UNESCO and Sofitel Legend announced a global partnership to place greater emphasis on the preservation of cultural heritage in the context of travel. Both organizations commit to safeguarding living heritage, raising awareness of local know-how and fostering deeper connections between travelers and the identities of the destinations visited.

UNESCO World Heritage sites extend beyond the preservation of historic monuments and architectural landmarks: UNESCO protects and promotes living traditions, including performing arts, oral traditions and artisanal craftsmanship that have shaped destinations.

© Sofitel Legend

“Heritage lives through the communities that carry it forward. Together with Sofitel Legend, we aim to bring visitors closer to artisans and tradition bearers while supporting the transmission of knowledge and creating employment and income opportunities for local communities,” said Julien Pellaux, director of Partnerships, UNESCO. “This partnership reflects a shared ambition: making tourism a driver of heritage preservation and local development.”

With this collaboration, Sofitel Legend brings exceptional addresses, each located in or near UNESCO World Heritage sites, together for an immersive and engaging experience. The collaboration launches at Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi, in Hanoi, Vietnam, as the property celebrates its 125^th anniversary this year and will develop a series of cultural experiences and initiatives in close collaboration with UNESCO’s Hanoi office. For instance, the hotel will offer experiences like the Hanoi Coffee Journey, Exclusive Visit to the Imperial Citadel of Thãng Long and Immersion in Bát Tràng Pottery Village.

The partnership aims to accomplish one thing: strengthening the role of hotels as gateways to local heritage and cultural discovery.

The agreement focuses on four pillars:

Educating and Inspiring Travelers

Hotel teams draw on UNESCO’s expertise to create dedicated training to help guests gain a deeper understanding of each destination’s traditions, histories and heritages.

© Sofitel Legend

Supporting Local Communities and Artisans

Sofitel Legend hotels collaborate with creators, artisans and other professionals with the support of UNESCO networks to showcase and sustain local craftsmanship and traditions through dedicated experiences available to Sofitel Legend guests.

Contributing to Heritage Preservation

A voluntary donation arrangement allows Sofitel Legend and its hotels to support UNESCO via the ALL Accor Charity program, where guests can donate their ALL Rewards points.

Creating Cultural Bridges Within Hotels

Sofitel Legend hotels will become platforms for local cultural traditions and heritage through artistic encounters, curated showcases and exhibitions.

Which UNESCO World Heritage site would you like to see included in this partnership? Have you stayed at a Sofitel Legend hotel before? What was your experience like? Email us at letters@globaltravelerusa.com. Please include your full name and location.