What2do4crew interviews Sarah Barton
How long were you with Emirates airlines as cabin crew?
I joined E.K in 1991 as a grade 2, Ended my career in 2007 as a purser & part time security trainer.
What are your best memories during your time with the airline?
I made some of my closest friends during my AB training, Friends that only became closer during our 16 years together in Dubai. These friends I know I will have forever. For that friendship i thank E.K, our paths would not have crossed if it wasn't for all joining the company together.
I have met many varied and interesting pax/crew during my 16 years with E.K... I always found it amazing how in 3 or 4 days on a layover you ate, slept (obviously i mean CRC rest), partied, laughed and sometimes cried with people you didn't know before the trip. Then you land back in Dubai and maybe never see those same people again. The job is certainly not mundane or predictable in any way and that is what i liked... every day was different !!!
What are your worst memories during your time flying?
I will never forget the first time i flew to Dhaka.. The poverty there was one I had never experienced before. I did the flight with a batch mate of mine and we had been pre warned about the shocking conditions and living standards, knowing this we thought we would take a few basic ammenities for the local children. When we arrived in Dhaka and boarded the crew bus we witnessed all these children begging at the window so we decided to wait no longer, we opened the window and passed the plastic bag of basic goodies out to the nearest child... All the kids then started to fight over the items, then the security started beating the children with wooden sicks !!!! It was so very disturbing to witness such cruelty and what made the issue more difficult to come to terms with was the fact we had actually instigated the beating.
I also have memories of having to go to bed at 6 in the evening when my friends were on their way out to party.... Getting up to go to work at 3 in the morning wasn't always a joy.
What influenced your decision to start up your own business?
Realising how adventagous the skills i had aquired in my years of flying, i started to think that my dream of one day owning and managing my own guest house could become reality !.... My husband is the one that is experienced to manage it financially, book keeping etc, where as i want to be very hands on with the guests and the staff.
The lodge we have bought is in the Cape Town winelands of South Africa, It is a stunning location, one that encourages relaxation. Although only a 20 minute drive away from the V & A waterfront it is also ideal for tourists that want to be in the thick of Cape life.. The famous beaches of Hout Bay are litterally 10 minutes away and of course we are in the heart of the Constantia Wine estates.. What more could you want ?
Tell us more about your lodge?
We have 7 En suite rooms, Serve a wonderful continental and full English Breakfast and will arrange tours to local attractions on request. Obviously Air crew discount is applicable (15%)
Were your experiences as a cabin crew member an asset to the success of your business?
Absolutely... more than 16 years experience in total of being in the service industry, i would like to think i have a vague understanding in regards to what people appreciate, dislike, expect or just tolerate. I believe exceeding expectations and maintaing the set standard will results in repeat business hence success.
Looking back would you change anything in regards to the time you spent in Emirates?
Absolutely not !!! After all , finnishing 15 years gives me tickets for LIFE..
Any traveling advice to beat jet lag?
Non what so ever...... Some say to stay in the time Zone you originate. That would mean sleeping through the day in New York, sorry, the retail therapy overcame the Jet lag...
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Very settled in my new S.A life style. I am a person that if i love doing what i am doing and am happy then it dont need changing... so hopefully i will still be extremely happy in the lodge for at least another 10 years.
When you travel as a passenger would you ever use the attendant call button?
Constantly !!!! Unless of course i was flying with Emirates..
Tell us your funnest story about your flying experience?
Embarrasing to admit but my favourite chick flick of all times is Dirty Dancing (sad but true) so when Patrick Swayzee boarded my flight many years ago i was totally in ore... He was fab, all the crew were all over him, he was really game for a laugh and we had great fun all the way to our destination... ( still have the photo ).
Any advice for anybody wishing to become a flight attendant?
Do it Do it Do it !!!!!!
What was your favourite destination and why?
I always loved BKK, It opened my eyes to many things (slightly nieve before i went there) The sights, Nightlife, shopping, food, are all second to non. The crew tend to socialise more in certain destinations and I always found BKK very much a get together and party lay over!!
What is your favourite restaurant in Dubai.
Without a doubt... Spectrum on one at the Fairmont Hotel. I love the lay out of the restaurant, it's fab to see master chef's at work, i think the concept of watching your food being prepared is great. I also love the varied menu, the service is amazing and the politeness
Many thanks from what2do4crew and the very best success for your future.....