The Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi has earned a prestigious 5-star rating from Forbes Travel Guide for a fourth consecutive year.

The 5-star rating, the top level of recognition, is meant to designate “outstanding, often iconic properties with virtually flawless service and amazing facilities.”

According to inspectors from Forbes Travel Guide, every corner of the Metropole Hanoi is a compelling photo opportunity, especially in the gleaming historic wing and all-white inner courtyard.

Its luxurious accommodation and historic facilities drew much praise in the 2023 guide, while its warm, personalized and attentive services, which are leading determinants in the Forbes Travel Guide ratings, helped secure the 5-star rating.

“The Metropole ambassadors know they are caretakers of an historic Grand Dame and that the services provided must in many ways exceed expectations,” said Mr. William Haandrikman, General Manager of the Metropole Hanoi. “This 5-star rating from Forbes affirms that we are all working hard on service delivery.”

The Metropole Hanoi is one of only two hotels in Vietnam to earn the 5-star rating and the only one in Hanoi. Three other hotels in Vietnam were awarded 4-star ratings.

Its Path of History (and wartime bunker) tour are also spotlighted in Forbes Travel Guide’s review, while afternoon tea at Le Club Bar, coffee at La Terrasse, and cocktails at Bamboo Bar are described as experiences that have evolved into “must-do Hanoi traditions.”

Le Spa du Metropole drew further accolades as “a sublime urban retreat … ensconced in what feels more like an elegant residence than a wellness center.”

When making evaluations, inspectors pay their own way and stay anonymously as regular guests for at least two nights. Forbes Travel Guide bills itself as the only independent, global rating agency for luxury hospitality, and says that only 20% of all hotels it rates earn a 5-star rating.

Established in 1958 as Mobil Travel Guide, Forbes Travel Guide is the oldest guide in the US and the creator of the original 5-star rating system for hotels. Its ratings are among the most highly-respected in the global hotel industry.