Jaunted

This Crown Lounge is one of a few KLM lounges around the whole of AMS, but it's what we'd called the flagship lounge, located just up and off the main drag of Holland Boulevard (and therefore perfect proximity to the airport's library, museum and shopping).

The layout is open and inviting, with modern furniture (it's not just Virgin Atlantic that uses the red chairs we call "Dr. Evil chairs") and an abundance of light thanks to the massive windows and cool lighting like every few feet. As you'd predict, most of the action happens around the bars and buffet. Out of respect for those using the lounge, we didn't snap any pictures of the buffet, but rest assured that there is food available and it changes throughout the day. And without getting into detail on the labels offered, we'll say that the bars are super well-stocked with a range of beers, wines, champagnes and harder liquids.

It may not seem like it at first, but the lounge is actually two levels. The lower houses most of the seating, the buffets, the bars and the entry. Up a ramp that cuts through the lounge you'll reach the business area with several types of desk options, more seating and a glassed-off smoking lounge. There's no children's play area, but the place is so big that you can usually find your family an area for reading, eating and chilling all together (or take them downstairs to the play area behind the Airport Library).

Now for the good stuff! The lounge is equipped with outlets like gangbusters, plus free WiFi. There's also a darkened nap room with cushioned chaises for catching a few Zzzs, which you can then chase with a shower in one of the private shower rooms. Sometimes it's okay to get naked at the airport; this is one of those times. There's nothing quite like the feeling of settling into your airplane seat with just-washed and blowdried hair, smelling fresh. To us, this is what truly separates the higher level flying experience from that of economy. Enjoy!

Disclosure: Special thanks to Schiphol Airport for the access and to Netherlands Board of Tourism & Conventions (@VisitHolland), our host. All photos and opinions presented are completely our own.

[Photos: Cynthia Drescher for Jaunted]