KLM Airlines Training Experience: My 1982 Amsterdam Trip – A Nostalgic Travel Diary

In December 1982, I embarked on a life-changing journey to Amsterdam, my second international trip. The opportunity arose when KLM Airlines invited us to attend a basic passage training course. This memorable trip marked the beginning of a deep fascination with the Netherlands.

The Journey Begins: From Islamabad to Amsterdam

At the time, I was living in Islamabad, and my journey began with a flight to Karachi, where I would board my connecting KLM flight to Amsterdam. The flight was scheduled for 3:30 AM, and like any international departure, we had to arrive three hours in advance for check-in and security.

The weather in Karachi was mild, but I knew I would soon face the chilly temperatures of Amsterdam. After completing the airport formalities, I boarded a fully-booked KLM Boeing 747 Jumbo Jet, feeling fortunate to secure a seat, especially as some passengers were offloaded due to overbooking.

The Flight: A Smooth but Bumpy Ride to Amsterdam

As the plane soared into the night sky, most passengers were asleep, but I had been awake for over 16 hours. After struggling to fall asleep, I managed a brief nap. A light meal was served, including buns, jam, almonds, and potato cutlets. The orange juice served was a stark reminder of the difference in food culture, as it was much more sour than what I was accustomed to.

The flight lasted about eight hours, and as we descended into Amsterdam, the weather was foggy and windy, causing the plane to shake a bit. However, the landing was smooth, thanks to the pilot's expertise. As we approached the runway, I was amazed by the sight of farmland stretching across both sides—an image that has stayed with me ever since.

Arrival in Amsterdam: A Cozy Hotel Stay

Upon arrival, we passed through immigration and headed to the IBIS Hotel, located just 15 minutes from the airport. The room was warm, inviting, and well-kept, offering a perfect environment to rest after the long journey. I collapsed into bed but was quickly confused by the time zone difference, thinking it was dinner time when it was actually still morning.

After a hearty buffet breakfast, I made my way to the KLM Training Center for our scheduled course.

KLM Training and Making New Connections

The KLM training course was engaging and insightful. Our instructor, Mr. Roel Tilart, was an expert in the field, and we were joined by participants from the Gulf and the Far East. We spent three days immersed in learning, and our enthusiasm earned us certificates for completing an advanced passage course.

During one of the lessons, Mr. Tilart shared fascinating details about Dutch cities like Amsterdam, Rotterdam, and Volendam. He explained that the suffix "dam" in these city names refers to the dams built by the Dutch to reclaim land from the sea—an enduring symbol of the country’s remarkable engineering feats.

Exploring Amsterdam: A City Full of Charm

Evenings were reserved for exploring Amsterdam and its vibrant neighborhoods. Dam Square was a particular highlight, and we savored fish burgers paired with milkshakes at local eateries. The intricate craftsmanship of Dutch jewelry was showcased in the diamond shops, which we visited regularly.

One of the most enchanting experiences was our trip to Volendam, a picturesque Dutch village on the shores of Markermeer Lake. The town’s traditional wooden houses and colorful boats created a postcard-perfect setting. We even had the opportunity to try on wooden clogs and take photographs with fellow students. We ended the day relaxing at a cozy café, sipping coffee and indulging in delicious chocolate pastries—a delightful treat that I can still taste today.

A Fond Farewell to the Netherlands

As our trip came to an end, we boarded our return flight to Karachi, filled with gratitude for the experiences we had in the Netherlands. From the warm hospitality to the breathtaking scenery, and the enriching cultural lessons, this trip left a lasting mark on my heart. The friendships