Fleur van Hecke, resident of Hoofddorp and shopping expert

Fleur lives near the shopping center and knows Hoofddorp like the back of her hand. She also loves shopping and she is a true shopping expert. We asked Fleur about her favorite shops, the best places to have lunch, and much more. Read on for Fleurs tips and get inspired to have a great day in Hoofddorp.

Fleur, what is your link with Haarlemmermeer?  

I have been living in Hoofddorp since I was born. So I am very familiar with everything and have really seen the village develop over time.  
 

Where in Hoofddorp do you prefer to shop? 

When I go shopping in Hoofddorp I try to look for shops that are not standard. Boutiques with various, beautiful and exclusive brands. A good example of such a typical boutique is Cartouche. They have a lot of choice for every woman. What I also find useful is that the store offers the possibility to make sets because everything depends on color. And not to forget, you also receive free style advice from the hospitable saleswoman. 

What are your favorite shops? 

I also regularly visit H&M and Zara. But I prefer to choose a clothing store that stands out a bit more, such as Costes. This is also an example of a store with a wide range. 

Rituals is also a favorite of mine. It is an ideal shop to score a present for friends or to treat yourself. When I'm looking for a good book I like to take a look at it Bookstore Stevens. This bookstore has a wide range of literature. But you can also find books about nutrition and psychology here. I can always find something nice here. 
 

I also like to shop for my interior. For example, at Rivièra Maison, here you will find beautiful items to decorate your home: from tables, chairs and sofas to nice accessories. Perfect for pimping up your home. But also nice to shop for a gift for friends who just bought a house! 
 

Do you prefer to shop alone or with friends? 

When I go shopping I often go alone, because it's easy. But I also often shop with my sister, then it's extra fun. What is also useful is that we can give each other direct advice, since we have the same taste. When I go shopping with friends, we often go to a place outside Hoofddorp. 
 

Where do you prefer to have lunch while shopping? 

I prefer lunch Sweet & Delicious at the Polderplein. This lunchroom is perfect for a luxury sandwich or a good salad. The sandwiches here are always richly filled and there is a lot of choice.  
 

Another nice place is Bagels & Beans. This is where I go when I'm in the mood for a bagel, because you don't get that at other lunch places. I prefer to drink fresh mint tea with ginger. You don't often hear that combination, but it is really delicious! 
 

Extra tip: I work as a side job Pizzeria Amici. This is a traditional pizzeria where you can eat delicious fresh pizzas and pastas. They are handmade by real Italians. A perfect place to relax after a day of shopping and imagine yourself in Italy. 

I read that you are also a sports enthusiast, what are your favorite places to do sports in Hoofddorp? 

I think that the municipality of Haarlemmermeer is trying to do more and more in recreational areas. This is very nice if you want to sunbathe or take a walk. More and more sports fields are also being added, such as at the Toolenburgerplas and the Haarlemmermeerse Bos. This gives people the space to stay fit and keep moving. It's great that this is really being encouraged. 
 

My favorite place to do sports is the Haarlemmermeerse Bos. I often go here for a run. I then run around the forest and end up at Big Spotters Hill. Here I walk about 10 kilometers, so quite a stretch. 
 

What are you proud of as a resident of Haarlemmermeer? 

What I am proud of is that we are a municipality that has a lot to offer. In the field of sports, recreation and with a large shopping center for people to shop.  
 

Whether you are a fanatical athlete or shopper, there is plenty to do in Hoofddorp. I can recommend everyone to come and shop in our shopping center for an afternoon!