Introducing Nicky van Westenbrugge, one of the outstanding hoteliers shortlisted for Independent Hotelier of the Year at the Independent Hotel Show Awards.

1. Describe yourself in 3 words.

Positive. Driven. People-oriented.

2. What is Bee Hospitality?

Bee Hospitality is the umbrella term for our various hospitality ventures. From there, we collectively handle marketing, events, finance, project management, and HR for all establishments. Across the Bee group, we uphold three core values: Personal, Genuine, and Enthusiastic. Under the Bee umbrella, we have our wonderful Hotel Parkzicht and its associated restaurant Thym by Parkzicht, as well as Hout Pizzeria, Downtown Gourmet Market stands: Beef and Libee, and in April, our newest restaurant Casa Pepe will open. We are also working on developing the magnificent Clarissenklooster into a luxury hotel and restaurant.

3. What is the biggest advantage of being an 'independent hotelier'?

For me, it's truly the freedom to make our own choices, genuinely listening to what our guests need, and being able to respond quickly. There's openness among independent hoteliers, and together we seek out great opportunities and tackle challenges.

4. What does hospitality mean to you?

Making someone's day a little brighter. Through a smile, anticipating needs, and surprising guests. But most importantly, it's about personal attention and genuinely seeing people, which brings happiness to everyone.

5. Why should the hotel industry vote for you as the winner of the IHA24 Awards?

I genuinely believe there are so many deserving hoteliers out there to vote for, but since I'm now in the Top 3, of course, I want to win! My team suggests you should vote for me because I genuinely care about people, and I'm also convinced that this is our strength. Our own team members, our countless lovely guests, but also people in our community who could use something extra, such as the homeless, the elderly, and refugees. These three pillars of people are central to our operations. We always strive to truly see people, show genuine interest, and help them get where they want to be. Some team members thrive on entrepreneurship, and we venture into new businesses with them. Some are looking for education and connections elsewhere, and we assist them with that too. Some want to grow in their knowledge of wine or guest experience, and we provide ongoing training in that area as well. We want everyone to bring out their best selves. If our team members are happy, they also radiate that towards guests, making them feel seen, heard, and pampered. And our team members also take this energy home with them. If we can make people who come into contact with us, whether guests or not, a little happier every day, we achieve our goal! And what better industry to make people happy than hospitality?