Cover Sharing ahead of the hotel’s 125th anniversary in 2026, General Manager George Koumendakos reaffirmed Metropole’s role as a cultural rendezvous
Sharing ahead of the hotel’s 125th anniversary in 2026, General Manager George Koumendakos reaffirmed Metropole’s role as a cultural rendezvous
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Through the harmonious interplay of heritage, contemporary comfort, and exceptional service, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi offers a setting where culture remains vibrant, evolving, and aligned with the rhythm of the times
Being one of Hanoi’s landmarks since 1901, the Metropole is remembered not only for its historical significance and many important social and political events it has hosted, but also as a living witness to the city’s rise and transformation over time.
Sharing ahead of the hotel’s 125th anniversary in 2026, General Manager George Koumendakos reaffirmed Metropole’s role as a cultural rendezvous—where heritage values and creativity are naturally shared, experienced, and brought to life in every moment of the hotel.
Above Mr. George Koumendakos, General Manager Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Mr. George Koumendakos, General Manager Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
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As Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi approaches its 125th anniversary, how would you like the world to see the hotel’s future - not only as a historic icon, but as a living institution?
Metropole is proud to have been a pioneer of luxury hospitality, contributing to the foundations of Vietnam’s tourism industry from its earliest days. Over the years, we have grown alongside Hanoi by honouring its places, people, and cultures, while preserving what defines our legacy: authenticity, timeless elegance, and emotional connections. The Metropole should be seen as a place where history is not simply told, but continuously shaped - a living institution where generations of guests and hotel ambassadors leave meaningful imprints within the hotel.
Every stay is an opportunity to discover a new facet of Metropole, whether guests are visiting for the first time or returning. This is what our team works toward every day, ensuring that each experience remains distinctive, personal, and memorable. Many of our guests first visited the hotel as children with their parents, and now return with their own families and children. This continuity is what allows the Metropole story to be carried forward from one generation to the next.
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Metropole is increasingly seen as a cultural space where art, music, and creativity intersect. How do you plan to further expand this role in the future?
As a Sofitel Legend property, we celebrate the French zest for life, where arts and culture play a central role, while creating a cultural link between Vietnam and France. We plan to deepen our cultural programming through curated exhibitions, art performances, cultural talks, and any collaborations that attract both Vietnamese and international affluent travellers.
Recently, we presented a fashion show as part of our annual Lighting Ceremony, in collaboration with Kilomet109, a local fashion brand known for its sustainable approach. Earlier last year, we showcased a rare selection of film posters and original, century-old sheet music from one of the world’s most significant Charlie Chaplin memorabilia collections, owned by Australian collector Paddy Macdonald.
We also explore cultural storytelling through other forms of expression. Each year, for example, we introduce a mooncake collection that blends the essence of Vietnamese flavours with a refined, contemporary touch. The packaging itself is designed as a piece of art - a meaningful gift that reflects Vietnamese craftsmanship combined with Metropole’s expertise.
By integrating these initiatives into the guest experience, art and culture become an organic part of a stay rather than something separate or formal. We hope this approach encourages a deeper understanding of contemporary Vietnamese culture, complemented by French elegance, and presented in a way that feels natural, relevant, and accessible to an international audience.
The Metropole should be seen as a place where history is not simply told, but continuously shaped - a living institution where generations of guests and hotel ambassadors leave meaningful imprints.
Dining at Metropole is moving beyond traditional fine dining toward a more complete “fine experience.” How do you see the hotel’s culinary ecosystem evolving in the years ahead?
The current culinary scene in Vietnam has never been as vibrant as it is today, and Metropole is very much part of that evolution. For decades, we have long been a rendez-vous for fine dining in Hanoi, welcoming food enthusiasts to all our six restaurants and bars.
We actively look for ways to create combined culinary experiences that go beyond the plate. Guests may enjoy live jazz performances in the romantic setting of our Metropole brasserie Le Club, or traditional Vietnamese musical performances accompanying dinner at our elevated Vietnamese restaurant Spice Garden. For those seeking a more energetic atmosphere, angelina is the place to be with vibrant DJ performances alongside imaginative comfort cuisine and world-class beverage offerings.
Beyond our daily dining concepts, we also curate a range of distinctive culinary events. We once hosted a poolside classical music concert paired with a fine dining dinner, four-hands collaborations with acclaimed chefs from around the world within the Rendez-vous series at our contemporary French fine dining restaurant Le Beaulieu, or exclusive chef exchange programme at Le Club with our sister hotels across Asia.
We are honoured to have collaborated with internationally recognised chefs at Le Beaulieu, as well as some of the most talented mixologists from Asia’s leading bars at angelina. One particularly memorable experience was our collaboration with La Tour d’Argent - the legendary Parisian establishment with over 400 years of history, celebrated for its iconic pressed duck. These collaborations bring fresh perspectives and creative energy to our culinary teams, while continuously enriching the guest experience. Hence, guests come not only to stay, but to engage with experiences that feel meaningful, current, and distinctive. Most importantly, they are able to enjoy this diversity of world-class culinary, bar concepts together with other forms of art within one place, without the need to travel elsewhere.
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Timeless elegance is what sets the Metropole apart. Emotional connections are what bring guests back.
In a rapidly changing hospitality landscape, which overall spirit and values rooted in Metropole’s long history do you believe will continue to guide the hotel over the next 10 to 20 years?
Timeless elegance is what sets the Metropole apart. Emotional connections are what bring guests back. Contemporary influence is reflected in the way we shape our spaces and experiences, offering a sense of bespoke comfort with a modern sensibility. Together, these elements define the spirit of Metropole and inspire us to continue creating meaningful experiences for our guests.
In the years ahead, we will remain true to our identity as an iconic city hotel, defined by genuine luxury and a strong sense of place, while continuing to adapt to evolving guest expectations, new technologies, and rising sustainability standards. Today’s guests increasingly seek experiences rooted in emotional intelligence, authenticity, and both mental and physical well-being. This is where our heritage becomes a strength.
Alongside staying attuned to culinary trends, we are placing greater emphasis on holistic wellness through thoughtful, healthy cuisine, quality sleep, modern fitness facilities, and mindful practices such as yoga and tai chi. These elements are complemented by cultural experiences, including local art exhibitions and creative programming, allowing guests to feel both restored and meaningfully connected.
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People are central to keeping a heritage institution relevant. How are you preparing and investing in the Metropole team for the next chapter of its journey?
We invest in our team not only through training and career development, but also by building a strong sense of pride and belonging. We refer to our team members as “hotel ambassadors” - individuals who may speak different languages and come from different regions or countries, yet are united by shared values, purpose, and vision.
As we look ahead - not just to our 125th anniversary in 2026, but beyond - we focus on preparing our people for what comes next. I am confident that our team is ready to embrace new opportunities and challenges, guided by a spirit of continuous learning, adaptability, and a commitment to excellence.
Thank you for your time and sharing!
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Best of Asia 2026 marks the first time Tatler Vietnam brings together thirteen General Managers of Vietnam’s leading hotels and resorts on the January cover. This moment reflects a powerful shift within the hospitality industry as Asia enters a period of profound redefinition. Today, the leaders behind global brands are no longer merely operating systems; they are collectively shaping new benchmarks for luxury hospitality in Vietnam.
This January cover captures Tatler’s vision of industry leadership: transcending competition to assume a shared responsibility for preserving experience, standards, and the enduring stature of the art of hospitality, positioning Vietnam as a leading destination in Asia.
Tatler is proud to present thirteen features - thirteen touchpoints between thought and emotion, guiding readers from iconic destinations to East–West culinary dialogues, from international standards to local spirit, from sustainability philosophies to an aesthetic distilled in every detail of service.
Originally published in the January 2026 issue of Tatler Vietnam
CREDITS:
Editor-in-Chief: Nikita Chu
Art Director: Andy Tran
Head of Dining & Travel: Hong Dang
Photographers: Le Lai, Tran Khoa
Producers: Giang Thảo, Joanne Dao
Videographers: Hai Pham, Nguyen Duc Kha, Tu Le, Pham Gia Khanh
Editors: Xuan Phuc, Priscilla N., Tra My
Designer: Chau Duong
Marketing & Social: Joanne Dao, Pham Gia Khanh, Tat An Thuan
Stylists: Tran Cong Linh, Long Ngoc
Makeup: Nguyen Huynh Nhi, Mai Mai, Vuong Cam Thien, Ngan Kim
Production Assistants: Huynh Hai Dang, Tuan Sang, Brian Nguyen
Photo Assistants: Nhân Tomato, Võ Hoàng Huy
Video Assistant: Hung Van
Gaffer: Bao Hoang Nguyen, Long
Stylist Assistant: Quoc Nam
Fashion: Canali
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