Crowne Plaza Amsterdam Schiphol

You can't get everything you want here.

The room was comfortable and kept at a good temperature for sleeping, though it was a little tight for two people with luggage. The bed had enough pillows, and I liked the espresso maker. The bathroom was well equipped with nice amenities and a good shower, but the knob for switching to the overhead shower was hard to pull with wet, slippery fingers. The hotel is about a five-minute drive from Schiphol airport, so it seems popular with airline crews. My reservation was in order and check-in was quick. It does look old and tired, though, and badly needs a facelift. As a Platinum member I couldn't use the lounge, which they apparently reserve for Spire members. It only had drinks and no food anyway, so I wasn't interested.

I didn't include breakfast in the price, and €22 seemed much too expensive for a self-service meal. The hotel itself is comfortable, practical, and affordable enough for a short business stay. The staff were welcoming and helpful, the bedrooms a good size, and the beds comfortable. It's very close to the airport, which you can see from your window, but we couldn't hear the aircraft.

The hotel runs a shuttle, since it's about 10 minutes from the airport. I got several upgrades to the club floor, but no lounge access. My room was clean, bright, and airy, with a bedroom, dining area, and bathroom. It was large, and the bed was comfortable, though I didn't like the pillows. The view faced the other hotels rather than the airport.