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.