ORANJESTAD (AAN): On Friday, April 24, 2026, the Dutch Kingdom honored Ewald Biemans, founder and owner of Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort, with the royal distinction of Knight in the Order of Oranje-Nassau. The honor was bestowed during the annual ‘Lintjes Regen,’ one of the most significant moments in the King’s Day celebration throughout the Dutch Kingdom.
Granted by His Majesty King Willem-Alexander, the distinction recognizes individuals whose contributions have left a lasting impact on society. In 1987, amid the uncertainty following the refinery closure that left thousands unemployed, Biemans founded Bucuti Beach Resort, which opened its doors on Black Monday 1987. The property has since become one of the most respected and internationally recognized resorts in the Caribbean.
Biemans’ Climate Achievement and Global Recognition
In 2018, Bucuti & Tara became the first hotel in the Caribbean to earn CarbonNeutral® certification. In 2020, the United Nations recognized this work with its Global UN Climate Action Award — the first and only time a hotel has received this distinction. Biemans was also personally invited to present at global climate forums, including COP26 and COP28.
