oleh admin | Apr 7, 2025 | asia, hotels, Travel, travel destinations, travel in asia
NewsVoir
New Delhi [India], March 24: The digital travel platform Agoda has released its roster of the most economical locations for spring travel in April and May 2025. Whether you’re seeking tranquil shores or vibrant urban centers, these spots provide cost-aware tourists with opportunities to discover new places affordably.
Phong Nha
,
Vietnam
Topping the list with an average room rate of merely Rs. 2,300 per night, Tirupati in India emerges as the most affordable destination this spring, rendering it an excellent option for those who wish to explore both cultural and natural attractions during this season.
Phong Nha
,
Vietnam
The cities of Jaipur, India (INR 2,431 per night), Tirupati, India (INR 2,952 per night), and Hat Yai, Thailand (INR 3,473 per night) stand out as some of the most cost-effective travel spots. These places provide an excellent mix of cultural experiences, delicious food, and picturesque views, perfect for a spring vacation.
Matteo Frigerio, the Chief Marketing Officer at Agoda, stated, “In April and May, Asia experiences high tourist activity due to various holidays such as
Golden Week
In Japan and during Songkran in Thailand, demand surges. However, travelers can take comfort knowing—Agoda provides excellent deals on lodging, flights, and experiences. Numerous wallet-friendly locations show that economical travel remains accessible, even throughout peak times.
The ranking for the Most Affordable Spring Destinations is derived from the average cost of rooms in the top twenty preferred locations spanning nine Asian markets, providing visitors with an overview of budget-friendly choices.
1.
Phong Nha
,
Vietnam
(Rs. 2,431)
Renowned for its stunning caverns and verdant scenery,
Phong Nha
serves as a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Tourists have the opportunity to discover the
UNESCO
-listed
Phong Nha
Visit Ke Bang National Park, which houses some of the planet’s biggest caverns, or take a peaceful cruise down the Son River. You can also explore the region through hiking trails, bicycle rides, and cultural immersion activities.
2. Tirupati, India (INR 2,952)
Tirupati houses the famed Venkateswara Temple, among the busiest pilgrimages globally, known particularly for its special Tirupati laddu—a distinctive confection steeped deeply in culture and religion. The city not only attracts those seeking spirituality but also provides an enriching cultural immersion through lively festivities, classical melodies, and delectable Southern Indian dishes. Tourists have additional options such as visiting tranquil Talakona Falls, meandering around verdant Sri Venkateswara National Park, or delving into history at ancient Chandragiri Fort, thus blending scenic allure with past grandeur during their visit.
3. Hat Yai, Thailand (฿3,473)
In Agoda’s ranking of budget-friendly destinations for Christmas, Hat Yai secured the top spot and maintained its position among the most favored spots during springtime in Thailand when Songkran and various other festivities take place. Renowned for its numerous bustling markets and delectable street cuisine, Hat Yai acts as an ideal starting point for exploring adjacent coastal areas and island getaways, thus offering a multifaceted experience particularly suitable for travelers visiting during the spring season.
4. Padang, Indonesia (IDR 3,473)
Renowned for its gastronomic legacy, Padang serves as an idyllic destination for food lovers with signature delicacies including Rendang and Sate Padang. Travelers have the opportunity to discover breathtaking shores like Air Manis Beach or embark on a brief journey to the Mentawai Islands for some surfing and snorkeling adventures. Additionally, the historical richness and cultural sites of the city enhance its appeal.
5. Bacolod, Philippines (₱ 3,994)
Referred to as the “City of Smiles,” Bacolod extends a welcoming embrace with its relaxed atmosphere. Visitors can delve into history at sites such as The Ruins, an impressive estate dating back to the early twentieth century, or savor the local cuisine, particularly the renowned chicken inasal. With their amiable residents and vibrant celebrations, Bacolod transforms into a charming getaway during the spring season.
6. Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia (MYR 4,168)
Kuala Terengganu, a stunning seaside destination, features picturesque shores, authentic handicrafts, and bustling bazaars. Tourists have the opportunity to visit the famous Crystal Mosque or embark on a vessel journey to Redang Island for some snorkeling and scuba diving adventures. Additionally, the area’s deep-rooted cultural legacy, particularly its expertise in batik production, provides an exclusive encounter for visitors.
7. Gimpo, South Korea (₩5,731)
Situated close to Seoul, Gimpo provides a more tranquil option featuring picturesque parks and rich historical attractions. Tourists have the opportunity to visit the National Aviation Museum or wander through the serene surroundings of the Gimpo Sculpture Park. With its stunning natural landscapes such as Mount Munsu and the Han River, this city serves as an ideal spot for enjoying the calming essence of South Korean springs and their enchanting cherry blossoms.
8. Narita, Japan (₹ 6,165)
Outside of its function as an airport serving Tokyo, Narita emerges as a delightful destination featuring ancient temples and beautiful gardens. Tourists have the opportunity to visit Naritasan Shinshoji Temple, this venerable Buddhist site sprawls across serene surroundings. Those arriving during spring will find delight in viewing cherry blossoms within Naritasan Park and may relish regional specialties such as grilled eel.
9. Pingtung, Taiwan (NT$ 6,860)
Pingtung serves as an entry point to the captivating south of Taiwan, featuring stunning beaches, bustling night markets, and a deep-rooted cultural legacy. Tourists have the opportunity to discover Kenting National Park, renowned for its breathtaking seaside landscapes and numerous recreational pursuits. Additionally, the city’s vibrant marketplaces and distinctive culinary offerings offer a delightful experience of Taiwan’s exclusive tastes.
Agoda offers more than 5 million vacation homes, 130,000 flight paths, and 300,000 experiences to help you organize an ideal spring break trip. Check out Agoda.com/deals or get the Agoda mobile application for top-notch discounts.
*For this ranking, Agoda examined the mean cost of rooms across the top twenty locations within each region, using data from booking records. The study encompassed reservations made during January or February 2025 for stays occurring between 1 April and 31 May 2025. Please note that these figures represent average costs which may fluctuate and do not come with any guarantees.
Agoda, a leading online travel company, enables everyone to explore the globe affordably through excellent savings on over 5 million accommodations globally—ranging from hotels to vacation rentals—as well as flight bookings, excursions, and additional services. Available in 39 different languages via both agoda.com and the Agoda mobile application, customers also benefit from round-the-clock assistance.
Based in Singapore, Agoda is a subsidiary of Booking Holdings (Nasdaq: BKNG), with over 7,000 employees across 27 regions focused on using cutting-edge technology to simplify the travel experience.
(ADVERTORIAL DISCLOSURE: The aforementioned press release has been supplied by
NewsVoir
ANI shall not bear any responsibility for the content thereof.
Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc.
Syndigate.info
).
oleh admin | Apr 1, 2025 | hotels, tourist attractions, Travel, travel destinations, vacations
-
Chris Mooney checks in to the adult-only TUI Blue Seno hotel in Turkey
-
EXPLORE FURTHER: Understanding the secret messages embedded in check-in passcodes
Carved into the rockface of the Turquoise Coast in Turkey, the perfectly manicured hotel grounds careen from the top of a secluded cliff to the golden sands below.
At the end of a winding path that curves softly to both sides, a tranquil beach comes into view, nestled securely inside its own secluded bay. A mild wind from the Aegean Sea rustles through as visitors bask in the ideal climate here (approximately 20-25°C during April/May; even warmer during summertime).
This is the adult-only
T
UI Blue Seno hotel, near the town of Sarigerme on Turkey’s southwest coast, a slice of perfection in an area of breathtaking natural beauty.
The approach into the nearby Dalaman Airport – just a 20-minute bus trip away from the small town of Sarigerme – offers a breathtaking dive into an area rich with vegetation and mountains that remains mostly unaltered by contemporary development.
The TUI Blue Seno, too, is a perfect example of conformity to its surroundings. It manages to blend the ancient with the contemporary seamlessly, with its 34 two-storey accommodation buildings, numerous swimming pools and glamorous dining facilities only just discernible in an explosion of colourful blooms and woodland.
During our initial visit to an all-inclusive resort, the Seno went above and beyond to convince us that we had been missing out significantly throughout all those years of managing everything ourselves.
Displaying a masterclass in customer service, exceptional levels of cleanliness and a varied choice of food and drink, it felt like a steal for the price.
Whether you want to just sit and relax on the beach or at any one of the resort’s four pools, or five bars for that matter, or find something more adventurous, Seno has it. The resort also features a spa and a gym.
A range of aquatic activities can be enjoyed here, such as canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, and waterskiing, alongside boat tours to discover the series of coves, bays, and shores scattered along the beautiful Dalaman coastline.
If you are more comfortable on dry land, the hotel has a dedicated entertainment team providing games throughout the day – the regular afternoon volleyball match was a must watch – as well as those which require a little less physical enthusiasm, like seated darts. There are even cooking classes for those not content with being waited on hand and foot.
Maybe you’d rather take a trip to the Blue Lagoon in neighboring Olu Deniz, where a beautiful sandy spit extends into the sapphire waters of the Mediterranean, surrounded by eateries, pubs, and opportunities for even more aquatic activities.
If you’re historically inclined, consider taking a day trip to the archaeological site of Kaunos, which boasts ancient baths and an amphitheater, located approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes away.
Ephesus, formerly the second-largest metropolis of the Roman Empire and regarded as Europe’s most intact ancient city, offers substantial rewards; however, it requires a more extensive trip north along the coastline toward Kuşadası.
For us? This meant a week off from work and an opportunity to rejuvenate. Whether at the beach, the bar, the restaurant, or back in our room, we wandered about freely.
The accommodation, part of the 314 available at the location, was cozy and spotless, situated high up on the cliff face offering breathtaking vistas over the bay.
Regarding the food, those loose-fitting clothes weren’t as spacious when returning home.
The primary buffet restaurant provided an array of delights limited only by imagination: freshly caught seafood, aromatic curries, crisp salads, artisanal pizzas, and even roasted specialties—all prepared just for you upon request.
Even though we were told that nearly all the rooms were reserved, it didn’t feel crowded at all, and the service remained outstanding.
On the shore, plenty of complimentary beds were available, and the Beach Snack restaurant once more provided an extensive selection of pasta, fish, and meat dishes all day long, prepared fresh upon request.
Do not let the sharp incline deter you; a team member was available to transport both us and our baggage between the room and reception using a golf cart.
Additionally, there is a frequent minibus service that operates in a circular route from the top of the resort to the bottom, approximately every 10 minutes, allowing you to disembark at your desired location.
Even the gardeners halted their carts to provide rides if they noticed a guest having difficulty.
The cliffside path is quite steep. Walking down to the main restaurant posed no problem, but ascending back up after enjoying a fulfilling dinner and several glasses of wine proved to be an entirely different challenge.
We were never left without options for getting back to our place of stay.
Additionally, guests could enjoy à la carte meals at the Culinarium restaurant and the Grill House, though reservations were required for both. The panoramic vistas from the Culinarium’s terrace stood out as exceptionally beautiful.
Additionally, the Starlight bar adjacent offers entertainment, and we had a fantastic time when we visited as the group of three singers had filled up the (outdoor) venue.
However, if you’re planning a getaway similar to ours, aimed at escaping the urban chaos and filth for a bit of calm rest, evenings typically wind down early – midnight marks the end of lively activities – and peace is readily available.
It’s obvious really; we’re already making reservations for next year.
TRAVEL FACTS
TUI provides a 7-day beach vacation for two adults at the 4-star resort.
TUI BLUE Seno
In Sarigerme, Turkey, starting at £1,116 per person for departures on June 1, 2025, from London Stansted Airport.
This comprises flights along with accommodation in a double room featuring a balcony, transportation services, and up to 20kg of baggage allowance.
Prices are accurate as of 01/04/2025.
Read more
oleh admin | Mar 31, 2025 | hotels, islam, saudi arabia, tourists, Travel
The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Hajj and Umrah reported that 18.5 million individuals completed the pilgrimages of Hajj and Umrah in 2024. This achievement was facilitated by enhancements such as expanding lodging options, modernizing airports, refining transport systems, and implementing tech-driven services.
The efficient management of these pilgrim periods, commended by global organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), underscores the robust functioning of the tourism industry.
The Ministry of Tourism reports that the hotel sector in Mecca expanded by 80% in 2024, with over 1,000 authorized hotels and apartment complexes. By year-end 2024, Mecca had surpassed 1,150 hotels and provided 260,000 rooms, whereas Medina ended up with 347 hotels along with 1,500 furnished apartments.
This expansion coincides with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, aiming to elevate the pilgrimage experience. Initiated in 2016, the “Doyof Al Rahman” initiative focuses on upgrading facilities and enhancing services for those undertaking Hajj and Umrah.
The post
Saudi Arabia hosts 18.5 million pilgrims in 2024 as part of an expanding hospitality sector.
appeared first on
SANGGRALOKAEnglish – Morocco News
.
oleh admin | Mar 24, 2025 | bars & restaurants, french, hotels, luxury hotels, restaurants
The Grand Hôtel du Boulevard, the latest five-star establishment in Bucharest, will open its doors on Monday, March 24, as part of the global luxury Corinthia chain. This prime spot has been among the city’s most prestigious locations for approximately 150 years.
The hotel, emblematic of the city, has undergone complete renovation and now adheres to the global standards set by an international hotel group while still maintaining the historical essence of the structure. Originally inaugurated in 1873 as Hotel Herdan, named for its owner at the time, Jacques Herdan, it adopted the title Grand Hôtel du Boulevard just six years later, a designation which persists even today.
Currently, the hotel provides guests with 30 suites along with two dining establishments, a Heritage cafe, a grand ballroom, a wellness center, and a gymnasium. Even after the refurbishment, it preserves several original design features like marble accents, woodwork, and ornate ceilings from its inception.
The primary dining venue at this hotel will be branded as SASS’ Restaurant & Lounge, known for its high-end status in Monaco. Established in 1993 by Salvador Treves “Sassa” along with his spouse Yolande, the place has become one of the premier destinations within the tiny, elite nation. Currently, the business is venturing beyond Monaco’s borders; they have launched a temporary eatery in Saudi Arabia and secured a fixed site in Bucharest.
The eatery, designed for 45 guests, expands to include an additional 20 seats in the lounge space. It will be open every day from 7:00 PM until 2:00 AM, featuring live acts by musicians. Post-midnight, specifically after 11:00 PM, the venue transitions to DJ-led entertainment.
The restaurant management has stated that the location is open to guests who are not staying at the hotel, including walk-ins, subject to table availability. Additionally, the venue reserves the right to select its clientele.
The other eatery, Boulevard 73, fuses French and Romanian culinary traditions and adheres to the farm-to-table concept.
Throughout its history, the Grand Hôtel du Boulevard has welcomed notable visitors including Austria-Hungary’s Emperor Franz Joseph, renowned Romanian poet Tudor Arghezi, prominent politician Octavian Goga, celebrated sculptor Constantin Brâncuși, and many more distinguished individuals.
The hotel will cater primarily to international visitors, offering rooms priced from €580 per night for a 31-32 square meter Junior Suite and reaching as high as €2,570 nightly for an expansive 115-116 square meter Signature Suite, which is the top-tier option available.
radu@romania-insider.com
(Photo source: the hotel)
oleh admin | Mar 23, 2025 | food and drink, hotels, tourist attractions, Travel, vietnam
Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a bustling hub of traffic, commerce, and tourism. Visitors opt to lodge in this historical district of Vietnam’s main city to immerse themselves in its distinctive mix of weaving motorcycles, street-side eateries, and an overwhelming soundscape.
However, despite the congested roads being an integral part of the Old Quarter — where hotels frequently offer guests tips on navigating through them — growing tourism is putting more pressure on the limited space within its narrow lanes.
Up until lately, tour buses used to navigate through the narrow pathways to pick up day trippers from their hotels, leading to significant traffic jams. This practice has since been prohibited; however, taxis and Grab (the Southeast Asian equivalent of Uber) vehicles continue to congest the roads.
For those travelers who prefer navigating through the hustle and bustle intermittently, the adjacent French Quarter serves as an excellent location. Featuring spacious avenues, a serene lake, and luxurious accommodations, this area offers some respite with easy access via a brief stroll back to the Old Quarter.
It offers an intriguing look at the French influences introduced through colonialism, which eventually merged with Hanoi’s culture to create something distinctively new.
Relax by Hanoi’s Hoàn Kiếm Lake
In Hanoi, it’s inevitable to avoid the constant hum of motorcycles and the symphony of car horns, yet Hồ Gươm Lake at the outskirts of the French District offers a tranquil retreat. Strolling beside the water, you can gaze out over the lush greens.
water
towards the moss-covered Turtle Tower – where reptiles formerly dwelled in the nearby waters – located on an island at the center.
At the northern end stands Ngoc Son Temple. This temple, devoted to writing, scholarship, and literary pursuits, serves as an important site of veneration for students gearing up for their examinations. An vibrant red bridge connects to this small sanctuary.
island
where the loud noise of the traffic turns into a faint murmur within the temple boundaries.
Sitting in the leafy courtyard surrounded by trees, observing a cat meandering past, and hearing sporadic bursts of pop music floating over from Zumba sessions at the lakeside can be quite delightful. Rise early to participate alongside Hanoi’s vibrant community as they start their day with exercise.
Experience egg coffee where it originated.
Vietnam has turned coffee into a completely distinct beverage. Each significant city within the nation boasts its own special blend. In Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll find coconut-infused coffee, whereas in Hue, it comes crowned with savory cream. In Hanoi, due to the scarcity of milk and cream during the French occupation in the 1940s, a creative barkeep devised an egg coffee.
coffee
.
Nguyen Van Giang was employed at the bar of the Grand Metropole Hotel, which remains operational and now belongs to the Sofitel chain. Having commenced operations in 1901—a year prior to Hanoi being designated as the capital of French Indochina—the hotel soon attracted colonials and international visitors. Facing a shortage of milk for his patrons, Nguyen incorporated beaten egg yolks mixed with honey and sugar into the coffee preparation, serving it above a container filled with warm water.
Stop by the Metropole’s Le Club Bar today to take a seat at the birthplace of egg coffee. This bright, plant-filled greenhouse offers a serene escape and serves classic French dishes such as Niçoise salad, onion soup, and croque monsieur.
Alternatively, you have the option to visit either of two
coffee joints
Nguyen’s establishment, which was taken over by his heirs, operates here today. Located at the northern edge of Hoàn Kiếm Lake, you can discover Café Dinh. Ascend to the upper level where you can enjoy a cup of sweet Hanoi coffee alongside local artists and authors.
Where to Stay in the French Quarter at Capella Hanoi
The city’s
luxury hotel
A quarter can be spotted in the areas surrounding Hanoi’s rococo-style Opera House, a dome-topped, pastel-colored structure built-in 1901.
Capella Hanoi
This place is an extravagant and whimsical reinterpretation of a meeting point where legendary figures from the world of opera—singers and composers alike—might have gathered following their last performance.
Created by renowned architect Bill Bensley, this establishment blends 1920s Art Deco Paris aesthetics with Vietnamese cultural elements in an extravagant mix. Bensley dedicated considerable time collecting souvenirs such as theater programs, musical instruments, gloves, and even opera lessons to adorn the space.
hotel
.
The restaurant on the ground floor, which has received a Michelin recommendation, goes by the name Backstage. Its luxurious red velvet seats, full-length curtains, and sparkling outfits hung on the walls beautifully capture the essence of backstage activity.
Every level focuses on a distinct element of opera – including drama, music, and celebrities. The design echoes these ideas with specific touches like a small theater showcasing bead-adorned outfits on the drama section; an area featuring a powdering station along the performer’s walkway; and musical equipment combined with Picasso-esque artworks at the music zone.
Every one of the 47 rooms has its own distinct theme, each named for a musician, actress, composer, or opera. Inside, you’ll find references to traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship such as embroidered silk cushions, pendant lanterns adorned with hanging tassels, and black rattan seating.
The hotel partners with local talents for experiences such as pottery sessions with inhabitants of Bat Trang Ceramic Village and lacquer art lessons led by Tran Anh Tuan, who is a distinguished instructor at Hanoi University of Industrial Fine Arts.
Hanoi’s food scene is renowned, earning it the title of top culinary destination from the World Culinary Awards in 2024. Visitors staying at Backstage can enjoy meals prepared according to the private recipes of Madame Anh Tuyet, whose talent caught the eye of Chef Anthony Bourdain for his show “No Reservations.” Her rendition of pho—featuring an aromatic broth paired with beef brisket—is particularly impressive when served as a morning meal.
Return to the past at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel.
Staying at the
Sofitel Legend Metropole
(The place where egg coffee originated) offers the nearest experience to traveling back in time to Hanoi during the French colonial era—from the staff’s ‘bonjour’ welcome to the presence of upscale boutiques like Hermes and Chopard within the premises.
The Heritage Wing originates from 1901, whereas the Opera Wing was added in 1996. Within the older section, a newly set up exhibit outlines the chronological progression of the structure.
hotel
From its inauguration through its involvement in two conflicts up until the rebuilding efforts in 1992, it has captivated visitors with the wealth of history contained within its walls.
In 1946, ex-president Ho Chi Minh had a meeting at the hotel with General Etienne Valuie, who was the commander of Indo-China, and Nguyen Hai Than, the president of Vietnam’s Provisional Government, as part of discussions for Vietnamese independence.
Throughout the American occupation, all male and female employees at the hotel underwent military training. The sidewalk in front of the entrance, previously used for guest gatherings over coffee, was excavated to construct bomb shelters that visitors can currently explore with an accompanying guide. Singer-songwriter Joan Baez found inspiration for her album “Where Are You Now, My Son?” during her stay of 11 days within one of these underground bunkers housed in the hotel.
Since guests no longer have to concern themselves with seeking protection from air raids, they can ample time to relish the hotel’s comprehensive amenities. Within the main atrium, you will find a delightful space for enjoyment.
outdoor pool
Equipped with sun loungers. Each morning, you can make your way up to Le Balcon for yoga or tai chi sessions.
And once you’re prepared to leave the hotel and dive into the bustling energy of Hanoi, don’t forget to say ‘au revoir’ to the doorman.
oleh admin | Mar 23, 2025 | food and drink, hotels, tourist attractions, Travel, vietnam
Hanoi’s Old Quarter is a bustling hub of activity with chaotic traffic, vibrant commerce, and throngs of tourists. Visitors opt to reside in this historical district of Vietnam’s main city to immerse themselves in its distinctive mix of weaving motorcycles, street-side eateries, and an incessant din.
However, despite the congested thoroughfares being a defining feature of the Old Quarter—where hotels frequently offer guidance on navigating these busy routes—the growing number of tourists is putting more pressure on the limited space within its cramped lanes.
Up until recently, tour buses navigated through the narrow pathways to pick up tourists staying at hotels, leading to significant traffic congestion. This practice has since been prohibited; however, taxis and Grab (the Southeast Asian equivalent of Uber) vehicles continue to congest the roads.
For those travelers who prefer navigating through the hustle and bustle intermittently, the adjacent French Quarter serves as an excellent location. Featuring broad avenues, a serene lake, and luxurious accommodations, it offers some respite while still being within easy walking distance of the historic Old Quarter.
This offers an intriguing look at how French elements introduced through colonialism were eventually blended with Hanoi’s local culture, resulting in a distinctive fusion.
Spend time around Hanoi’s Hoàn Kiếm Lake
In Hanoi, it’s inevitable to avoid the constant hum of scooters and the symphony of car horns. However, Hoàn Kiém Lake at the outskirts of the French Quarter offers a tranquil retreat. Strolling alongside the water, you can gaze out over the lush greens.
water
towards the moss-covered Turtle Tower — where the reptiles formerly dwelled in the nearby waters — located on an island at the center.
At the northern end stands Ngoc Son Temple. This temple, devoted to writing, scholarship, and literary pursuits, serves as an important site of veneration for students gearing up for their examinations. A vibrant red bridge connects to this small sanctuary.
island
Where the noise of the traffic turns into a faint murmur within the temple boundaries.
It is lovely to sit in the tree-fringed courtyard watching a cat stroll by and listen to the occasional blast of pop music drifting over from the Zumba classes on the lake shore. If you get up early, you can join Hanoi’s energetic residents for their morning workout.
Savor egg coffee where it originated.
Vietnam has turned coffee into a completely distinct offering. Each significant city within the nation boasts its own distinctive blend. In Ho Chi Minh City, you’ll find coconut-infused coffee, whereas in Hue, it comes crowned with savory cream. In Hanoi, due to the scarcity of milk and cream during the French occupation in the 1940s, a creative bartender developed an egg-based concoction.
coffee
.
Nguyen Van Giang was employed at the bar of the Grand Metropole Hotel, which remains operational and is now under the management of the Sofitel group. The hotel commenced operations in 1901, just one year prior to Hanoi being designated as the capital of French Indochina. It soon attracted colonizers and international visitors alike. Facing a shortage of milk for his customers, Nguyen incorporated beaten egg yolks mixed with honey and sugar into the coffee and presented it above a container filled with warm water.
Stop by the Metropole’s Le Club Bar today to discover the birthplace of egg coffee. This bright, verdant conservatory offers a serene retreat and serves classic French dishes such as Niçoise salad, onion soup, and croque monsieur.
Alternatively, you have the option to visit either of the two
coffee joints
Nguyen’s establishment in the city, currently managed by his heirs, can be found at the northern tip of Hoàn Kiếm Lake. Climb upstairs to Café Dinh and enjoy a sugary cup of Hanoian coffee alongside local artists and writers.
Where to Stay in the French Quarter at Capella Hanoi
The city’s
luxury hotel
A quarter containing such coins can be discovered among the blocks surrounding Hanoi’s rococo-style Opera House, an ice-cream-hued structure with a dome that dates back to 1901.
Capella Hanoi
It’s an extravagant and whimsical reinterpretation of a meeting place where opera’s most renowned performers, including singers and composers, could gather following their last performance.
Created by renowned architect Bill Bensley, this establishment blends 1920s Art Deco Parisian style with Vietnamese cultural elements in an extravagant mix. Bensley dedicated considerable time collecting souvenirs such as theater programs, musical instruments, gloves, and even opera lessons to adorn the space.
hotel
.
The ground-floor Michelin-acclaimed restaurant is called Backstage, where the luxurious crimson velvet seats, full-length curtains, and glittering outfits adorning the walls beautifully capture the essence of backstage activity.
Every story focuses on a distinct element of opera—drama, music, and celebrities. The design captures these elements with specific motifs: miniature stages adorned with bead-embroidered outfits on the drama section; an area featuring a powdering station along the actress passageway; and sculptures of musical instruments combined with artwork inspired by Picasso’s style at the music zone.
Every one of the 47 rooms has its own distinct theme, each named for a musician, actor, composer, or operatic work. Inside, you’ll find references to Vietnamese craftsmanship such as embroidered silk cushions, pendant lanterns adorned with hanging pom-poms, and black bamboo furniture.
The hotel partners with local talents for experiences such as pottery sessions with Bat Trang Ceramic Village inhabitants and lacquer art lessons led by Tran Anh Tuan, who teaches at Hanoi University of Industrial Fine Arts.
Hanoi’s food is renowned, earning the title of top culinary destination according to the World Culinary Awards in 2024. Visitors staying at Backstage can enjoy meals prepared using exclusive recipes from Madame Anh Tuyet, who appeared on chef Anthony Bourdain’s show “No Reservations.” Her rendition of pho—a flavorful soup featuring beef brisket—makes for a robust start to the day.
Return to the past at the Sofitel Legend Metropole Hotel.
Staying at the
Sofitel Legend Metropole
This place, where egg coffee originated, offers the nearest experience to traveling back in time to Hanoi during its French colonial period—from the staff welcoming you with ‘bonjour’ to the presence of upscale boutiques like Hermes and Chopard within the premises.
The Heritage Wing originates from 1901, whereas the Opera Wing was added in 1996. Within the historic section, a newly mounted exhibit outlines the chronological history of the place.
hotel
From its inauguration through its involvement in two conflicts and the restoration period in 1992, it has captivated visitors with insights into the rich history contained within its walls.
In 1946, ex-president Ho Chi Minh met with General Etienne Valuie, who was the commander of Indo-China, along with Nguyen Hai Than, the president of Vietnam’s Provisional Government, at a hotel as part of discussions for Vietnamese independence.
Throughout the period of the American invasion, all hotel employees—both men and women—underwent military training. The sidewalk area at the entrance, previously used for guest leisure such as drinking coffee, was excavated to construct bomb shelters that are now open for guided tours. Singer-songwriter Joan Baez’s album “Where Are You Now, My Son?” drew inspiration from her stay in one of these bunkers during an 11-day visit to the hotel.
Since guests no longer have to concern themselves with seeking protection from air raids, they can ample time to take advantage of the hotel’s comprehensive amenities. Within the main atrium, you will find a delightful space for enjoyment.
outdoor pool
Equipped with sun loungers, each morning you can make your way up to Le Balcon for yoga or Tai Chi sessions.
And once you’re prepared to leave the hotel and encounter the bustling energy of Hanoi, simply recall to say ‘goodbye’ to the doorman as you depart.
