Bringbackthe80s - that is why I started this thread. IE to avoid falling into the trap of joining BA just because it is BA. Is an easy one to fall into, but I believe only a fool would do so without finding out about the reality of life there.
It is clear from this thread that BA is a good place to work, but it has major drawbacks. The decision comes from whether you are happy to take the good with the bad, or find alternative employment that balances things more the way you like them.
For example, virgin guys get paid less but have a more relaxed lifestyle.
The grass is not always greener on the other side.