Zonoord

I lived in a city for years and since moving here it feels much safer. The only thing I miss is nature, forests, etc., and that's hard to reach without a car or a long bike ride. For example, going to Bergen aan Zee or Schoorl requires taking the bus via Alkmaar station, which is quite a detour and expensive for a walk or an evening to blow off steam. The AH and the Toko versmarkt are great. But I wish for a Bakker Bart or Hema in the neighbourhood. Or at least more familiar shops that are affordable. The clothing boutiques are very inaccessible. That's why charity shops are so important in this neighbourhood. I also found it a shame that too little is invested in charity shops. One has already gone bankrupt for this reason and the last one is threatening to do so. Furthermore, it can be difficult to get in touch with people. Because everyone in a village knows each other. But if you're new, as far as I know there aren't really activities or community centres. Especially as a 20-something, that's a shame. Otherwise, I think it's really great how much has been invested in greenery and flowers. That will do the bees a lot of good! And if a park were ever to be made, that would be even better for the greenery.

It's really a village-like neighbourhood, lots of beautiful old-fashioned houses and people greeting each other. Too bad there's no bakery, HEMA, Action, or Kruidvat. That would make it much better because now I have to take the bus to Langedijk or Alkmaar to have access to more usual shops. It would also be better if there were more frequent buses to Alkmaar, since that's where most things are. Travelling to this place takes longer than necessary if there were more amenities. There are sometimes annoying loitering youths in the street in the evening. But during the day it's absolutely fine. I also regret that there is no direct bus to the Geestmerambacht recreation park, because that's the largest piece of nature, which is a bit far if you're not mobile or don't have a car. And at the Schoutenbos there's nowhere to sit properly or enjoy the water. Furthermore, branches on the street and houses should be better removed by the officials. But I see very little litter on the street, so that's great.

Better accessibility by public transport and more amenities.