Sorry for the lack of posts over the past few days.
The last few days have been a real period of reflection for me – perhaps encouraging me to really think about the my future more than I have for several years.
I’ve said it before on the blog, and I’ll say it again – I love San Francisco. I’d move here tomorrow if it was that easy.
It’s the best American city I know of, it’s vibrant, laid back and slightly European. Having a coffee or a crepe in one of the many coffee shops and restaurants in the Haight/Ashbury district of town is just a wonderful experience. I also like the downtown area – it’s American brashness like every other downtown area, but it’s contained.
And of course, there is the pioneering tech industry – and with that the geek culture that goes with it.
There seem to be many job opportunities here too. Well, maybe I should say life opportunities because when you work in the niche area that I do, your job is part of your lifestyle. And hopefully the opportunity to make a bigger impact than just the pay check you cash up at the bank every month.
But there are many risks and issues at play. Coming out here to do consultancy doesn’t guarantee a steady income – and it’s arguable that with my skills and experience, I could actually earn more in London than I could here (although one has to earn more in London than here to live comfortably).
I also have a relationship to think about. My partner has little to gain from moving to SF – she doesn’t work in the tech industry and arguably London is for her job market what SF is for mine.
There’s also visa issues to think about – which just leaves me feeling cold. Maybe I shouldn’t say this whilst I am in the country but the whole US Visa issue just seems to be a “subtle hint” to say “f**k off, US doesn’t want you. Or your potential tax dollars”.
(I’ve just deleted a large portion of this post. For the time being I’m going to keep the rest of my thoughts personal until I have had an opportunity to discuss them first in person with Sofia and my family)
I went out to SF a couple of years ago, and fell for the place. However its not going anywhere, so decided to carry on here with the things that are important around me, and then contemplate it later. Perhaps when I move back to more IT then broadcasting, you might see me out there!
Don’t even get me started about the sheer bureaucracy and bulls*t i realised about the whole process while seeking advice on applications.
Might be diff for you with your Canadoodle passport, eh?
On hearing all the red tape and stuff about Visas, I was really quite angry – we’re supposed to be allies. We want to help then make money.
Most bizarre and irritating.
See you at Gnomedex!
I like your candidness:) here’s hoping that you will someday settle in good ol’ San Francisco.