I'm currently waiting for my first flight, from Manchester International to Schiphol, Amsterdam. The check-in process was surprisingly quick. I actually thought I'd missed a step. The check-in staff could have been a bit more helpful in the "where to go next" stage but c'est le vie! It also would have been nice to have been told that I could take my stuff after the security scans but the initial security man/guard was very helpful indeed.
First flight went very well. Smooth flight but slightly disorienting due to height/pressure. Very impressed at the speed too!
I met some guys going to Thailand sitting next to me, very nice and interesting. Chatted quite a bit.
Schiphol airport is well laid out and easier to understand than Manchester. It operates on a one terminal bases, which I have to say works very well and I much prefer it. Even has smooking rooms and a museum!