Westfield Mall of the Netherlands: A Comprehensive Vlog Experience

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Getting to the Mall & First Impressions

Journey to the Mall and Initial Impressions

Getting to the Westfield Mall of the Netherlands was surprisingly easy. I hopped off the train at Mariahoeve station, and right there, clear as day, was a sign indicating the walking route. Fifteen minutes later, following the well-marked path, I arrived. Honestly, even if I hadn’t seen the signs, the mall is hard to miss. It's a substantial structure, the kind that immediately announces its presence.

Alternatively, tram number six offers another route, a good option for those who'd rather not walk, or those less inclined to navigate on foot. I opted to walk, finding the journey pleasant and the signage exceptionally helpful. No getting lost here, even on my first visit!

Stepping inside, I was immediately struck by the mall’s aesthetic appeal. The lighting is fantastic, creating a bright and welcoming atmosphere. The shops are beautifully arranged, and the overall impression is one of elegance and sophistication. It was pretty, even after just five minutes of exploring.

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Shopping and Entertainment

Exploring Peppa Pig World and Other Shops

One area that immediately caught my eye was Peppa Pig World. Honestly, it was a delightful surprise! The bright colors and playful designs were clearly aimed at younger visitors, though I confess to finding the whole thing rather charming myself. It felt like stepping into a real-life episode of the show – a very well-executed retail experience.

I spent some time browsing the Peppa Pig shop, which was overflowing with adorable merchandise. Beyond the dedicated Peppa Pig zone, I wandered through other stores, discovering a surprisingly good bookstore where I picked up a couple of new reads. It was a pleasant way to spend a few hours, and I left with a couple of books and a good dose of retail therapy, no regrets.

A Relaxing Starbucks Break

After a good deal of browsing and book-buying, I decided I needed a break. Starbucks beckoned, promising respite and caffeine. The aroma alone was enough to draw me in; I needed a moment to recharge before tackling the rest of the mall.

I opted for a salted pretzel hot chocolate – a decadent choice, I'll admit. It was surprisingly delicious! To escape the crowds, I headed upstairs. The second floor offered a much quieter atmosphere, perfect for savoring my drink and catching my breath. It's a tip I highly recommend for anyone seeking a less hectic Starbucks experience.

My name, predictably, was misspelled on the cup. It seems 'Yanika' is a challenge for baristas everywhere. But even the minor amusement of a slightly mangled name couldn't detract from the overall pleasantness of my break. It was the perfect interlude before continuing my shopping adventure.

The Unique Social Media Museum Experience

One of the mall's most intriguing features was the social media museum. It wasn't just a static exhibit; it was an interactive experience designed to be shared. I wasn't expecting much, honestly, but it ended up being one of the highlights of my day.

The museum cleverly incorporated various social media trends and challenges into its design. There were whimsical photo opportunities, engaging interactive displays, and even a ball pit with a wrecking ball perched in the center (climbing it proved surprisingly difficult!). I received free ice cream afterward, a sweet ending to a slightly embarrassing challenge.

While aimed at a younger crowd, the playful atmosphere was infectious. Even a seasoned travel blogger like myself found it a delightful diversion. It was a smart blend of clever marketing and genuine entertainment; a fantastic way to tap into the influencer culture and capture some truly shareable moments.

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Food and Cinema

Lunch at the Food Court

After a productive morning of browsing and book-buying, my stomach started rumbling. The Westfield Mall boasts nearly sixty restaurants, a dizzying array of culinary choices. I briefly considered Middle Eastern street food, intrigued by the vibrant colors and enticing aromas. Wagamama, an Asian fusion chain, also caught my eye, but ultimately, nostalgia won out.

Vapiano, a familiar Italian restaurant chain, instantly transported me back to my teenage years in Finland. It was a comfort food decision, a comforting return to a favorite haunt from my past. Finding a seat wasn't easy – the place was bustling – but I eventually snagged a spot with a surprisingly pleasant view of the parking lot (don't judge!). Ordering was a breeze, all handled via a QR code. I opted for the fungi pasta, a creamy mushroom delight, paired with a cola zero.

My meal arrived quickly, perfectly cooked and utterly satisfying. The mushroom pasta was delicious, hitting that perfect balance of richness and lightness. I ate slowly, relishing every bite, the quiet hum of the food court a pleasant backdrop to my lunch. Fully satisfied, and with a newfound appreciation for Vapiano’s enduring popularity, I felt refreshed and ready to tackle the rest of my day’s adventures.

Catching the Latest Movie

After a delightful lunch and a satisfying dose of nostalgia at Vapiano, it was time for the main event: the new Avatar movie. The Westfield Mall boasts a sizable cinema complex, and I was eager to experience it. The sheer size of the cinema was impressive; it felt less like a typical movie theater and more like a dedicated entertainment hub.

Choosing between 3D and 4D was a tough call. 4D sounded fun, but with the movie clocking in at over three and a half hours, I opted for the more comfortable 3D option. Plus, I'd just enjoyed a substantial pasta lunch – the last thing I wanted was a 4D sensory overload mid-meal. The ticket purchase itself was a small adventure; the attendant seemed genuinely surprised to see a solo moviegoer, a fact that amused me more than it annoyed me.

The movie itself was fantastic, a worthy successor to the original. I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Westfield Mall cinema, and despite the slightly inflated price of the concessions, I'd absolutely recommend catching a film here. It's a great addition to the mall's already impressive array of offerings.

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FAQ

How easy is it to get to Westfield Mall of the Netherlands?

Getting to the mall is very easy. You can take the train to Mariahoeve station and follow the well-marked 15-minute walking path, or take tram number six.

What are some of the highlights of Westfield Mall of the Netherlands?

The mall features a wide variety of shops, including a dedicated Peppa Pig World, a large bookstore, and a social media museum with interactive exhibits. It also boasts nearly sixty restaurants and a sizable cinema complex.

What is a unique experience offered at the mall?

The mall has a unique interactive social media museum offering photo opportunities and engaging displays, designed to be shared online. One challenge involves climbing a wrecking ball in a ball pit.