Traveling to Amsterdam has always been a dream of mine. The allure of its picturesque canals, rich history, and vibrant culture made it a top destination on my travel list.
My Flight to Amsterdam: Delta Airlines
Recently, I had the opportunity to turn that dream into reality. In this blog, I’ll share my journey from the United States to Amsterdam, including tips on how to find cheap flights, my personal experience on the flight, and some handy recommendations for your trip.
Booking the Flight
When planning my trip, I did extensive research on finding the best deals for flights. I used multiple platforms including Skyscanner, Google Flights, and Kayak. After comparing various options, I decided to book my flight through Google Flights due to its user-friendly interface and comprehensive search results.
To secure the best fare, I started monitoring flight prices about three months in advance. I noticed a pattern: flight prices to Amsterdam were generally lower if booked mid-week, especially on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Eventually, I found a great deal on a round-trip ticket with Delta Airlines, departing from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York and arriving at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS).
My Flight Experience
I opted for a round-trip economy class ticket on Delta Airlines, specifically on flight DL72 for the outbound journey. Here’s a detailed account of my flight experience.
Flight: DL72
– Departure: John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York
– Arrival: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS), Amsterdam
– Class: Economy
– Aircraft: Boeing 767-300ER
Check-In and Boarding
Arriving at JFK, I was greeted by the bustling energy typical of an international airport. Delta’s check-in process was efficient, and I was able to use the self-service kiosks to print my boarding pass and check my luggage. The security line was relatively short, and the TSA agents were courteous and professional.
Boarding commenced on time, and I was seated in the economy section. The cabin crew was welcoming, helping passengers with their carry-on luggage and ensuring everyone was comfortable.
In-Flight Experience
The Boeing 767-300ER had a 2-3-2 seating configuration in economy class. My seat was comfortable, with adequate legroom and a reclining feature that allowed me to relax during the flight. Each seat had an individual entertainment system with a variety of movies, TV shows, and music. I watched a couple of movies to pass the time, and the selection was impressive.
The in-flight meal was better than I expected. We were served dinner shortly after takeoff, which included a choice between chicken with rice or pasta. I chose the chicken, which was surprisingly tasty for airplane food. A light breakfast was served before landing, consisting of a croissant, yogurt, and fruit.
The flight attendants were attentive and friendly, regularly checking on passengers and offering drinks and snacks throughout the flight. Despite being in economy class, I felt well taken care of.
Arrival in Amsterdam
We arrived at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport on time. The immigration process was smooth, and my luggage arrived promptly. Schiphol is a well-organized airport, and I quickly found my way to the train station to catch a train to the city center.
Tips for Finding Cheap Flights
1. Book in Advance: Start looking for flights at least three months before your planned departure. This gives you time to monitor price fluctuations and catch a good deal.
2. Flexible Dates: If your travel dates are flexible, use fare comparison tools to find the cheapest days to fly. Mid-week flights are often cheaper than weekend departures.
3. Use Multiple Platforms: Don’t rely on a single booking site. Check prices on various platforms like Skyscanner, Google Flights, Kayak, and directly on airline websites.
4. Set Price Alerts: Many travel websites allow you to set price alerts for specific routes. This way, you’ll be notified when prices drop.
5. Consider Nearby Airports: Sometimes flying into or out of nearby airports can save you money. Check if alternate airports are a feasible option for your trip.
Recommended Airlines and Flights
1. Delta Airlines
Route: Various major U.S. cities (e.g., New York JFK, Atlanta ATL, Detroit DTW) to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
Highlights:
– Direct Flights: Delta offers numerous direct flights to Amsterdam from major U.S. cities, reducing travel time and avoiding the hassle of layovers.
– In-Flight Experience: Delta’s economy class provides comfortable seating with ample legroom and adjustable headrests. Each seat is equipped with a personal entertainment system offering a wide selection of movies, TV shows, music, and games.
– Food and Beverage: Complimentary meals and snacks are provided on international flights, with options catering to various dietary needs. Passengers also enjoy a selection of free beverages, including wine and beer.
– SkyMiles Program: Delta’s frequent flyer program, SkyMiles, allows passengers to earn miles on flights, which can be redeemed for future travel, upgrades, and other benefits.
– Delta Comfort+ and Delta One: For travelers seeking more comfort, Delta offers upgraded seating options. Delta Comfort+ provides extra legroom and priority boarding, while Delta One offers a premium experience with lie-flat seats, gourmet meals, and enhanced amenities.
2. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines
Route: Various major U.S. cities (e.g., New York JFK, Los Angeles LAX, Chicago ORD) to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
Highlights:
– Dutch Hospitality: Known for its excellent service, KLM provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere, reflecting Dutch hospitality. The cabin crew is attentive and ensures a pleasant flight experience.
– Economy Class Comfort: KLM’s economy class offers comfortable seating with personal entertainment systems. Passengers receive complimentary meals, snacks, and beverages, with an emphasis on quality and variety.
– Economy Comfort and World Business Class: Economy Comfort seats offer more legroom and recline, while World Business Class provides lie-flat seats, gourmet meals, and access to airport lounges.
– Flying Blue Program: KLM’s frequent flyer program, Flying Blue, allows passengers to earn and redeem miles on KLM and its partner airlines. Members can enjoy benefits like priority boarding and extra baggage allowance.
– Convenient Hub: Amsterdam Schiphol Airport is a well-organized and efficient hub, making transfers and arrivals smooth and hassle-free.
3. United Airlines
Route: Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
Highlights:
– Direct Flights: United offers direct flights from Newark to Amsterdam, making it a convenient option for travelers on the East Coast.
– Economy Plus and Polaris Business Class: United’s Economy Plus offers additional legroom, while Polaris Business Class provides a premium experience with lie-flat seats, enhanced dining, and access to exclusive lounges.
– In-Flight Entertainment: United’s economy class features personal entertainment systems with a broad range of movies, TV shows, and music. Wi-Fi is available for purchase.
– MileagePlus Program: United’s frequent flyer program, MileagePlus, allows passengers to earn and redeem miles on United and its partner airlines. Members can enjoy perks such as priority boarding and upgrades.
– Customer Service: United has made significant improvements in customer service, aiming to provide a better overall experience for passengers.
4. American Airlines
Route: Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS)
Highlights:
– Direct Flights: American Airlines offers direct flights from Philadelphia to Amsterdam, providing an efficient travel option for those in the Mid-Atlantic region.
– Main Cabin Extra and Flagship Business Class: Main Cabin Extra offers more legroom and priority boarding, while Flagship Business Class features lie-flat seats, premium dining, and access to exclusive lounges.
– In-Flight Entertainment: American Airlines’ economy class includes personal entertainment systems with a wide selection of content. Wi-Fi is available for purchase.
– AAdvantage Program: American Airlines’ frequent flyer program, AAdvantage, allows passengers to earn and redeem miles on American and its partner airlines. Members can benefit from priority boarding, upgrades, and other perks.
– Enhanced Dining: Complimentary meals and beverages are provided on international flights, with options to suit various dietary preferences.
5. British Airways
Route: Various major U.S. cities (e.g., New York JFK, Los Angeles LAX, Chicago ORD) to Amsterdam Schiphol Airport (AMS) via London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
Highlights:
– One-Stop Flights: Although not direct, British Airways offers convenient one-stop flights to Amsterdam via London Heathrow. The layover in London can be an added bonus for those wanting to explore the city briefly.
– World Traveller Plus and Club World: World Traveller Plus offers more spacious seating and enhanced amenities, while Club World provides lie-flat seats, premium dining, and access to exclusive lounges.
– In-Flight Experience: British Airways’ economy class, known as World Traveller, provides comfortable seating with personal entertainment systems. Complimentary meals and beverages are provided, with an emphasis on quality.
– Executive Club Program: British Airways’ frequent flyer program, Executive Club, allows passengers to earn Avios points, which can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and other benefits. Members can enjoy priority services and additional baggage allowance.
– Customer Service: British Airways is known for its high level of customer service, ensuring a pleasant travel experience.
Additional Tips and Suggestions
– Travel Insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance to cover any unexpected events or cancellations. This provides peace of mind and can save you money in case of emergencies.
– Airport Transfers: Look into different options for getting from Schiphol Airport to your accommodation. Trains are a convenient and cost-effective choice.
– Local Currency: Have some euros on hand for small expenses when you arrive. While credit cards are widely accepted, it’s always good to have some cash for smaller vendors or transportation.
– Packing Tips: Pack light and consider the weather in Amsterdam. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the city is best explored on foot or by bike.
– Public Transport: Amsterdam’s public transport system is efficient and user-friendly. Consider purchasing an OV-chipkaart for easy access to trams, buses, and trains.
Flying to Amsterdam can be both affordable and comfortable if you plan ahead and choose the right airline. Whether you prefer direct flights or don’t mind a layover, the airlines mentioned above offer excellent service and amenities to ensure a pleasant journey.
