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Forbes
5 days ago
- Forbes
3 Epic Hotels In The Netherlands For 2025
Château St. Gerlach Oostwegel Collection T he Netherlands is a country of captivating contrasts—where endless tulip fields ripple in the breeze, centuries-old windmills turn lazily against the horizon, and sleek modern cities loom like gentle giants beside medieval town centers. Its iconic capital, Amsterdam , is a city shaped by water—with a UNESCO-listed canal belt lined with whimsical gingerbread gables, arched stone bridges, and charming floating houseboats (best admired from a candlelit cruise). Art lovers flock to the world-renowned Van Gogh Museum, while the Anne Frank House offers a deeply poignant window into the harrowing trauma of the holocaust. But the Netherlands is far more than just Amsterdam—venture a little further south and you'll uncover Maastricht —a city nestled near the Belgian and German borders, at a rich cultural crossroads of Roman ruins, Gothic churches, and candlelit squares like the Vrijthof. Explore the Maastricht Underground, a mysterious labyrinth of caves and tunnels, or browse books beneath soaring vaulted ceilings at Boekhandel Dominicanen , a bookstore housed in a 700-year-old church. So, whether you're surfing through indie boutiques in Amsterdam's artsy Jordaan district or sipping wine beneath the majestic spires of Maastricht's St. Servatius —here are our handpicked pillow stops along the way. Pillows Maurits at the Park Pillows Hotels Nestled within a former university dissection lab on the edge of Amsterdam's leafy Oosterpark, dating back to 1908, Pillows Grand Boutique Hotel Maurits At The Park is an elegant boutique hotel where chic flair meets industrial minimalism—think glazed brick corridors and curated Dutch art, including works by Raphaël Hermans and even a discreet Picasso in its Fitz's Bar . Its crown jewel? The Pillows Grand Suite . Spanning over 700 square feet, this light-drenched cavern houses a signature Pillows king-sized bed, a sweeping kitchenette, and a private lounge area overlooking the park; adorned with a baby grand. Its marble-clad ensuite, however, is a spa-like retreat, with a deep soaking tub, double rainfall shower, and soft fluffy robes to wrap yourself up in. You'll also receive little perks like valet parking and complimentary access to its private sauna. Forbes How To Spend The Perfect Weekend In Guernsey By Lewis Nunn Once settled, descend to VanOost Restaurant , cocooned in the former anatomy hall, anchored by an open kitchen helmed by rising-star chef F loris van Straalen . Expect a seasonal tasting menu with standout dishes like Indonesian Langoustine and Anjou Pigeon Rossini —served under trusses that once held cadavers. Don't skip the cheese trolley or the wine pairing, sourced from European vineyards like Zind-Humbrecht and Van Volxem ( Pillows Grand Suite from $1,740 per night). 2. Kruisherenhotel Maastricht Location: Maastricht Kruisherensuite Oostwegel Collection / Laura Knipsael Photography Once a 15th-century Gothic church and Kruisheren monastery of the 'Crutched Friars,' Kruisherenhotel Maastricht is an uber-stylish bolthole, nestled in the heart of Maastricht's historic city center. Up until 1797, it was the home of monks, before serving as military barracks during the French Revolution—and later as the site of the National Agricultural Research Station . Today, as a proud member of Design Hotels, a collection of over 300 independent hotels rooted in design, locality, and culture—its artistic flair is present throughout—think quirky pop art, stained glass windows, original frescoes and stone masonry, and fine furnishings by Philippe Starck and Le Corbusier. Read More: Forbes The Ultimate Guide To South Africa Cruises By Lewis Nunn Its Kruisherensuite , however, is chic and minimalistic—sitting in the former monastery—set across 700 square feet, boasting beautiful stained glass windows, Cardinal tones, an Auping custom-made bed, and a lavish ensuite dressed with a whirlpool and double rainfall shower. Once you're settled into the suite life , saunter down to its French-inspired 'court of fine dining'—Spencer's. With grand original frescoes to gaze upon, you'll feast on a 5-course Chef's Menu , with dishes like fine cured salmon, shellfish from the North Sea, and slow-cooked veal chuck—complete with fluffy yogurt mousse and a gorgeous cheese board. Be sure to opt for its 4-course wine pairing too ( Kruisherensuite from $490 per night). 3. Château St. Gerlach Location: Valkenburg Château St. Gerlach Oostwegel Collection Set within the rolling hills of Geul Valley, Château St. Gerlach is a storybook estate where baroque grandeur meets pastoral serenity. Once a 12th-century monastery, this Relais & Châteaux jewel has been exquisitely restored into a sumptuous countryside retreat—surrounded by lush vineyards, aromatic herb gardens, blooming rose beds, and a charming church adorned with 18th-century frescoes—where sculptures grace the manicured gardens and wild horses roam the nearby Ingendael nature reserve. Read More: Forbes The Ultimate Guide To Croatia Island Hopping By Lewis Nunn Inside, you'll find interiors blending classic elegance with contemporary comfort—think vaulted ceilings, antique heirlooms, and 114 individually styled suites and apartments—housed in former grain lofts and farmsteads. Beneath the Château's ancient stone arches lies Spa & Wellness St. Gerlach —a Roman-inspired sanctuary housing a serene 14-metre indoor pool, a traditional Turkish hammam, and soothing sauna, with treatments ranging from Sothys facials to aromatherapy massages. Gastronomy is a centerpiece too: at Les Salons , in the former living quarters of the last aristocratic resident, Baron de Selys de Fanson , estate-sourced dishes are served beneath gilded ceilings and glittering crystal chandeliers—like sea bass filet, Dutch Yellowtail Kingfish, wild garlic panna cotta, and Limburg mozzarella flan. Burgemeester Quicx , however, offers a more relaxed affair, serving artisanal coffee and light bites—think farmer's cheese and Limburgse vlaai —in a chic farmhouse setting. Read More: Forbes How To Spend The Perfect Weekend In Guernsey By Lewis Nunn Forbes The Ultimate Guide To South Africa Cruises By Lewis Nunn Forbes The Ultimate Guide To Croatia Island Hopping By Lewis Nunn Forbes Is This The World's Most Expensive Cruise? By Lewis Nunn Forbes An Insider's Guide To The Ned, London By Lewis Nunn Forbes An Insider's Guide To Carden Park Hotel, Golf Resort & Spa By Lewis Nunn
Daily Mail
15-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Mail
Bring back oil and ditch the windmills, says Trump
Donald Trump has told the UK to 'get rid of the windmills and bring back the oil' and he confirmed he'll meet Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in Aberdeen this month. The U.S. President hit out at the renewables drive as prepared for his private visit to Scotland to open a new golf course in Aberdeenshire. He famously fell out with the Scottish Government in 2012 after the late First Minister Alex Salmond backed plans for wind turbines off the coast of the businessman's Menie Estate. And he has remained a vocal opponent of wind farms and forms of greener energy forms in and out of the White House ever since. The president backed fossil fuels over 'detrimental' wind power projects as he said he'll meet Sir Keir for talks in the European 'oil capital' ahead of his official state visit in September. Downing Street confirmed on Monday the Prime Minister will travel to Scotland to meet Mr Trump during his visit. The American already owns two golf courses north of the Border, including the one in Menie and Turnberry, in Ayrshire, where he is thought to be staying during his visit. He confirmed last year his latest venture, named MacLeod Course after his mother Mary, who was born on the Isle of Lewis, was due to open this summer. Ahead of his trip over, Mr Trump described Britain as a 'great place' and a 'true ally' of the United States. Speaking about Sir Keir, he told BBC News: 'I really like the Prime Minister a lot, even though he's a liberal.' Campaigners at Uplift, which wants to see a rapid switch away from oil and gas towards renewable energy, criticised the president. Executive director Tessa Khan said: 'Donald Trump clearly knows nothing about the North Sea other than the view from his golf course. 'After 60 years of drilling, the UK has burned almost all of its gas and what is left is oil, most of which the UK exports, which contributes nothing to making sure the UK has an affordable supply of energy. 'More oil and gas drilling would not only lock us into an expensive energy source for far longer than is necessary, it will also contribute to the climate impacts - the wildfires, droughts and floods - that we're now seeing every year.' As well as meeting Sir Keir during his visit to Scotland, the president will also meet the First Minister. Scottish Labour's deputy leader Dame Jackie Baillie said John Swinney should use the event to ensure Scotland gets a better trade deal with the U.S. rather than spent his time 'talking up the country'. Mr Trump will also make a historic, second state visit to the UK later on in the autumn and was asked if Parliament should be recalled from its summer break so he can address MPs.
Daily Mail
15-07-2025
- Business
- Daily Mail
Make Aberdeen Great Again! Bring back oil and ditch the windmills, says Trump
Donald Trump has told the UK to 'get rid of the windmills and bring back the oil' and he confirmed he'll meet Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer in Aberdeen this month. The U.S. President hit out at the renewables drive as prepared for his private visit to Scotland to open a new golf course in Aberdeenshire. Confirming the pair will hold talks, the president said his 'state meeting with the Prime Minister' will be 'up in Aberdeen, which is the oil capital of Europe'. He added: 'They should bring it back too. They have so much oil there. 'They should get rid of the windmills and bring back the oil. 'Cause the windmills are really detrimental to the beauty of Scotland and every other place they go up.' He famously fell out with the Scottish Government in 2012 after the late First Minister Alex Salmond backed plans for wind turbines off the coast of the businessman's Menie Estate. And he has remained a vocal opponent of wind farms and forms of greener energy forms in and out of the White House ever since. The president backed fossil fuels over 'detrimental' wind power projects as he said he'll meet Sir Keir for talks in the European 'oil capital' ahead of his official state visit in September. Downing Street confirmed on Monday the Prime Minister will travel to Scotland to meet Mr Trump during his visit. The American already owns two golf courses north of the Border, including the one in Menie and Turnberry, in Ayrshire, where he is thought to be staying during his visit. He confirmed last year his latest venture, named MacLeod Course after his mother Mary, who was born on the Isle of Lewis, was due to open this summer. Ahead of his trip over, Mr Trump described Britain as a 'great place' and a 'true ally' of the United States. Speaking about Sir Keir, he told BBC News: 'I really like the Prime Minister a lot, even though he's a liberal.' Campaigners at Uplift, which wants to see a rapid switch away from oil and gas towards renewable energy, criticised the president. Executive director Tessa Khan said: 'Donald Trump clearly knows nothing about the North Sea other than the view from his golf course. 'After 60 years of drilling, the UK has burned almost all of its gas and what is left is oil, most of which the UK exports, which contributes nothing to making sure the UK has an affordable supply of energy. 'More oil and gas drilling would not only lock us into an expensive energy source for far longer than is necessary, it will also contribute to the climate impacts - the wildfires, droughts and floods - that we're now seeing every year.' As well as meeting Sir Keir during his visit to Scotland, the president will also meet the First Minister. Scottish Labour's deputy leader Dame Jackie Baillie said John Swinney should use the event to ensure Scotland gets a better trade deal with the U.S. rather than spent his time 'talking up the country'. Mr Trump will also make a historic, second state visit to the UK later on in the autumn and was asked if Parliament should be recalled from its summer break so he can address MPs. He dismissed the idea, saying: 'I think let them go and have a good time.' Mr Trump added he wants to 'respect King Charles' during the September visit, describing the monarch a 'great gentleman'. It has been confirmed The King and Queen Camilla will host the president at Windsor Castle.
Times
15-07-2025
- Business
- Times
Trump tells Starmer to ditch windmills and drill for more oil
Donald Trump has called on Scotland to 'get rid of the windmills' and drill for more oil ahead of a visit later this month. The US president is expected to meet Sir Keir Starmer and John Swinney during a trip to Aberdeen. Trump, 79, has a long-held disdain for wind farms and previously complained about a development offshore spoiling the views from his golf course in Aberdeenshire. A legal battle with the Scottish government on that issue was eventually lost. Trump is also heavily in favour of using oil and gas with his 'drill, baby, drill' slogan. Speaking to the BBC, Trump confirmed he would be coming to Scotland for a 'state meeting with the prime minister'. He described Aberdeen as the oil capital of Europe and said 'they should bring it back too'. He added: 'They have so much oil there. They should get rid of the windmills and bring back the oil. '[Because] the windmills are really detrimental to the beauty of Scotland and every other place they go up.' Oil output from the UK North Sea peaked in 1999 and will continue to decline in the decades ahead. The Labour government in Westminster is pushing towards net zero and has said it will no longer issue new offshore oil and gas drilling licences. The energy profit levy also means oil and gas producers are subject to a tax rate of up to 78 per cent on their UK profits. Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce expressed pride in the Granite City's reputation as Europe's energy capital. A spokesman said oil and gas would be required as part of the UK's energy mix for decades to come and that producing it from the North Sea would sustain jobs and the economy. The spokesman added: 'The biggest barrier to investment in the North Sea is a 78 per cent tax rate on profits and perhaps the US president can persuade the prime minister to lift that punitive tax when they meet in Aberdeen.' Colin Palmer, the director of offshore at the trade body Scottish Renewables, pointed out that the wind sector supports more than 35,000 jobs in Scotland and was worth about £13 billion to the economy. He said: 'We know that wind energy is good for jobs, good for supply chains and has the potential to make household bills more affordable. 'As well as helping to secure the UK's energy supply, wind power is poised to play a pivotal role in delivering the UK government's clean energy targets sparking a boom in Scotland's renewable energy industry which will help to grow the economy and create new jobs.' Tessa Khan, the executive director of Uplift, which campaigns for a transition away from oil and gas, said: 'Donald Trump clearly knows nothing about the North Sea other than the view from his golf course. 'Trump is clearly looking after the interests of the oil and gas industry, which have made billions during the energy crisis, while millions of households in the UK have struggled with soaring bills. 'His team is shot through with fossil fuel interests that want the rest of the world, the UK included, to slow its transition to clean energy and remain hooked on oil and gas for years to come just so they can keep profiting.'
Telegraph
15-07-2025
- Business
- Telegraph
Trump tells Starmer: Get rid of ‘windmills' and focus on North Sea oil
Donald Trump has urged Sir Keir Starmer to 'get rid of the windmills' in Scotland and focus on extracting more North Sea oil instead. The US president issued the appeal as he confirmed he is to meet the Prime Minister in Aberdeen later this month – while noting the city was the 'oil capital of Europe.' In an interview with BBC News, Mr Trump said there was 'so much oil' remaining in the North Sea and argued that the UK Government should 'bring back' energy policies focused on extracting it. In contrast, he said wind farms were damaging 'the beauty of Scotland' and should be torn down. Mr Trump's intervention came ahead of his July visit to Scotland, when he is expected to visit his golf resorts in Aberdeenshire and Ayrshire. He will meet Sir Keir and John Swinney, the Scottish First Minister, during the trip. Protests are expected to take place and up to 5,000 police officers could be deployed on 12-hour shifts. Mr Trump told BBC News: 'We're going to have a meeting with... a state meeting with the Prime Minister, and that's gonna be up in Aberdeen, which is the oil capital of Europe, they should bring it back too. 'They have so much oil there. They should get rid of the windmills and bring back the oil. [Because] the windmills are really detrimental to the beauty of Scotland and every other place they go up.' In 2019, Trump International lost a long-running court battle to stop a major wind power development being built in the North Sea off Aberdeen. Mr Trump argued that the project, which included 11 wind turbines, would spoil the view from his golf resort at Menie in Aberdeenshire. Sir Keir and Ed Miliband, the UK Energy Secretary, have come under fire over their ban on oil and gas licences to explore new fields in the North Sea. Gary Smith, the general secretary of the GMB union, previously attacked Sir Keir's 'bonkers' net-zero plan and warned there was a 'growing sense of betrayal' among North Sea oil workers. Although oil licensing is a responsibility reserved for the UK Government, SNP ministers have also adopted a presumption against further exploration in the North Sea. The SNP has also used its control over the planning system in Scotland to encourage the construction of thousands of onshore and offshore wind turbines. Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce said it was 'extremely proud' of the city's reputation as Europe's energy capital. A spokesman said: 'For as long as we require oil and gas as part of our energy mix over the decades to come, we should produce as much of that as possible from the North Sea – sustaining jobs and growing our economy. 'The biggest barrier to investment in the North Sea is a 78 per cent tax rate on profits, and perhaps the US President can persuade the Prime Minister to lift that punitive tax when they meet in Aberdeen.' But Patrick Harvie, the Scottish Greens' co-leader, attacked Mr Swinney's plan to hold a meeting with Mr Trump during the visit. Mr Harvie said: 'The SNP's decision to meet with this convicted felon is a tragic one, and is out of step with Scotland's values. Appeasing political extremists like Trump won't save us from his misinformation and toxic rhetoric.' He added: 'If the Scottish Government won't make it clear to Trump, then I'm sure the people of Scotland on the streets protesting his every move will make it loud and clear. Donald Trump is not welcome here.' Dame Jackie Baillie, Scottish Labour's deputy leader, said Mr Swinney was right to meet the US president. She said: 'We live in a democracy. It is right that people have the right to protest, but, at the end of the day, I think this is a personal visit he's making.'
