Well, the work week is finished and my vacation officially begins. But, I have to say, working in Kiev for a week didn't feel much like work. Everything was new and interesting. A very cool experience - that I was paid to have (don't tell Bob, the CEO).
The office itself is situated on a hill, and has amazing views from both sides. The mini-office (on the 17th of 20 floors) - that I'm actually working in has an incredible view - unfortunately it is behind me, so my view is the ping-pong table. Serge, has the best view.
The journey to work is neat. It takes about 45 minutes to get here. A 15-minute walk to the subway, a 15-minute ride on it and then a 15-minute bus ride to the office. The bus is provided by the company that Anya is contracted through - and is more like what we (Americans) would call a shuttle service. It takes a little longer to get to the office over here, but I prefer the experience. I like walking to the subway and riding it. If you need anything on the way (including a beer) there are stores and kiosks - and the same goes for the way home (obviously). Not having to drive is a nice change of pace. If I visited in the winter - I'd maybe have a different opinion - but, I think it would be easy enough to get used to. The time spent outside is only 1/3 of the total trip. (And not having to drive in the snow - or scrape the ice off your windows - almost makes up for it.)
The inside of the office is much cooler/casual than I am used to. I'd call it an "IKEA Office" - as it looks like all the furniture was bought there. The people here a much younger than any of the 3 office buildings I've worked in previously.The 19th floor has a gaming station. There was a PS3, XBOX 360 and a Wii. Not too shabby. Didn't have a chance to play, but I'm confident the people here make sure it is utilized to the full extent of the law.
So, all and all, a pretty pleasant experience working in Kiev. I have no complaints. Good view, good food, good people and a great experience. Scroll down for a few more pics.Anya and Olya in the break room (Both work on the same QA team as I do)
Anya and I on the balcony
Anya and I on the balcony
17th Floor Lobby
Hallway (at the far end is the break room - my mini-office is about halfway on the left)
Catching up in Kiev's latest at the 19th Floor Lobby
The view behind me. (Overcast today - much more beautiful than it looks.)
And of course, some Table Tennis (2-2 on the day):
And of course, some Table Tennis (2-2 on the day):
Off to Crimea... talk to you later.
