EAGLE BEACH, Aruba – April 24, 2026. The Kingdom of the Netherlands has awarded one of its highest royal honors to Ewald Biemans, founder and owner of Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort, appointing him as a Knight of the Order of Orange-Nassau during the traditional “Ribbon Rain” ceremony, held as part of King’s Day celebrations across the Dutch Kingdom.

Conferred by His Majesty King Willem-Alexander, the distinction recognizes individuals whose work delivers a sustained and meaningful impact on society through public service, innovation, and purpose-driven leadership. In Biemans’ case, the honor highlights more than five decades of contributions to sustainable tourism development, environmental protection, and community empowerment in Aruba and across the Caribbean.

A Legacy Built in Aruba with Global Impact

Since opening Bucuti Beach Resort in 1987 during a challenging economic period following the closure of Aruba’s refinery, Biemans has championed a hospitality model grounded in sustainability, excellence, and long-term responsibility. With the addition of Tara Suites in 2004, the property evolved into Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort, now internationally recognized as a benchmark in responsible tourism.

His leadership extended beyond hospitality operations through initiatives such as Tara Eco Supplies, designed to improve access to sustainable products across Aruba’s tourism industry, helping reduce waste and strengthen environmental practices island-wide.

Global Recognition in Sustainability

Biemans’ work has received international distinction. Bucuti & Tara Beach Resort became the first CarbonNeutral® certified hotel in the Caribbean in 2018. In 2020, it received the United Nations Global Climate Action Award, becoming the only hotel in history to earn this recognition.

His expertise has also been showcased at global climate forums including COP26 and COP28, and he has been honored by the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) for leadership in climate action within the global tourism sector.

Purpose-Driven Hospitality and Community Commitment

The management philosophy driven by Biemans integrates sustainability, guest experience, and well-being. Bucuti & Tara has been repeatedly ranked among the top hotels in the Caribbean and globally by leading travel platforms, recognized for its romantic positioning, service excellence, and environmental stewardship.

His vision also extends into community and environmental initiatives, including sea turtle conservation programs, beach cleanups, animal welfare efforts, and the creation of the Bucuti Tara-GMC Nature Reserve, a reforestation and conservation project in Aruba.

A Values-Led Legacy

Those close to Biemans describe his leadership style as one shaped by consistent, values-driven decisions over a lifetime.

“Ewald’s life reflects a simple truth: character is defined by what you do when no one is watching. His work has always been guided by purpose and care, creating lasting impact for Aruba, its people, and its natural environment,” said Susan Logan, Bucuti & Tara executive and longtime friend.

At the independently owned and family-run resort, Biemans’ vision continues to guide operations, carried forward through strong adherence to its founding principles. His legacy also extends to the next generation through his granddaughter, Crescenzia Biemans, who serves as General Manager and also leads Tara Eco Supplies. Deeply engaged in conservation and community work, she serves on the board of Stimami Sterilisami and on the Environmental Committee of the Aruba Hotel and Tourism Association (AHATA), and is often seen planting trees in the nature reserve.

“I am deeply honored and grateful to His Majesty King Willem-Alexander, as well as to those who nominated me for this recognition as part of the Order of Orange-Nassau,” said Ewald Biemans. “This honor reflects the dedication of our team, the support of our community, and the trust of guests from around the world who choose to experience Aruba with us. It demonstrates what can be achieved when we deeply care for people and the environment around us. I believe each of us can change the world from where we stand, and this recognition reaffirms that conviction.”