I don't know if there's a good place for this other than off topic, but after last years travels, I have a few tips regarding Amsterdam Schiphol airport. It's one of the big airports in Europe, so flying from Asia or the US it's a decent chance you get to spend some time there in transit.
First of all, due to the EU rules, the airport is divided into three parts: "Outside security" where, "inside security Schengen" and "inside security Rest of World". There are passport controls between these three zones, and you're really only supposed to pass into where you should go... Schengen means "most EU countries, and then some". The EU exception is the UK, and the non-EU additions are countries like Norway and Iceland.
Then the tips:
If you have a few hours to kill, and you have a passport and/or visa that allows you to enter Netherlands - why not go to downtown Amsterdam? The commuter train station is located beneath the arrival hall and will take you downtown in 20 minutes. Just remember to go back in time to clear security for your next flight.
If you are on the Schengen side and just want a break, go upstairs close to Pier D and you'll find the "indoor / outdoor park" - indoors they've tried to create an outdoors feeling with plastic trees etc. The real killer feature is that you can actually go outside on a deck / balcony and get some sunshine and fresh air. This means more than one would think for a jetlagged traveller! :)
When I eat on the Schengen side it's either at the Grand Cafe, a big white publike resturant, or at the little steak place right next to the Burger King in the upstairs food court.
On the rest of world side, a new resturant have opened called "Tastes from the Lowlands". It's not the cheapest, but I do think it's the best. Real food, prepared in an open kitchen so you can see the chefs work.
That's just my tips. Please feel free to add on.
