HOTEL-PODCAST BENELUX

In this episode of the HOTEL PODCAST BENELUX, host Alex Blommestijn welcomes André Aaij, General Manager, and Sting Mulders, Operations Manager of The Hague Marriott. They share insights into their career journeys and the history of the hotel.Opened in 1970 as the Bel Air, the 306-room property is the largest hotel in the city. Now a Marriott franchise, it attracts a diverse mix of guests, from business travelers to airline crews and embassy staff.A key topic is the upcoming NATO Summit, which requires extensive logistical planning: all supplies must be delivered weeks in advance, and the area around the hotel will be sealed off for a week. While the summit ensures full occupancy, road closures disrupt regular operations for months.André and Sting also discuss future renovation plans funded by the Malaysian owners, YTL, as well as their involvement in the Hague Hotel Alliance, a network of 32 local hotels working together to boost the city’s tourism and job market.They conclude with an optimistic outlook, emphasizing continuous improvement and strategic planning for the future.

In this debut episode of the HOTEL-PODCAST.COM BENELUX, host Alex Blommestijn sits down with Rick and Jelrick Claus at the Courtyard by Marriott Amsterdam Airport in Hoofddorp.What began as a family-run bowling center in Haarlem has grown into a multi-generational hospitality business, including one of the very first Courtyard by Marriott hotels in Europe.Rick and Jelrick share how their journey unfolded - from the founding days in the 1970s to becoming Marriott’s first European franchise partner. They speak candidly about family succession, managing through crisis, and expanding into F&B with their Barraca concept.We also hear stories about the early days of the hotel, Marriott’s growing brand portfolio, and the balance between local hospitality and global systems. Plus, what happened when a guest requested a fax… and an entire machine was delivered.