"Are the ramps in Seth Effrica wide-open or something, vast rolling expanses of asphalt? Hassi has a rather small and crowded ramp with a limited number of spaces for small aircraft."
No, But the parking bay demarcations do line up with the tie down points! I think you will find, Chuks, that the AEA pilots curse you just as much for not lining up on the demarcated bays. Of course the route of the whole problem is that some %$£"£wit did not line up the tie down points with the bay markings.
Also remember the good times in Algeria - unforunately the vibe has changed and that spirit is no longer there.