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17 REASONS WHY YOU WANT TO GO TO THE GELDERLANDPLEIN
Actually, I had written ’17 reasons why you must go to the Gelderlandplein’ in the title of this piece, but because I believe you shouldn't have to do anything (especially not from me), I changed it to ‘want to’. Although secretly, I think you really should go. And for these ironclad reasons.
1. You can park there. That's quite something in the municipality of Amsterdam. Also, the first hour and a half is free. I've been to the Gelderlandplein many times in my life and have never had to pay.
2. There is a shuttle bus from Amsterdam Zuid station, so even if you don't live in Amsterdam and come by train, you'll be transported like a VIP guest in your own shuttle to the Gelderlandplein.
3. At the Gelderlandplein, you'll find the best shops all together. I have a favorite route where I go from Sissy-Boy Homeland (their most beautiful store in the country), via Douglas, past PAUW, through the Japanese store to Marqt. And let's not forget a quick stop at Gall & Gall and Jamin.
4. There is a very nice Coffee Company at the Gelderlandplein overlooking Kiddieland. That's an indoor playground (think of a civilized mini-fair) where your kids can easily spend half an hour. Meanwhile, you can have coffee with a friend and catch up. Or open your laptop and get some work done. Oh yes, and in winter there is an ice rink, so much fun.
5. The Albert Heijn at the Gelderlandplein is one of the largest in the country with a sushi corner where fresh sushi is made live all day.
6. If you love Eastern food, you're in the right place. From a Japanese caterer to Japanese restaurant Izakaya and that sushi bar...
7. Petit Bateau has recently opened there, my favorite place for the finest children's clothing that lasts. From underwear to pajamas and everything in between, this is where you need to be.
8. Marqt, the finest healthy supermarket chain in the country. I buy sustainably caught fish, the tastiest gazpacho in a bottle, and Jet wags her tail at the coconut yogurt.
9. Another very important reason to go to the Gelderlandplein is HEMA. And especially this HEMA. Very large and clear with a fantastic big craft department.
10. The Gelderlandplein has a whole wing that belongs to Rivièra Maison. If you're looking for a summer upgrade for your home, a nice gift, such a lovely chaise longue, or anything that makes you feel good; this is where you need to be.
11. I already mentioned the Sissy-Boy Homeland store in my shopping round, but it deserves a separate mention. This is such a lovely store. I always get vegetable chips there, but it's also a perfect place for gifts. A scented candle, a tin of tea, a nice cookbook, small cacti. At Christmas, I really got seriously restless from their collection and did I mention that everything is beautifully wrapped?
12. The Gelderlandplein has a Huize van Wely, one of the best chocolatiers and pastry chefs in the country. When my youngest daughter was born, I had them make pink and white meringues. I thought that was a bit more fun than traditional biscuits with sprinkles. And they have my favorite chocolates. Ultra-flat holly leaves in dark, milk, and white chocolate in a box. Those will be gone in one evening...
13. Have you ever been to shoe store Swartjes? The Gelderlandplein has a two-story branch. From Uggs to their own label, it's really a classic shoe store with professional advice.
14. What also makes me happy is an “old-fashioned” bedding store. Beautiful duvet covers, towels from A-brands, and bath mats. Everything of quality with a capital Q.
15. The Eyewish optician with all designer glasses and top service. I can tell you that.
16. Another nice place to meet is Le Pain Quotidien. Delicious coffee and sandwiches so healthy and tasty that you might nibble off your nail polish. And definitely try this lemon-ginger drink. Jet and I are in love with it.
17. Shopping at the Gelderlandplein should be an experience. Hence a selection of the best and most beautiful shops under one roof, but also a lot of art to inspire the visitor. And also very Instagrammable to pose with your fresh purchases.
Be sure to visit the Gelderlandplein between April 9 and 13. There will be a really fun goodie bag action (this starts on April 9 at 9:30 AM). You will receive a fantastic shopper full of gifts and promotions (the first 100 bags with €50 shopping credit) and you also have a chance to win the GP Fiat 500.
I would say: go, and give me a pat on the shoulder if you see me there?
