Des Indes Celebrates a Century of Elegance with Empowerment
Des Indes, an iconic hotel with a rich history spanning more than 132 years, recently opened its doors with a touch of charm, character, elegance, and grandeur to host an exceptional event. Yvonne van der Klaauw, the General Manager of this emblematic establishment, orchestrated a celebration like no other—a high tea afternoon dedicated to female ambassadors and leaders of international organizations. The event not only marked a milestone in the hotel’s tradition but also paid homage to the influential women who have graced its halls over the years.
Des Indes, situated in Lange Voorhout at the heart of The Hague, has long been a sanctuary for luminaries, dignitaries, and artists. To commemorate its illustrious history, Yvonne van der Klaauw curated a guest list that included the Director General of the International Commission on Missing Persons, Kathryne Bomberger, Dominique Kuhling, Director of Protocol and Host Country Issues- Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Chantal Schrijver from the European Investment Bank, Marielle Vavier, Deputy Mayor of The Hague, Camilla van Kooten, Chief of Protocol at The Hague Municipality, Dr Mayelinne De Lara, Diplomat Magazine’s Publisher, and an assembly of female ambassadors from various countries, among them: the Ambassadors of Algeria, H.E. Salima Abdelhak, Belgium, H.E. Anick van Calster, Colombia, H.E. Carolina Olarte Bácares, Croatia, H.E. Dubravka Plejic Markovic, Cyprus, H.E. Frances Lanitou Williams, Greece, H.E. Caterina Guini, Nigeria, H.E. Dr. Eniola Ajayi, New Zealand, H.E. Susannah Hayden Gordon, Panama, H.E. Elizabeth Ward Neiman, Peru, H.E. Marisol Aguero Colunga, Portugal, H.E. Maria Clara Nunes Pinto, Serbia, H.E. Ksenija Milenković, Switzerland, H.E. Corinne Cicéron Bühler, Tanzania, H.E. Caroline Chipeta, USA, H.E. Shefali Razdan Duggal.
The celebration unfolded with an air of sophistication as the guests were treated to a selection of exquisite teas, a profusion of champagne, and divine hors d’oeuvres. The ambiance echoed the historic charm of Des Indes, creating a perfect setting for a gathering of accomplished women.
Ms. van der Klaauw, in her welcome speech, emphasized the significance of the event, declaring that henceforth, it will be an annual fixture to honor women in prominent positions. This commitment to recognizing the achievements of women reflects the hotel’s dedication to fostering an environment of empowerment.
Des Indes not only celebrated the contemporary leaders but also took a moment to pay tribute to the remarkable women who have graced its halls throughout history.
From the iconic dancer Anna Pavlova to the dignified Regina Margherita di Savoia, the influential Eleanor Roosevelt, and the timeless Audrey Hepburn, the hotel has been a rendezvous point for trailblazing women whose impact transcends generations.
The event showcased Des Indes’ ability to seamlessly blend historical glamour with a commitment to contemporary values. The hotel, with its opulent surroundings and impeccable service, served as a backdrop for conversations that transcended borders, fostering a sense of unity among the accomplished women present.
Des Indes, with its more than a century-old legacy, continues to stand as a symbol of refined hospitality and cultural significance. Yvonne van der Klaauw’s vision of an annual celebration reflects a commitment to recognizing and empowering women, ensuring that Des Indes remains a beacon of elegance, tradition, and inclusivity for years to come.
