Andrea about Haarlemmermeer: "A village atmosphere with city amenities"
A life in Zwaanshoek
Andrea grew up in Zwaanshoek, where she still lives. "When we moved here, the view was endless. Meadows as far as the eye could see. Floriande and Overbos weren't there yet; it was truly an open landscape." She lived in Hillegom for a while, but her heart remained in Zwaanshoek. "Everything I experienced in Haarlemmermeer happened in Zwaanshoek."
She lives with her family in Zwaanshoek: "I have a 19-year-old daughter and a 22-year-old son. When the children were little, they went to primary school here. Because of that, you know a lot of people in the village, and we're still friends with them."
The Haarlemmermeer Forest is beautiful. Much was renovated during the Floriade, and you can still see that today.
From farming village to 'urban appearance'
The biggest change Andrea has witnessed? "The growth of Hoofddorp. It used to be a farming community with a few shops. Now it's a village with a huge shopping center." She says she enjoys shopping there.Four Lakes Shopping Center It's really great. You have everything there, and I'm there regularly."
The surrounding neighborhoods, such as Floriande and Overbos, have also developed over the years, significantly altering the landscape. Zwaanshoek itself, she says, has hardly changed. "It's become a larger village, but it still feels like a real village."
Nature around the corner
Andrea loves the nature in Haarlemmermeer. "The Haarlemmermeerse Bos is beautiful. A lot was renovated during the Floriade, and you can still see that." After a walk in the Haarlemmermeerse Bos, she likes to relax and reflect: "I love having a coffee at Papa's Beach House afterward. It makes such a walk truly complete."
The Boseilanden, near her house, are also a favorite. "We walk out the door and are immediately surrounded by greenery. Whether walking or cycling, everything is well organized here."
Proud of Haarlemmermeer
What does Andrea appreciate about her town? "That it's developing, yet retaining its identity. There are more and more amenities, but it still feels rural." She's keen to preserve that rural character. "That's what makes Haarlemmermeer special."
Are you a true Haarlemmermeer resident and do you know the nicest places in the region?
Whether you like shopping, walking or bird watching: we are looking for your favorite hotspots in Haarlemmermeer! Participate in a local interview and share your tips with us. Your story will appear as an article on our website. Want to participate? Send an email to: visit@haarlemmermeer.nl
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