Schipol, an airport that’s more like a city

By Barbara Kingstone

Is it a mall, a culinary village, or maybe even Las Vegas? No! It’s Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport. With over 40 million travellers each year, the airport authorities were ahead of the pack when they created a mini village as far back as the mid ’60s.

To be stranded here is not a hardship. Schiphol could be considered a destination. Missed your connection? A shower or a snooze is just the ticket at The Mercure Hotel within Terminal 3. Showers with towels and soap are about $15. And if you are lucky enough to snag a half-day or overnight room, prices are approximately $50 to $70.

Still feeling cranky? Right in the main corridor is a “back to life” centre where you can be stretched and massaged without undressing. Or try the aqua massage using water pressure and pulsation in the same zone. Again you stay fully clothed. Want to play? Try the Holland Casino with tables and slots. As for food, La Brasserie on the second floor is a posh, white linen, Mediterranean restaurant.

It’s an airport for business people with a fully equipped communication and meditation centre. When you finally step onto the plane, you’ll be rested and well fed.