French colonial-style in the heart of Hanoi

Since it was established in 1901 by two French investors, the Metropole has reigned as the most prestigious address in Vietnam and the social hub of the capital, with a guest list that includes the likes of Charlie Chaplin, Somerset Maugham and Graham Greene. And just in time for its 110th anniversary, the landmark has debuted two new looks for its signature bar and lounge, both long popular gathering spots for the city's social set and the ideal place for relaxing and kicking back on a balmy Hanoi evening! 

The Metropole spent more than three months on the makeover of the Bamboo Bar, working carefully to enhance the bar's facilities while retaining the original rustic, tropical design and ambience that has made it a favourite rendezvous in the city. Gather around the central island bar or find a cozy corner to cozy up together to enjoy the redesigned drink menu, which now features a new ice tea and fruit juice mocktail selection, as well as the "Metropole Splash," a mix of fresh fruit, syrup, and soda water with a wine base. Aside from raising the ceiling to create a brighter, more expansive atmosphere, the Metropole has also created a new covered entrance leading to the bar, and installed a mist system for summer days, so patrons can enjoy their Graham Greene cocktails in any weather. 

At the same time, the Metropole will unveil its brand-new rooftop garden lounge, Le Balcon, that will serve as a tropical oasis of calm in the heart of the historic property. In step with the French colonial aesthetic of the Metropole, Le Balcon is positioned to be an ideal venue for weddings, fashion shows, intimate dinners and private events, and with the 300-square-metre open-air garden furnished with classic park benches, guests can relax with a novel or catch up with friends while enjoying sweeping views of the hotel's green inner courtyard. Le Balcon will also double as peaceful venue for the Metropole's morning Pilates and yoga classes.

Opened in 1901, Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi reigns as the Grande Dame of Vietnamese hospitality and one of Southeast Asia's most iconic hotels. Its historic Metropole Wing features suites named for Charlie Chaplin, Somerset Maugham and Graham Greene, each of whom 'stopped' at the Metropole during their travels through the region. A stay here is like stepping back in to the nostalgic elegance of colonial Indochina - a perfect way to experience romance while traveling through Vietnam! 

For reservations, call + 84 43 9386 999 or head to their website.

Eco-luxury romance on one of Vietnam's most picturesque bays

Taking the term eco-luxury to a new level of sophistication, the innovative team at Epikurean Hotels, Villas and Hideouts have us taking notice of the recently launched the exclusive and seriously romantic Ca Lam Villas at the luxury resort of An Lam Ninh Van Bay Villas, set on one of Vietnam's most picturesque bays. It would all feel very Robinson Crusoe-esq, were it not for the high attention to luxury detail and indulgence that awaits you!

Nestled a four minute boat ride from the resort and set amongst three palm-fringed beaches away from An Lam Villas in Vietnam’s spectacular Ninh Van Bay, the villas at Ca Lam come with a comprehensive range of all-inclusive guest comforts.

All drinks and meals are inclusive of your stay, as well as unlimited spa treatments from the massage menu (OMG!). The two air conditioned beach villas, accommodating one couple each have indoor/outdoor bathrooms and private pool. Open sided living spaces designed with traditional Vietnamese thatched roofs provide a shady refuge for relaxation, meals, favourite libations and spa treatments. The villas come complete with a personal chef, a butler to serve and a private masseuse. Book me in, right now please!!

The recently opened An Lam Ninh Van Bay Villas is an inspiring resort of just 35 private villas. In addition to the exclusive Ca Lam Villas hide out, An Lam is about to unveil its newest category of luxury accommodation – five stunning lifestyle villas, each with two bedrooms and a host of refinements for the discerning traveller.

And talk about a spectacular setting! Think tropical forest cascading from the bay’s mountainous backdrop down to a lagoon and the South China Sea, massive granite boulders strewn throughout the landscape, and a long sandy beach that is just waiting to be rediscovered.

From arrival at Cam Ranh airport, guest are met and escorted on the 30-minute trip to Nha Trang City. 16 kilometres north of the city is the resort’s welcome sala and departure pontoon. Transferring to a resort speedboat, it is just an 8-minute crossing to An Lam Ninh Van Bay Villas. So all you have to do is turn up, check in and luxe out. Simple, easy access to total bliss!

An Lam Ninh Van Bay Villas is offering an introductory promotional rate of “Stay for 3 nights - Pay for 2 nights” with rates starting from AU$292.00 for a Hillside Villa and from AU$410.00 for a Lagoon Villa per night. Rates are on a per villa basis – double occupancy and are valid until 30 September 2011.

Longer stays benefit from similar discounts - stay 4 pay 3 etc and are valid until 19 December 2011.

A 15% Early Bird reduction applies to stays of 3 nights – or longer when booked 30 days or more in advance. And is combinable with the above offers when booked through Travel Indochina. Contact your travel agent or go direct to Travel Indochina at 1300 365 355 or their website.