Chef a Go Go Volume 1 Issue 5

Chef-a-Go-go Files

 

Volume 1 Issue 5- Monday August 11^th, 2008

 

Wisdom of the Ancients

 

This is a continuation from the Chef Shane – The Culinary Globe Trotters’ feature article in the Chef-a-Go-go e-letter.

 

VISAS – CHECK FIRST

 

Give a few weeks in advance if possible to check for all the visa requirements, fees, and documentation, filling out, processing and submitting.

Check every aspect of the visa types available for your nationality – on all of the passports you hold.

 

Many countries issue visas on arrival or automatic 30 – 90 day visit visas for nationals of States with immigration treaties between them.
This is often free and instant. Book a ticket, and off you go.

 

As an Australian, I can visit many countries without the need for a visa, including Europe, Thailand, Singapore, UAE, and Egypt.

 

But I couldn’t go on a weekends notice to India due to visa requirements, and the same applies to China, Ukraine, Kazakhstan specifically in my case, and many more.

 

With some time on hand to take care of getting visas, having flexible dates for the best prices on tickets, and a bit of research, there won’t be any problems.

Visas are usually the biggest headache on any trip.

 

Check all the visa requirements and eligibility as not all nations are as fair and friendly at the airport as they are at the hotel.

 

If you somehow manage to show up at an airport of any country without the right entry permits, you are in for an ‘unwelcome experience’ in all senses of the phrase. And 90% of the time and expensive return flight.

 

DEPARTURE TAXES IN SPECIFIC CURRENCY

 

Have a look at some travel sites or books and get the latest info on getting in and out of the country.

 

Many nations charge a tax or fee to enter, and another separate fee to depart.
Often, this is in a specific hard currency, and in a certain amount.

Even in these ‘enlightened times”  there are still horror stories of having no currency, or credit cards not accepted, or having the wrong currency, delaying departure and causing embarrassment.

 

As a rule, US dollars are generally pretty fluid resources, and take care of most departure tax issues, even though it is a bit low at the moment.

 

BORDER CROSSING TIMES

This usually applies to land border crossings where there is a checkpoint.

Some (most) border crossings are open 24 hours, but some of the more obscure ones in weird spots, miles from anywhere, have very specific and inflexible times for border crossings and visa processing.

 

Picture this – you, the intrepid explorer, jet off to a remote part of the globe, and after donning a safari suit, getting some dreadlocks, upgrading the piercings, and buying a copy of “lonely planet”, you head off to book your cheap bus/ samlor/ donkey-ride ticket to some God-forsaken place in the middle of nowhere that even the map sounds unsure of.

 

After a dusty, bumpy, gruelling 17 hour trip that takes you 673km into what looks like a war zone, or the movie set for “Predator”, you find the border crossing shut for the night.

 

You bathe yourself in D.E.E.T. and sleep with a baseball bat, with which to fend off mosquitoes the size of fruit bats.

 

Local mafia assess your value and size, whilst accomplished rip-off merchants have systems in place to make sure you have to avail yourself of their services over the next 12-18 hours.

 

Eventually, after a rough night and an abrasive morning, you get yourself down to the border crossing post again, looking like an extra off “Lost”, and get refused an exit stamp as you only have local currency and there is no ATM or bank………….unless you take that 17 hour trip back.

 

It CAN happen.

 

HOTELS

 

Many of us work for hotels, so we should know the tricks – we probably even helped implement them!

 

Bear in mind that booking ahead a month online can save pennies – many websites offer discounted rates at hotels.

 

http://www.asiawebdirect.com/

 

 http://www.lastminute.com.au

 

http://www.hotelscombined.com.au/

 

 http://www.asiarooms.com

 

 http://www.expedia.com

 

As chefs, many of us get screwed on breakfast rates. Give a great brekkie and get very little money for it.

 

Well, when YOU stay in a hotel with a great brekkie product, GET IT INCLUDED IN YOUR ROOM RATE!

 

Let THEIR chef worry about your penchant for gypsy ham, smoked salmon and truffled scrambled eggs!

 

Location

 

Before looking for the most affordable room rate, factor in:

 

• Taxi/ tuk tuk/ bus etc to and from where you are likely to be spending your time. It can get expensive getting backwards and forwards, and can often make sense to pay a bit more on room rate for a better location that suits your needs and desires.
• Breakfast and any other included F&B.
• Movies – are they free, or pay per view?
• Laundry and mini bar – OK folks, we’ve been screwing the public for years. Now that we ARE the public, see if the in-house services rates are affordable, OR look for a bag wash service, a per kg laundry service, or somewhere handy but outside the hotel to get your drinks, food, phone calls and laundry.
• Taxi fare from airport.

 

Looking at all the above, you might find that the more expensive room rate gives you a better experience and less overall cost than the cheaper one.

FINDING OUT ABOUT YOUR HOTEL

 

www.tripadvisor.com – this is the biggest, and the most influential site with lots of traveller reviews, photos and tips. It also has average prices paid by different travellers for the same hotels and rooms.

 

www.travelpost.com/

 

http://travel.yahoo.com/

 

FINDING OUT ABOUT YOUR DESTINATION

 

http://www.virtourist.com/

 

http://earth.google.com/ JUST AWESOME. You gotta spend some time playing with this whether you travel or not!

 

This amazing software gives you views of 100% of the planet earth with zoom function from space, right down to 20 metres above ground level.

You can view in 3D or 2D, and search or save by GPS, name, business, attraction, hotel or location.

 

You can fly over the world; look as a satellite view or map view, or even a hybrid view.

This is a real time waster, and is just fascinating.

 

A GREAT resource for travel research!

 

Google say: “Google Earth lets you fly anywhere on Earth to view satellite imagery, maps, terrain, 3D buildings and even explore galaxies in the Sky. You can explore rich geographical content, save your toured places and share with others.”

http://www.google.com/Top/Recreation/Travel/Guides_and_Directories/

 

AIRLINES AND LUGGAGE

 

Just back to luggage for a second.

 

We have already gone over methods of packing lightly, in order to save on baggage charges.

 

Another issue is airline, and ticket price.

 

To generalise, most “normal” airlines give you a 20kg baggage allowance. These are usually the “full price – full service” airlines.

 

If you get offered free beer, wine, spirits, full dinner, movies, peanuts and meals on the flight, then you can normally take 20kg as check in luggage at no extra cost.

NOW – Airlines are very much under pressure, financially and otherwise.
Prices are high and competition fierce.

 

They NEED to make money.

 

As a rule, the check-in staff is able to make allowances for extra kg at no cost.

 

They are also expected to charge mercilessly for every gram of excess weight.

You can NORMALLY get away with an extra 5kg with 90% of these airlines – they’ll wave it through without too much persuasion.

 

29kg is getting a bit cheeky, but can be done with the right approach.

 

30kg or more, you’d better be persuasive, or have your wallet handy.

 

I have heard great stories of getting free excess baggage. Complete breakdowns, litres of tears, frenzied sobbing and collapsing in a heap and weeping tend to be at the top of the list.

 

A gentle, meek, distraught, traumatised ‘shell-shock” look can often do the trick too, if accompanied by personal pleas for mercy.

 

Aggressive and rude posturing, and loss of temper rarely gets you anywhere – often it guarantees a bad experience, from the rest of the airline staff, so try and be nice, and also creative.

 

A wee bribe can often get things sorted in the right way.

 

In Kazakhstan I had 110kg excess baggage, and after a surreal 20 minutes at the check in counter, I ended up having to follow their ‘system’ and wheel my bags into the toilet, meet a guy in overalls in a rear cubicle, and hand over $300 in cash to get my $500 excess baggage charges “waived”.

 

Seriously, this gets very “Monty Python” in some airports.

 

If you MUST pay, then you can often unpack at check-in, then take the heavier stuff out, and carry it on with you in plastic shopping bags. This can reduce the cost a bit.

 

A cheaper option is to find the “Unaccompanied baggage” counter and send it on a separate flight. Normally arrives within 24 hours of your arrival at the next airport, and costs 50-60% of the price, saving you a few coins.

 

BUDGET AIRLINES

 

I actually LIKE budget airlines.

 

As a rule, they are neat, no frills, on time and inexpensive.

 

Most have a refreshing attitude and an even more refreshing “lack of bullshit”

 

They also have easy online booking, great fare structures and some great destinations.

On the negative side, the tickets can be horribly inflexible once booked, little or no refund, and the baggage allowance is only 15kg with most.

 

That is, 15kg.

 

Not 15.1kg – that will cost you money. And you will end up getting frustrated and having a fight, as the budget airlines are on a mission to reduce costs and make money – even more so than the big boys.

 

This is REALLY annoying, and it is quite bizarre as well.

 

I had 23kg once. I had to repack 4 times until I got 14.9kg to check in. I ended up carrying on 6 bags – I looked like a bloody pack-horse, so I actually ended up inconveniencing the whole plane by struggling on and holding up boarding – along with the other hundred passengers who were also struggling with hand luggage.

The same weight went up in the air, but everyone had saved face, and everyone had “only 15kg” checked in.

 

Pointing out the lack of logic in this will rarely get your extra 5kg checked in.

I ALWAYS take a few plastic shopping bags with me when checking into budget airlines, just in case you need to take some stuff out.

 

ON SUITCASES AND BAGS

 

In my experience, don’t go for the bags you want.

 

Go for the most secure, lightweight, functional ones that suit your needs.

 

If you are a fashion victim, buy whatever designer label takes your fancy. You can afford it.

 

• Don’t get black, or bland standard colours or shapes – get something that is easy to recognise and hard for someone else to steal without you noticing (or mistake for their own). It makes life easier when you are searching for it amongst 800 others bags on a packed conveyor belt.
• Get a LIGHT bag or case. You only get 20kg allowance. 15 on the budget airlines. If your bag is 12kg already, then you will have to take it everywhere empty
• Size – If you have wads of cash, and love throwing it at airlines, get whatever bag you want. If you never want to pay excess baggage, then get a bag that fits about 20kg, so you are not tempted to over pack.
• If you want to take my tip with carrying everything on, then get the right sized bags. Backpacks and small bags with wheels and handles are pretty convenient. When I am feeling cheeky, I normally get away with a hefty backpack, a laptop in a bag, my camera, a small utility backpack, and a miscellaneous plastic bag. Remember – no liquids in any container size over 100ml allowed in carry-on these days.
• Portability. Make sure it is easy to handle and move around. Avoid awkward sizes and shapes, and things with only one handle. If it has wheels, and the ability to lift, turn and drag then it should be OK.
• Security. Firstly, NEVER check in valuables. ALWAYS carry on your mobile phone, camera, laptops, hard drives and important document.
  It is VERY easy to split the zip on soft bags and remove the contents – and due to drugs and terrorism, the bags are always scanned. You can imagine your chances of seeing your new camera, blackberry or laptop again.
• Hard bags cost you luggage space, as they are normally heavier.
  I always pack clothes and stuff in a soft light bag with wheels and handle giving me maximum available room and weight for my luggage.
  ALWAYS lock your bags securely, and check them well before checking in and after picking up. Alarm bells should go off if any locks are tampered or broken.
• It is SO easy for anybody to slip drugs or contraband into unlocked bags for smuggling, and if you get caught, it is jail for a very long time. Don’t take the risk.
• NEVER leave bags unattended.
• NEVER look after, or carry someone else’s bags. The oldest trick in the book for smuggling. Even if you feel sorry for them and they don’t have money to check their bags – Don’t do it. If you get caught with the unknown contents of the bag you ‘help out with’, it can cost you 20 years in a foreign prison, or even a hanging or a beheading. Be SURE of what is in your bags, keep them locked and secure, and watch them like a hawk at all times.

 

Yibbida Yibbida – that’s all for today folks.
I’m off to Phuket in 3 hours, and yes, I take most of my own advice because I got my degree in travel from the International School of Hard Knocks.

I’m packed, ready to waddle onboard festooned with bags like some sort of obese Xmas Tree.
Feedback, responses and extra info very welcome.
We’d love to have some of your own anecdotes, stories and experiences to share with the network.

 

If you feel that more could be added to a topic or extra info that is relevant, please send by email to shane@prochef360.com.

 

Be sure to check back for the regular blog postings from Chef Shane.

Chef-a-Go-go Volume 1 Issue 4

 

Volume 1 Issue 4- Monday August 4^th, 2008

 

Reality e-letter

 

This is a continuation from the Chef Shane – The Culinary Globe Trotters’ feature article in the Chef-a-Go-go e-letter.

 

At the moment, Matthew is thinking the worst, cementing his “Chef’s frown” into place as he imagines me lying back surrounded by empty Angkor cans and admiring women.

 

In actual fact I am in an internet café, and only through choice of abode.

In my last place in Bangkok we had Wi-Fi throughout the building, so I could often work, play, tease, communicate, do business and move my finances in between buying food from street vendors, having a beer with friends, or watching a movie.

 

There are a lot of ways to benefit from “globalisation” whether you eat at McDonalds or not.

Staying in touch, getting and using money, phoning home, taking pictures, it has all changed.

 

Email

 

I used to love having the email address and web space from my internet provider at home, but moving house or suburb often meant changing email address. As did changing internet provider.

 

In the old days, email on your home account was faster, more secure and with fewer limitations. Now it is the other way around.

There are some great options with web based email these days, and you can keep the same email address no matter how many times you move or change providers.

 

What is web mail?

 

Quite simply, email that you have to check on the internet.

 

The big ones are Gmail, Hotmail and Yahoo.

 

I personally have used all 3 and recommend Gmail as it is the most reliable and functional with the most generous features and the fewest limits.

 

Gmail also offers free “Documents”- which allows you to view spreadsheets and word documents on any computer – even if it doesn’t have office software.

 

It also links to your blog, your online photo albums, your newsreader and rss feed reader, and your personal webpage.

 

http://mail.google.com/

 

Hotmail and Yahoo are also massively popular

 

http://www.hotmail.com

https://login.yahoo.com/config/login_verify2?&.src=ym

 

What you are looking for with web based email:

• Fast loading and simple. Not too much fancy stuff
• Reliable and easy to use
• Large size limit for attachments (at least 2MB each. Better if it is 5 or 10MB ea)
• Large storage space (more than 5GB)
• It’s good if you can combine mail accounts, or check all accounts together     

http://email.about.com/od/freeemailreviews/tp/free_pop3_email.htm

 

A lot of web based email allows you to download it to your computer or open/ check it with you usual email software (often Outlook Express, Outlook, Thunderbird, etc).

 

This means you can use your webmail as if it were “normal” email and store it on your computer.

 

Other web mail allows you to check all of your email accounts through your single webmail account.

 

http://email.about.com/od/freeemailreviews/Find_the_Best_Free_Email_Accounts.htm

 

Why email?

 

Instant, accurate and flexible, email zaps across the globe in a split second and is adaptable to your needs.

 

It is also FREE.

 

It is easy to format and make text smaller or larger.

 

You can add sound to your email, and attach photos, videos and voice files.

You can link to a web album to show your photos instantly, but MORE importantly, a good free web email address serves as a constant point of contact for us, remaining stable even as we change jobs, houses, phone numbers, fax numbers, countries and more.

 

Photos

 

In the good old days, one could either be a wastrel and burn rolls of film on a whim – or camera shy, clicking only the most special moments.

 

Digital photography has eliminated the need for expensive film and developing, and allows relentless snapping and excessive experimentation with no financial penalties or disincentives.

 

I like to use mine for food shots at work, and other shots elsewhere.

Think about your usage and pinpoint the right model for you.

 

What to look for:

 

5 megapixel + – this is how many ‘dots’ make up the image, if one were to break it down into the crudest possible explanation. The more the merrier. Over 8 is a bit excessive and gives huge file sizes (fills up your computer with big photos more quickly). Less than 4 is lacking in detail.

 

Good quality lens this makes a big difference to the image quality, and NOT the brand.

 

Long Battery Life – I ALWAYS buy a second battery, it just isn’t negotiable. You WILL run out of battery at a crucial moment. Choose a camera with good battery life and buy 2 batteries and you will always be ready to go.

 

Zoom – Forget digital zoom. The optical zoom is the only one worth using. 3x zoom is standard on all cameras, 7x is standard for big cameras, 10-12x is very good if you can get it. A big zoom means a big lens, and a big lens can’t fit in a very small camera, so this is a trade-off right here – size for zoom.

Zoom is one of the most used features. Realistically, if you get a high definition compact camera, you can “zoom” by cropping the image in Photoshop or Picasa, but it is not the best or most efficient way.

 

Buy for your needs If you don’t know much about cameras and don’t want to, then buy a compact – a small camera with mainly automated features.

If you want to take pictures anywhere and everywhere, also buy a compact.

These small cameras fit in a pocket and can be whipped out with OK results almost anywhere.

 

Check the performance on night time or low light shots. I have problems there.

 

If you want to play around with settings, be artistic, or do some more advanced photography, have a look at digital SLR cameras, or there cousins with most of the features of a manual camera but slightly condensed.

 

Now you can get the same results as with film, and choose all settings as you would with a regular SLR camera.

 

Of course, if you get a semi professional camera, or one with a big zoom, it will be a LARGER camera which makes it less discreet and more difficult to carry and use.

 

Review it online

 

http://www.dpreview.com/

http://www.steves-digicams.com/

 

After you have the photos:

 

Software which is free and easy to use.

 

Even YOU can make your photos look good with Picasa.

http://picasa.google.com/download/

 

The best features here – red eye removal, instant auto-fix with “I’m feeling lucky” and the amazing “straighten” tool which is easy and effective.

 

Another essential feature is the “export” function and the “email” function which lets you resize your photos for whatever purpose you want with 2 clicks.

 

Or – email the photos you have selected with one click, and it automatically makes them the right size and sends them off through your Gmail account.

 

You can also organize photos on your computer with Picasa, and store them online and share with friends – or not.

 

Web Albums

 

http://picasaweb.google.com/home

http://www.flickr.com/

 

Emailing photos

 

PLEASE re size your photos if you email them.

 

Many people have limited speed connections, or in the case of Chefs, limited patience.

 

Photos directly from your camera are LARGE. They should be 2-5MB each.

 

If you attach 5 photos it can be 10MB and too large to send.

 

Using basic photo software to send or resize your photos makes them large enough to fill a computer screen in vivid colour and detail, but small enough to send and download quickly.

 

A solution to this if you WANT people to get the big hi def photos is to put full size photos on your web album on the  internet, and invite selected friends to view them, (or make the album public so anyone can access it, as you prefer).

 

Then the people viewing the photos can look at a small version, and download the full size pictures at their own pace.

 

Money

 

Those travellers’ cheques were always a hassle in the old days.

 

Cash was even worse.

 

Now we need only have our trusty ATM card or credit card in order to get cash overseas.

 

Bank ATM’s overseas

 

Bear in mind that the safest way to travel is with one or two CREDIT CARDS even if you do not wish to use the credit facility on them.

 

When you need funds it is faster, cheaper and easier to use the ATM than it is to queue in a money exchange.

 

The notes are crisp and clean, and the exchange rate is better than shopping around.

 

An ATM will usually accept visa and mastercard, and most major bank network ATM cards from around the world.

 

Definitely the cheapest and most convenient option.

 

CAUTION about having ONE source of funds.

 

If you have one card and it is lost or damaged, it can cause inconvenience.

Also – some debit cards and smaller bank debit facilities are not available in entire networks overseas.

 

A credit card allows you to use the ATM for debit and credit transactions as a rule, with the usual daily limit that applies in your home country.

 

You also have the option of taking an over the counter advance (in person, with passport as ID) against your credit card which is exempt from your daily limit.

 

If you are in a lesser known country with rare currency, don’t bring too much of it outside that country as you may not be able to change it back easily.

As many of us work in hotels, there is no need to say never exchange your money in hotels – the rates are exorbitant.

 

In the shit?

 

 

 

 

 

Western Union and Thomas Cook do international money exchanges at varying rates, so it is always possible to get and receive money overseas with or without banks and cards.

 

You basically need an ID and the cash.

 

You give the cash, your ID, and then the name of the recipient and any ID or security required.

 

The receiver goes into the exchange, quotes the reference number, shows ID and walks out with the money at the other end.

 

Western Union advertise “15 minutes” from one place in the world to another, but it can be up to an hour or two to fill out the forms, queue and get the transaction completed, so if you are in the snow at a kiosk in Moscow waiting for cash from grant to buy warm clothes, there could be trouble.

 

Also consider that many Muslim countries have Friday off and most others normally Saturday and Sunday, so already 3 days are difficult for same day transactions.

 

Most of these exchanges operate 7 days – although hours do depend on each branch and country.

 

Instead of currency

 

In the old days you could swap bottles of Black label Scotch or a pair of Levis for almost anything.

 

These days, even gold is hard to unload without hassles.

 

If you are having currency hassles between countries, carry USD$ or Euros.

Every country will be able to swap these two into local currency.

 

Communications

 

Matthew has now been put at ease.

 

I was grinning at this end, thinking of him pounding his fists on the table as he searched for me online, trying to get this completed e-letter from me.

 

I was on “invisible” on Gmail, but saw he was there and tapped out “Hi” and seconds later he had responded.

 

And that is just checking webmail.

 

IM or instant messaging is excellent, and the main ones are again Yahoo, Hotmail/ Microsoft and Google.

 

Google’s Gmail has instant chat on the Gmail window, so whenever you check your email you can see your friends/ colleagues/ family/ enemies and chat with them at will. No software is required on the computer you are using, but it only allows you to chat with others if they also have Gmail and are in your address book.

 

Yahoo and Windows both have IM programs of their own, called “messenger”

These are a little different, in that you need the IM program to be installed on the computer you are using before you can chat.

 

MOST internet cafes have both yahoo and windows messenger, and once you install on your own computer, that’s all you have to do.

 

You have to download the program.

 

http://get.live.com/messenger/overview

http://messenger.yahoo.com/

 

You can even use this new IM called ebuddy which combines all the programs together and lets you chat with anybody on any messaging program you link up with.

 

http://www.ebuddy.com/

 

There are a few programs which combine different IM programs together.

 

Phoning Home

 

Very much like our friend “E.T.”, we can find ourselves overseas feeling a little estranged and out of touch.

 

As I was, last month in Bangkok munching nam sausage in between job interviews and reassuring calls to and from friends and family.

 

In the old days those wily telecom providers held our tender parts in their greedy hands, controlling every word through a breathtakingly arrogant pricing structure.

 

Since the internet, VOIP or “voice over internet protocol” has meant an opportunity for free or cheap phone calls and this is no longer a futuristic dream.

 

One company leads the market – SKYPE.

 

Skype is a small efficient piece of software which you download, set up and run on your computer.

 

To use its basic features, you need a microphone and headphones.

To use its video call feature you need a web camera.

 

Pricing is great.

 

To call anybody from your computer to their computer it is totally free for chat, voice phone calls, and video calls.

 

You can even do conference calls with more than two callers at once (like a group chat).

 

Both computers must have Skype.

 

If the other computer does NOT have Skype, or if there IS no other computer, you can use Skype to send and SMS or make a phone call to a landline phone, or a mobile phone anywhere in the world.

 

This is a charged service, but at a fraction of normal phone rates.

 

You need to open an account with Skype, and buy credit to make calls to phones.

 

It saves a fortune, and allows high quality, frequent calls for whatever purpose suits you.

 

Video call is GREAT for a couple of groups to hook up or for teams of old colleagues catching up, or to have a long lingering chat with that distant spouse or childhood chum.

 

http://www.skype.com/intl/en/

 

Please Note- At the time of publication the above links were operational. I offer my sincere apologies in advance if you have trouble accessing the full story via the links provided.

 

Safe travelling,

 

Chef Shane – The Culinary Globe Trotter

Chef a Go Go Volume 1 Issue 3

Chef-a-Go-go Files

Volume 1 Issue 3- Monday July 28^th, 2008 

Off the Beaten Track – Indochina

Chill Out in Cambodia

This is a continuation from the Chef Shane – The Culinary Globe Trotters’ feature article in the Chef-a-Go-go e-letter.

Where to go:

I would recommend flying to Phnom Penh, spending a few days, taking a trip to the beach for a couple of days, getting back to Phnom Penh, then heading up to Siem Reap.

If you are just a temple freak with limited time to linger, fly straight to Siem Reap with a return ticket and spend 4 or 5 days.

About the destinations

Phnom Penh is the charming old Capital city with fading French architecture and simple streets. It is located on the junction of 3 rivers and has a feeling of gentle ‘organised anarchy’

Straight away after leaving the airport you begin to relax.

The traffic winds along, weaving in and out of each other’s wakes at a slow 40km per hour and the city unfolds around you – old but charming, poor but interesting with lots to gaze at.

The weather is warm but not overly hot, the breezes gentle and the skies blue.
Even in rainy season the climate is thoughtful enough to only rain an hour or two at a time.

I like Phnom Penh.

You can stay 5 star if you like, but the real pleasure is to experience Cambodia.

It isn’t that scary, and there are lots of sights, sounds and smells, so I would recommend staying on the river at Sisowath Quay.

A hotel costs from $20 to $80 along the riverfront, (average $30 to $45) but bear in mind that for most of this year there is a redevelopment of the riverbank with Japanese gardens being built, so MOST places don’t have a good view right now.

The FCC (Foreign Correspondents Club) is where the view starts – they have 4 deluxe rooms, and I would recommend the Royal Hotel on the Quay from $45 a night. It overlooks all the action. Get a riverfront room for that price.
Also check out “The Overlook” hotel.

Getting a riverfront room is awesome. There is ALWAYS something happening along Sisowath Quay, so it is never boring.

Behind the river, a few streets back, approach some bars for a $10 room with the basics, and cold Angkor beer.

Angkor is hardly “slumming it” – a great drop at a good price, but Beer Lao gives it a run for its money.

Of course if you are of the ruling classes, and simply can’t be seen without a label in hand, Heineken is also there in most places.

Surprisingly, most of the local joints have a half decent red and white wine on the beverage list for around $10 a bottle too.

Boeng Kak Lake is a renowned place (a few km from Phnom Penh city centre) for backpackers, hippies and travellers with all of the lonely planet merit badges, dreadlocks, loud leftist opinions and a penchant for ganja, tribal rituals and cheap rooms.

It also has more pickpockets and rip off artists preying on people due to the backpacker dynamic, so don’t be too naive if any transactions transpire.

The area has lots of budget guesthouses on stilts over the lake where you can stay from $4 to $12 a night and buy bootleg cd’s and dvd’s, hang out with young people, swap overland adventures, and stake claim to having been everywhere “before it came popular” – a great place to go for a sunset and have a beer at a guesthouse. If you get too wasted, lash out $6 on a room, or sleep on the pontoon!

Phnom Penh is often regarded as being dirty and dangerous. It is certainly no Singapore, but on my 4 trips there I have always felt pretty safe and the right hotel or guesthouse will point you in the right direction and take care of you a bit.

I have experienced this on each visit.

There are some dirty parts, like any city, but there is a certain relaxed charm to be savoured, and the city is a great place to unwind in during a lengthy tuk tuk ride.

The markets are vast and sprawling and the city is very inexpensive.

“Happy” Pizza restaurants offer Pizzas or Shakes enhanced with Dubious Herbs, illegal in most countries, and the choice of tropical drinks is outstanding.

Winter Melon juice and soursop juice are local canned beverages and they ROCK!

Most places along the riverfront offer the same type of fare.

You can’t (or shouldn’t) start the day without a baguette sandwich – the French heritage left behind some awesome French Bread making skills, and for $2.50 you can’t go wrong.

Definitely try “Amok” – the Cambodian national dish of river fish (or chicken) in a lightly Asian-curried coconut sauce, poured boiling hot over a handful of fresh lemon leaves.

Talking of river fish – the catfish and other river fish in Cambodia has re-established my faith in eating fish!

Although the rivers and lakes look brown and muddy, it is the freshest, moistest, most SUCCULENT fish ever, and it is stuck there in my ‘food memory’.

Every time I had river fish it was cooked to perfection, and less than 24 hours out of the water. A spectacular and long lasting memory from Cambodia.

The salads, after Thailand, are a bit disappointing, although fresh and good tasting. The Thai salads are so full of flavour, while Cambodian foods named similarly to Thai ones just tend to be bland and a bit sweet.

Vietnamese Pho is great in Phnom Penh, and the fruits sold everywhere HAVE to be tried.

The fresh fruit shakes sold everywhere are excellent.

People say that Phnom Penh is ‘not much to see’ 

• Make sure you have a “massage by the blind” $6
• Make sure you stay at the Royal hotel in a riverfront room and leave the curtains open. Wake up at sunrise with a view of the sun rising over the river as the “morning exercises” kick off a few hundred metres down the quay. Flex out a bit, then get up, walk up to the roof and have breakfast on the covered roof with a view over the whole river $45 hotel including b/fast
• Eat “amok” in Kings Court Happy Pizza on the Quay 44
• Have a “Happy Shake” $1.50
• Take a tuk tuk around Phnom Penh during the day for 2-3 hours $15 for 3 hours
• Take a tuk tuk around at night
• See the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng museum to get an insight into inhumanity and evil by the Khmer Rouge $20 taxi and entry
• Watch a sunset at a guesthouse pontoon over a few beers at Boeng Kak lake after a Pizza at the Pink Elephant at the entry to Boeng Kak $15 including tuk tuk
• Go to a couple of popular bars and clubs in Phnom Penh $40
• Walk around and get some photos and explore the city up close
• Visit the central market (Russian market) – some awesome foods to look at and try
• Get to the park near the palace end of the river at sunset for the market with all of the fried insects and deep fried tarantulas.

Sihanoukville

This is the beach area a couple of hours away from Phnom Penh. Normally you’d take a taxi, and the best way to do this is to give your hotel or guesthouse an itinerary so you can get one price for all your activities and negotiate a good discount. 

The area is pretty sparse, with most of the action spread around the hills. Some interesting places include a snake restaurant with live snakes in tables and displays. Also the amazing fresh seafood that is available from vendors on the beaches at bargain basement prices. 

The bars are a little more laid back than Phnom Penh, and harder to find. Get a guide or look online and spend a few hours in each. 

Motorcycle taxis bump along everything from highways to muddy side streets and are a convenient and inexpensive way to get around. 

Eat, drink, relax, swim, photograph and indulge your vices in Sihanoukville. 2-4 days in Sihanoukville and the surrounding beaches is nice.

Siem Reap

This is the “tourist town” for Cambodia, and the jewel in the crown is Angkor Wat – a massive temple. However there are a LOT of temples in the area, and one of my favourites is the “tomb raider” temple with the overgrown ‘melting’ trees slithering over the ancient moss-covered stones that comprise this brooding ruin.

Siem Reap has developed rapidly due to the massive number of visitors, so the city is more modern and better equipped for the international traveller.

DO NOT MISS:

• A sunset cruise up the river along the floating village to the lake $15. Eat some fried catfish pieces and some clear lemon soup with catfish
• A sunrise cruise up the river along the floating village. Go to the Buddhist temple on stilts in the lake. Eat a whole fried catfish with a sweet spicy sauce for breakfast. YUM! You can even catch it yourself!
• The temples. Get a pass for 1, 3 or 7 days. It pays to have a driver for the time you are there. All temples are covered by the pass. Take your time and really explore in and out. Start with Angkor Wat and move your way down
• Eat and drink – there are some great bars hotels and restaurants in Siem Reap
• Getting a good hotel. There are great rates on good quality places in Siem Reap. $40 a night should get you somewhere very nice! 

Generally

Cambodia is a friendly, affordable place to relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of one of Asia’s less known cities.

It offers an Old world charm and a turbulent history which the locals will be only too happy to spend time talking about.

It is a surprising destination, and one that will linger in your memory.
For chefs, a top place to see some interesting foods, and the catfish is a “must try” – just outstanding.

The fried tarantulas offer a great photo op, and there are many things to try – the local river snails offered by Street vendors scented with lemongrass, chilli and kaffir lime. They come with a skewer to hook them out with, and a side serve of nam jim sauce.

You can get a good cup of coffee, a genuine smile, great bread and beautiful women.

Hotels are affordable and friendly – but don’t expect great efficiency in telephone communications for things like room service J

Cambodians are awesome, and will make you very welcome. 

Enjoy the photos online – here

All comments and questions will be responded to. 

Feel free to offer your own perspectives and experiences in Cambodia.

Please Note- At the time of publication the above links were operational. I offer my sincere apologies in advance if you have trouble accessing the full story via the links provided.

Safe travelling, 

Chef Shane – The Culinary Globe Trotter

Chef a Go GO Volume 1 Issue 2

 

Expat Life

This is a continuation from the Chef Shane – The Culinary Globe Trotters’ feature article in the Chef-a-Go-go Newsletter.

 

Life experience

 

One thing about changing jobs is that it provides experience.

 

You have different people to work with, unfamiliar equipment, new challenges. These things tend to build us as people, with “human skills” as well as developing a CV that displays confidence and ability across a variety of work genres or properties.

 

Similarly, working outside one’s own country and “comfort zone” also builds a new set of life skills, and some are quite unexpected.

It is very common for those at home to believe that you will learn the secrets of your host nation and become skilled beyond belief as things overseas are “done better”.

It comes as a shock for some to find that things are often done MUCH better at home – and this is why you are there!

As one experiences the differences in a new region, the first few months can become quite intoxicating and overwhelming, in either a pleasant, or an alarming way.

This can manifest in great enthusiasm and excitement in the new environment just noticing all the great things, or general glumness and lethargy about missing everything back home.

More often than not though, this is the “honeymoon phase”, and like that fabulous institution, can be very memorable indeed!

 

In either case however, life trudges on, and you begin to notice the bad things, and the “deeper” things about your new home.

Life suddenly becomes a little more real as you start to see yourself as actually being overseas, and getting beyond the usual shallow “visitor experience”.

This is all pretty normal, and experienced by many.

 

After a reasonable time from around 6-12 months, the balance is struck between the dream and the reality of being in a different environment, and one comes to terms with it.

 

Most job contracts are of 2-3 year duration, but anything is possible, and one certainly cant be defined as an expat by the type of contract you do or don’t have.

 

Generally speaking though, the whole process is one of growth and learning to cope with new and or unforeseen circumstances. This no doubt encourages the ability to deal with the unexpected, and respond to changes in plan or resources in an ‘appropriate” way.

 

I feel this is a far superior skill to have than the perfect ability to memorise a new menu in a new place!

But everyone has a different idea of what working internationally has achieved for them.
Definitely the exposure to different cultures, ingredients and cuisines is a benefit for a chef.

In many cases, the money is a motivating factor, and can kick off a great lifestyle, a good savings plan, or a secure financial base for the family.

 

In some nations it is obviously an improvement in lifestyle, or law and order, climate or economy.

Generally however, working overseas will widen your perspective and allow you to see from more than one angle.

You will experience different ways of living and different rules, which generally reflect on your culinary skills and allow you to evolve in a different direction.

This is not necessarily positive – we all know larger than life expats, jolly stereotypes who develop lifestyle of great intrigue and dubious diplomacy.

But overall, tempered with a good career action plan, some life goals and a quick wit – travel can be very beneficial for many areas of life – and more often than not, it gives one a much deeper, more heartfelt appreciation of home also.

 

Feel free to add your comments to this section of the article at the bottom of the post

 

Finishing up and getting ready

 

The complexity of this depends on your circumstances.

If it is just you moving, with few ties and commitments, it can be quite easy. Moving permanently, or with family, pets, partners can require a whole lot more thought and planning.

 

Typical things to watch out for include:

 

• Firstly – PASSPORT! Make sure that you have one, and that it has 6 months validity on it as a MINIMUM, or else you will not be allowed to leave the country. A passport takes about 6 weeks on average. Faster (and more expensive) in many countries, but always allow maximum time for this.
• CHECK that your passport is valid for the intended country of travel. (Some countries do not allow people in their country who have stamps in their passport from countries they don’t recognise. This can be a problem)
• Breaking or ending a home lease, or renting out your home
• Visa requirements – any vaccinations, documents, etc required in order to process your visa must all be in order
• Pets – if taking them, it can be a nightmare. This can take weeks, and lots of vet visits and documentation. Travel can also be stressful and involve risk, quarantines and delays or rejection. Triple check everything at both ends if taking a pet. Googling “expat pet” gives lots of hits on great information about exporting and importing pets to most countries
• Phone – forwarding calls, closing accounts, organising to keep your number dormant whilst away etc.
• Double and triple checking your contract before signing and making travel plans
• Utilities – electric, gas, internet, cable TV, hot water, etc
• Mail redirection, or cancelling of post office box
• Closing bank accounts, and or setting up facilities for internet / phone banking and international transfers
• Paying outstanding debts – and registering other debts and regular payments with your internet banking or automatic payments
• Quoting, pricing and booking removalists well before the travel date
• Finalising taxation matters and handing over / safekeeping any documents related to this and your finances
• Organising a permanent address to forward to in your new country if possible.
• Making a permanent record of important documents. These can be photocopied or scanned. High res scans are good – they can be kept securely online and accessed from anywhere and can include passports, qualifications, references, citizenship certificates, birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc. These can prove invaluable in case of loss – but keep your copies secure.
• Researching the host country. If you have time and motivation, a language course can be helpful. Pimsleur is OK to flip on in the car or the phone for a couple of lessons a day, and can give some basic skills. – Overall though, there is really no need to study too hard as the facts on the ground are usually far different to the results of your research. If it’s possible to hit the ground running with a good idea on the right clothing, good expectation of climate, access to your money, and a bit of knowledge on basic location and culture, then it’s all good!
• Excess baggage charges. This hits a lot of first timers in particular! You are normally allowed 20kg of luggage checked in, and you can often get away with carrying far too much “hand luggage” on board. Normally 30kg can be explained or waived without too much fuss, but anything over that, and you will have to pay. It’s REALLY expensive, so make sure you take only what you need, or only what you can afford. UNACCOMPANIED baggage saves up to 50% if you have to fly it, and want to save money. It may not be at the airport at the same time as you, however.
• Superannuation, trust funds, investments, insurances, wills etc all need updating or forwarding or arranging so they can be managed or handled from overseas.
• Credit cards – try to get one. The most convenient, widest accepted major bank with the least fees on transactions and the best help centre should do just fine. Or the lesser of the evils if in a country with expensive or inefficient banks. It does help to have a source of funds in an emergency though. Make sure you keep a bank account in the home country if it is secure and trustworthy also.

 

International Moves

 

Moving Abroad

 

Advice, comments, checklists and extras welcome the many expats within our own network. Feel free to add your comments to this section of the article at the bottom of the post

 

Culture shock

To a certain extent, this happens even moving from suburb to suburb, but for an overseas move there is less opportunity to escape the problem for a few hours or a few days.

Many things can affect your perception of being alone in a strange place, including different working conditions, a changed social structure, inability to communicate or deal with simple problems etc.

 

For those with work to get straight into, it is not such a problem.

People deal with stress and change in many ways. Some thrive on it, others throw themselves into their work, or regularly relax with a drink – some even develop a persona and a playboy or pimp lifestyle.

 

The ones who suffer more are families, kids, pets – who may not be reaping the same rewards from the move, and suddenly have to deal with their losses.

Also those who move overseas with expectations that the only change in their life will be within the workplace.

 

Also in groups of workers, the popular confident ones who lead the group often fare well compared to the others in the group more dependent on their social structures back home.

Food is also a factor – as well as music, media, movies.

Culture shock is not so sudden, and not so unexpected.

Learning more about what to expect is very important in knowing how to deal with it, and minimise the impact.

The phenomenon is quite well researched and goes a long way to helping you understand more about the changes you are going through, as well as ways of effectively making the transition.

 

A google or yahoo search on culture shock will keep you entertained, informed, horrified and excited for hours on end, and will provide some valuable upfront knowledge that WILL be of great use.

 

Cultural Services

 

Going Abroad

 

Culture Shock

 

Myths of Expat Life

 

Handling funds

 

This is a fairly critical area, and can be an issue of some concern if you need special documents to send money.

Every country has differing regulations and legislation on transferring money in and out of the country.

Be very familiar with the methods in place for transferring your money back home or to your destination of choice, and make sure you have a clear understanding of the costs and procedures involved. In one place I worked it was a monthly dilemma while the company took its time with visas.

Normally it consists of a quick trip to the money exchange with a passport copy and a branch and account number for my home bank.

 

But be SURE.

Major currency exchanges include Western Union and Thomas Cook, and these can be used to wire money to and from your home country, or any other country.

A quick search for “expat forum” and the country or city you are researching will yield results, and you can ask more questions, or find this info in the archives.

 

Packages and contracts

 

These days, money is King!

For expats of all types, this cannot be understated. Every company is doing everything it can to save on unnecessary expenditure, and whittle their operational costs. This phenomenon has especially affected HR, and salary packages – even back at home!
As a result, family packages and “full expat packages” are harder to come by, and the “usual inclusions” are being whittled down as costs increase in other areas.

Generally speaking, single packages are the most common, as there is less expense involved with visas, travel, and accommodation, schooling and medical.

This is not necessarily a bad thing, as unhappy children and bored partners are the main reason for non completion of contract, or unsuccessful hires.

The allure of an expat lifestyle and big money does often not live up to its initial promise, or the stresses that such a lifestyle places on families can result in marital break ups.

Think carefully before committing the family and make sure the decision is best for all, and well planned out.There IS often an option to move more thoroughly into a role after establishing yourself there – and opportunities may be available for a partner to work in their own right, providing much needed support system of their own income, friends, responsibilities and interests.

 

 
Alternatively, the company may consider providing a family package after a year or two of getting to know you, which for the 5 year move can be just perfect in terms of exposure to a new country, learning the language and making the most of a posting.

 

Especially if the position has “potential for advancement”

It may be worth discussing this option up front rather than dismissing an opportunity outright due to a single package only being on offer.

 

Many choose to work entirely on a single package so they can divert attention only into work, although this can lead to a very unbalanced life and unsatisfying existence also. Balance is important across all areas.

 

Contracts are also not “standard”.

Some popular countries with large expat workforces tend to offer all inclusive packages and/or tax free salaries.

Other countries offer only a salary, after which tax is deducted. Then all expenses are left up to you.

Again, research thoroughly as to what is usually included in the package, and what has to be paid by you. If the list is too long on the payment side, the cost of living high, and the salary low, then best to give it a miss, or bite the bullet for the length of the contract and get that piece of letterhead.

 

It really is very hard to change your mind once you are there, and realise that you are being underpaid or overworked.

 

A more important issue than the contents of a contract, is whether or not it is enforceable by law, by an expatriate, in the country of employment. Just how effective are the labour laws, and is there a problem with corruption or dislike of your nationality etc.

This is a bit of a laugh when told after the event, but not so much fun when having problems in a foreign country. It is quite possible that you can be left without funds or recourse in a foreign country, or otherwise inconvenienced or messed around.

Knowing this aspect of the culture and government is important and how to effectively handle the issues and problems as they arise.
Some places are VERY corrupt – and can be great to work in! By the same token, you have to know the right people and move in the right circles without making too many waves.

Many more countries have transparent laws and strong governments with solid judicial systems and labour regulations. Do the research here, as it can save a headache.

Also do not be afraid to research your employer, host country and other expat experiences in the same region or city.

Look for patterns, which will signify

 

Always research your market value and establish your take home pay.

This feature is coming soon to ProChef360.

ALWAYS research costs of living as well, and overestimate rather than underestimate any expenses you will likely incur.

Most Expensive Cities for Expats  

Living Abroad Advisor

 

Feel free to add your comments to this section of the article at the bottom of the post

 

Children can be the hardest hit by a move, missing friends, familiar foods, routines, TV, media and basic communication being suddenly out of their grasp.

Missing friends and familiar things is a biggie, and you need to occupy them straight up and get that honeymoon stage happening and minimise the upset and change in a manageable way.

 

The right school is really important, but that is not always the most expensive one, surprisingly. It is important to have a look at the school and see what they set out to achieve in terms of values, outcome and attitudes as well as educational style and curriculum.

Those should ideally match your own.

 

In many destinations, the local schools are great and of International standard. In a great deal more, you would be looking at using an actual International school, or a niche school with your home country’s culture, language, curriculum, religion or qualifications.

Unless you are lucky enough to be employed outright on a full expat family package, you will have to pay the fees yourself, upfront in cash. This is normally USD$ or Euros.

In my own experience, this has been from $4,000 a year (paid monthly) to $19,000 a year paid upfront, to $27,000 a year paid quarterly in advance.

 

It can be a LOT of money, and it is a big change and upheaval, so it is better to make sure it is a good fit, and either within budget, or unconditionally explained and accounted for in your contract.

The local school may be of a good standard in the country of employment, but could cause issues if moving onto a new country or back to the home country with a different curriculum or set of values.

Look at the big picture, and consider your needs and future movements to try and plan some consistency for your child. But definitely consider local schools, and look at all options available before committing, especially their attitude towards the kids.

If the change is too radical it can and will result in misery and regret. (This will happen anyway – but is definitely manageable and a bit of work upfront can minimise it)

 

It is often good to make the move first, to set up the accommodation, visit the school and become comfortable with the style of operation, and prepare more of a home environment and be a bit more knowledgeable yourself about getting around and places to go.

This way, they hit the ground with infrastructure in place for a smooth transition, and hopefully all visas arranged upfront.

 

You also have a fair idea what is going on by this point, so you are not bringing your loved ones into an inappropriate environment and fixing unexpected issues as they (undoubtedly do) arise.

 

International Schools Wiki

 

International School Listing

 

Council of International Schools

 

Feel free to add your comments to this section of the article at the bottom of the post

 

The law should be a primary consideration when moving to a new country.

Having said that, it is important to do your research as you will find some bizarre misconceptions about nations not closely related to your own.

Many ‘dangerous’ places are not that dangerous at all. Much of it comes from vivid imaginations, TV snippets, newsbytes, images of neighbouring countries and past history.

Look into expat websites, Wikipedia, social networks, Google images, Google groups and Yahoo groups, newsgroups and travel websites to get an overall feel for the place and start some local networking.

Chefs forums and networks also can provide some real information. Someone has normally been there and done it before, and has an opinion about it.

 

In a country where the law is adequately enforced by an honest police and judiciary, life has one less worry.

You have to know up front if the police will help you if necessary, or whether it is best to not even get them involved.

Some countries have less than perfect human rights records, out of control police, or rampant corruption. Certain nations are sticklers for every point of every law while their foreign counterparts are quite relaxed about issues that would result in imprisonment or death elsewhere.

 

It is so important to understand what you are getting yourself into, and what sort of help or obstruction to expect from Government, police, labour law and culture.

 

Definitely factor in safety and security before making the decision, as a contract is easy to sign at home, but hard to live with when getting frisked by corrupt police in a foreign country, or being assaulted in a lawless one.

Generally, moving to a safe area with good government and friendly people is a wise move, and allows you to get on with it.

Moving to a less safe area with imminent risk or lack of support causes a great deal of stress, and if problems do arise, a definite feeling of being out of control.

 

Often there are financial or other incentives to work in a less safe area or ‘hardship’ location, but consider your safety, and make sure the company and accommodation at least are of a suitable standard and well regarded by all who have gone before.

 

Most Dangerous Cities in the World

 

Corruption Perceptions Index

 

Forbes- The Most Corrupt Countries

 

Feel free to add your comments to this section of the article at the bottom of the post

 

Basic rights should not be taken for granted. For that matter, neither should a lack of them.

You may find yourself going to a country with values far more liberal and outrageous than your own, and find yourself needing to adapt.

Conversely you may find yourself in a situation where large tracts of your previous life are now illegal or immoral. This is all very relative, and differs widely from town to town as well as between nations, religions and cultures.

 

Be sure about basic local conditions and customs before you even get serious about negotiations.

Go prepared, with a real, well researched idea of what to expect.

Check to see if your country has consular representation, and get in touch with the local expat community if it exists.

You must definitely know what is out of bounds, and how seriously it is dealt with.
And also, if problems do occur, whether you have any rights at all.

The way things were done in your home country do not help much if things go pear shaped in a distant country with no assistance or support.

 

Don’t listen to horror stories too much, but do look for patterns, and check out local newspapers online, and google news searches too.

 

Blogs in or about the target country are also a source of news from the grassroots.

 

Feel free to add your comments to this section of the article at the bottom of the post

 

Shane is surviving on the busy streets of Bangkok, and looking forward to learning about and sharing your expat experiences with the network on www.prochef360.com  between now and next week.

 

Please Note- At the time of publication the above links were operational. I offer my sincere apologies in advance if you have trouble accessing the full story via the links provided.

 

Safe travelling,

 

Chef Shane – The Culinary Globe Trotter

 

Volume 1 Issue 1- Monday July 14th, 2008

Chef-a-Go-go Files

Volume 1 Issue 1- Monday July 14th, 2008

 

This is a continuation from the Chef Shane – The Culinary Globe Trotters’ feature article in the Chef-a-Go-go Newsletter.

 

Money money money!

 

All expat jobs PAY money – it’s just that some places are easier to move it around than others.

Fortunately, Dubai is well serviced with exchange centres and remittance depots. The biggest of these are Thomas Cook, Western Union and Al Ghurair.
You need a passport, and away you go.

The local currency is the UAE Dirham, which is pegged to the US dollar at a constant rate of 3.67 dirhams to the US dollar. Non constant rates, which seem to be sliding as the American dollar collapses, are 3.4 dirhams to the Australian Dollar, 11.7 Indian rupees to the dirham, and 7.2 dirham’s to the pound.

Chances are that you will be paid against the US dollar, or in Dirhams.
It is a source of sadness for those who have been there a few years, as the US dollar, and thus the dirham, has really fallen in value.

Some countries in the Middle East have already changed to, or are considering a change to the Euro as a currency to peg against, but the UAE has not moved in this direction.

Sending money home is as little as 10 dirhams per transfer to India, and up to 40 dirham’s to Western Nations.

Many nationalities live in Dubai, and it is a very tolerant and inclusive place.
Having said that, it is quite a discriminatory environment, with people definitely being paid and hired according to their passport.

Salaries are low for line staff and unqualified / semi qualified workers, average for middle management, and quite high for senior management.

Line staff – stewards, commis, and demi chefs

The labour force at the coalface consists predominantly of Indian, Pakistani, Filipino, Indonesian, South African and African – due to the low salaries on offer. (Starting at as little as 900 dirhams a month, and up to 2000 dirhams a month)
As India in particular strengthens its economy and the dollar falls, Dubai is becoming a less attractive proposition for Indian workers, with opportunities back home on the increase.

Dubai is hence looking at new sources of inexpensive labour with English skills and training.

It is a great place to have on the CV, but at line staff level, you won’t be financing your first genuine Rolex, or driving a Ferrari anytime soon.

It is a 6 day week, and there are not many fuzzy feel good western HR practices in place.

Career paths are not de rigeur, and many chefs at line staff level can end up feeling used or unappreciated. Having said that, with a progressive company, opportunities to exist for those that stand out, and choosing the right hotel to work at can be a positive step on the CV.

Middle management:

Most commonly South African, Indian, Filipino, you’d be looking at 2500dhs to 5000dhs a month for CDP to junior sous chef, and 5000dhs to 9000dhs for sous chef at a more senior level.

Here you will find fairly good opportunities to develop, and you can live reasonably comfortably.

There are some great properties here to work with, although the hours are long, and the expectations high at this level. There will be many challenges, but it is a good place to develop skills as a new people manager, and there are some great chefs and sous chefs to learn from.

Senior Management:

At the Exec Chef, Exec Sous, and F&B manager level, salaries are high, with excellent benefits.

Starting at 10,000 dirham’s, and up to 25,000 / 30,000 dirhams on average, you have many opportunities to enjoy “The Dubai lifestyle” or save a few pennies to send home or invest.

Naturally a 6 days week, and your challenges will include handling 100% expat teams from between 1-4 nationalities who live and work together.
This means intensifying your abilities to be a father/mother to your staff, as well as a teacher, diplomat, policeman and chef.

It is possible to send a lot of money home, although there are so many temptations in Dubai to coax your cash out of you that many people succumb to the extravagant expat lifestyle.

The rewards are excellent at senior management level, and the networking opportunities are great.

Again, sending money home is as simple as a trip to the Exchange, which is located everywhere around the emirate.

A total lack of culture shock

The first thing you will notice if you come from a city, is the lack of culture shock.
Those that come here expecting a country rich in Arabic heritage will be in for a surprise, as Dubai is a very international city, and most of it is brand spanking new.
Signs and documents are in English and Arabic.

Those who speak no Arabic at all actually get on easier than those who speak ONLY Arabic!

80% of the UAE population consists of expatriates, and if you were going to pick a language to go there with, you’d be best off with English or Hindi.
There is a hectic drinking culture, with a profusion of bars from dingy 3 star dives to plush 7 star palaces.

Alcohol is allowed only in hotel bars, (and one or two restaurants that fall within very specific guidelines) but within those bars, “no rules apply”

Drinking in bars is an expensive pastime, with a beer costing around 20-25 dirham’s average.

You can go to the bottle shop, but you need to get a license from the government in order to purchase. The requirements are quite intensive, so your employer can help with this.

Dress is free and open – wear what you want, but show some respect. Having said that, many people don’t.

There is an Arabic tinge to Dubai, but you could just as easily be standing in Singapore, the Gold Coast, or any other new metropolis.

Internet and media are high tech, and Dubai has several “cities” as free zones specifically for different sectors such as these.

Internet censorship does exist on the major internet provider, which annoys some, but proxy servers are available if you find necessary sites being blocked by the automated system.

The two national phone providers both have strong products, with excellent coverage and great call rates.

Don’t worry about having to adapt to the Arabic way of life. It is actively discouraged, unlike in Egypt and other ‘older’ Middle Eastern countries, and if you try and speak Arabic, the locals will more often than not reply in English.

If you are looking to immerse yourself in a rich Arabic cultural experience, Dubai is not the place to be.

But don’t worry – the Emirate of Sharjah is just 17km away, and provides all that and more.

Things to enjoy

Shisha - the “hubbly bubbly” water pipe with fruit scented tobacco. This is a favourite pastime for locals and expats to sit for an hour or two with a Moroccan tea or fresh juice and smoke. 7dhs to 50dhs, averaging around 25-30dhs in most nice places.

Not as healthy as a run around the block, but it is something that many Dubai residents enjoy, even if only from time to time.

The beaches – awesome palm fringed beaches with aquamarine seas and warm waters. They really are a pleasure and a great stress reliever after a hard week.
If you are lucky enough to work nights only, start the day with a swim.

The lack of crime – really, this is one of the safest cities you could live in. It becomes something you really appreciate while you are there, and something you miss a great deal when you leave.

The fresh fruit juices and the Arabic and Indian food. Inexpensive, great quality, and plentiful.

The world’s best DJ’s. Not my thing personally, but Dubai is a hotspot for international acts, drawing the world’s top DJ’s on a regular basis. You’ll see the top names from around the globe performing weekly.

Cost of living - Yes, it sounds bizarre in such an expensive city, but most packages are inclusive of accom and transport, so unless you drink a lot or eat at upmarket restaurants, you can live quite inexpensively.

The shopping – this is a big drawcard for people around the world. Dubai is tax free and competitive. If you can buy it, it is here. And it is less expensive than almost anywhere else.

Gold is cheaper here than almost anywhere if you want to invest in something stable, clothes, designer goods, electronics, cars, games, souvenirs, duty free – all at bargain basement prices for top quality goods. Lots of knock offs too, if that is your thing.

The Architecture – The most amazing structures in the world are springing up all around you, and it is like an interactive experience in what is possible.
Here you will find the world’s biggest shopping malls, the worlds 2 tallest buildings, the world’s most ambitious and innovative reclaimed land developments (in the shape of palm trees and world maps).

Also huge manmade creeks and manmade waterfront developments, the world’s first totally green city, the world’s first 7 star hotel, the world’s first underwater hotel, and a plethora of other incredible, massive developments, including “Dubailand” a project covering 3 billion square feet, and twice the size of Walt Disney world.

The location – very central to Europe Africa, Russia and Asia, Dubai is a perfect place to explore a few other parts of the globe, and travel is a massive industry, with some well priced fares and packages to take advantage of.

The safety – It really is a very safe place to live, with very little crime, and very little theft.

It is the type of place where people leave their laptop on the table in cafes and restaurants while they go to the toilet, and their wallet and phone on the table as they eat.

In this day and age, it is a rare occurrence, and one of the most appreciated things about experiencing Dubai.

Rip offs at the local level are quite rare, and most people are honest and helpful.

Things to take care about

Your Package

Staff up to CDP and restaurant supervisor will share a room with one or more people, and managers, sous chefs and exec chefs should get their own room, and in many cases their own apartment.

Make sure accommodation IS included, and check all aspects of exactly what accommodation to expect so there are no surprises when you arrive.
This is one of the most common sources of discontent.

If accommodation is NOT included, think twice about moving to Dubai, as accommodation is extremely expensive, and a hassle to find.

Many companies save money by locating accommodation in Abu Dhabi emirate, distant parts of Dubai, or often the emirate of Sharjah which is less expensive.
Traffic congestion is a real issue, and if you end up living in certain areas you can travel between 1-2 hours each way, which adds a lot of time to your work day, and impacts your sleep and leisure activities.

With entitlements and contract length – be sure!

If you are not happy now, you will be less happy 12 months from now.
Contracts are almost impossible to break, and have financial penalties.
You will find yourself unable to work again in UAE if you abscond (break contract and run), and if you try to terminate the contract half way through, or accept a better opportunity elsewhere, it can be quite expensive, and reflect poorly on you.

Take into account all living expenses, including your lifestyle, and ensure that your package allows you the benefits you expect. Once you are there, it is too late to change jobs.

Most packages include accom, airfare, visa, transport, uniforms. For senior staff, officer’s check or meals included. Triple check your accommodation and benefits.

Holidays usually paid 4 weeks a year, with return airfare to point of hire.
For line staff to CDP this is once every 2 years. For senior staff, holidays are annually.

Ramadan

A month long event on the Islamic calendar, Ramadan will almost definitely be explained to expatriates.

Basically, no smoking, eating, drinking during daylight hours for Muslims, and for non Muslims, you are required to show some respect and refrain from such activities in public.

Some restaurants operate for lunch, but definitely no smoking, drinking, swearing etc in public.

Nightclubs do not play loud music for this month – but background music is OK.
Hotels have lavish “Ramadan tents” that come alive at sunset and stay open well into the night – often until 4am.

All restaurants offer an “Iftar” buffet for breaking the fast, and traffic tends to be a little more dangerous than usual as people rush home to be with their families and eat at sunset.

Take extra care to make yourself aware of what to do, and what not to do during this period.

The Traffic

It’s fast, undisciplined and arrogant. Accidents at high speed are a fact of life, as are traffic queue jumpers, tailgaters and drink drivers. Take care on the roads, and don’t hog the fast lane.

Dubai’s many 6 lane highways are the cause of much frustration, so try and locate yourself so you do not need to travel too far, or drive through too many “Salik” automated toll gates at 4dhs each time.

Petrol and cars are inexpensive, but taxi fares add up quickly, and public transport is not very well developed.

A new fast metro train is due to open soon, so this would be a good option to live near if moving to Dubai from now into the future.

The Summer

Is it hot enough for you? The mercury hits 49 degrees Celsius (120 Fahrenheit).

I thought I was macho enough to tough it out, but at that temperature, more than a few minutes leaves you with a throbbing head and some palpitations.
Go to the beach? Well you may find the water is hot, and the sand will burn your feet.
July and August are definitely the two months you will hear a LOT about from the other expats, and a time that most people choose to stay indoors.

Fortunately there are a lot of great malls, cinemas, hotels etc to hang out in for those two months, and most accommodation is equipped for the climate.
Rainfall is virtually zero for most of the year – a few days here and there between January and March.

The climate is definitely something to be enjoyed in Dubai, but the same cannot be said of the 2 infamous “summer months”

That’s a quick wrap of the ins and outs of life in Dubai.

There is of course a lot more to know, and if you want to know more, post questions, opinions or responses on the ProChef360 blog.

Chef Shane – The Culinary Globe Trotter

Please Note- Keep an eye for the weekly edition of this newsletter- you can subscribe by sending an email to matthew@prochef360.com