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Yahoo
5 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
I Spent Four Days at the Gorgeous Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo Hotel in Panama—and I Seriously Felt Like Royalty
From the moment I stepped foot into the lobby of the stunning Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo Hotel in Panama City, Panama, I knew I was somewhere special. (It didn't hurt that the luxury hotel sits in the heart of a historic Panama City district on the site of the former Club Union, which once hosted the likes of Albert Einstein and Queen Elizabeth). Courtesy of Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Panama From the incredibly friendly welcome to the gorgeous, nautical-themed lobby decor, I was immediately at home (and already getting that "I don't want to have to leave" anxiety). Here, my full review of the historic Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo Hotel—and why the hotel alone is worth the trip to Panama. Original Photo by Philip Mutz The hotel itself is prominently located in the beautiful, history-filled—and extremely walkable—Casco Viejo, or Old Town. The area has been designated a World Heritage Site, meaning it should be a must-visit on every world traveler's (or history buff's) list. The hotel was a 1917 landmark, home of Club Union, a social club where business and non-business took place for decades. It hosted everyone from Queen Elizabeth (I spotted a photo of her arriving in Panama on the hotel wall) and Einstein (pretty cool) to Charles Lindbergh (meh, slightly less exciting). It was hard not to feel that sense of history the moment I walked through the front doors. That said, nothing about this Sofitel Legend hotel feels old—quite the contrary. My stay was full of luxury pampering, contemporary comfort, cutting-edge cuisine and lively and on-trend entertainment. In fact, the first thing I did was visit the Sofitel Spa by KOS Paris, a luxe and modern escape after a long day of travel. My 60-minute deep tissue massage was excellent and perfectly set the tone for my trip—and got me into "vacation-mode" immediately. Courtesy of Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Panama My room was exquisite. I kept walking around saying, "Oh my God..." to myself. And the walk around the room was a long one because the one-bedroom suite is huge. (No surprise: I put a robe and slippers on right away.) My suite featured a large and comfortable living room area, where I was greeted by a decadent spread of local fruits, homemade macarons and a bottle of Veuve. If the spa didn't put me in the vacation headspace, sampling red pitahaya and guava with a glass of chilled Champagne certainly did. Original Photo by Philip Mutz The bed was large and so comfortable. My side table even featured a sleep guide that allowed me to order pillows to my firmness specifications (this wasn't necessary for me as the pillows were perfect). As with any hotel stay, I couldn't wait to star-fish during my first night of sleep. Courtesy of Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Panama The showstopper of the suite had to be the bathroom though. I'm talking a giant bathtub with a fabulous view of downtown Panama City. The tile was beautiful, the vanity was spacious and the shower was large enough for two (there were two showerhead setups) if that's your sort of thing. Original Photo by Philip Mutz As sometimes happens, I feared I wouldn't want to leave my room. Honestly, I could have spent my four days entirely in there, alternating between luxurious baths, star-fishing and sipping Champagne on my giant wrap-around, waterfront balcony, also featuring a view of the downtown area. But as amazing as my homebase for the week was, I'm so glad I ventured out of my room... Original Photo by Philip Mutz There are quite a few must-try dining and drinking establishments on the Sofitel Legend property. Each one is unique, with a carefully-crafted menu and plenty of whimsical surprises (like my pad of garlic butter—seen above—presented in the shape of Panama). As far as dining goes, whether you're staying on property or not, I highly recommend a visit to Caleta on the ground floor. Michelin-starred Executive Chef Lorenzo Di Gravio has created a menu unlike anything I've ever tried before. Caleta should certainly be on the must-try list for any seafood lover (be sure to order the Croaker Cooked in Clay—I had a lot of fun using my tiny mallet to smash the clay to reveal the delectable fish, served with beurre blanc and rainbow carrots). And I suggest asking the very knowledgable sommelier to assist in choosing wines to pair perfectly with your courses—her recs were spot-on. Original Photo by Philip Mutz I also recommend popping up to the Sofitel Legend's rooftop for one of two great stops. First, there is Ammi, a bar and lounge featuring yummy craft cocktails, tasty bites and amazing views of the water and the surrounding city. (Stopping by at night is particularly magical.) Then, don't leave without heading next door to the rooftop speakeasy, Arcano (the entry password changes daily, but if you ask nicely, they'll probably help you out at the door). The cocktail lounge is cool and sophisticated, with expert mixologists behind the bar. I suggest ordering a rum cocktail—something Arcano is known for. And if you're heading by on a weekend, be sure to make a reservation. Both nights I visited Arcano, the place was hopping in the best way possible. And just as I'm so glad I stepped outside of my room, I'm equally glad I didn't spend all of my time at the hotel (though I did spend plenty there)... Original Photo by Philip Mutz Panama City is incredible. I'm so happy I had the chance to stay in Old Town. Definitely book a walking tour—I learned a ton from my expert guide, including part of the city's history as a target of pirates (seriously!). Old Town also features plenty of shopping and cute places to grab a bite, drink or gelato. I recommend seeing downtown a bit too if you can. I had a delicious lunch at Cantina del Tigre (you will definitely need a reservation as the place was packed with locals and visitors). Of course, no visit to Panama would be complete without a stop at the Panama Canal, the eighth wonder of the world. There really aren't words to describe how impressive the canal is. Take in the Morgan Freeman-narrated IMAX movie first to learn a bit of the backstory and then step outside to see the canal in all its glory. If you time things right, like I did, you'll get to see an enormous tanker being dramatically lowered as its onboard inhabitants wave to you on land. Original Photo by Philip Mutz One special suggestion for Panama City visitors? If you have time, take a day trip to Pearl Island (seen above). I braved my fear of little airplanes to hop over to the Pearl Island Beach Club, where I enjoyed a day of sun and fun by the pool and the beach, complete with cocktails, bites and a beachfront massage. This oasis is quite exclusive and provided a lovely respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. Courtesy of Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo, Panama A final recommendation: Copa Airlines is the way to get to Panama City. My flight was direct from NYC (a must), my seat was surprisingly spacious and they even got us into Panama extra early (more bonus vacation time!). Needless to say, Panama City should definitely be atop your list of places to visit. And the Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo is the ideal place to stay if you really want to relax, indulge and feel like royalty. I, for one, can't wait to go back. 19 Bucket-List Mother-Daughter Trips That Will Make You Two Even Closer
Zawya
12-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Sofitel Legend Pyramids hotel project confirms progress and strategic alignment
Mr. Yahia Kotub, CEO of Abu Dhabi Tourism Investment Company (ADTIC), and Ms. Maud Bailly, Global CEO of Accor, conducted a joint site visit to the Sofitel Legend Pyramids hotel project, one of the most iconic luxury developments in Egypt and the region, to review construction progress and alignment with the set development timeline. Current Progress: 45% of piling and pre-construction works have been completed, with full construction and finishing works scheduled for completion by the first quarter of 2027. The hotel is expected to begin soft operations in Q3 2027, offering a refined luxury experience on the Giza Plateau. Strategic Timing: The project's advancement comes at a time of historic significance for Egyptian tourism, as the Grand Egyptian Museum is set to officially open on July 3rd, 2025. This milestone is expected to reposition the Giza area as a premier global cultural destination and will strongly support the hotel's promotional and strategic positioning. Partnership with Accor: The hotel will be operated by Accor, under the prestigious Sofitel Legend brand — the group's highest luxury tier, which is reserved for unique heritage properties around the world. This partnership reflects the strong strategic alignment between both companies and underscores a shared commitment to delivering world-class hospitality in Egypt. Statement by Mr. Yahia Kotub – CEO of ADTIC: 'We are proud of the progress made at Sofitel Legend Pyramids and believe that the hotel's unmatched location, combined with the momentum following the Grand Egyptian Museum opening, will create a globally distinctive hospitality experience. Our partnership with Accor is a cornerstone of our vision to deliver a sustainable and culturally inspired luxury offering.' Statement by Ms. Maud Bailly – Global CEO of Accor: 'This visit reaffirms our strong partnership with ADTIC and our joint ambition to create a truly iconic hotel at one of the world's most legendary sites. Sofitel Legend Pyramids is set to become a flagship property for our group and a new benchmark for luxury hospitality in the Middle East and Africa.'
Trade Arabia
03-04-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Sofitel Legend Grand Amsterdam undergoes elegant makeover
Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam, an icon of Dutch history and luxury hospitality, is set to undergo an extensive refurbishment, reaffirming its status as one of the world's most prestigious hotels. Led by renowned award-winning French designer, Pierre-Yves Rochon, this transformation will honor the hotel's rich Dutch heritage, preserving its listed historical elements and seamlessly integrating contemporary elegance with a French zest. The result will be an enhanced guest experience reflecting the aspirations of modern luxury travelers. "Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam perfectly embodies the DNA of Sofitel Legend - an iconic historic hotel in the heart of the Dutch capital. From its legendary Wedding Chamber to its stunning stained-glass windows, every corner of this landmark takes guests on a journey through history. This transformation marks a new chapter, made possible by the trust and vision of our esteemed owners, whom I sincerely thank as we step together into a new era of excellence and timeless elegance,' said Maud Bailly, CEO of Sofitel Legend, Sofitel, MGallery & Emblems . Nestled between two historic canals in the heart of Amsterdam, Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam has stood as a symbol of refinement for centuries, deeply embedded in rich Dutch heritage. From an original 15th-century convent to a royal guesthouse in the 16thcentury, it later became the seat of the Dutch Admiralty and subsequently Amsterdam's City Hall. Throughout its illustrious past, The Grand has welcomed legendary historical figures, including William of Orange and Maria de Medici - both of whom are now honored with dedicated suites that pay tribute to their legacies. One of the most remarkable features of Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam's heritage is The Wedding Chamber, created by Chris Lebeau in 1925. Its intricate stained-glass windows and Amsterdam School furnishings remain an intimate and cherished setting, serving as a unique venue for weddings, private celebrations, and cultural gatherings to this day. This extraordinary space further reinforces the hotel's deep connection to its past, while continuing to be a place of meaningful encounters. As part of the prestigious Sofitel Legend portfolio, Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam remains a beacon of exceptional hospitality, where French zest seamlessly intertwines with Dutch heritage. The hotel's transformation is being guided by the acclaimed PYR – Pierre-Yves Rochon design studio, renowned for its expertise in luxury hospitality interiors. Inspired by The Grand's rich past, the renovation will carefully balance precise historical elements with modern sophistication, creating a timeless yet contemporary atmosphere. From the meticulously designed suites to the reimagined public spaces, the new vision will reflect PYR's signature approach - where heritage, craftsmanship, and refined elegance converge. 'Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam is a unique place where every stone carries the memory of the city. Our ambition was to preserve this heritage with the utmost delicacy while revealing a new way of living history—intimate and contemporary. Our approach is guided by precision, ensuring that every architectural and decorative gesture respects the site's legacy. From preserving listed elements such as the revolving door, noble materials, and historic volumes to introducing the comfort and functionality of modern luxury, we extend the story of The Grand without ever freezing it in time,' stated Pierre-Yves Rochon. The upcoming renovation at Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam will elevate the guest experience, merging timeless Dutch artistry with modern luxury to create a truly residential atmosphere. From the moment guests arrive, they will step into a transformed entrance where the historic courtyard takes center stage, offering a lush, living landscape that sets the tone for tranquility and refinement. This thoughtfully designed courtyard celebrates the biodiversity of the Netherlands, with peonies, tulips, hydrangeas, and aromatic herbs creating an ever-evolving interplay between nature and architecture. Seamlessly extending this harmony indoors, the reimagined lobby and central atrium will blend the garden's natural beauty with the elegance of The Grand's interiors. Restored white marble floors, oak parquet in reception areas, and warm ambient lighting will enhance the sense of intimacy, while a discreet, personalized reception space ensures a refined arrival experience. The hotel's 175 rooms and suites, including the Legendary Suites and a newly designed Bridal Suite, will offer a balance of heritage and contemporary comfort. Inspired by Vermeer's soft blues and yellows, the interiors will feature aged leather, fine woods, curated artworks, and typical French moldings, adding an extra layer of refined elegance. Signature furnishings include the Temple Bed, a canal-view daybed alcove, and a bespoke drink cabinet, celebrating the art of living. Corridors will become curated spaces, with custom carpets inspired by Amsterdam's historic paving stones, antique Delft Blue vases, and original artworks by Dutch artists, transforming each passage into a journey through history and modern craftsmanship. The tribute to the Art of Bouquet continues in the Florista Tea & Cocktail Lounge, envisioned as a living workshop, where guests can enjoy seasonal infusions, themed afternoon tea and creative cocktails, echoing the floral arrangements found throughout the hotel's salons and guest rooms. 'Moving from 600 years of history to the future, The Grand continues to evolve while honoring its storied past. Today, the hotel's suites regularly host heads of state, celebrities, artists, and ambassadors from around the world. Guests feel privileged to stay in these unique accommodations, which are steeped in history and infused with the memories of a distinguished past. The Imperial Suites, in particular, offer a refined experience, seamlessly integrating modern luxury with historical grandeur—ensuring that The Grand remains an unparalleled destination for the world's most discerning travelers.' With this transformation, Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam will usher in a new era of luxury, offering an unparalleled blend of history, artistry, and modern elegance for an experience that is both intimate and legendary. With sustainability at the forefront, Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam is setting a new benchmark in committed hospitality. Every element, from architecture to design, reflects a commitment to green innovation without compromising the hotel's timeless elegance: building insulation, geothermal energy produced on-site, and a new building management system supporting further energy efficiency. The redesigned accommodations will feature eco-friendly materials, including certified woods and natural textiles, as well as energy-efficient technologies that enhance comfort while reducing environmental impact. Shared spaces will seamlessly integrate lush greenery, reinforcing the connection between nature and urban sophistication. The hotel's efforts have been recognized through prestigious external certifications, including the highest level of Green Key standard (Gold), the silver EarthCheck certification, the EHMA sustainability award by Diversey, and platinum status by Accor. By blending heritage preservation, artisanal craftsmanship, and contemporary environmental consciousness, Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam is setting a new standard for sustainable luxury, offering guests an experience that honors both history and the planet. As part of the prestigious six hotel gems in the Sofitel Legend collection, Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam continues to be a key player in the ongoing modernization of the brand, blending the legendary history of each destination with French zest. This commitment to evolution is reflected not only in the reimagining of The Grand but also in the brand's continued expansion, with three new signings in 2024 including Sofitel Legend The Mozart Prague in Europe, Sofitel Legend Pyramids Giza in Egypt and Sofitel Legend Jaipur in India, bringing the Sofitel Legend network to nine exceptional destinations worldwide within three years. This announcement follows the significant refurbishment of Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, including the restoration of the historic Heritage Wing in 2024. These efforts underscore Sofitel Legend's dedication to preserving its iconic legacy while embracing the future of luxury, ensuring that each destination remains a timeless symbol of refinement and elegance. "We are deeply proud to embark on this transformational journey for Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam. This refurbishment will not only elevate the guest experience but also maintain the historical essence that makes this hotel so unique. We are excited for both new and returning guests to enjoy the harmonious balance of history and modern luxury that will define The Grand for years to come,' said Stefan Melcherts, General Manager Sofitel Legend The Grand Amsterdam. -TradeArabia News Service
Arabian Business
14-03-2025
- Business
- Arabian Business
Abu Dhabi Fund for Development launches $120mn luxury hotel project in Egypt
The Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) announced the launch of a luxury hotel project in Egypt, envisaging investments to the tune of $120 million (AED 440 million). The 5-star hotel project, named 'Sofitel Legend Pyramids Giza', is part of the Abu Dhabi fund's efforts to enhance its strategic investments in the African country. Abu Dhabi Fund's Egypt luxury hotel project The hotel project is also aimed at contributing to the development of the hospitality and tourism sector in Egypt and the broader Middle East. The project, featuring 302 rooms equipped with state-of-the-art amenities and a selection of international restaurants and entertainment facilities, will be financed through a strategic partnership between the private sectors of the UAE and Egypt. While ADFD will contribute 84.28 per cent of the project's capital through Abu Dhabi Tourism Investment Company (ADTIC), the remaining equity stake will be held by Abu Dhabi National Hotels (10.22 per cent) Overseas Tourism Investment Company (0.4 per cent), Misr Hotels Company (2.73 per cent) and the Egyptian General Company for Tourism & Hotels (2.37 per cent). Blending rich history with modern luxury, the project promises an exceptional hospitality experience that meets the highest international standards. Abu Dhabi Tourism Investment Company will partner with Accor Group, a globally renowned hospitality brand, to manage the hotel and ensure excellence in service and guest experience. Enhancing Egypt's tourism sector Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD, said through the partnership with Accor Group, the Fund aims to elevate the tourism industry, while supporting economic and social development in Egypt. 'This investment is a reflection of ADFD's commitment to advancing sustainable development projects and driving investment partnerships that fuel economic growth in partner countries,' he said. Engineer Adel Al-Najjar, the Governor of Giza, said the project is a model for successful investment collaboration between Egypt and the UAE. 'We look forward to expanding such partnerships to further our sustainable development goals,' he said. By blending luxury hospitality with Egypt's rich cultural heritage, the Sofitel Legend Pyramids Giza project is expected to strengthen the country's position as a premier global tourist destination. Its strategic location near iconic landmarks will attract visitors from around the world, creating new investment opportunities and driving the sustainable growth of Egypt's tourism sector.
Zawya
14-03-2025
- Business
- Zawya
ADFD launches AED 440mln Sofitel Legend Pyramids Giza project to boost Egypt's tourism sector
Abu Dhabi – As part of its efforts to support and revitalize Egypt's tourism sector and enhance strategic investments, the Abu Dhabi Fund for Development (ADFD) has announced the launch of the 'Sofitel Legend Pyramids Giza' project. This luxury five-star hotel will be a landmark addition to the hospitality and tourism sector in Egypt and the broader Middle East, reinforcing the UAE's commitment to advancing global economic partnerships and supporting sustainable development. Valued at AED 440 million (US$ 120 million), the project will feature 302 rooms equipped with state-of-the-art amenities. The hotel will also house a selection of international restaurants and entertainment facilities, positioning it as a premier destination for luxury hospitality. The project is financed through a strategic partnership between the private sectors of the UAE and Egypt. ADFD is contributing 84.28% of the project's capital through Abu Dhabi Tourism Investment Company (ADTIC). Additionally, Abu Dhabi National Hotels owns 10.22%, Overseas Tourism Investment Company holds 0.4%, Misr Hotels Company owns 2.73%, and the Egyptian General Company for Tourism & Hotels owns 2.37%. The foundation was jointly laid by H.E Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, Director General of ADFD, Engineer Adel Al-Najjar, the Governor of Giza, from the Egyptian government, and the presence of officials from both sides. Blending rich history with modern luxury, the project promises an exceptional hospitality experience that meets the highest international standards. Abu Dhabi Tourism Investment Company is partnering with Accor Group, a globally renowned hospitality brand, to manage the hotel and ensure excellence in service and guest experience. H.E Mohamed Saif Al Suwaidi, said: 'Sofitel Legend Pyramids Giza' project is a significant step in strengthening Egypt's tourism sector, offering a world-class hotel experience that underscores our commitment to sustainable investments in promising markets. Through our partnership with Accor Group, we aim to elevate the tourism industry while supporting economic and social development in Egypt.' He called this investment a reflection of ADFD's commitment to advancing sustainable development projects and driving investment partnerships that fuel economic growth in partner countries.' Engineer Adel Al-Najjar, expressed gratitude to ADFD for its continued support. 'We appreciate Abu Dhabi Fund for Development's commitment to supporting Egypt's development projects, particularly in key economic sectors like tourism. The Sofitel Legend Pyramids Giza project represents a transformative step in strengthening our tourism infrastructure, enabling us to attract visitors from around the world thanks to its strategic location near Egypt's most iconic archaeological sites.' He noted that this project is a model for successful investment collaboration between Egypt and the UAE. 'We look forward to expanding such partnerships to further our sustainable development goals,' he said. By blending luxury hospitality with Egypt's rich cultural heritage, the Sofitel Legend Pyramids Giza project will strengthen the country's position as a premier global tourist destination. Its strategic location near iconic landmarks will attract visitors from around the world, creating new investment opportunities and driving the sustainable growth of Egypt's tourism sector. Through investments in transformative infrastructure projects like this, the UAE reaffirms its commitment to supporting Egypt's national development agenda while advancing the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and Goal 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure). Fatin Elkhalil Senior Account Manager APCO Podium 3, Unit C40-P3-39, YAS Creative HUB, YAS Island Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (m) +971 55 5432671 felkhalil@
