I’m only passing through Amsterdam. I just arrived on a flight from Basel. I go through passport control coming from the Schengen area and then just keep on walking. I tend to forget just how enormous Schiphol airport is and that the non-Schengen side of the terminal is probably even bigger in size than the Schengen part. I also find it interesting that the shops on the non-Schengen side of the airport are definitely a lot glitzier than they are in the Schengen area. Here you have all the big brands, like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Hermes.

Location

The Mercure Hotel is located airside on the non-Schengen concourse, between piers F and G – one floor up from the main public area and easily accessible by a short flight of stairs.

Check-In

When you make a booking at the Mercure Schiphol Airport, you will automatically receive a separate confirmation letter from the hotel, confirming that you have a reservation and are therefore entitled to cross over to the non-Schengen side. However, I use the biometric scanners to go through immigration, and nobody seems particularly interested in how long my layover here in Amsterdam is.

Payment for the room is taken at check-in. So, I can just walk out in the morning. As an AllAccor member, I’m entitled to take a complimentary drink from the fridge in the snack bar area at reception.

Standard Double Room

I’ve booked a standard double room. My only gripe, really, is that there are no windows to the outside. On the positive side, the room is incredibly quiet. It’s perfectly adequate for a good night’s sleep. The only thing I find rather inconvenient, is the position of the rail with the clothes hangers. It’s right above the tea kettle, so I end up knocking something over literally every time I take my jacket. Other than that, the bed is firm and comfortable.

The “bathroom” is a bit of an oddity. Facing the entry door to the room is the enclosed toilet. The sink is around the corner, in the room. And then the shower is separated from the rest of the room by a door.

Amenities

As previously mentioned, there is a kettle with a selection of teas and two sachets of Nescafé cappuccino that you just need to add water to. However, I try the cappuccino and frankly, it’s the most revolting abomination I’ve ever put in my mouth. The powder doesn’t desolve completely, so you end up sipping some disgusting lumpy soup.

Staff & Dining

In terms of staff and dining, there isn’t really anything much to say. Beyond the friendly young lady at reception, there is zero interaction with anybody from the hotel. That’s also because there is no restaurant in the hotel itself. If you’re feeling hungry during your stay here, you’re going to have to go leave the hotel.

Conclusion

As far as airport hotels go, the Mercure Schiphol in the non-Schengen area is convenient. It’s not bad. The place is clean, well maintained and comfortable. It’s just a shame that there are no outside views.