Algiers - Post Report Question and Answers
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This post is not easy but I'd do it all again if I could spend more time with the people I've gotten to know and love here. - Aug 2021
This is a great Embassy that does interesting work. The community is tight. The weather is perfect. I've really liked this post and encourage others to consider it. - Apr 2021
The political and economic issues here are fascinating. Algeria since Independence has created it's own unique way of operating that can seem opaque and bizarre to outsiders (and even other Algerians). If you think you understand something here it probably means you don't. Unfortunately, in my opinion, it has been a monumentally frustrating place to work, and I wouldn't want to repeat it. - Sep 2019
The LES (FSN) run the Embassy; if they want something, they demand or say they will quit or write a petition and they get it. As an American you and your bags will get screened before entering. Why? Because the LES said it is not fair that they get screened and Americans don't. The list goes on. No matter what section you work in be prepared to be micro managed. - Oct 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Algeria. The people are fantastic and wouldn't let us pay for anything. - Sep 2008
I loved Algiers and Algerians for the complexity of their history, their sense of pride, their friendship and loyalty, and for the hidden beauty of the whole country. - May 2008
If you have children don't expect the internal leadership at the Embassy to go out of their way to accommodate the needs of your family while you are here. You will need to be prepared to go it alone or be prepared to put up a good fight for change. Also, keep an emergency suitcase packed with whatever your family will need for 24 hours. We had to evacuate our house for a night after the December 11 bombings. The bomb was 400 meters from our house. - Mar 2008
Be aware that Algeria and Algiers can be a very volatile place. The people are lovely (if gruff), especially with kids, and the country is beautiful, especially the countryside. The Government is opaque and aging rapidly, so no one really knows what the next few years will bring with all the variables: ailing president, terrorism, unemployment...So it's hard to say if this post will have to once again shut down, or if it will be able to make further normalization attempts. - Feb 2008
