the thin smoke of nighttime barbecues rising among the trees. It’s not chaos; it’s life—a fast-flowing life, woven with ancient gestures, as if time here isn’t linear but circular.

Wandering Through the Old Quarter

Walking through the Old Quarter, where streets are named after the goods once sold there — Silk Street, Iron Street, Hat Street — you feel like moving inside a living map. This neighborhood, over a thousand years old, was designed as a vibrant commercial organism, a maze of narrow streets and tube-shaped houses built to maximize space and reduce street-front taxes. These are called tube houses, where the front is for work and trade, the back for living, and hidden between thin walls, there’s a courtyard letting in light and rain. Every corner tells a story: a hidden temple behind a fruit stand, an old man repairing fountain pens, a woman serving phở from a pot on the ground, with precise gestures like a ritual. The buildings are often tall and narrow, built during the French period, with rusted balconies and colorful curtains fluttering in the warm wind. They seem more like people—each with its own story, breath, and way of existence.

The Origins of Hanoi

It all began in 1010 when King Lý Thái Tổ decided to move the capital to Thăng Long, the “Flying Dragon City,” choosing a strategic location between rivers and trade routes. Since then, the city’s heart developed into two parts: the Imperial Citadel, enclosed within walls and symbolizing imperial power, and the bustling trading city, open and lively, meant for exchange. Over the centuries, artisans from nearby villages moved here, bringing crafts and traditions. Every street became a district of workshops, governed by a guild, with a temple dedicated to the guardian spirit of the trade. They were called the “36 Guilds of Arts,” though today many more exist, and the number has become more of a symbol than an exact figure.

Pluto and Alis on a traditional rikshaw

In the 17th century, Chinese merchants brought new momentum to the economy, and the neighborhood grew and adapted. Then, at the end of the 19th century, the French arrived. They changed the city’s face: widening streets, draining lakes, demolishing gates that separated districts, erasing the village-like charm that had persisted for centuries. Yet, they couldn’t break the soul of the place. Colonial facades appeared—arches, rectangular windows, pediments—but behind, in interior courtyards, life went on just as before.

Even during wartime, the Old Quarter persisted. In the 1960s, with the policy of collective housing, many homes were nationalized and divided among large families. Courtyards filled with makeshift structures, spaces grew narrower, but the community endured. After 1986, with the Đổi Mới reform, the push towards the market revived the neighborhood’s original spirit: people opened new shops, revitalized their crafts, and took control of their future. Today, amidst tall buildings and tangled wires, the neighborhood’s identity still survives: the urban fabric, hidden temples, tube houses, artisans’ streets. It’s a fragile but resilient balance.

Hoan Kiem: Lake of the Returned Sword

In the midst of all this is Hoan Kiem, the Lake of the Returned Sword. An oasis of calm, almost detached from the world. Legend tells that an emperor received a magical sword in a dream from a turtle god to free the country from Chinese invaders. After victory, while sailing on the lake, a giant golden turtle emerged from the waters and took back the sword. Since then, the lake bears that name, and the tower on an island at its center seems to guard a collective memory that needs no words. In the evening, as lights turn on and young people sit on the steps chatting, the lake reflects the city like a tired yet proud mirror.

The Temple of Literature and Millenary Culture

A short distance away, the Temple of Literature opens into a series of peaceful courtyards, like a deep breath after the bustle. Founded in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, it housed Vietnam’s first university. Stone steles beneath trees bear the names of distinguished students from centuries past, carved carefully, as if to say knowledge deserves remembrance. Even today, students in school uniforms burn incense at altars, praying for good exams. They don’t seem like tourists—they’re part of the place, as if the past is just another room in the same building.

Ho Chi Minh’s Mausoleum 

Hanoi cultural and historical city

Further north, the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum rises with a solemn architecture inspired by Eastern European monuments. Here, “Uncle Ho,” as he is affectionately called, rests in a glass coffin, wrapped in the simplicity that defined him in life. Surrounding gardens are spacious and orderly, and just beyond is the stilt house where he lived—a humble, functional dwelling. No luxury, no exaggerated celebration. Everything speaks of sobriety, almost resistance to grandeur. Yet, his figure continues to walk the city’s streets, in history books, and in guidebooks.

Hanoi’s Flavors and Surprises

But Hanoi isn’t just history. It’s also taste, and sometimes surprise. In a corner of the Old Quarter, follow the line of people standing in front of a small table to discover a famous spot known only to those who seek. Here, the cà phê trứng — egg coffee — is born, a seemingly contradictory drink: whipped egg yolk with condensed milk placed on a strong, bitter Robusta espresso. You try it hesitantly, then understand: it’s neither sweet nor salty nor liquid nor solid. It’s a balance—a velvety cream softening the bitterness, warming without heaviness. You drink slowly, sitting on a plastic chair amid the bustling traffic. It’s a moment of peace won.

And then there’s the food. Always, everywhere. Phở, the noodle soup with clear broth and thin slices of meat, served at dawn or midnight. Bún chả, cold noodles with grilled pork and sweet-sour sauce. Bánh mì, crispy bread stuffed with pâté, vegetables, and spices, bought for a few cents and eaten while walking. In Hanoi, eating isn’t separate from life—it’s life itself, seasoned with coriander, lime, and chili.

In the evening, in a small theater with a wooden stage, you can watch a water puppet show. Wooden figures dance on a pond’s surface, moved by hidden sticks beneath the water’s surface. They tell stories of plowing, battles, deities, and talking animals. This ancient art, born in lakeside villages, feels modern and poetic. Spectators laugh, applaud, children gaze in wonder. No one considers it folklore; it’s just a well-told story.

Hanoi doesn’t try to please everyone. It’s not as elegant as Kyoto or as efficient as Singapore. It’s irregular, sometimes uncomfortable, often noisy. Yet, after a few days, it starts to feel familiar. Its beauty isn’t in order but in vitality—its ability to hold sacred and ordinary, past and present, noise and silence. It’s a city that reveals itself slowly—through a smile, a cold beer at sunset, a bite of something new that already feels like yours.

Photos by Guglielmo Zanchi (Pluto)

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A Tropical Beach Christmas on Koh Samui

Banyan Tree Samui, an all-pool-villa beachfront resort in Koh Samui, has unveiled a series of gourmet feasts and dazzling celebrations to celebrate the upcoming festive season at each of its three restaurants over Christmas. The tropical island festivities begin at The Edge, a venue that commands spectacular vistas across the sapphire seas of the Gulf of Thailand. Its Christmas Eve Gala Dinner 2025 features a variety of international culinary delights — an oyster bar, seafood market, a carving station and salad bar — accompanied by live music from 7pm. Meanwhile, a culinary journey is underway at Saffron, where, each evening from Dec. 24 – 26, a 5-course set menu will be presented in a sophisticated and tranquil setting. Recognised by the prestigious MICHELIN Guide, Saffron is a fine-dining venue, specializing in contemporary Thai cuisine. And of course, it wouldn’t be Christmas in Thailand without a crescent of white sand under the palm trees with sea breezes and candlelight. At Beachside, fine delicacies such as slow-roasted butterball turkey, Alaskan snowfish and grilled tiger prawns are on the menu with a 3-course set lunch and 5-course set dinner prepared daily by Chef Rainer and his culinary team from Dec 24 – 26.

An Illuminating Visit to Tokyo

Palace Hotel Tokyo is preparing for one of the merriest times of the year with ‘A Tokyo Christmas’, a stay package encompassing fine-dining, Christmas treats and in-room decorations, along with a privately guided experience of one of the city’s most popular sights, Tokyo’s winter illuminations. The festive Christmas experience includes: a two-night stay – choice of Premier Suite or Executive Suite accommodations, Club Lounge privileges – including afternoon tea and evening cocktails & canapés, choice of daily breakfast at the Club Lounge or in-room, a 5.9-foot-tall in-room Christmas tree decorated with lights and ornaments, a bottle of Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé Brut and a tin of Christmas cookies, an artful Christmas cake made in-house at Sweets & Deli, and a Christmas dinner at Grand Kitchen. In-house guests can also book a ‘Tokyo Illuminations’ tour, a four-hour experience where guests are chauffeured around the city in a private car to several of the areas featuring impressive installations. Rates for ‘A Tokyo Christmas’ start at JPY 941,000, limited to stays between December 20-25, 2025.

Tofurkey or Turkey in Vietnam

This December at TIA Wellness Resort guests can enjoy a Christmas-inspired afternoon tea menu with classic flavors. There’s eggnog cupcakes, Christmas scones with orange and strawberry jam, turkey sandwiches with cranberries and pickled red cabbage, and more sweet treats enjoyed with a glass of champagne or a selection of Ronnefeldt tea. The special presentation is available from December 1st – 26th from 11am – 4pm for VND 1,600,000++ for two. The resort is also offering a decadent Christmas Eve feast, ‘Ray of Christmas,’ with a fully plant-based option available. The six-course menu is accompanied by live piano music. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic pairings are available with a selection of organic wines from Spain, Italy, France, New Zealand and Australia. The dinner will be served at The Dining Room from 6:30pm – 10pm. Prices start at VND 1,600,000++ per person (menu only) for the plant-based option and VND 2,050,000 for the regular menu. Wine pairings are at an additional cost.

Fabulous Festive Fare in Krabi

Recently lauded as the “Finest Hotel in Thailand” by US guidebook Fodor’s and the recipient of Two Keys by MICHELIN., Banyan Tree Krabi boasts all the hallmarks of a spectacular venue for Christmas dining. The beachfront resort’s Christmas Eve Gala Dinner at The Naga Kitchen is set to be an exquisite international buffet, accompanied by live music and a spectacular fire show. Gourmet options include a salad bar, baked bread station, cheese & charcuterie selection, truffle risotto live station, and a chef’s carving station, while those with a hankering for fresh seafood will revel in the choice of appetizers such as seabass and prawn ceviche with coconut, and lobster bisque with cognac. A live ice station will provide smoked salmon, sushi & sashimi, Fine de Claire oysters, rock lobster, prawns, New Zealand green-lip mussels, clams, crab and local scallops.Festive desserts include Christmas fruit stollen, croquembouche Christmas tree, Christmas fruit cake, American baked cheesecake and Christmas log cake. The Christmas Day Set Dinner from 6:30 pm – 10 pm on 25 December will involve an orchestra of flavours with an elegant 6-course meal, echoing the warmth of tradition and the joy of Christmas.

It Takes a Gingerbread Village To Celebrate Christmas in Cam Ranh

Alma Resort, a 30-hectare beachfront retreat on Vietnam’s Cam Ranh Peninsula, invites guests to embrace the spirit of the season with an exciting lineup of festive experiences, culinary delights and family-friendly activities. An enchanting gingerbread village in the Alma Food Court lets children explore edible creations while parents snap fun photos. On Dec. 13, the main lobby will host a Christmas tree-lighting ceremony featuring thousands of twinkling lights, festive cocktails, canapés and carols by a children’s choir. Guests can also purchase their own decorated Christmas trees at Alma Mart to bring the holiday spirit into their guest rooms. At Alma Kids’ Club, a daily advent calendar turns the countdown to Christmas into a shared activity, with kids unwrapping a new surprise each day. As Christmas nears, the resort will welcome Santa Claus himself for a meet and greet in the lobby for photos and family portraits on Dec. 23, 24 and 25. From Dec. 20-30, guests can enjoy traditional aromatic mulled wine, recalling the cozy magic of European Christmas markets. Festive Glühwein will be served in the lobby and Food Court, with each sip delivering spices and holiday cheer.

Beats and Baubles Define Christmas in Chiang Mai

Meliá Chiang Mai transforms into a festive haven with a line-up of Christmas experiences that blend warm seasonal traditions with the hotel’s signature Spanish flair. Guests ease into the holidays with ‘Merry Mulled Melodies’, where spiced mulled wine and live Christmas tunes set a cosy nightly mood at Ruen Kaew Lounge from Dec. 1, 2025 – Jan. 31, 2026. Festivities continue high above the city with the ‘Tea & Tinsel Afternoon Tea’ at Mai Restaurant & Bar, also from Dec. 1 – Jan. 31, pairing Japanese-inspired savouries and sweets with sparkling wine and panoramic views. From Dec. 1-5, Madrid-born Chef Juan Ignacio García Racionero will lavish guests with a banquet of Spanish cuisine as part of the hotel’s ‘Spanish Gastronomy Series’.

The season’s culinary pinnacle arrives on Christmas Eve with a lavish buffet at Laan Na Kitchen, featuring roasted whole turkey, honey-glazed ham, sashimi, sushi, poke bowls and handcrafted Christmas desserts, accompanied by live music and Santa’s cheerful appearance for the little ones. The celebrations ascend to Chiang Mai’s highest rooftop bar for the ‘Beats & Baubles’ Christmas Eve Party at MAI The Sky Bar for DJ sets, festive cocktails and skyline views, creating a spirited finish to Christmas Eve.

‘Tis The Season to be Jolly and Charitable in Hong Kong

The Hari Hong Kong is marking Christmas with all sorts of merriment including festive menus, a tree lighting ceremony and Christmas market for charity, and a special holiday package. On Dec. 4th from 4-6pm the hotel entrance’s will transform into a Christmas market. Members of Hong Chi Association, a local charity that assists people with intellectual disabilities, will serve drinks and sell goods. All market proceeds go to the organization, which supports over 7,000 people in need. The Christmas tree lighting ceremony will take place at 5:15pm with a carol performance. The ‘Festive Elegance at The Hari’ package, available from Dec. 22 2025 to Jan. 2, 2026, that also celebrates the hotel’s fifth anniversary, includes a one-night stay in one of the hotel’s luxurious hotel rooms or suites, HKD 500 dining credit that can be used at Lucciola Restaurant, Zoku Restaurant, The Lounge, The Terrace or for in-room dining, daily breakfast for two, limited-time The Hari Hong Kong 5^th anniversary gifts, a delicious chocolate muffin Christmas tree presented in-room, 15% off festive menus and more. Italian restaurant Lucciola and Zoku, which specialises in contemporary Japanese cuisine, will serve special Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and Boxing Day feasts.

Deck the halls with Spanish Flair in Bangkok

INNSiDE by Meliá Bangkok Sukhumvit is embracing the festive spirit with delectable Spanish menus and buffet feasts set against panoramic views of Bangkok’s skyline. As part of the hotel’s “Feliz Festiva” program from Dec. 1, 2025 to Jan. 1, 2025, LUZ Bangkok Tapas Bar, perched on the hotel’s uppermost floors, the 33rd and 34th floors, will offer a rotating “Special Spanish Festive Menu” each week for four festive weeks from Dec. 1 to Dec. 30. Each week’s a la carte menu, crafted by Madrid-born chef Juan Ignacio García Racionero, offers a selection of dishes celebrating Spain’s famed gastronomy such as ‘Iberian bellota jamon croquettes with caviar’, ‘Spanish red prawn carpaccio’, ‘Spanish Seabass with porcini & parmentier’, and ‘Cannelloni of beef oxtail, foie gras & black truffles mushroom’ and ‘Caramel custard pudding, almond & Spanish nougat’.LUZ will also serve exciting Christmas Eve and Christmas Day a la carte menus from 4pm until midnight. With its soaring windows affording spectacular views, all-day dining restaurant The Kites Eatery will serve, under the stewardship of executive chef Katisak Pinkaew, a Christmas Eve buffet dinner from 6-10pm. The buffet will brim with all sorts of treats including seafood on ice, salads, cheeses, a Japanese corner with assorted sashimi, BBQ seafood and meats, a carving station, an array of main courses, a chocolate fountain, desserts and more. Free-flow alcohol is optional.

Merriment in Mui Ne and Cam Ranh this Christmas

The Anam Cam Ranh and The Anam Mui Ne will celebrate Christmas with festive feasts, indulgent spa treatments and more. The Anam Cam Ranh will serve “Festive Afternoon Tea” from Dec. 15, 2025 until Jan. 10, 2026 at The Colonial Restaurant. From Dec. 15-Jan 10 Saigon Bar will present “Champagne & Caviar Soiree,” complementing premium caviar with fine Champagne. On Dec. 22, the hotel’s lobby will come alive for the annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony. Christmas Eve kicks off with a cocktail gathering featuring canapés, mulled wine, house wines, soft drinks and the sounds of live Christmas carols. Two extraordinary Christmas Eve options are on offer: a lavish 9-course Christmas Eve Feast at The Colonial Restaurant or a Roasted Dinner Buffet at The Indochine Restaurant accompanied by live band music and a mesmerizing fire show. The Anam Mui Ne will hold its annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 23, where a choir will fill the air with timeless carols. On Christmas Eve, Santa Claus will appear at The Indochine Restaurant’s Christmas Eve BBQ Buffet Dinner, and Lang Viet will host a lavish four-course “Christmas feast”. On Christmas Day, the Kids’ Club will host a special Christmas painting activity. The Indochine will present a 3-course Christmas Brunch.

Getting Festive in Southern and Central Vietnam

Azerai Resorts invites guests to celebrate the 2025 festive season with a vibrant line-up of family-friendly activities, elevated dining experiences and exclusive wellness offerings. Azerai Ke Ga Bay, an all-suites-and-villas oceanfront resort in southern Vietnam that was recently awarded a prestigious MICHELIN Key, and Azerai La Residence, Hue, a heritage hotel in the former Imperial capital that Travel + Leisure honored as one of Vietnam’s best upcountry hotels, both are set to usher in a memorable holiday season. Christmas morning begins at Azerai Ke Ga Bay with a special breakfast featuring Virgin Bloody Marys, after which Santa Claus arrives with gifts for children. Then it’s time to enjoy games at the Sports House. Guests wishing to have a truly special dining experience can choose to enjoy a Western set-menu dinner at the oceanside terrace. This experience is limited to six tables only, so advance reservations are required. Guests at Azerai La Residence, Hue are offered a complimentary limousine transfer to Phu Cam Cathedral for Christmas morning Mass, while afternoon brings a special tea buffet in the lobby lounge, followed by a calligraphy and painting class where kids can create festive fans and cards under the tutelage of Hue master Mr. Ke. The classes are free for in-house guests.

A Luminescent Dreamscape in Hanoi

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, the iconic 124-year-old Grand Dame of Hanoi, is transforming into “A Luminescent Dreamscape” ahead of the holiday season, as a million lights and shimmering festive spirit blend seamlessly with the hotel’s timeless elegance. Festive scenes and breathtaking displays will be paired with culinary offerings imbued with French sophistication and festive flair – experiences that lift the spirits and evoke warmth, nostalgia, wonder, togetherness and the enduring charm of the holiday season. For the first time ever, the Metropole Christmas Fair, held from Nov. 28-30, will offer a joyful celebration featuring Metropole-made specialties alongside local vendors presenting holiday handicrafts, gifts, decorations and more. Sweet delights, eggnog, mulled wine and gourmet bites from the grill and charcuterie stations add to the experience. The fair kicks off with the annual lighting ceremony on Nov. 28 to officially launch the hotel’s 2025 festive season. In keeping with tradition, a distinctive 15-meter-tall Christmas tree gracing Le Balcon will be adorned with ornaments, bringing timeless French sophistication and joie de vivre to the heart of the hotel.

Wellness-Inspired Christmas Escapes Across Vietnam

Wellness-inspired luxury hotel brand Fusion has unveiled a host of special dining experiences, spa packages, festivities and more ahead of the holiday season at its properties across Vietnam and Thailand. Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang welcomes the festive season with open-air beach BBQs, a sparkling Christmas Eve buffet at Fresh restaurant and refined set menu at Char and a joyful Christmas Day feast. Meanwhile, Alba Wellness Valley by Fusion, nestled in Hue’s misty mountains, becomes a sanctuary of healing and renewal, as guests are invited to restore balance through mineral-rich hot springs, traditional Japanese onsen and thoughtfully curated retreats. A festive semi-buffet dinner will be served at Madame Chau Restaurant on Christmas Eve. And in Ho Chi Minh City, guests can step into a vintage Christmas wonderland at Fusion Suites Sài Gòn, where sparkling lights, rustic pinecones and the scent of cinnamon fill the air. On Christmas Eve, “Fusion Sleighs LIVE” offers live music, festive canapés and complimentary “Sleigh Sets” for every guest. Guests will also enjoy Santa’s Sweet Challenge, a playful candy game for all ages. Christmas Day also brings a visit from Santa, along with sweet surprises, a grand turkey carving and a festive buffet.

Christmas in Cambodia

Raffles in Cambodia will celebrate the holidays with a host of extraordinary dining experiences and memorable festivities at its two historic hotels. Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor in Siem Reap and Raffles Hotel Le Royal in Phnom Penh will each present a distinctive calendar of festive events, inviting guests and the local community to mark Christmas and ring in the New Year with style and sophistication. Raffles Grand Hotel d’Angkor is transforming into a spellbinding fairytale inspired by Hansel and Gretel this holiday season. Glittering lights, evergreen wreaths and whimsical decorations evoke the enchantment of a gingerbread forest, turning every corridor and courtyard into a living storybook. Raffles Hotel Le Royal likewise comes alive with festive spirit, offering fun-filled activities for guests of all ages, along with exclusive meals and the Cambodian capital’s most dazzling New Year’s Eve countdown celebration. Raffles Hotel Le Royal’s “Magical Festive Escape” stay package, valid through Jan. 31, 2026, includes daily Champagne breakfast, a complimentary 60-minute spa treatment for two and much more.

The post It’s Beginning to Look A Lot Like Christmas appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi’s popular ‘Rendez-vous’ dining series at Le Beaulieu returns later this month with an extraordinary four-hands dinner featuring Chef Takagi Kazuo of the 2-Michelin-starred Kyoto Cuisine TAKAGI in Japan.

Chef Takagi Kazuo will prepare Sofitel Metropole Hanoi Rendez-vous dinner

Alongside Le Beaulieu’s Chef de Cuisine Charles Degrendele, Chef Takagi will prepare an exclusive multi-course menu showcasing his mastery of “Kyo-ryori,” refined Kyoto cuisine, fused with the hotel’s signature French haute cuisine and enhanced by the finest selection of Sturia caviar and exquisite wines, offering a symphony of delicate, nuanced yet powerful flavors.

Kyoto Cuisine TAKAGI has maintained 2 Michelin Stars for 15 consecutive years, and Chef Takagi is an expert in “Kyo-ryori,” which is renowned for its sophistication and innovation in both flavor and presentation.

Highlights from Chef Takagi’s special menu with Chef Charles at Le Beaulieu include Sushi bonbon (tuna, salmon, dill), Crabe (Vietnamese crab, Hokkaido scallop, dashi jelly, kikuna), Poulet Jaune (French yellow chicken “Albufeira,” smoked potatoes, quenelles, roasted jus), Boeuf (Wagyu beef tenderloin, bamboo shoot, dashi, Japanese pepper sauce), and for dessert, Îles flottante (vanilla custard, baked egg whites, salted caramel).

The exclusive dinners will be served on Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 from 6pm to 10:30pm at the hotel’s modern French fine-dining restaurant Le Beaulieu. The special four-hands meal is priced at VND 4,500,000++ per person or VND 7,000,000++ per person with wine pairing. All Accor+ Explorer members enjoy 10% off the dinner menu and 15% off wine pairings.

Seating is limited and advance reservations are highly recommended.

Le Beaulieu at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi is home to the popular ‘Rendez-vous’ dining series

Le Beaulieu, the signature restaurant at Metropole Hanoi, with its 124-year legacy, serves modern French cuisine with nods to classical French flavors and an emphasis on seasonality and superior ingredients. While there are some traditional French touches, the presentation is stylish, with well-balanced portions and fresh produce from France, Vietnam and elsewhere.

Le Beaulieu’s ‘Rendez-vous’ series spotlights Michelin-star guest chefs working in tandem with Degrendele to produce one-of-a-kind gastronomic experiences. Launched in May last year, it has quickly become one of the Vietnamese capital’s premier fine-dining experiences.

The MICHELIN Guide, in its first-ever selection of MICHELIN-Key hotels in Vietnam earlier this month, recognized Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi as one of only 13 hotels in the country with the coveted distinction.

“Not every hotel can get away with using the word ‘legend,’ but there’s nothing else quite like the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi,” the Guide says. “There are other luxury hotels that retain their 1901-vintage facades, but few so effectively convey the sense of traveling through time.”

“So too do they enjoy a wealth of dining and drinking options. Le Beaulieu, specializing in contemporary French haute cuisine, is the flagship,” it adds.

For more information or to make a booking, please call 0243 826 6919, email MetropoleHanoi.LeBeaulieu@sofitel.com or visit www.sofitel-legend-metropole-hanoi.com/.

The post Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Announces Kyoto Dining Experience appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

When Asian Itinerary embarked on the Northeast Vietnam Loop, we expected a remote adventure, but what unfolded was far more profound—a 15-day immersion into wild landscapes, timeless traditions, and the vibrant soul of northern Vietnam.

Day 1–2: Hanoi to Ba Be Lake – The First Encounter with Nature

Our journey began in Hanoi, where the buzz of scooters and street vendors reminded us we were still in the capital. Soon, we left the city behind, driving north toward Ba Be Lake, a place locals call “the green pearl of Vietnam.”

Gliding by boat across the calm waters, surrounded by limestone cliffs and rainforest, we felt the first taste of Vietnam’s untamed beauty. That night, we stayed in a Tay minority homestay, sharing simple meals of sticky rice, grilled fish, and corn wine. The warm hospitality set the tone for the days ahead.

Day 3–5: Into the Mountains of Cao Bang

Mountains of Cao Bang in Northeast Vietnam Loop

From Ba Be, the road twisted into the highlands of Cao Bang, one of the most untouched corners of Vietnam. We trekked through valleys dotted with wooden houses on stilts, met Nung farmers harvesting rice, and watched children splash in clear mountain streams.

The highlight came at Ban Gioc Waterfall, on the border with China. Its roaring cascades tumbled over giant cliffs, the mist rising like smoke. Standing there, we felt dwarfed by nature’s power—a humbling reminder of why this region is considered Vietnam’s crown jewel.

Day 6–8: Ha Giang – Where the Road Meets the Sky

The Ha Giang loop is legendary, and as we rode along narrow passes hugging sheer cliffs, we understood why. The Ma Pi Leng Pass opened before us like a painting, with the Nho Que River snaking far below.

Each village brought new encounters: Hmong women in vibrant skirts, bustling weekly markets where livestock was traded alongside colorful textiles, and elders who welcomed us with tea. Nights were spent in small lodges or homestays, where conversations with locals deepened our appreciation for their resilience in this rugged land.

Day 9–11: Dong Van and Meo Vac – Living Traditions

Dong Van and Meo Vac

In Dong Van, time seemed suspended. Old clay houses with wooden beams recalled centuries of history. Wandering its market square, we felt like stepping into a living museum.

Further along, in Meo Vac, we joined villagers at the Sunday market, where the air was thick with laughter, bargaining, and the aroma of grilled pork. It was here that the cultural richness of Northeast Vietnam unfolded most vividly: a place where traditions are not staged for tourists, but lived every day.

Day 12–13: Hoang Su Phi – Rice Terraces of Dreams

Hoang Su Phi

Our path led west to Hoang Su Phi, famed for its breathtaking rice terraces. Trekking through layers of emerald fields carved into steep mountainsides, we met Dao and Tay families tending their crops.

We walked these trails slowly, savoring each moment—the rhythm of farm life, the smell of earth, the panorama of terraces stretching endlessly. Staying overnight in a Dao homestay, we listened to stories passed down through generations, realizing that these fields were not only beautiful but also the lifeblood of the community.

Day 14–15: Return to Hanoi – Reflections

The final stretch back to Hanoi brought mixed emotions. After two weeks immersed in northern Vietnam’s wild heart, the city’s noise felt almost foreign. Over bowls of steaming pho, we reflected on the journey: the towering karst peaks, the kind families who welcomed us, the winding roads that tested our stamina yet rewarded us with unforgettable views.

This was more than a loop—it was a window into Vietnam’s soul.

Why the Northeast Vietnam Loop Belongs on Your List

Travelers often flock to Halong Bay or Sapa, but the Northeast Vietnam Loop offers something different: authenticity. Here, mass tourism hasn’t yet diluted the experience. Instead, you find quiet villages, unspoiled scenery, and people who greet you as guests rather than tourists.

For us, this 15-day journey was both an adventure and a privilege—an exploration of landscapes that stir the spirit and cultures that remind us of life’s simplicity.

The post Journeying Through Northeast Vietnam appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi has unveiled an exquisite mooncake collection ahead of this year’s Mid-Autumn Festival, celebrating Hanoi’s timeless elegance preserved in vintage film.

On June 3, 1916, the first cinematographic performance ever shown in the capital of Indochina took place at the Hotel Metropole Hanoi. Inspired by this momentous cultural milestone, the hotel’s 2025 mooncake collection, under the theme “Metropole Cinema: Hanoi through Film,” spotlights a cinematic journey through the city, capturing the nostalgic charm, artistic soul and timelessness of the Vietnamese capital.

Hand-baked and free from preservatives, Metropole’s mooncakes are made from authentic and innovative recipes, each infused with the hotel’s signature gourmet touch. Artfully crafted by Metropole Hanoi’s culinary team, the mooncakes – available baked or with snowskin – come in a variety of exquisite flavors, including Red Bean & Pistachios; Lotus Seeds & Macadamia Nuts; Green Bean & Date; Traditional Mix; Green Bean, Apricot & Salted Egg; and Black Sesame & Sunflower Seeds.

Each mooncake box is thoughtfully designed to capture the essence of Hanoi, with the same affection, detail and refined artistry once seen on the silver screens at the legendary Hotel Metropole Hanoi more than a century ago. Mooncakes are available in several elegant configurations, including, for the first time, a stunning two-piece box. The two-piece Metropole Premier Box (200g each) is priced at VND 1,860,000, while the four-piece Metropole Premier Box (200g each) and the six-piece box (100g each) are priced at VND 3,330,000. The VVIP option features a six-piece Metropole Premier Lacquer Box (100g each), along with Emperor Lotus tea and Jasmine tea, and is priced at VND 9,990,000.

For orders placed before Sept. 26, receive one complimentary six-piece Heritage Box for every eight boxes ordered, or enjoy up to 15% discount for orders of 15, 30 or more boxes. Accor Plus members, agencies and companies receive an additional 10% discount.

Promotional discounts apply only to single invoices and cannot be availed across multiple invoices. Promotional prices are not applicable for the two-piece Metropole Premier Box, VVIP lacquer and Super VIP boxes. Orders must be completed and paid in full when placing the order.

The Mid-Autumn Festival, known as Tet Trung Thu in Vietnam, is a time for families to come together to enjoy delicious teas and mooncakes, while giving thanks and praying for good fortune in the year ahead. This year, unwrap more than a cultured delicacy – discover a curated experience: a journey back in time, celebrating Hanoi’s heritage, memories and artistry.

For more information on Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi’s exclusive 2025 mooncake collection or to place an order, please call 0243 826 6919 (ext. 8200), email Bang.Au@sofitel.com or visit https://www.sofitel-legend-metropole-hanoi.com/dining/metropole-2025-legendary-mooncakes/.

The post Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi Unveils Exclusive Mooncakes appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

A 150-million-year-old cave in Vietnam’s north has become the extraordinary setting for an immersive theatrical show and a fine dining celebration of hyper-local Vietnamese cuisine. On May 30 this year, Asia Premier Cruises (APC) Corporation welcomed its first guests to the 2.5-hour cave dining and entertainment experience at the majestic 4000-square-metre Dragon Pearl Cave, about a 30-minute drive from Halong City.

At 45 metres above sea level, Dragon Pearl Cave is one of the largest caves in the Bai Tu Long area of Vietnam’s Cam Pha district and is surrounded by the Ban Co mountain range. One of a complex of five caves in scenic Vung Duc, the cave overlooks Bai Tu Long Bay. Locals call the cave ‘a theatre inside a mountain’ because of its two chambers and myriad stalagmites and stalactites.

The experience begins with a 45-minute cultural spectacle “The Quest for the Dragon Pearl” created by director Le Thanh Phong. With stalagmites setting the stage, the show’s performers harness music, dance, acrobatics, music, dramatic lighting effects, compelling costumes, puppetry and props to bring Vietnamese folklore to life. The legend of the sacred Dragon Pearl makes for an epic journey of power, peace and the unity of heaven and earth. A preview of the show can be accessed here.

After the show, guests indulge Vietnamese fine dining by candlelight amid the cavern’s surreal textures. Inspired by Dragon Pearl folklore and crafted by Head Chef Nguyen Gia Thien, the menu invites diners on a culinary pilgrimage of the local Quang Ninh Province.

‘Pomelo and giant river prawn salad’, ‘Grilled Van Don oysters with scallop sauce’ and ‘Hand-pounded Co To squid cakes’ are the trio of appetizers. The main courses include ‘Crispy roasted Tien Yen chicken’, ‘Grilled sea bass in wild dzong leaves’, ‘Lobster with Tiến Vua imperial sauce’, ‘Gat Gu rolls and braised Khau Nhuc pork’ and ‘Stir-fried asparagus with cordyceps mushroom’. The feast is rounded off with ‘Golden Dragon Pearl dessert’ and ‘Yen Tu golden flower tea’.

The launch of the cave dining spectacle marked significant progress for Quang Ninh tourism, according to Nguyen Hong Nhat, general director of APC Corporation, also behind the boutique cruise line Ambassador Cruise.

“‘The Quest for the Dragon Pearl’ diversifies Quang Ninh’s tourism, offering more for travellers to discover beyond famed Halong Bay and repositioning our province as a leading cultural and experiential destination,” he said. “This ancient cave is a new cultural landmark that, through storytelling, natural wonder, and refined hospitality, promotes sustainable, heritage tourism and creates lasting economic and cultural impact for Quang Ninh.”

For more information about APC Corporation’s new cave dining and entertainment experience, please visit https://dragonpearlcave.com/

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Fire Show, Live Band, Instrumentalists, and Bartenders Flair Show

The Anam Group’s two beachfront resorts in Cam Ranh and Mui Ne will celebrate the most significant time in the Vietnamese calendar, Tet, with a broad spectrum of remarkable dining, entertainment, recreational, and spa experiences. In the lead-up to Tet on Wednesday, Jan. 29, 2025, The Anam Cam Ranh and The Anam Mui Ne will each stage a ceremony on Jan. 22, 2025 to plant “Cay Neu”, a towering Lunar New Year bamboo pole to ward off evil spirits, followed by dragon dancing. The Anam Cam Ranh’s restaurants Lang Viet and Indochine will host a ‘Vietnamese Traditional Buffet” on Jan 31. accompanied by live traditional instrumentalists and a bartenders flair show and a Seafood BBQ buffet on Feb 1 to a backdrop of live music by the Filipino band and a spectacular fire show.

Vietnamese Afternoon Tea for Two With a Pianist

Family resort Alma will ring in the biggest event on the Vietnamese calendar, the Lunar New Year, with a six-day program filled with traditional games and competitions, live entertainment, floating champagne breakfasts and more. From Lunar New Year’s Eve, Tuesday Jan. 28, until Sunday Feb. 2, 2025, Alma’s Tet program will feature chung cake, egg cake and ginger jam making classes, as well as kite flying, dragon dances, making lucky envelopes, Tet movies at Alma Cinema, and afternoon tea for two. An exquisite Vietnamese Afternoon Tea for two brimming with savoury and sweet treats, including Banh Chung and traditional candies, served at both Alma Food Court and Alma Lounge from 2-5pm. Live entertainment including Alma’s resident pianist Ben playing a grand piano from 2.30-3.15pm and 3.30-4.15pm at Alma Lounge.

Better Together Family Package

The Hari Hong Kong is marking the Lunar New Year with its “Better Together Family Package” replete with children-friendly in room amenities and a host of special touches. Featuring a Corner Room with a king bed with an adjoining Twin Room with twin beds, and daily breakfast for two adults and two children under the age of 12, package also features a “DIY Cookies Set” for children in the room, “The Hari Puzzle Set” with The Hari branded tram, Star Ferry or The Hari mascot to keep the kids entertained, as well as early check-in and late check-out subject to availability.

Fusion of Thai and Chinese Cuisine

 Meliá Chiang Mai’s signature restaurant Mai Restaurant & Bar on the 21st floor will welcome the Lunar New Year with a family-style dining experience accompanied by a selection of Chinese teas and vistas of Chiang Mai. Served from Jan. 27-31, 2025, from 6-10pm and priced at THB 6000 net per table for minimum of four persons, “A Thai-Chinese Celebration” dinner includes a colorful salad with shredded vegetables, pickled ginger, pomelo and fresh salmon, double-boiled whole chicken with dried mushrooms and wolfberries, roasted whole chicken, and steamed whole seabass with warm lemon dressing. Other highlights include tender slow-cooked pork belly in soy sauce, Chinese wine, and spices, a choice of Lotus leaf-wrapped fried rice with Chinese sausage or steamed San Pa Tong Rice, assorted seasonal greens with oyster sauce, and sesame dumplings in ginger broth.

Festive Buffet Brunch and a Vibrant Lion Dance

Raffles Hotel Le Royal, the iconic 96-year-old luxury hotel in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, will help guests ring in the Lunar New Year with a sumptuous buffet brunch featuring an array of Chinese dishes, festive specialties and international favourites. The celebration will be capped by a vibrant lion dance performance to welcome prosperity and good fortune in the Year of the Snake. The buffet brunch is priced at $38++ inclusive of unlimited beers and will be served from 11:30 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Le Phnom 1929, the hotel’s French-style brasserie.

Popular Annual Tet Market Returns

Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi is ready to welcome the Year of the Snake with exclusive Tet celebrations, including the hotel’s popular annual Tet market, along with a special culinary program. Spice Garden, Metropole Hanoi’s authentic Vietnamese restaurant, will usher in an auspicious Lunar New Year with a 5-course set menu featuring traditional delicacies such as spring rolls, chung cake, steamed prawns in coconut, bamboo shoot vermicelli soup and more. The menu will be served from Jan. 20 to Feb. 7 and priced at VND 1,600,000++ per person. Spice Garden has also unveiled festive cocktails highlighting local flavors.

A Song of Dragons and Fire on Koh Samui

Guests at the luxury resort of Banyan Tree Samui might gasp on their morning coffee as the almighty sight and sound of a Lion Dance procession takes over the breakfast buffet from 9am – 9:30. Later, the evening’s entertainment includes live music, a Chinese dance performance and a fire show, starting at 7pm at beachfront restaurant Sands. Diners will also be treated to a Chinese New Year BBQ Buffet (2,988 THB nett per person) at Sands where they can watch the performances under the moonlight. For more information and reservations, go to samui@banyantree.com or tel: +66 077 915 333.

Go Out with a Bang in Da Nang

The central Vietnamese beachfront resort of Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang celebrates Lunar New Year with a series of activities and performances between January 27th and February 1st. Guests can participate in a traditional Chung Cake cooking class, lion & dragon performances, and explore the cultural significance of calligraphy. The resort will also host a Fusion Night Market, offering unique shopping options and unique dining experiences. For a special culinary treat, guests can indulge in the Tết Set Menu or enjoy a refined Tet Afternoon Tea. Alternatively, the Maia Spa offers soothing treatments and relaxing massages. For more information or reservations, go to: https://fusionresorts.com/danang/

The Snake Meets the Naga in Krabi

Renowned for its Naga staircase and serpentine sculptures, Banyan Tree Krabi rings in the Year of the Snake with an exquisite buffet dinner at The Naga Kitchen restaurant on 28 January when diners can immerse themselves in a culinary showcase featuring an array of authentic Chinese specialties, such as Chinese-Style Steamed Seabass, Chinese Wok-Fried Beef with Baby Bok Choy in Oyster Sauce, and Crispy Fried Soft-Shell Crab with Garlic Chili Salt. The buffet also features Seafood on Ice (oysters, mussels, shrimps and clams), a salad bar, and a Hainanese BBQ station. There’s sure to be music and laughter at this beachfront resort which boasts spectacular sea views. The evening event starts at 6:30 pm and goes through to 10pm with tickets at 2,900 THB per head, inclusive of welcome drink, and half price for children. For reservations and more information, contact +66 075 811 888 or email krabi@banyantree.com

Invite Good Luck and Growth with Wellness Activities in Da Nang

As we slide into the year of the snake, TIA Wellness Resort is inviting guests to consider the traits associated with this animal of the Chinese Zodiac through a number of wellbeing activities. The snake year is defined by seeking balance and harmony, while also embracing opportunities for growth and evolution. On Thursday January 28th the TIA team will host a “Reflection of the Year of the Dragon” creative workshop where guests can reflect on the past year, express gratitude and move forward afresh. That night they have an “Evening Wishing Lantern Ceremony” to welcome the new year in a mindful way. It’s an early start on January 29th with a “Sunrise Beach Gratitude Meditation.” Later in the day guests will be treated to a traditional dragon dance performance to drive away evil spirits and bring good luck. Visitors are also invited to a local pagoda. On the 30th of January the activities continue with a calligraphy wish session and the opportunity to try Tet (lunar new year) sweets and learn more about the local customs. There’s also a special Tet afternoon tea with classic & modern treats.

Vibrant Traditions Meet Luxury Experiences in Lang Co

Celebrate the Year of the Wood Snake in style at Laguna Lang Co, where vibrant traditions meet luxurious experiences. This Lunar New Year, guests can be immersed in a rich tapestry of cultural festivities and family-friendly activities. Highlights include a colourful lion dance performance and the lighting of lanterns to symbolise prosperity and good fortune. Savour a feast of exquisite Tet delicacies at both Banyan Tree and Angsana, featuring traditional dishes crafted by master chefs. Guests can also participate in hands-on workshops, including calligraphy and lantern-making, while kids enjoy themed games and crafts at the Angsana Kids Club. For wellness enthusiasts, rejuvenate with Tet-inspired spa treatments that blend ancient healing techniques with modern comforts.

Beach Action, Stay Packages and More

Dragon dances, family-fun activities and more help guests celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Snake at Azerai Resorts in Vietnam. Azerai Ke Ga Bay, an oceanside property set among verdant gardens located a comfortable 2.5-hour drive from Ho Chi Minh City, offers a host of beachfront action during Tet, along with kids’ cooking classes, lion dance lessons, calligraphy, a special BBQ dinner and more. In central Vietnam, Azerai La Residence, Hue’s Tet package includes a two-night stay in a Superior River View room, daily breakfast for two adults and one child under 12 years old, an exclusive Tet dinner for two people, a special Tet afternoon tea for two, and one-way airport pick-up or drop-off service.

The post Lunar New Year Celebrations Across Asia appeared first on Asian Itinerary.

A new dining destination in Vietnam’s capital, Cham Cantonese Kitchen, celebrated its official launch in December. Over the last 18 months Meliá Hanoi’s gastronomy offerings have undergone a complete reimagining. Cham now offers a dining experience that harkens back to 1960s Hong Kong with masterly chefs crafting authentic Cantonese cuisine with a modern touch.

Last year Meliá Hanoi’s Garbo Bar opened, drawing inspiration from the golden era of ‘50’s Hollywood with its new sleek gold and emerald green bar counter, along with Mosaico, the hotel’s all-day restaurant which reflects the hotel’s European heritage with its Mediterranean fare. The revitalized restaurants are helping position the property as a sought-after dining destination.

Cham Restaurant Dim Sum Selection

From the elegant interior design to the new menu vision, Cham Cantonese Kitchen is an entirely new upscale eatery that incorporates the best of the region offering a dining experience that is both authentic and innovative.

“In Vietnamese and Cantonese cooking, the dipping sauce nuoc cham is at the heart of the meal. It’s the taste that brings everything together,” explained Dominik Tschurr, Director of Food & Beverage at Meliá Hanoi. “Our new name Cham captures the multifaceted power of this ingredient and the importance of unity and connecting together with friends, family and colleagues.”

Under the direction of seasoned chef, Le Thi Thai, Cham Cantonese Kitchen will highlight what she does best: dim sum. Thai started her career in 1996 when the first international hotel in Hanoi opened. For close to two decades, she developed her skills in a Cantonese kitchen before switching to the contemporary John Anthony restaurant where she spent nine years. Over the course of her career, she has worked alongside Chinese Master chefs including Chan Wing Kwong – former head chef at Michelin-starred Crystal Jade Golden Palace in Singapore.

“I have had the chance to work with many Chinese and Singaporean dim sum masters over the course of my career,” said Le Thi Thai. “Through these rich experiences and tutelage I believe I’ve been able to perfect my craft.”

Melia Hanoi Exterior

Highlights from the dim sum menu include crab claw steam buns, spicy xiao long bao (soup dumplings), and pork and abalone siu mai. The menu draws inspiration from the diverse culinary landscape throughout China with dishes such as hot & sour Sichuan seafood soup, lobster cooked Beijing-style, and braised abalone with mushroom, to name a few. Each dish is expertly crafted by talented chefs who have years of experience in crafting Cantonese delicacies.

In the future innovative tableside offerings will be introduced including smoked duck served tableside and beggar’s chicken, a show-stopping dish that involves a succulent chicken that is baked whole after being coated in clay. Post-oven the unassuming-looking clay-coated dish is cracked open with a hammer to reveal a juicy chicken inside.

Chinese liquor and creative cocktails inspired by Chinese flavors, are also on offer alongside an international selection of wine.

Located on Meliá Hanoi’s first floor, the renovated restaurant has a green, leafy outlook from floor-to-ceiling windows. The completely remodeled interior features a warm color palette of dark teal and burnt orange. The decor creates a vintage China atmosphere with a residential vibe inviting guests to feel like they’re dining within an upscale home in China.

Cham Cantonese Kitchen has a seating capacity of 92 and is open daily for lunch and dinner. Book your next experience at Cham here: CHAM – Cantonese Kitchen – Meliá Hanoi – TableCheck

www.Meliáhotelsinternational.com

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Ambassador Cruise has launched a luxurious new day cruise that makes the most of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Halong Bay’s limestone karst-studded waters and key attractions such as Sung Sot Cave and Titov Island. With a remarkable two-level dining space, open-air sundeck affording 360-degree views of the bay’s limestone karst-studded waters, the leading cruise operator’s new 99-passenger capacity vessel named “Lavoya Boutique Day Cruise – By Ambassador Cruise” will bring its fleet to a total of four vessels.

Cruisers get up close and personal with three of Halong Bay’s most spectacular attractions as part of the seven-hour cruise itinerary. The itinerary checks out the bay’s largest and most compelling cave, Sung Sot, home to myriad stalactites in all sorts of unique forms. Via a kayak or bamboo boat rowed by a local, passengers enter and exit stunning Luon Cave’ self-contained lake, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush vegetation, through a 100-metre long limestone arch. Afterwards cruisers visit picturesque Titov Island, swimming at its crescent moon-shaped beach and ascending some 450 steps to reach its peak and soak up panoramic views of the bay.

The day cruise has a prime focus on culinary excellence, underpinned by a premium lunch buffet, vibrant Vietnamese cooking demonstration and exquisite afternoon tea service.

The extensive lunch buffet showcases a diverse array of Asian and European cuisines including locally sourced seafood, beef, tuna, and other delicacies. Featuring nearly 30 dishes, the buffet’s highlights include US steak with grilled seasonal veggies, smoked tuna with green tea, hot and sour steamed mussels, crispy deep-fried prawns with chilli rock salt, stir-fried glass noodles with crab, and caramelised cinnamon pork shoulder. A seafood tower is also served to each table.

As the vessel glides through Halong Bay‘s majestic limestone formations on its return to Halong International Cruise Port, the chefs stage the Vietnamese cooking demonstration and serve the elegant afternoon tea replete with fine pastries.

“As our premium day cruise experience, Lavoya Boutique Day Cruise – By Ambassador Cruise will see Ambassador welcome a new dawn with even more bucket-list worthy experiences,” said Nguyen Hong Nhat, General Director of Asia Premier Cruises Corporation, which owns Ambassador Cruise. “The itinerary will guide you through Halong Bay’s most spectacular locations with excellent Vietnamese cuisine and top-notch service.”

The cruise’s current itinerary, on offer during Vietnam’s winter and spring, begins with a 9am check-in at Halong International Cruise Port before transferring to the vessel. Guests disembark at the port at 4.30pm.

Since launching its first vessel in 2021, Ambassador Cruise has made a name for itself as the leading luxury cruise operator on Halong Bay. It operates three other vessels; Ambassador I, Ambassador II and Ambassador Signature. Guests choose from a variety of journeys including overnight cruises of Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay, day cruises, and dinner cruises. The overnight and dinner cruises offer a “Floating Dinner” experience on their 360-degree sundecks. Ambassador Cruise is also introducing an exclusive dining experience in a private cave 40 kilometres from Halong Bay.

For more information about Ambassador Cruise or to make a booking, visit ambassadorcruise.com, email info@ambassadorcruise.com or call +84 1900 3045.

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Hanoi, the bustling capital of Vietnam, is a city where rich history meets modern energy. With over a thousand years of history, it offers visitors a unique mix of ancient temples, colonial buildings, and trendy cafes. From the chaotic yet charming Old Quarter to serene lakes and historical sites, Hanoi has plenty to offer, and here are some top things to do that will make your first day in the city unforgettable.

Exploring Hanoi’s Old Quarter

Food seller at Hanoi’s Old Quarter

No visit to Hanoi is complete without a walk through the historic Old Quarter. This bustling area, with its narrow streets and ancient buildings, is the city’s heart and soul. The Old Quarter is a maze of 36 streets, each named after the trade that was once practiced there, from silver to silk. As you wander, you’ll experience Hanoi’s vibrant street life, where small businesses, street vendors, and cafes spill out onto the pavement.

One of the key attractions is Bach Ma Temple, the oldest temple in the city, dating back to the 11th century. It’s a peaceful stop amidst the lively streets, and worth a visit to appreciate its historical significance. Nearby, you can explore the Dong Xuan Market, Hanoi‘s largest indoor market, filled with stalls selling everything from fresh produce to traditional Vietnamese handicrafts and souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to soak up the local atmosphere and pick up some unique items.

As the day turns into evening, the Old Quarter transforms into a hub of nightlife. Locals and tourists alike gather at roadside stalls to enjoy the famous Bia Hoi, fresh beer served at sidewalk bars. It’s an experience not to be missed, as you sit on small plastic stools and watch the lively street scene unfold around you.

Visiting the Temple of Literature

Citadel

The Temple of Literature, or Van Mieu, is another must-see landmark in Hanoi. Built in 1070, it is dedicated to Confucius and was Vietnam’s first university. The temple is a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture, with its courtyards, gardens, and ancient stone steles honoring scholars of the past.

Walking through the Temple of Literature offers a serene escape from the hustle of the city. The atmosphere is peaceful, with tranquil ponds and meticulously landscaped grounds, perfect for taking a quiet moment of reflection. The temple is also popular with local students who come to pray for academic success, adding a modern-day connection to its centuries-old educational legacy.

Discovering the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex is one of the most significant historical sites in Vietnam. It houses the preserved body of Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam’s beloved leader who played a crucial role in the country’s fight for independence. The imposing mausoleum is the centerpiece, where visitors can pay their respects to “Uncle Ho,” as he is affectionately known.

The complex also includes the Presidential Palace, a striking colonial building that once housed the French Governor-General of Indochina. Although the palace itself is not open to the public, the lush gardens surrounding it are perfect for a quiet stroll. Another highlight is Ho Chi Minh’s simple stilt house, where he lived and worked. The nearby Ho Chi Minh Museum provides an insightful look into the life and legacy of Vietnam’s most famous leader.

Strolling Around Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake

In the center of Hanoi lies Hoan Kiem Lake, a peaceful oasis amidst the city’s hustle and bustle. This picturesque spot is perfect for a leisurely walk, where you’ll encounter locals practicing tai chi, tourists snapping photos, and couples enjoying the tranquil setting. The lake is also steeped in legend—according to the story, Emperor Le Loi returned a magical sword to the Golden Turtle God in the lake after defeating Chinese invaders, giving the lake its name, “Lake of the Returned Sword.”

Several landmarks surround the lake, including the striking red Huc Bridge, which leads to Ngoc Son Temple on a small island. This temple, dedicated to General Tran Hung Dao, is an important spiritual site. Another iconic landmark is the Turtle Tower, which stands on an island in the middle of the lake. It’s a symbol of Hanoi, representing the legendary turtle that took back the magical sword.

Experiencing Hanoi’s Culinary Delights

Ingredients for Vietnamese spring roll

Hanoi is a paradise for food lovers, and sampling the local cuisine is a must. Start your culinary journey with a bowl of Pho, Hanoi’s famous noodle soup served with beef or chicken. Another must-try dish is Bun Cha, grilled pork served with vermicelli noodles, herbs, and dipping sauce, famously enjoyed by President Obama during his visit to Hanoi.

For a quick snack, grab a Banh Mi, a Vietnamese baguette sandwich filled with a variety of meats and vegetables. Hanoi is also known for its street food scene, and there’s no shortage of vendors offering delicious, affordable bites. Don’t miss the chance to sip on Bia Hoi, Hanoi’s fresh beer, which is brewed daily and sold at local bars for as little as 25 cents a glass.

Enjoying a Water Puppet Show

Water puppet show

A traditional Vietnamese water puppet show is a unique cultural experience that should not be missed. This ancient art form dates back over a thousand years and features intricate wooden puppets performing on a water stage, accompanied by live music. The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre is one of the best places to watch a performance, where the stories often depict scenes from rural life and Vietnamese folklore.

Shopping at Hanoi’s Bustling Markets

Food Market

Hanoi‘s markets are a treasure trove of goods, from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The Dong Xuan Market in the Old Quarter is the largest and most famous, offering everything from clothing and textiles to electronics and souvenirs. For a more local experience, visit Hang Da Market, where you can browse fresh flowers, local ingredients, and even vintage items.

Whether you’re looking for traditional Vietnamese handicrafts or just want to soak up the vibrant market atmosphere, Hanoi’s bustling markets are an essential part of the city experience.

Photos by Guglielmo Zanchi – Pluto

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Leading boutique cruise operator Ambassador Cruise has launched a “One Adventure – Two Wonders” experience that plies the limestone karst-studded waters of Vietnam’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed bays Halong and Lan Ha.

The three-day, two-night cruise “combines the best of both worlds; two awe-inspiring seascapes, in the northern reaches of the Gulf of Tonkin, each alluring and remarkable in their own way,” said Nguyen Cao Son, founder of Asia Premier Cruises Corporation, which owns Ambassador Cruise.

On the first day of the cruise, passengers board Ambassador Cruise 1

On the first day of the cruise, passengers board Ambassador Cruise 1, the largest and most luxurious vessel in Halong Bay, featuring 46 cabins with a private balcony or terrace, twin 360-degree sundecks, a restaurant, plush piano lounge, bars, an open-air Jacuzzi pool, and a spa. Highlights of the itinerary’s first day include a buffet lunch with views of Halong Bay’s limestone islets, experiencing Luon Cave’s compelling lake on a bamboo boat or kayak, and the chef’s special dinner at the vessel’s restaurant. Passengers also visit Titov Island, famous for its crescent moon-shaped beach and, at the island’s peak, 360-degree views of Halong Bay.

On the second day of the cruise, passengers set sail on the relatively unchartered waters of Lan Ha Bay aboard Ambassador Signature Cruise

The following day, guests explore Sung Sot Cave, Halong Bay’s largest and most impressive cave with incredible stalactites before disembarking at Halong International Cruise Port to visit iconic landmark Quang Ninh Museum and other historical sites such as Dong Pagoda. Showcasing archaeological artifacts from prehistoric times to the modern era, the museum is also home to Vietnam’s biggest whale skeleton.

Passengers then set sail on the relatively uncharted waters of Lan Ha Bay that afternoon and evening aboard Ambassador Signature Cruise before returning to Halong International cruise Port by speedboat on the third day.

The three-day, two-night cruise dubbed “One Adventure – Two Wonders” offers passengers delectable dining experiences, plush piano lounges, bars and more

Unprecedented for Lan Ha Bay, Ambassador Signature Cruise offers 39 cabins with a private balcony or terrace, a spacious sundeck, restaurant, piano lounge, bars, spa, and a water slide that takes guests to the bay’s emerald sea. A delectable lunch and premium Michelin-standard dinner menu are served at the vessel’s restaurant. Another highlight of the second day of the itinerary is a visit to Viet Hai, a traditional floating fishing village, which showcases the daily lives of locals.

Day three of the cruise includes a visit to and a tour through Light and Dark Cave by bamboo boat or kayak. The cave features impressive stalactites and leads to a peaceful lake surrounded by towering limestone cliffs.

Guests have the option of starting the second and third days of the cruise with a tai chi session on the sundeck before a light breakfast is served in the piano bar and a full breakfast at the restaurant. Happy Hour drinks and canapes, live music, spa treatments, and squid fishing are also on offer during the cruise.

Highlights of the itinerary’s first day include experiencing Luon Cave’s compelling lake on a bamboo boat or kayak

“Why make the difficult choice of choosing between cruising Halong Bay and Lan Ha Bay when you can experience both?” said Cao Son. “We have a lot of people ask which bay is better to cruise when they reach out to book with us and so our answer is now: ‘One Adventure – Two Wonders’.”

Although it retains all the majesty of its superstar neighbor Halong Bay, Lan Ha Bay sees a fraction of the traffic. The two seascapes are virtually interchangeable, but the lack of tourist boats gives Lan Ha Bay a more isolated appeal.

Since launching its first vessel in 2021, Ambassador Cruise has made a name for itself as the leading luxury cruise operator on Halong Bay. It now operates three vessels; Ambassador I, Ambassador II and Ambassador Signature. Guests choose from a variety of journeys including overnight cruises, day cruises, and dinner cruises.

For more information about Ambassador Cruise or to make a booking, visit ambassadorcruise.com, email info@ambassadorcruise.com or call +84 1900 3045.

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Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, the landmark heritage hotel in the Vietnamese capital, was named one of the “World’s 500 Best Hotels” by the influential U.S.-based travel magazine Travel + Leisure.

The prestigious honor, part of the magazine’s annual “World’s Best” awards, is among the most coveted distinctions in the global hospitality industry. Metropole Hanoi was one of just six luxury hotels in Vietnam to appear on this year’s list – and one of only two in Hanoi.

“Travel + Leisure is one of the world’s leading authorities on excellence in hospitality. Their recognition is particularly meaningful this year as we open a new chapter in Metropole Hanoi’s 123-year history with the relaunch of our historic Heritage Wing following an extensive and inspired refurbishment,” General Manager George Koumendakos said.

The Metropole Heritage Wing, with 103 guest rooms and suites, was meticulously restored and renovated under a 21-month construction project before reopening to guests in December. The new interiors maintain their traditional aesthetic and feel, and incorporate select original fixtures, while also introducing a considerable measure of bespoke comfort, advanced technology and vibrant color.

The comprehensive reconstruction work was centered on the original wing of the hotel, which was established in 1901 and has played host over the decades to numerous heads of state and royalty, along with world-renowned actors, writers, musicians and others.

The iconic luxury hotel also announced this month a new dining series that brings together Metropole’s award-winning culinary team with some of the best chefs from around the world. The quarterly ‘Rendez-vous’ series, hosted in the hotel’s modern French fine-dining restaurant Le Beaulieu, will spotlight Michelin-star guest chefs working in tandem with Le Beaulieu’s Chef de Cuisine Charles Degrendele to produce one-of-a-kind gastronomic experiences.

The series kicks off May 17-18 with two exclusive dinners featuring French Chef Arnaud Sauthier, who holds 1 Michelin star for his acclaimed Maison Dunand in Bangkok.

For more information on Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi or to make a booking, please call 0243 826 6919 (ext. 8500), email metropolehanoi.reservations@sofitel.com or visit www.sofitel-legend-metropole-hanoi.com/.

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