Hotel Management School Maastricht brings neighbourhood and students together

On Saturday, 13 December, it was pleasantly busy at Château Bethlehem in Limmel. Students and staff of the Hotel Management School Maastricht organised a winter event for the neighbourhood. More than 200 visitors, both young and old, gathered in and around the Teaching Hotel for a warm and festive afternoon.

The winter festival was part of HMSM's 75th anniversary celebration. With this event, we wanted to show that the Teaching Hotel is a place for the entire neighbourhood. Director Bas Vogelsangs explained: “Our doors are always open to local residents who want to stop by for a cup of coffee, a treat, or simply for some friendly company.”

Something for Everyone

From 3:30 p.m. onwards, visitors were welcomed in the courtyard. Children could take photos with Santa Claus and received a small gift to take home. Inside, there were plenty of activities: cookie decorating, scavenger hunts, guided tours of the hotel, and of course a cheerful Christmas bingo. Students and staff worked together to host the activities and prepare the winter themed snacks and drinks.

Strengthening the Community

The winter event centred on meeting and connecting with one another. As a memory of the enjoyable afternoon, all visitors received a small herb plant to take home. The Hotel Management School and our student associations are regularly active in the neighbourhood, for example through the monthly community dinner, support for the children’s farm, and collaboration on the Christmas market. In close cooperation with the neighbourhood council and local organisations, we contribute to a strong and engaged community.