THIS is the happiest place in the Netherlands

THIS is the happiest place in the Netherlands

Where do you go to recharge and feel happy? Why exactly there? Researchers Liesbeth Paardekooper (49) and Marion van Amelrooij (50) asked our readers and compiled a top 10 based on 550 responses. ''People are looking for an alone-on-the-world feeling. And do a drink together afterwards.''

Source: Algemeen Dagblad (AD)

#1. The Veluwe
The absolute lucky charm, evoking responses such as: 'Forest, sand, heath; behind every bend appears another unique spot' and 'Where you are together with the animals'. Although the Wadden Islands and the Veluwe hardly differ. Nor is that what both researchers are concerned about: ,,A top 10 is nice, but more important is to map what kind of environment makes people happy and then use that knowledge to make our living environment even more pleasant.''

Did you know that TopParken has no fewer than six holiday parks on the Veluwe?

#7. South Limburg
South Limburg is also a pleasant (holiday) destination. Apparently, many strongly associate their happiness with their holiday feeling, says Van Amelrooij: "It depends on what definition you give to happiness. The places most often mentioned in our survey are mainly recharging points; places where you recover and gain new energy. This survey shows that many people are looking for an 'alone in the world' feeling. And do a drink together afterwards.'' That alone-feeling is difficult in the Netherlands. ''But it can be done,'' says Paardekooper. ,,For example, people say they visit a location early in the morning or late at night, when no one else is there.''

Did you know that Résidence Valkenburg is in the middle of the hilly landscape of South Limburg? And near Maastricht?

#10. Rotterdam
Rotterdam is the only city to pop up in the top 10: the Erasmus Bridge, Hotel New York and the Kralingse Bos are regularly mentioned. ,,Of the people who took part in the survey, 2 per cent thought that a metropolitan environment contributed to their feeling of happiness. We found that low percentage striking; we had expected an environment with bustle to return more often in the top 10. But space (87 per cent), silence (76 per cent), unspoiltness (65 per cent) and water (49 per cent) scored much higher.''

Did you know that Parc de IJsselhoeve borders Rotterdam?