+1 I use it to on all of my devices for sharing 1 folder, just set one as introducer, and keep adding nodes (e.g. phone, Work mini, laptops, PC, …) Once you have that set, start adding folders as needed for specific cases (e.g. a folder shared among all mentioned except for Work mini.)
As other comments mentioned, Push Notifications, your main issue has workarounds. So, the answer would be Yes.
BUT Google Play Services is much more than that. This dependency can’t be worked around really and it’s one more way that Google establishes his stance in this oligopoly. I’m certain Apple has something similar if not more aggressive. This is the reason why the year of the Linux Phone is so far away.
Personally, I think Linux Phones will catch-up when their hardware allows for emulation of an android subsystem where we could sideload (illegally?) Google Play Services…
Arriving to Galapagos islands, in just 2-3 blocks that we walked we got to see so much life! Not the giant tortoises though. But lizards, birds, and even some underwater sea life. A local fishermen was emptying his net, taking out some giant lobsters. It was the first time I saw these animals, apparently the usual are rather small in comparison and taste better, but in the ocean they can grow A LOT. These were easily the size of a shepherd’s dog…
PS. Same trip, another experience(s) were snorkeling or diving :) if you love nature, I recommend going there…