Qatar (Doha) ATC for new Airport
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It's starting to look more and more a matter of 'if' a new package will arise as opposed to 'when'. We just had 2 controllers resign which should have been enough motivation to get the finger out and put a new package in effect to try to keep them.
But... nothing, there are no problems here, everything is fine, no need to do anything.
But... nothing, there are no problems here, everything is fine, no need to do anything.
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A new package....NEVER
For years we have had a "carrot" of a new package dangled in front of us. It has never materialized.
Even with a 50% raise in pay here there are still so many other negative aspects of this posting that are much more attractive in other parts of the region people would be desperate fools to consider here.
There are a few here who have been here so long, they are really unaware of what other contracts offer. They may have arrived from an even worse working environment to find Doha an improvement as there are always exceptions out there but lets be clear compared to 95% of ATCO contracts in the western and developed nations of the world.... Doha falls in the bottom 5% of compensation, benefits, living situation and employer appreciation as an ANS provider.
Plain and simple the staffing level of the APProach side of Doha is 50% of what all agree (except management) should be and they have absolutely no intention of reaching the appropriate staffing levels.
I agree with the last posting...we should all just turn and wave goodbye Doha
Even with a 50% raise in pay here there are still so many other negative aspects of this posting that are much more attractive in other parts of the region people would be desperate fools to consider here.
There are a few here who have been here so long, they are really unaware of what other contracts offer. They may have arrived from an even worse working environment to find Doha an improvement as there are always exceptions out there but lets be clear compared to 95% of ATCO contracts in the western and developed nations of the world.... Doha falls in the bottom 5% of compensation, benefits, living situation and employer appreciation as an ANS provider.
Plain and simple the staffing level of the APProach side of Doha is 50% of what all agree (except management) should be and they have absolutely no intention of reaching the appropriate staffing levels.
I agree with the last posting...we should all just turn and wave goodbye Doha
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NEW FACILITY
For any Doha approach controllers that are currently on vacation, this is not a joke. As of the afternoon shift this Sunday (19th), we now work at the new center at Hamad Intl Airport.
I'd advise you to contact one of your buddies here to see what is needed, ie bringing your headset to the new facility, emptying your locker,...
Fingerprinting for the new facility can be done on the new premises.
I'd advise you to contact one of your buddies here to see what is needed, ie bringing your headset to the new facility, emptying your locker,...
Fingerprinting for the new facility can be done on the new premises.
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Tried...
This is interesting reading all the posts on this topic. When I decided I wanted a change after 28 years of working in the FAA, Doha is the first position I applied for. However, I was not considered because I have an FAA license, not an ICAO. Doesn't matter that I worked at 2 of the top 7 busiest airports in the world (traffic movements, not passenger), those being DFW and IAH. I was told in no uncertain terms that Americans and South Africans need not apply. Wanna know why Serco couldn't get people to go? It was NOT because of the package, it was because the Qatari government wanted "young male Heathrow controllers".
I personally know 2 people that went to work at Doha... one resigned, one was asked to leave early after it was discovered he was leaving for another job anyway. They both had their reasons, but the package offered was not the biggest factor.
I wish you guys in Doha the very best... and I am sorry I am not there to help. But until the Qatari government decides to expand the pool they are willing to hire from, I am afraid you guys are stuck.
I personally know 2 people that went to work at Doha... one resigned, one was asked to leave early after it was discovered he was leaving for another job anyway. They both had their reasons, but the package offered was not the biggest factor.
I wish you guys in Doha the very best... and I am sorry I am not there to help. But until the Qatari government decides to expand the pool they are willing to hire from, I am afraid you guys are stuck.
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Btrbill when did you apply? The airports you worked at are as respected as you can get. If you applied within the last few years, your snubbing may well have be due to an individual who no longer works here.
If it was quite a few years ago, well things may have changed as we have a few South Africans now and they are certainly proving that person to have been wrong as they are very welcomed and doing a good job.
Doha has progressed as we now don't just have one but many reasons to leave.
If it was quite a few years ago, well things may have changed as we have a few South Africans now and they are certainly proving that person to have been wrong as they are very welcomed and doing a good job.
Doha has progressed as we now don't just have one but many reasons to leave.
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What BtrBill is saying goes back only 6 months.I heard that was the case about ex FAA etc in Doha,as I was approached by Serco management if I would consider going there.
I'm UK CAA ex Nats,ex Hong Kong but over 50.I asked if age was a problem,so my Serco manager would ask the question to Doha.We never got an answer.
I would have looked at it given a chance,but if Doha wants to discard people without even responding to a simple question,then Bon Chance my friends.
I'm UK CAA ex Nats,ex Hong Kong but over 50.I asked if age was a problem,so my Serco manager would ask the question to Doha.We never got an answer.
I would have looked at it given a chance,but if Doha wants to discard people without even responding to a simple question,then Bon Chance my friends.
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I applied for Doha in June or July of 2013. I got a rejection email within MINUTES of the bid closing on the Serco website. I spoke with a management official within Serco at another location and he told me about the restriction on SA and USA folks.
A lot of people, not really here, have been critical of Serco for losing the Doha contract... but I believe that is unfair with the hiring restrictions they were given. I know personally 5 people from the FAA that applied and would have worked at Doha given the chance, including me. Oh well...
I have a good gig now, so maybe things worked out the way they were supposed to...
See ya!
A lot of people, not really here, have been critical of Serco for losing the Doha contract... but I believe that is unfair with the hiring restrictions they were given. I know personally 5 people from the FAA that applied and would have worked at Doha given the chance, including me. Oh well...
I have a good gig now, so maybe things worked out the way they were supposed to...
See ya!
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In reference to the misnomer that Serco "had the Doha' contract - incorrect. It was a temporary service provision request to supply a set number of controllers for a specified time. The primary employer of ATC's for Doha was and still is QCAA.
There is some truth to the focus hiring by the Serco group ... the reasons are solely that of QCAA and only was a stipulation of the Serco hiring, which was for five posts only. This was a complete and separate issue from direct hiring. Direct hiring by the QCAA of ALL nationalities is, was and as far as I understand it , will continue to be on-going, including South Africans and if they are still interested, any FAA controllers. This never changed, even during the period that Serco was asked to provide those five controllers. I also remember quite clearly at the time answering many e-mails stating that direct hiring was open to all ..... ALL .... nationalities.
The last time Serco "had" the Doha (Qatar) contract was in '88, as IAL.
In reference to the age restriction, it is dealt with case by case.
Review every available option with discernment and be aware of the break-down of remuneration packages. There is a trend toward the "All-In" remuneration of late being offered. Known by many as a 'lump' sum. This ...'Lump Sum' as a figure may look at the outset attractive. This is where the questions should start to kick in ....
From what information I have garnered ... most then start with this "Lump Sum' and the deduction process starts ... Housing - Schooling - Air Tickets Home etc, etc. There is one or two stations that do NOT provide any gratuity at ALL. With housing, normally the landlords will either ask you to pay for the entire year upfront .... OR ... ask for a series of post-dated cheques. Ask in particular about maintenance issues and your expected level of responsibility in reference to this. Do not forget about utilities ... is it included in the rent or extra .... ??? ... all very very interesting questions.
Obviously once completed with this process you will then make your decision. Congratulations!! ... enjoy your new career ..., or adventure.
A little post script ... something I have noticed over the years. Those that dump on Doha the most whilst here ... stating just how awful the place is and wakkawakkadingdong put-more-powder-on-my-botty-please!! ... then resign and claim, "Never shall I return" ............................................................ .................................
.......................................Guess who is first in the queue about prospects of returning!?! ..... Yup ..... Mr or Mrs Botty Needs Powder!!! People make mistakes and err, we all do. This is no way belittles the ability of those that wish to return, irrespective of behaviour prior. However, as a trend, you cannot but wonder as to the motivations of all that incessant moaning and groaning, whinging and whining prior to leaving, .... if you are then so willing to return. It seems to invalidate it completely and place in question the credibility of anything further to be uttered by that person on return. We all have the absolute right to complain if service conditions are NOT being met as per contract ... however, just flapping your lips to cool your gums every time there is someone within earshot on a topic you essentially have on loop .... aah ... well ..... expiration date and all that??!!
Be discerning and ask the difficult questions. You might just find that despite all the naysayers, Doha does not square up so badly. If in your book it doesn't suit you ... and as I read someone state somewhere earlier .... falls short of 90 or 95% of the rest of the world/developed world or those that have been there too long don't know of any better (oh, that incidentally is in all liklihood aimed at me, if so ... fine ... if not, equally fine) .... well then, go with your informed choice ... Ah ... there it is again .... keeps on popping its crazy little head up .... choice!!!
There is some truth to the focus hiring by the Serco group ... the reasons are solely that of QCAA and only was a stipulation of the Serco hiring, which was for five posts only. This was a complete and separate issue from direct hiring. Direct hiring by the QCAA of ALL nationalities is, was and as far as I understand it , will continue to be on-going, including South Africans and if they are still interested, any FAA controllers. This never changed, even during the period that Serco was asked to provide those five controllers. I also remember quite clearly at the time answering many e-mails stating that direct hiring was open to all ..... ALL .... nationalities.
The last time Serco "had" the Doha (Qatar) contract was in '88, as IAL.
In reference to the age restriction, it is dealt with case by case.
Review every available option with discernment and be aware of the break-down of remuneration packages. There is a trend toward the "All-In" remuneration of late being offered. Known by many as a 'lump' sum. This ...'Lump Sum' as a figure may look at the outset attractive. This is where the questions should start to kick in ....
From what information I have garnered ... most then start with this "Lump Sum' and the deduction process starts ... Housing - Schooling - Air Tickets Home etc, etc. There is one or two stations that do NOT provide any gratuity at ALL. With housing, normally the landlords will either ask you to pay for the entire year upfront .... OR ... ask for a series of post-dated cheques. Ask in particular about maintenance issues and your expected level of responsibility in reference to this. Do not forget about utilities ... is it included in the rent or extra .... ??? ... all very very interesting questions.
Obviously once completed with this process you will then make your decision. Congratulations!! ... enjoy your new career ..., or adventure.
A little post script ... something I have noticed over the years. Those that dump on Doha the most whilst here ... stating just how awful the place is and wakkawakkadingdong put-more-powder-on-my-botty-please!! ... then resign and claim, "Never shall I return" ............................................................ .................................
.......................................Guess who is first in the queue about prospects of returning!?! ..... Yup ..... Mr or Mrs Botty Needs Powder!!! People make mistakes and err, we all do. This is no way belittles the ability of those that wish to return, irrespective of behaviour prior. However, as a trend, you cannot but wonder as to the motivations of all that incessant moaning and groaning, whinging and whining prior to leaving, .... if you are then so willing to return. It seems to invalidate it completely and place in question the credibility of anything further to be uttered by that person on return. We all have the absolute right to complain if service conditions are NOT being met as per contract ... however, just flapping your lips to cool your gums every time there is someone within earshot on a topic you essentially have on loop .... aah ... well ..... expiration date and all that??!!
Be discerning and ask the difficult questions. You might just find that despite all the naysayers, Doha does not square up so badly. If in your book it doesn't suit you ... and as I read someone state somewhere earlier .... falls short of 90 or 95% of the rest of the world/developed world or those that have been there too long don't know of any better (oh, that incidentally is in all liklihood aimed at me, if so ... fine ... if not, equally fine) .... well then, go with your informed choice ... Ah ... there it is again .... keeps on popping its crazy little head up .... choice!!!
Last edited by CuitoCuanavale; 19th Oct 2014 at 01:15.
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CuitoCuanavale,
I cannot argue with anything you have to say except one thing... unless the QCAA change thier requirements, FAA controllers are not currently qualified to bid on Doha unless they hold an ICAO license somehow. The FAA issues thier own license and for some reason the QCAA will not recognize it.
If that has recently changed, then great. But when Serco was tasked to hire, that was a restriction that greatly handcuffed them.
If the QCAA really wants help, they can drop that restriction and you will have plenty of bidders... IMHO.
Regarding the rest of your post, thanks for the info... good stuff indeed!
I cannot argue with anything you have to say except one thing... unless the QCAA change thier requirements, FAA controllers are not currently qualified to bid on Doha unless they hold an ICAO license somehow. The FAA issues thier own license and for some reason the QCAA will not recognize it.
If that has recently changed, then great. But when Serco was tasked to hire, that was a restriction that greatly handcuffed them.
If the QCAA really wants help, they can drop that restriction and you will have plenty of bidders... IMHO.
Regarding the rest of your post, thanks for the info... good stuff indeed!
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Btrbill;
This is an interesting point you have again highlighted.
I have heard this point raised on several occasions.
You talk with conviction on it, so I can only assume there is substance to it. Personally I was unaware of any such restriction and did not know that QCAA had employed such a policy. The only reason I say this is about 3 yrs ago I interviewed a prospective controller, who at that time was working in Bahrain, originating from the USA. I recommended him and if I am not mistaken, a contract as dispatched to him. The communication between him and the QCAA broke down, reasons I am not sure of (it may have been this very reason) ... but everything seemed to point in the direction that further interest from FAA licenced controllers were welcomed??
If indeed it is the policy of the QCAA, then I agree, a potentially lucrative market is being glossed over. It is worth making further inquiries about, primarily to establish if in fact such a policy does exist or was it for whatever reason, seen as appropriate for that particular route through Serco. Here I can only offer ignorance, but admit I am now more than intrigued and will try and establish any validity there-to.
That said, I on a personal level still cannot see any major hurdles as we normally asses candidates prior to employment for suitability to train further ... and it can be relatively quickly established if in fact any major issues arise that under dual training will seem impassable. We also have a talented and qualified pool of Instructors that can underwrite, promulgate and I am sure deliver a bridging course (extrication from normal rostering duties aside) ... however, that is all subjective speculation on my part. Ultimately, if indeed it is the policy of the QCAA, however any of us see it .... only they can change it, and it is their right in terms of sovereignty to enforce it.
It is almost a dyshemism default for a person on rejection to assume the worst or paint speculation with credibility ...
In general, the factual revelation that normally evolves from some simple questions has over the years here proven near Machiavellian in the contrast to what was seen before as 'fact'. There is either the Faulker like cryptic approach to information or the over-played McKeon clarity and assured perspective, that as with the cryptic approach .... once simple and basic questions are asked .... is normally proven incorrect. Asking colleagues or buddies at ATSU's for information is I believe very important, especially if it is a countryman ... as there is a way that issues are communicated that are easily understood based on your common heritage. However, the ever present flaw there is this ... although what is being conveyed to you is important, it is riddled with subjectivity .... inevitably. There is nothing wrong with that at all ... quite normal , ... but it does not allow objectivity a chance. That is why I always maintain ... ask many questions, of colleagues and buddies working there .... but ensure you also start closing loops in your own validation by ensuring you speak to the recognized management at the unit you wish to work ... on more than one occasion.
Final point .... again, seems silly that this needs any sort of affirmation ... but it does. If something is NOT offered in writing and it IS important to you ... recognize that if you accept the offer, despite your perception of verbal contracts being binding ... they are not. Unless you want to start your career off by recording surreptitiously what is being said to you (I would never ever recommend this ... for obvious reasons) .... what is written is binding, what is mentioned as probable is not .... so DONT make the career decision based on the fulcrum of a verbal promise. From my experience and I am only talking for myself here, all issues that were verbally promised to me did materialize ... however, again ... that is my experience, I am NOT talking for my colleagues.
This is an interesting point you have again highlighted.
I have heard this point raised on several occasions.
You talk with conviction on it, so I can only assume there is substance to it. Personally I was unaware of any such restriction and did not know that QCAA had employed such a policy. The only reason I say this is about 3 yrs ago I interviewed a prospective controller, who at that time was working in Bahrain, originating from the USA. I recommended him and if I am not mistaken, a contract as dispatched to him. The communication between him and the QCAA broke down, reasons I am not sure of (it may have been this very reason) ... but everything seemed to point in the direction that further interest from FAA licenced controllers were welcomed??
If indeed it is the policy of the QCAA, then I agree, a potentially lucrative market is being glossed over. It is worth making further inquiries about, primarily to establish if in fact such a policy does exist or was it for whatever reason, seen as appropriate for that particular route through Serco. Here I can only offer ignorance, but admit I am now more than intrigued and will try and establish any validity there-to.
That said, I on a personal level still cannot see any major hurdles as we normally asses candidates prior to employment for suitability to train further ... and it can be relatively quickly established if in fact any major issues arise that under dual training will seem impassable. We also have a talented and qualified pool of Instructors that can underwrite, promulgate and I am sure deliver a bridging course (extrication from normal rostering duties aside) ... however, that is all subjective speculation on my part. Ultimately, if indeed it is the policy of the QCAA, however any of us see it .... only they can change it, and it is their right in terms of sovereignty to enforce it.
It is almost a dyshemism default for a person on rejection to assume the worst or paint speculation with credibility ...
In general, the factual revelation that normally evolves from some simple questions has over the years here proven near Machiavellian in the contrast to what was seen before as 'fact'. There is either the Faulker like cryptic approach to information or the over-played McKeon clarity and assured perspective, that as with the cryptic approach .... once simple and basic questions are asked .... is normally proven incorrect. Asking colleagues or buddies at ATSU's for information is I believe very important, especially if it is a countryman ... as there is a way that issues are communicated that are easily understood based on your common heritage. However, the ever present flaw there is this ... although what is being conveyed to you is important, it is riddled with subjectivity .... inevitably. There is nothing wrong with that at all ... quite normal , ... but it does not allow objectivity a chance. That is why I always maintain ... ask many questions, of colleagues and buddies working there .... but ensure you also start closing loops in your own validation by ensuring you speak to the recognized management at the unit you wish to work ... on more than one occasion.
Final point .... again, seems silly that this needs any sort of affirmation ... but it does. If something is NOT offered in writing and it IS important to you ... recognize that if you accept the offer, despite your perception of verbal contracts being binding ... they are not. Unless you want to start your career off by recording surreptitiously what is being said to you (I would never ever recommend this ... for obvious reasons) .... what is written is binding, what is mentioned as probable is not .... so DONT make the career decision based on the fulcrum of a verbal promise. From my experience and I am only talking for myself here, all issues that were verbally promised to me did materialize ... however, again ... that is my experience, I am NOT talking for my colleagues.
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CuitoCuanavale
Please do make inquiries, as I would be very interested in hearing what they have to say. As for my conviction, when I inquired as to the reason I was not qualified, the official answer was I did not have an ICAO license. The information about South Africans and Americans admittedly came from two other people in the company that should have knowledge, one moreso than the other.
As for Bahrain, if I am not mistaken (and I certainly could be) they have an ICAO license once they are validated, so an American could certainly qualify for the job at Doha in that regard. To that end, I would be qualified once validated here, as I too would then have an ICAO license.
I do agree completely on making sure what you need or expect is written into any offer before you sign it! Verbal agreements are worth as much as the paper they are printed on...
Enjoy your evening!
Please do make inquiries, as I would be very interested in hearing what they have to say. As for my conviction, when I inquired as to the reason I was not qualified, the official answer was I did not have an ICAO license. The information about South Africans and Americans admittedly came from two other people in the company that should have knowledge, one moreso than the other.
As for Bahrain, if I am not mistaken (and I certainly could be) they have an ICAO license once they are validated, so an American could certainly qualify for the job at Doha in that regard. To that end, I would be qualified once validated here, as I too would then have an ICAO license.
I do agree completely on making sure what you need or expect is written into any offer before you sign it! Verbal agreements are worth as much as the paper they are printed on...
Enjoy your evening!
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I am sorry if this is a bit off-topic but I think it is related to the main discussion here... I would like to know what made you guys move to Doha. Was it just the right package, the salary or something else? I ask this because I cannot really see what the "something else" might be.. I mean, one might like to go to a beautiful place in Italy to work but... Doha? I dont mean to sound offensive or anything, just want to understand the reasons to make a move like that.
I ask this because right now I am thinking about relocating somewhere else but I am not too sure about the Middle East. I got the main terms of the contract for Dubai and Abu Dhabi and the pay seems to be good, BUT related to the traffic load, roster, etc and the fact that the ME doesnt seem to be the best place in the world to live maybe the pay is not that good. I mean, I make a lot less at home but can still have an amazing quality of life and doesnt really need the money. I wanted to go to Australia, which was my dream as a kid, but they didnt choose my application. Didnt even consider my CV, which was shocking but anyway...
So back to the original question: what made you guys consider moving to Doha or the Middle East?
I ask this because right now I am thinking about relocating somewhere else but I am not too sure about the Middle East. I got the main terms of the contract for Dubai and Abu Dhabi and the pay seems to be good, BUT related to the traffic load, roster, etc and the fact that the ME doesnt seem to be the best place in the world to live maybe the pay is not that good. I mean, I make a lot less at home but can still have an amazing quality of life and doesnt really need the money. I wanted to go to Australia, which was my dream as a kid, but they didnt choose my application. Didnt even consider my CV, which was shocking but anyway...
So back to the original question: what made you guys consider moving to Doha or the Middle East?
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Obviously I cannot speak for anyone else, but if you are that close-minded about the Middle East, I am not sure anyone could give you a decent answer.
Personally, I applied for several reasons... I wanted to expand my knowledge and experience to include working under ICAO rules... I wanted to learn about cultures other than my own... I wanted to travel and see the world... and I wanted to try to save a little money. Here, I can, and have done all the above.
The packages offered here differ greatly in thier structure and application, but the bottom lines are usually pretty close. But you get paid to do a job. If you think the traffic or conditions are something you may not like, then dont apply. Certainly not just for the money.
I was raised in a very green area with moderate temps... and it is a beautiful place. But the Middle East is just as beautiful... you just have to open your eyes.
Of course, YMMV....
Personally, I applied for several reasons... I wanted to expand my knowledge and experience to include working under ICAO rules... I wanted to learn about cultures other than my own... I wanted to travel and see the world... and I wanted to try to save a little money. Here, I can, and have done all the above.
The packages offered here differ greatly in thier structure and application, but the bottom lines are usually pretty close. But you get paid to do a job. If you think the traffic or conditions are something you may not like, then dont apply. Certainly not just for the money.
I was raised in a very green area with moderate temps... and it is a beautiful place. But the Middle East is just as beautiful... you just have to open your eyes.
Of course, YMMV....
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Simply put - no tax.
Some expat's country's of origin I understand have a sacrifice system to balance and counteract any substantial gains. Cannot talk to that. Mine to date does not.
As stated earlier, there will be many varied reasons. Indeed an open mind or at least a willingness to accept that you will encounter differences on all levels as to that of your country of origin is extremely important. Adaption.
This part of the world is not your home country and never will be. This is not a bad thing ... just a stark fact many battle with constantly.
Closing yourself off to the learning curve once you here is truly a loss. You may not agree with it ... but then isn't that the point of travelling?? ... experience and enrichment?
A tell-tale sign that you in reality are not content at all here, is that growing discomfort in your derriere and noticeable imbalance in your posture ... huge warning signs you should not ignore. It is that bug that has taken up residence in your nether's and the huuuuge chip on your shoulder weighing your down. You create an environment that is just simply unpleasant and a paradigm that starts to imprison you without you realizing it. Without being cavalier, you would either need to change or leave ... for your own and if you have family, for your family's sake.
Drawing from my own experience and to greater degree that of my colleagues over the years, past, present and I am sure those that are to come ... once you unclench and side-step that invasive surgery to extract that bug up .... well, once you let go and learn to embrace the challenge of living and working here ... it does actually evolve into a pleasure.
Chin-wagging with a colleague of mine recently, we both agreed that as you grow with the traffic (ATC that is) and pace of your working environment ... it quite literally is a not too dissimilar to mainlining on a drug ... this one is however very very legal.
It is amongst the top two reasons folk who have left here claim as reason to either return or just make known of a certain 'void' in their new work environment.
All the very best with your new adventure ... it can be daunting, but approached correctly, very rewarding!!
P.S - No reward comes without struggle or frustration.
Some expat's country's of origin I understand have a sacrifice system to balance and counteract any substantial gains. Cannot talk to that. Mine to date does not.
As stated earlier, there will be many varied reasons. Indeed an open mind or at least a willingness to accept that you will encounter differences on all levels as to that of your country of origin is extremely important. Adaption.
This part of the world is not your home country and never will be. This is not a bad thing ... just a stark fact many battle with constantly.
Closing yourself off to the learning curve once you here is truly a loss. You may not agree with it ... but then isn't that the point of travelling?? ... experience and enrichment?
A tell-tale sign that you in reality are not content at all here, is that growing discomfort in your derriere and noticeable imbalance in your posture ... huge warning signs you should not ignore. It is that bug that has taken up residence in your nether's and the huuuuge chip on your shoulder weighing your down. You create an environment that is just simply unpleasant and a paradigm that starts to imprison you without you realizing it. Without being cavalier, you would either need to change or leave ... for your own and if you have family, for your family's sake.
Drawing from my own experience and to greater degree that of my colleagues over the years, past, present and I am sure those that are to come ... once you unclench and side-step that invasive surgery to extract that bug up .... well, once you let go and learn to embrace the challenge of living and working here ... it does actually evolve into a pleasure.
Chin-wagging with a colleague of mine recently, we both agreed that as you grow with the traffic (ATC that is) and pace of your working environment ... it quite literally is a not too dissimilar to mainlining on a drug ... this one is however very very legal.
It is amongst the top two reasons folk who have left here claim as reason to either return or just make known of a certain 'void' in their new work environment.
All the very best with your new adventure ... it can be daunting, but approached correctly, very rewarding!!
P.S - No reward comes without struggle or frustration.
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I am very well travelled and didnt mean to sound close-minded, but I know for a fact that if you choose a certain number of people and you ask them if they prefer to go to Italy, France or the ME I dont think they are going to go for the ME.
Join Date: Jun 2014
Location: by the seaside
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CuitoCuanavale, wise words.. one has to adapt to the circumstances around. When in Rome, do as Romans do... or at least try! :-)