Marcel Menzo on Hosting Nations and the Return of the Christmas Lighting Reception
The Grand Hotel Amrâth Kurhaus in Scheveningen — the Hague’s iconic seaside palace — stands as one of the Netherlands’ most recognisable symbols of elegance and hospitality. Today, this five-star heritage hotel is not only a known place of refined leisure but also a preferred stage for diplomatic and corporate gatherings. Ambassadorial luncheons, national-day receptions and international conferences have become a regular part of its calendar, making the Kurhaus an essential venue within The Hague’s diplomatic ecosystem.
At the heart of this revival is Marcel Menzo, the hotel’s Sales and Events Manager, who has overseen a thoughtful renewal combining historic grandeur with modern hospitality and a distinct diplomatic focus.
“When I joined Grand Hotel Amrâth Kurhaus more than two and a half years ago, the diplomatic segment was not yet a primary focus,” Menzo recalls. “We made a conscious choice to build long-term, reliable relationships with embassies, based on continuity, trust and personal attention. Today, we are recognized as a welcoming and respected venue for official receptions and high-profile gatherings — something I am genuinely proud of.”
Over the past few years, the Kurhaus has undergone a series of modernisations — including LED lighting, heat-pump systems and energy-efficient upgrades — earning it Green Key certification for sustainability while carefully preserving its monumental interiors. These efforts, Menzo notes, are part of an ongoing vision to ensure the hotel remains both historically authentic and environmentally responsible.
Tailored diplomacy by the sea
For Menzo, the art of diplomatic hospitality lies in precision and discretion.
“Diplomatic guests often have specific expectations. Our team is trained to immediately recognize embassy delegations and respond with tailored coordination around security, arrival protocols, privacy and bespoke culinary arrangements,” he explains. “My role is to ensure that these needs are not only understood, but discreetly and seamlessly fulfilled.”
This approach has made the Kurhaus a trusted partner for embassies and international organisations seeking both grandeur and confidentiality for their events. From bilateral receptions to cultural celebrations, each gathering reflects the hotel’s commitment to ceremony and comfort.
A season of light
One of the highlights of the Kurhaus calendar is the Christmas Lighting Reception, a cherished annual tradition that returns this December with renewed energy.
“The Christmas Lighting Reception is both a tradition and a moment of connection,” says Menzo. “It brings together the diplomatic and business communities at the end of the year to reflect, express appreciation, and look ahead to future collaboration. It is an invitation to strengthen relationships and to welcome new partners into this network.”
This year’s edition will once again illuminate the hotel’s grand façade and historic Kurzaal, blending festive atmosphere with diplomatic camaraderie — a symbolic close to The Hague’s diplomatic season by the sea.
“The Kurhaus stands at the heart of the diplomatic season by the sea,” Menzo affirms. “A place where tradition, hospitality and international exchange come together. Our December reception celebrates connection, trust and the shared journey into a new year.”
Looking ahead
Menzo’s ambitions for the Kurhaus extend well beyond the festive season.
“In the coming years, we aim to further establish the Kurhaus as the leading coastal five-star destination in the Netherlands — a trusted venue for diplomacy, cultural events and exclusive business gatherings,” he says. “By combining historic grandeur with contemporary international service, we want to strengthen Scheveningen’s and the Netherlands’ position on the global stage.”
As part of that vision, the hotel is set to expand its MICE production — meetings, incentives, conferences, and events — in close collaboration with key partners, including Diplomat Magazine.
“Everything related to meetings, events, conferences and conventions, we will work together with you to make it a success,” Menzo concludes. “Let’s make it a wonderful and successful year!”
