Sofitel Metropole Hanoi Adds 21st Century Comforts

Extensive renovation retains historic old world charm, adds modern flair

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. October 14, 2008

BANGKOK, September 27, 2005. The historic Sofitel Metropole Hanoi continues to set a benchmark for five-star luxury in Asia with the completion of a two-year renovation programme to all Metropole Wing rooms and key public areas. The renovations retain the hotel's original colonial architectural style, charm and history that established Sofitel Metropole Hanoi as one of the region's most renowned hotels. The work began in late 2003 with a complete renovation of the hotel's award winning Le Beaulieu Restaurant.

Bangkok-based P49 Deesign, an internationally recognized interior design firm, has executed the renovation work. A new lobby design was inspired by French classical architecture with a touch of Vietnamese flair. It combines a liberal use of luxurious woods, rattan and marble, fresh new fabrics and ceramics while incorporating vibrant colors: deep blue, gold, dark brown, effectively creating a bold, new entrance. The reception desk was relocated at the end of the lobby lounge, opening up the library area and giving guests a spacious feeling on arrival.

These defining characteristics were also included in the redesign of all 109 guestrooms and suites in hotel's original Metropole Wing. Each room is resplendent with its elegant furnishings, timeless ceiling fans, tasteful woodwork and ceramic lamps, while historic photos of Hanoi's bygone era hang from the walls. All guest rooms now feature the state-of-the-art 'MyBed', as well as new broadband Internet access. WiFi connectivity has also been introduced into meeting rooms and all public areas.

In keeping with the Metropole's flagship standing, it was the first Sofitel in Asia to debut Sofitel's luxurious 'MyBed'. The 'MyBed' concept features a unique 'feather bed' on top of extra-thick and oversized box springs and mattress. This is completmented with large down-filled pillows and an ultra-light plush goose down duvet, eliminating both sheets and blankets while offering unparalleled softness.

Sofitel Metropole Hanoi General Manager, Philippe Bissig, said launching 'MyBed' at Sofitel Metropole Hanoi was an important part of the hotel's renovation program."It meant identifying the latest technology, reviewing surveys and studies by top specialists and testing scores of materials. More than simply a new bed, 'My Bed' ushers in a whole new era of comfort, with a guarantee of plush softness that has never been experienced before." According to Mr Bissig, the overall modernisation programme is even more remarkable because of the high level of care and respect shown to the hotel's colonial past.

"It is a delicate blend of mixing the old with the new. We have done everything to respect the hotel's magnificent history; it is a major reason so many of our loyal guests love staying at Sofitel Metropole Hanoi. However we also appreciate that the hotel must keep up with the times, by modernising Sofitel Metropole Hanoi we are offering amenities our corporate and leisure customers expect."

Other improvements include removing carpet from rooms in the hotel's newer Opera Wing and replacing it with polished wood floors. New magnetic door locks and CNN satellite news have been added in all rooms, upgraded fitness centre facilities, and the hotel shopping quarter has been re-located to the ground floor, grouping together some luxurious brand names, including Louis Vuitton.