Amsterdam, the city of canals, tulips, and rich history, was the place for the yearly global event of CFR partners from all over the world. This year organized by BeljonWesterterp and this global meeting promised not just business discussions but also a chance to celebrate our worldwide partnerships.
September 20th, the clock struck 5 p.m., we all gathered at the elegant Skybar at the Four Elements Hotel Amsterdam. All BeljonWesterterps regional directors were present to welcome the participants for this special occasion. As the evening sun behind the clouds painted the Amsterdam skyline with warm hues, we embarked on an unforgettable journey.
Our first evening together was a lavish dinner hosted for all CFR partners and their spouses. Conversations flowed freely, weaving a tapestry of cultures and ideas. The air was filled with laughter, as colleagues who usually connected through screens now shared stories in person.
The next morning, we ventured to the iconic Rijksmuseum, a treasure trove of Dutch art and history. Our guided tour unveiled the masterpieces that had shaped our nation’s rich heritage. We savored a delightful lunch within the museums hallowed halls, surrounded by centuries of artistic brilliance.
‘The afternoon all our guests explored the enchanting streets of Amsterdam. They discovered the city’s charm through its canals, historic buildings, and vibrant neighborhoods.
As evening descended, we boarded a salon boat for a three-hour cruise through Amsterdam’s picturesque waterways. The city sparkled with lights, and we relished the panoramic views from the water. It was a mesmerizing experience that bound us even closer.
The following morning, an early start took us to Aalsmeer, home of the largest flower auction of the world. The sight of billions of colorful blooms was awe-inspiring, offering a unique glimpse into the world of floriculture. After this eye-opening tour, we enjoyed a hearty breakfast back at the hotel.
While our partners headed to the Scheepvaartmuseum (Maritime Museum) for their annual meeting, the spouse joined in later to explore the maritime wonders of the VOC era, immersing themselves in a world of seafaring adventure and trade.
As the partners continued their discussions on strategy and collaboration, their counterparts embarked on a thrilling Yellowbike tour through Amsterdam, navigating the city’s intricate web of bike lanes and picturesque sights.
The grand finale unfolded at the Volkshotel, where our international meeting concluded with speeches that celebrated our achievements for our clients and laid the fundament for future collaborations. Bonds of friendship were strengthened, and new connections were forged.
Full of new friendships and excitement, we looked ahead to the next chapter. The torch will be passed on to Montreal, where our global meeting will reconvene, carrying with it the memories of this incredible meeting in the heart of the Netherlands. Amsterdam had provided the perfect backdrop for our collective journey, and the world is our oyster as we continue to explore new horizons.
Article written by Greetje Jakobs; CFR Global Executive Search The Netherlands