A Journey of Respect – Congratulations to Phra Wiset Watcharawimon

Some passengers leave a lasting impression. This year, one of them received a royal honour from His Majesty the King of Thailand – and we could not be prouder to congratulate him.

My wife and I have the privilege of knowing the monks of Wat Buddhavihara Amsterdam, the Thai Buddhist temple in Purmerend (Leeghwaterpark 7, 1445 RA Purmerend). We visit the temple whenever we can. When the monks need to travel, whether to Schiphol Airport or to destinations across Europe, it is an honour for Van Teeffelen Executive to take them there.

This year brought wonderful news. His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn of Thailand has appointed the head of the temple's Sangha by royal decree to the rank of Phra Ratchakhana. He now carries the royal title Phra Wiset Watcharawimon (previously Phra Khru Palat Suwatthana-achankhun, Chamroen Khemaviro). He also serves as assistant abbot of Wat Mahathat Yuwaratrangsarit in Bangkok, the temple to which Wat Buddhavihara Amsterdam belongs. The appointment recognises many years of dedication to the Buddhist community, in Thailand and here in the Netherlands.

The warm welcome he received at Schiphol said it all. Monks and lay followers knelt with flowers to honour him, right there in the arrivals hall. Moments like these remind me that this profession is never just about the destination. It is about the person in the back seat, and the respect with which we bring them there.

Driving a monk is different from any other journey. The car becomes a calm, quiet space, with no rush, only care. It is a privilege I never take for granted after more than 30 years behind the wheel.

On behalf of my wife and myself, and together with the monks and lay followers of Wat Buddhavihara Amsterdam: our respectful congratulations on this auspicious occasion.

Sander van Teeffelen
Van Teeffelen Executive Chauffeur Service