Hotel des Indes

Hotel des Indes, located on the Lange Voorhout in The Hague, is a historic landmark with nearly 150 years of history. Built in 1858 as the private residence of Thierry Baron van Brienen van de Groote Lindt—a close friend of King William III—the building was designed by architect Arend Roodenburg to reflect the elegance of the era’s elite.

After Van Brienen’s death, the residence was sold to hotelier François Paulez, who transformed it into a luxury hotel in 1881. It was named Hotel des Indes, in reference to the famous hotel in Batavia, Dutch East Indies. From its inception, the hotel became a beacon of luxury. By 1900, all rooms had hot and cold running water and direct phone lines to the front desk. In 1902, a lift was installed—quite a novelty at the time. Another unique feature was the presence of professional dance partners, or "gigolos," hired to entertain female guests strictly through dance and companionship—without sexual services.

During World War II, the hotel was used by German officers, casting a shadow over its grandeur. Yet beneath the surface, the hotel played a courageous role in the resistance. Jewish individuals were hidden in the cellars, and thanks to the care and bravery of the staff, they all survived the war. Today, Hotel des Indes remains a symbol of refined hospitality with a poignant past.