I went on this boat years ago and had a great time. The food was excellent and it was really relaxing. Glad to see the Radisson is still doing it.
Monday, November 09, 2009
Stupid Rescue
3 Airlifted From Failaka
Arab Times, November 9, 2009
“Air Force helicopter conveyed three Kuwaiti citizens aged 35, 31 and four years old respectively to Adan Hospital after they suffered psychological trauma during a tour of the Failaka Island.
Security sources confirmed the family had visited Failaka Island for leisure when the four-year old child experienced psychological distress and cried continuously without a reason, resulting in the mother and sister breaking down to tears as well.
Sources added security on the ground reported the situation, while an Air Force helicopter arrived at the island to carry the victims to Al-Adan Hospital. One Kuwaiti woman was reported to have become dizzy and fallen from a height on the island, as the child was crying incessantly.”
First of all, what kind of F-ed up “journalism” is this??? It has no flow, and it doesn’t make sense. The third paragraph could have been written into the first paragraph and then it might have been easier to understand; yet another reason why it is best to pay editors more than KD250 per month. I submit articles to the AT and they never even bother to call me back or respond: Everything happens for a reason.
Next, I think everyone involved should be psychiatrically evaluated. They actually used an air force helicopter for crying tantrums? OMG. I want to slap this family and I don’t even know them. WAAAAAAAAAAAA. The four year old probably had a tooth ache or just wanted to go home. Women – if you can’t handle having children, DON’T HAVE THEM! (Whee! Ma endich khadamaaaaa?)
I’m in no mood for a pity party today. What a bunch of whiners.
In the States, the Government would charge them for the rescue. I think they should do it here too.
Arab Times, November 9, 2009
“Air Force helicopter conveyed three Kuwaiti citizens aged 35, 31 and four years old respectively to Adan Hospital after they suffered psychological trauma during a tour of the Failaka Island.
Security sources confirmed the family had visited Failaka Island for leisure when the four-year old child experienced psychological distress and cried continuously without a reason, resulting in the mother and sister breaking down to tears as well.
Sources added security on the ground reported the situation, while an Air Force helicopter arrived at the island to carry the victims to Al-Adan Hospital. One Kuwaiti woman was reported to have become dizzy and fallen from a height on the island, as the child was crying incessantly.”
First of all, what kind of F-ed up “journalism” is this??? It has no flow, and it doesn’t make sense. The third paragraph could have been written into the first paragraph and then it might have been easier to understand; yet another reason why it is best to pay editors more than KD250 per month. I submit articles to the AT and they never even bother to call me back or respond: Everything happens for a reason.
Next, I think everyone involved should be psychiatrically evaluated. They actually used an air force helicopter for crying tantrums? OMG. I want to slap this family and I don’t even know them. WAAAAAAAAAAAA. The four year old probably had a tooth ache or just wanted to go home. Women – if you can’t handle having children, DON’T HAVE THEM! (Whee! Ma endich khadamaaaaa?)
I’m in no mood for a pity party today. What a bunch of whiners.
In the States, the Government would charge them for the rescue. I think they should do it here too.
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
Just say NO to drugs
A mind is a terrible thing to waste....
Attention foreigners! Don't light up in Kuwait.
Here is another example of why it is a really really really bad idea to do drugs in the Middle East. Are these people too young to have ever heard of Midnight Express?
For another thing, foreigners!, you don't HAVE to look at the camera when the guys who have busted you are taking your photo. It isn't like you are Lindsay Lohan or something. You can look at the floor, turn your face away, cover your face.
I feel so bad for this girl. She is going to be like a roaster chicken at a wolf convention in jail here. Get ya a good lawyer, girlfriend!
Attention foreigners! Don't light up in Kuwait.
Here is another example of why it is a really really really bad idea to do drugs in the Middle East. Are these people too young to have ever heard of Midnight Express?
For another thing, foreigners!, you don't HAVE to look at the camera when the guys who have busted you are taking your photo. It isn't like you are Lindsay Lohan or something. You can look at the floor, turn your face away, cover your face.
I feel so bad for this girl. She is going to be like a roaster chicken at a wolf convention in jail here. Get ya a good lawyer, girlfriend!
Tuesday, November 03, 2009
Bitchology
Someone sent me this....
BITCHOLOGY
When I stand up for
myself and my beliefs,
they call me a
bitch.
When I stand up for
those I love,
they call me a
bitch.
When I speak my mind, think my own thoughts
or do things my own way, they call me a
bitch.
Being a bitch
means I won't
compromise what's
in my heart.
It means I live my life MY way.
It means I won't allow anyone to step on me.
When I refuse to
tolerate injustice and
speak against it, I am
defined as a
bitch.
The same thing happens when I take time for
myself instead of being everyone's maid, or when I act a little selfish.
It means I have the courage and strength to allow myself to be who I truly am and won't become anyone else's idea of what they think I 'should' be.
I am outspoken, opinionated and determined. I want what I want and there is nothing wrong with that! So try to stomp on me, just try to douse my inner flame, try to squash every ounce of beauty I hold within me. You won't succeed.
And if that makes me a bitch, so be it. I embrace the title and am proud to bear it.
*** end ***
- a nit-picking ultra-feminist woman's libber....
Disclaimer:
This is NOT to be associated with the Middle Eastern version of "bitch" meaning whore or slut, but the Western version meaning bossing.
BITCHOLOGY
When I stand up for
myself and my beliefs,
they call me a
bitch.
When I stand up for
those I love,
they call me a
bitch.
When I speak my mind, think my own thoughts
or do things my own way, they call me a
bitch.
Being a bitch
means I won't
compromise what's
in my heart.
It means I live my life MY way.
It means I won't allow anyone to step on me.
When I refuse to
tolerate injustice and
speak against it, I am
defined as a
bitch.
The same thing happens when I take time for
myself instead of being everyone's maid, or when I act a little selfish.
It means I have the courage and strength to allow myself to be who I truly am and won't become anyone else's idea of what they think I 'should' be.
I am outspoken, opinionated and determined. I want what I want and there is nothing wrong with that! So try to stomp on me, just try to douse my inner flame, try to squash every ounce of beauty I hold within me. You won't succeed.
And if that makes me a bitch, so be it. I embrace the title and am proud to bear it.
*** end ***
- a nit-picking ultra-feminist woman's libber....
Disclaimer:
This is NOT to be associated with the Middle Eastern version of "bitch" meaning whore or slut, but the Western version meaning bossing.
Name that vine!
Does anyone have an idea what the name of this vine is? It is growing on (covering!) a fence in Rumaithiya. I took a few clippings, put them in water, and they are growing like monsters. I love it, but I just have no idea what it is. Help?
(There is bamboo in the same vase - the vine with the flower in the foreground is what I am trying to identify).
Kuwait's Job Market
I wrote this article a while back and it has been published in several places. Thought it was about time to share with my blog buds...
The job market in the US is relatively easy. Even if you don’t have a full-time job, you can always find something part time or on a temporary basis. I knew the rules of the game and how to play them. Send out a few resumes and you would at the very least get an acknowledgement card, if not a phone call or interview. If you signed on with several temporary or contract agencies, you could even bid yourself against them to negotiate a higher hourly rate.
On my first visit to Kuwait as a tourist in 1993, I knew nothing about Kuwait’s job market. I thought that if I liked Kuwait enough, I might try to find a job there. I had no idea how to go about it – and at the time, there wasn’t much on the internet about Kuwait. E-mail hadn’t really come into full-swing in Kuwait (or the US for that matter) yet. So, I did it the “old-fashioned way”, armed with my strong belief in the law of averages: I copied 300 resumes and cover letters, and stuffed them into 300 individually-labeled, stamped, and sealed envelopes and sent them all airmail to potential employers in Kuwait. I also sent same to all the ministers at all the ministries, hoping to get something. I mentioned the dates that I would be available in Kuwait for interviews. Out of the 300 resumes I sent, I received 50 responses. Out of the 50 responses, I had five solid interviews when I came to Kuwait.
The most interesting-sounding entailed work with a holding company which included a travel agency, car rental agency, and a hip restaurant housed in one building. I had four hour-long interviews with the company; lots of tea, lots of smiles, lots of small talk; nothing definitive. At the end of the interview process, I finally was able to meet the General Manager, who made me an offer of a whopping KD 150 per month with no further benefits. I explained that my housekeeper in the States makes more than that and left his office feeling deflated and frustrated for having wasted so much of my time.
I had received several intriguing calls from the office of an Assistant Undersecretary at the Ministry of Justice, asking me to stop by and see the gentleman, Mr. Jamal Al-Shehab, when I arrived in Kuwait. One of my letters to one of the ministers had fallen on his desk and he literally took it as a personal mission to help me. He sent me on several interviews with his friends, and an offer was made to me by an IT company; which is how I eventually came to live in Kuwait. Ironically, Mr. Al-Shehab is the former Minister of Social Affairs, Labor and Justice. At first, I thought, ‘Nothing is for free’ and wondered if there was some ulterior motive for helping me, but sometimes in Kuwait, I have found that it is just the way it goes. Like everywhere else, there are sometimes random acts of kindness; and timing and luck (and good marketing skills) are everything.
Kuwait has made big strides in the job market; although it may not appear that way to people coming from Western countries. At least now, there are reputable recruitment agencies and websites for job-seekers. Print media has a lot to catch up on with only ¾ page of job ads in English dailies – if you are lucky – compared to 20+ pages in any papers employment section in any major American city. Still, compared to the few-and-far-between ads in the early 90’s, it is currently a much better situation.
How can you determine what type of compensation you can expect in the local market? First, talk to people and ask their opinions. Salary surveys are extremely hard to come by in Kuwait and are generally expensive for purchase. Bayt.com, in my opinion, has the best readily-available statistical information on human resources in the area (which is a blessing as there is an obvious lack of any statistical information in the region). Bayt posts their reports directly on their website.
A common concern in Kuwait is the question of job security: in my opinion, it is a common problem in the US, but even more of a problem here; especially for expats. Bayt.com’s 2007 Human Resource Overview: Salaries, Cost of Living and Loyalty: “The average length of time holding a job in the polled countries ranged from 4.7 years in the UAE to 5.8 years in Kuwait and Bahrain. In the past 5 years most people have changed jobs at least once with the average number of jobs held in the past 5 years ranging from 2 in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain to 2.3 in Kuwait and 2.4 in Qatar.” Be prepared to change jobs and always have a back-up plan: network and discuss consulting opportunities. A note of warning: If you have a credit card which is secured to your salary account and you suddenly don’t have an incoming salary anymore, local banks can withdraw the full balance owed on your credit card from your salary account. Meaning, you may not have cash readily available if you suddenly lose your job. Obviously, if you lose your job, you will be disheartened, depressed and weary. The easiest remedy is to hop on a plane to your home country and lick your wounds (maybe even find a temp job for a while). However, if you enjoy living in Kuwait, seize the opportunity and start pounding the pavement. Don’t limit your opportunities to just Western companies – scour the market.
Monster.com and Bayt.com are probably the recruitment sites with the most listings of jobs in Kuwait. Recruiters such as MRI and Clarendon Parker can also be called upon as resources by job seekers, but ultimately self-marketing is the key. When friends ask me about finding a job in Kuwait, I immediately recommend two books (available in local book and office supply stores): The Kuwait Pocket Guide and the Kuwait Top List. Both guides list e-mail addresses; the Kuwait Top List goes further and lists company contacts, business sectors, working hours, and number of employees. I recommend that job seekers “blanket the market” with resumes: send resumes and cover letters to as many e-mail addresses as they can possibly gather. Perceive finding a job as a new job and go about it with the same amount of enthusiasm, creativity, and driven determination that one would in any posting. Someone always knows someone who needs someone in Kuwait. There is an obvious problem with confidentiality, but if you are desperate to find a job, e-mail shots will help you gain interviews – and at least a foot in the door to potential employers. There are no temporary agencies in Kuwait, but sometimes you can negotiate consultancy work or part-time work if you are cleaver about it.
I have had several jobs since 1996, when I finally started working here full-time. I lost my first job with the IT company with a major management restructuring. They couldn’t disclose the restructure at the time and I couldn’t understand why I was losing my job. The management wasn’t exactly kind in their explanation: choosing not to provide a reason. Alone without family in Kuwait, I stayed locked in a fetal position in tears for several days before my big job hunt started again. For nearly eight months, I worked at various jobs until I found something permanent. I tried to target companies that I thought could use my skills (which is what we obviously all try to do), but I also met with companies that I thought could use a westerner in particular (working for law firms and even doing voice-overs at KTV).
As a job seeker, don’t give up. There is always a long delay to get a job here. The concept of time is different than it is in the Western world. In the Middle East, emphasis is more “in the here and now” in relation to time seemingly rather than related to definitive time-related goals and deadlines. One of the most common words in the Middle East is, “Inshallah” (God willing). Time and goals are connected to spiritual belief that it will happen by God’s will, with a distinct lack of urgency on when. I have seen many western friends get frustrated by the lack of understanding of this concept when living/working in the Middle East. It has equal application when it comes to the time it takes to get a job and starting work.
Recruiters and Employment Sites for Kuwait (send me your link if you want it posted)
http://www.bayt.com/
http://www.monster.com/
http://www.wazeefa1.com/index.php
http://www.mri-kuwait.com/
http://www.axis-solutions.net/
http://www.globalcareersearch.com/
http://www.sosrecruitment.net/
http://www.prolinks-kw.com/
http://www.clarendonparker.com/
http://allarabia.com/
http://www.gulfjobsites.com/jobs/Kuwait/Recruitment_Agents/
http://www.adnargroup.com/
http://www.gulfconnexions.com/
mriww@mri-kuwait.com
http://www.krbonline.com
jobs@axis-solutions.net
anton@globalcareersearch.com
ceo@gec-web.com
http://www.prolinks-kw.com/
Learn4Good
http://www.naukrigulf.com/
http://www.indeed.com/
US Companies in Kuwait:
SAIC (select “Kuwait” from country list)
US4 (Northrop Grumman, KBR, Chenega partnership for KBOS3): http://www.us4kuwait.com/
Dyncorp: http://www.dyncorprecruiting.com/
Jacobs Engineering
ITT
Agility Logistics (really a Kuwaiti-owned company that hires lots of westerners)
MPRI
List of Recruiters in Kuwait
The job market in the US is relatively easy. Even if you don’t have a full-time job, you can always find something part time or on a temporary basis. I knew the rules of the game and how to play them. Send out a few resumes and you would at the very least get an acknowledgement card, if not a phone call or interview. If you signed on with several temporary or contract agencies, you could even bid yourself against them to negotiate a higher hourly rate.
On my first visit to Kuwait as a tourist in 1993, I knew nothing about Kuwait’s job market. I thought that if I liked Kuwait enough, I might try to find a job there. I had no idea how to go about it – and at the time, there wasn’t much on the internet about Kuwait. E-mail hadn’t really come into full-swing in Kuwait (or the US for that matter) yet. So, I did it the “old-fashioned way”, armed with my strong belief in the law of averages: I copied 300 resumes and cover letters, and stuffed them into 300 individually-labeled, stamped, and sealed envelopes and sent them all airmail to potential employers in Kuwait. I also sent same to all the ministers at all the ministries, hoping to get something. I mentioned the dates that I would be available in Kuwait for interviews. Out of the 300 resumes I sent, I received 50 responses. Out of the 50 responses, I had five solid interviews when I came to Kuwait.
The most interesting-sounding entailed work with a holding company which included a travel agency, car rental agency, and a hip restaurant housed in one building. I had four hour-long interviews with the company; lots of tea, lots of smiles, lots of small talk; nothing definitive. At the end of the interview process, I finally was able to meet the General Manager, who made me an offer of a whopping KD 150 per month with no further benefits. I explained that my housekeeper in the States makes more than that and left his office feeling deflated and frustrated for having wasted so much of my time.
I had received several intriguing calls from the office of an Assistant Undersecretary at the Ministry of Justice, asking me to stop by and see the gentleman, Mr. Jamal Al-Shehab, when I arrived in Kuwait. One of my letters to one of the ministers had fallen on his desk and he literally took it as a personal mission to help me. He sent me on several interviews with his friends, and an offer was made to me by an IT company; which is how I eventually came to live in Kuwait. Ironically, Mr. Al-Shehab is the former Minister of Social Affairs, Labor and Justice. At first, I thought, ‘Nothing is for free’ and wondered if there was some ulterior motive for helping me, but sometimes in Kuwait, I have found that it is just the way it goes. Like everywhere else, there are sometimes random acts of kindness; and timing and luck (and good marketing skills) are everything.
Kuwait has made big strides in the job market; although it may not appear that way to people coming from Western countries. At least now, there are reputable recruitment agencies and websites for job-seekers. Print media has a lot to catch up on with only ¾ page of job ads in English dailies – if you are lucky – compared to 20+ pages in any papers employment section in any major American city. Still, compared to the few-and-far-between ads in the early 90’s, it is currently a much better situation.
How can you determine what type of compensation you can expect in the local market? First, talk to people and ask their opinions. Salary surveys are extremely hard to come by in Kuwait and are generally expensive for purchase. Bayt.com, in my opinion, has the best readily-available statistical information on human resources in the area (which is a blessing as there is an obvious lack of any statistical information in the region). Bayt posts their reports directly on their website.
A common concern in Kuwait is the question of job security: in my opinion, it is a common problem in the US, but even more of a problem here; especially for expats. Bayt.com’s 2007 Human Resource Overview: Salaries, Cost of Living and Loyalty: “The average length of time holding a job in the polled countries ranged from 4.7 years in the UAE to 5.8 years in Kuwait and Bahrain. In the past 5 years most people have changed jobs at least once with the average number of jobs held in the past 5 years ranging from 2 in Saudi Arabia and Bahrain to 2.3 in Kuwait and 2.4 in Qatar.” Be prepared to change jobs and always have a back-up plan: network and discuss consulting opportunities. A note of warning: If you have a credit card which is secured to your salary account and you suddenly don’t have an incoming salary anymore, local banks can withdraw the full balance owed on your credit card from your salary account. Meaning, you may not have cash readily available if you suddenly lose your job. Obviously, if you lose your job, you will be disheartened, depressed and weary. The easiest remedy is to hop on a plane to your home country and lick your wounds (maybe even find a temp job for a while). However, if you enjoy living in Kuwait, seize the opportunity and start pounding the pavement. Don’t limit your opportunities to just Western companies – scour the market.
Monster.com and Bayt.com are probably the recruitment sites with the most listings of jobs in Kuwait. Recruiters such as MRI and Clarendon Parker can also be called upon as resources by job seekers, but ultimately self-marketing is the key. When friends ask me about finding a job in Kuwait, I immediately recommend two books (available in local book and office supply stores): The Kuwait Pocket Guide and the Kuwait Top List. Both guides list e-mail addresses; the Kuwait Top List goes further and lists company contacts, business sectors, working hours, and number of employees. I recommend that job seekers “blanket the market” with resumes: send resumes and cover letters to as many e-mail addresses as they can possibly gather. Perceive finding a job as a new job and go about it with the same amount of enthusiasm, creativity, and driven determination that one would in any posting. Someone always knows someone who needs someone in Kuwait. There is an obvious problem with confidentiality, but if you are desperate to find a job, e-mail shots will help you gain interviews – and at least a foot in the door to potential employers. There are no temporary agencies in Kuwait, but sometimes you can negotiate consultancy work or part-time work if you are cleaver about it.
I have had several jobs since 1996, when I finally started working here full-time. I lost my first job with the IT company with a major management restructuring. They couldn’t disclose the restructure at the time and I couldn’t understand why I was losing my job. The management wasn’t exactly kind in their explanation: choosing not to provide a reason. Alone without family in Kuwait, I stayed locked in a fetal position in tears for several days before my big job hunt started again. For nearly eight months, I worked at various jobs until I found something permanent. I tried to target companies that I thought could use my skills (which is what we obviously all try to do), but I also met with companies that I thought could use a westerner in particular (working for law firms and even doing voice-overs at KTV).
As a job seeker, don’t give up. There is always a long delay to get a job here. The concept of time is different than it is in the Western world. In the Middle East, emphasis is more “in the here and now” in relation to time seemingly rather than related to definitive time-related goals and deadlines. One of the most common words in the Middle East is, “Inshallah” (God willing). Time and goals are connected to spiritual belief that it will happen by God’s will, with a distinct lack of urgency on when. I have seen many western friends get frustrated by the lack of understanding of this concept when living/working in the Middle East. It has equal application when it comes to the time it takes to get a job and starting work.
Recruiters and Employment Sites for Kuwait (send me your link if you want it posted)
http://www.bayt.com/
http://www.monster.com/
http://www.wazeefa1.com/index.php
http://www.mri-kuwait.com/
http://www.axis-solutions.net/
http://www.globalcareersearch.com/
http://www.sosrecruitment.net/
http://www.prolinks-kw.com/
http://www.clarendonparker.com/
http://allarabia.com/
http://www.gulfjobsites.com/jobs/Kuwait/Recruitment_Agents/
http://www.adnargroup.com/
http://www.gulfconnexions.com/
mriww@mri-kuwait.com
http://www.krbonline.com
jobs@axis-solutions.net
anton@globalcareersearch.com
ceo@gec-web.com
http://www.prolinks-kw.com/
Learn4Good
http://www.naukrigulf.com/
http://www.indeed.com/
US Companies in Kuwait:
SAIC (select “Kuwait” from country list)
US4 (Northrop Grumman, KBR, Chenega partnership for KBOS3): http://www.us4kuwait.com/
Dyncorp: http://www.dyncorprecruiting.com/
Jacobs Engineering
ITT
Agility Logistics (really a Kuwaiti-owned company that hires lots of westerners)
MPRI
List of Recruiters in Kuwait
Good Luck!
Monday, November 02, 2009
No need for the same old parliament BS
No need for ''radical solutions'' to Bedouns issue: AlـDuwaisan
Al Watan Daily, 2 November, 2009
KUWAIT: MP Faisal AlـDuwaisan said that the Cabinet''s decision to form a committee to look into the issue of Bedouns (stateless Arabs) is a "positive move" accredited to the government. In a press release forwarded to Al Watan, he hoped that the committee "will be just and really seeks to develop realistic solutions in order to do justice to the Bedouns and put an end to their suffering." He also warned of "not developing radical solutions to this serious issue."
What happened to naturalizing 2000 Bedouns per year? That’s not drastic. That’s what a former parliament passed. Isn’t the BS ever going to end? Committees to form committees to discuss committees to form committees and what gets done – NOTHING. Confront the problem, resolve the problem, move on. It is a national disgrace to Kuwait. Anyone who doesn’t believe it – take a drive up to Sulaibiya. Kuwait – one of the richest countries in the world, with it’s own shanty town that the entire country turns a blind eye to.
Al Watan Daily, 2 November, 2009
KUWAIT: MP Faisal AlـDuwaisan said that the Cabinet''s decision to form a committee to look into the issue of Bedouns (stateless Arabs) is a "positive move" accredited to the government. In a press release forwarded to Al Watan, he hoped that the committee "will be just and really seeks to develop realistic solutions in order to do justice to the Bedouns and put an end to their suffering." He also warned of "not developing radical solutions to this serious issue."
What happened to naturalizing 2000 Bedouns per year? That’s not drastic. That’s what a former parliament passed. Isn’t the BS ever going to end? Committees to form committees to discuss committees to form committees and what gets done – NOTHING. Confront the problem, resolve the problem, move on. It is a national disgrace to Kuwait. Anyone who doesn’t believe it – take a drive up to Sulaibiya. Kuwait – one of the richest countries in the world, with it’s own shanty town that the entire country turns a blind eye to.
Sunday, November 01, 2009
Put on Your Happy Face, Kuwait! ... Or not....
Kuwait 'unhappiest' in Middle East region
01 November 2009, By Ahmad Saeid, © Kuwait Times 2009
KUWAIT: In recently released international report that lists countries worldwide according to the happiness levels, Kuwait was placed at the bottom in the Middle East region. It was also ranked the least among all other Arab countries. On a global scale, Kuwait ranked 128th just 15 places above Zimbabwe, the unhappiest country in the world. The report called 'Happy Planet Index' (HPI) was compiled by the New Economic Foundation (NEF), a UK based organization, that aims to "challenge the mainstream thinking on economic, environment and social issues," the organization's website information page states.
The report, however, measures HPI according to indicators such as life expectancy, life satisfaction, and ecological footprint. The latter serves as a defining factor that gauges the advancement societies make towards achieving the balance between lower carbon emissions and a well-rounded lifestyle.
The NEF does challenges the common notion that the GDP is a good enough indicator to measure countries' development. Arguing that "a government that took GDP too seriously would be pleased to see people paying for things that are normally done for free, such as domestic labor - as this would increase GDP growth. It would measure, as a positive, wars that are required the manufacture and sale of military equipment, the building and maintenance of prisons, or the increased rate of divorces requiring expensive legal services," the report adds.
Some of the results indeed challenge the notion that GDP is a satisfactory indicator of a nation's well-being. Latin American countries such as Costa Rica, the leading country in the overall index results, with a life expectancy of 78.5 years, has a GDP per capita of $10,180 when compared to Kuwait's life-expectancy of 77.3 years with a GDP per capita of $26,321 that places it in 34th place with a GDP per capita that occupies the 22nd position.
In the area of life satisfaction , Kuwait is placed in 50th position. Scoring 6.7 out on a scale of 10 points, Kuwait is placed fourth in the Arab world behind KSA, UAE and Egypt, and occupies the fifth spot in the Middle East. Interestingly, Israel has been placed ahead of Egypt in the ranking.
The third area, ecological footprint, is where Kuwait takes a nose-dive. "To achieve one-planet living, a country must keep its ecological footprint below the level that corresponds to its fair share given the world's current bio-capacity and population - 2.1 global hectares (gha) as set in the year 2005.
In this segment, Kuwait fares the poorest among four countries in the world behind Luxemburg, UAE, and USA, with an ecological footprint of 8.9 global hectares, compared to only 1.7 gha in Egypt, the happiest Arab country, according to the report.
A happy planet? Perhaps not. Looking at the world's population as a whole, the mean life expectancy is just 68.3 years. Life satisfaction is only 6.1 and we are overshooting our ecological limits with a mean footprint of 2.4 gha. The planet's overall HPI score of 49 out of 100 reflects the fact that humanity as a whole has much to change if we are to live long, happy lives that do not cost the Earth," the report concludes.
Thanks for sending that to me, Amer. Now I have something (else) to blame!
01 November 2009, By Ahmad Saeid, © Kuwait Times 2009
KUWAIT: In recently released international report that lists countries worldwide according to the happiness levels, Kuwait was placed at the bottom in the Middle East region. It was also ranked the least among all other Arab countries. On a global scale, Kuwait ranked 128th just 15 places above Zimbabwe, the unhappiest country in the world. The report called 'Happy Planet Index' (HPI) was compiled by the New Economic Foundation (NEF), a UK based organization, that aims to "challenge the mainstream thinking on economic, environment and social issues," the organization's website information page states.
The report, however, measures HPI according to indicators such as life expectancy, life satisfaction, and ecological footprint. The latter serves as a defining factor that gauges the advancement societies make towards achieving the balance between lower carbon emissions and a well-rounded lifestyle.
The NEF does challenges the common notion that the GDP is a good enough indicator to measure countries' development. Arguing that "a government that took GDP too seriously would be pleased to see people paying for things that are normally done for free, such as domestic labor - as this would increase GDP growth. It would measure, as a positive, wars that are required the manufacture and sale of military equipment, the building and maintenance of prisons, or the increased rate of divorces requiring expensive legal services," the report adds.
Some of the results indeed challenge the notion that GDP is a satisfactory indicator of a nation's well-being. Latin American countries such as Costa Rica, the leading country in the overall index results, with a life expectancy of 78.5 years, has a GDP per capita of $10,180 when compared to Kuwait's life-expectancy of 77.3 years with a GDP per capita of $26,321 that places it in 34th place with a GDP per capita that occupies the 22nd position.
In the area of life satisfaction , Kuwait is placed in 50th position. Scoring 6.7 out on a scale of 10 points, Kuwait is placed fourth in the Arab world behind KSA, UAE and Egypt, and occupies the fifth spot in the Middle East. Interestingly, Israel has been placed ahead of Egypt in the ranking.
The third area, ecological footprint, is where Kuwait takes a nose-dive. "To achieve one-planet living, a country must keep its ecological footprint below the level that corresponds to its fair share given the world's current bio-capacity and population - 2.1 global hectares (gha) as set in the year 2005.
In this segment, Kuwait fares the poorest among four countries in the world behind Luxemburg, UAE, and USA, with an ecological footprint of 8.9 global hectares, compared to only 1.7 gha in Egypt, the happiest Arab country, according to the report.
A happy planet? Perhaps not. Looking at the world's population as a whole, the mean life expectancy is just 68.3 years. Life satisfaction is only 6.1 and we are overshooting our ecological limits with a mean footprint of 2.4 gha. The planet's overall HPI score of 49 out of 100 reflects the fact that humanity as a whole has much to change if we are to live long, happy lives that do not cost the Earth," the report concludes.
Thanks for sending that to me, Amer. Now I have something (else) to blame!
Al-Setinat Kuwaiti Restaurant - Hawalli
I found a new Kuwaiti restaurant this weekend. The Man has known about it for a long time, but he didn't share this info with me. Payback will be a bitch...
Al-Setinat is on Beirut Street in the building next to Boubyan Bank - kind of diagonally across from Beirut Center and not too far from Tunis Street. It is on the 1st floor.
They had the bestest gaymat. Totally yummy. I can say "bestest" in retaliation to all the spelling and grammar mistakes on their menu. Even their business card says, "Kuwaitian Foods".
The restaurant is very clean and light. It is similar in decor to Freej Swailah only you don't get a feeling of claustrophobia because the aisles are bigger.
I hate Hawalli in general, but I would definately make an exception to visit this restaurant again.
We had machboos lamb and they gave you huge chunks of really really really fresh and tender meat. I had mrubian which was a mistake. Didn't like it at all. It wasn't done the way I was used to it and none of the shrimp were de-veined (which I usually don't even consider, but this time it was really obvious).
Another difference from Freej is the service: Freej's waiters/waitresses just got off the bus from I-Hate-Everything-and-I'm-Taking-It-Out-On-You-Land (the business owner must treat them very badly for them to be so upset all the time). The guys in Setinat were very friendly and ran around the room making sure that customers had what they needed.
They have all the Kuwaiti good stuff on the menu. I will have to go back to ask for another menu because I can't remember it all now. I'm definately going back, though.
Al-Setinat's numbers are 2266557 or 2266559. AND THEY DELIVER!!!
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
My Lunch with the Lady Mayoress of London, Lady Lin Luder
I had a fabulous lunch on Sunday with the Lady Mayoress of London, Lady Lin Luder, and several influential women from the Kuwait community (Brits and Kuwaitis). It was held at Ricardo. I was the only American and it was quite an honor. I knew several of the ladies, but hadn’t seen them for quite a while, so it was great to catch up. (No, she didn't wear this at the lunch. I would have died of embarrassment for not being adequately dressed.)
I had to ask if I needed to take a course in how to curtsy prior to the day. I didn’t – I don’t know if I could have dealt with it – too much formality for me. I’m certain I would have done it wrong.
I didn't have to learn Briddish either! I have mastered that from being around friend from the UK (Scotland doesn't count!) long enough to understand them. (Ok, that is just a shout-out to all my American friends!)
Ignorant American
First of all, when my friend at the British Embassy (who shall remain nick-nameless for her own sake!) called me and told me about the Lady’s visit, I thought the woman’s name was “Mariss” – a name that I like. I thought it was pretty. But then, I immediately got off the phone and googled her (don’t laugh – I google everyone). I hate not being prepared.
But alas..... I am stupid. I should have brought my digital recorder. I wish I could remember everything that Lady Luder told us at the lunch. It was fascinating. I honestly didn’t want the lunch to end; I had such a great time.
Interesting factoids
Lord Mayor of London (from LINK): “During his year of office he travels the world as an ambassador for the business City, promoting it as the world's leading international financial centre and boosting the profile of British business at home and abroad. The Lord Mayor is well placed to establish valuable contacts both at diplomatic and top boardroom level. These contacts open up business opportunities in the City and help maintain London's position as the world's leading international financial centre.”
It takes 15 years to become Lord Mayor of London and there is extensive training involved.
You don’t have to be a male, but you retain the title of “Lord Mayor”.
A person must first be an Alderman to become Lord Mayor and are typically either lawyers or accountants.Lord Mayor of London is an elected position.
The role lasts for 1 year
Lord Mayor is not a salaried position.
During the 1 year tenure, the Lord and Lady (which would be hard to figure out if the Lord was a woman) live at the Mansion House.
The Lord and Lady are both asked to select charities
During their tenure they have no time for family events – too busy and are expected to be on duty throughout the year. Lady Luder said that she only has a few minutes once a week to check on her home, but once she’s there, she feels content as it is hers.
There has been a Lord Mayor of London ever since 1189.
The Lord Mayor’s Show is a procession (parade) held in November each year and has been the same journey for almost 800 years. I wanna goooo!
Get this – folks from our own US Civil War (although a Confederate) were invited to dine with the Mayor of London (an abolitionist). That’s deep. And now, we have a black president.
Lady Luder was delightful. I didn’t know what to expect but she was so approachable and down-to-Earth. She is obviously a diplomat, but I had a feeling that under her exterior, she is my kind of people. From one of the more colorful stories on Google, I would definitely say she is!
We asked Lady Luder what the best part was of being Lady Mayoress of London. She said, “Getting to see my husband in the golden cage.” I (and some of the other ladies from the giggles) believed that to mean the golden cage of marriage. Noooo…. The ceremonial golden cage of the 
Lord Mayors Show. Lady Luder said it is enormous and drawn by 8 horses.
Lin Luder formerly worked in IT at a New York law firm. She said that she and her husband will probably take 2 months off when the new Lord Mayor of London is sworn in (I don’t know if that is the appropriate term) and then go back to work.
Lord and Lady Luder were invited to attend a dinner with His Highness The Amir in the evening. What a wonderful job – even if it is tiring.
I continue to thank God for blessing me with the types of adventures He does; and for the types of interesting people I get to meet in my life.
A special word of thanks to my friend at the British Embassy (you know who you are) for inviting me. I wish there were many more like you in Kuwait! You are so positive and just a true pleasure to be around.
Victoria's Secret Coming to UAE
Oh… My…. God…… Victoria’s Secret is finally coming to the region. Wooooo hooooooooo! First stop is Dubai... c'moooon Kuwait!
You go, Mr. Mohammed Al-Shaya. You THA MAN!!!!
You know – just the other day, a visitor to Kuwait asked me what is the one thing that you would like to have in Kuwait that you don’t. That is a tuff question. Of course, my family, greenery, and alcohol (in that order). But to tell you the truth, we have almost all the material things – and more – that I want. I would love Target to come here, but that is just wishful thinking. I thought VS was a dream also.
I wonder how tha fuuuu they are going to market the store. Monster.com has a job opening for marketing manager in UAE. I think if I got the job (not that I would apply), I would be fired. That’s a difficult call. Their displays have shocked even open-minded folk in the US. I wonder how they are going to get around it.
GCC women always shop at Vicky's in the US. It is about time someone capitalized on the market.
I don't even like Dubai (sorry, but I don't), but I would be willing to go there for Victoria's Secret.
Monday, October 26, 2009
The Pottery Barn is Coming to Kuwait!!!
Yippeeee! I love the Pottery Barn. I hope they really have the same merchandise that they do in the US.
A fantastic new brand is to join the Alshaya portfolio in 2010. We are recruiting now for Pottery Barn & Pottery Barn Kids.Doors open in UAE (March 2010) and Kuwait (May 2010).
Al-Shaya is taking over the world!
Degradation of Women's Summits in the Gulf
A Business Women's Summit (in one form or another) is held annually in the UAE. Annually, the Khaleej Times creates degrading stories or headlines related to the event; comparing the summit(s) to a recipe swap. As a professional business woman, this totally pisses me off.
Why is it that any time a group of women gather in the GCC, it is automatically assumed that it is a recipe swap or a children's event?
Please feel free to pass along to other women working (or not) in the Gulf who would not like to be objectified in this manner. We can only change perceptions by voicing our objections to this type of thing. Write to the author and/or Khaleej Times!
I can imagine that the women mentioned in the story might be a little angry also.
Here is the full story:
Women Leaders Share their Recipe for Success
Ahmed Shabaan 26 October 2009
Khaleej Times
DUBAI — More than 300 women leaders from the political and business fields from all over the world are participating in the first Women in Leadership (WIL) forum, which commenced in Dubai on Sunday.
The three-day event is being held under the patronage of Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, Wife of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
The forum’s participants will share their experiences in leadership and strategies to deal with challenges during the session titled ‘Bridging the Gap’. They will attempt to address the misconception that the world has about women in the Middle East and discuss how cultural differences affected their daily business tasks.
Raja Easa Al Gurg, President, Dubai Business Women Council, said women across the UAE have taken on pivotal roles in the economic progress and sustainable development of the country, as has been witnessed in other sectors across various levels.
“Emirati women have emerged in high positions in the economy, politics and in various specialisations and in the process, have enhanced their own capacities, highlighted their own capabilities, refined their skills and worked hard to achieve their dreams of serving their homeland,” Al Gurg said.
Among the leading female personalities honoured on Sunday night have been trusted guides, influential mentors and strategic executives and have played a pivotal role in their companies’ success, adding to a career of extraordinary performance and exceptional results.
Dr Ayesha Mohammed Abdullah, CEO, Dubai Healthcare City, was named as the Leading Woman CEO.
Since her association with Dubai Healthcare City in 2004, Dr Ayesha Abdullah has emerged as a force to be reckoned with. The Leading Woman Chief Financial Officer (CFO) title was awarded to Dubai World CFO Maryam Sharaf.
Maryam Sharaf’s main responsibility with the group involves the preparation and maintenance of financial records, managing an effective system of internal financial control, investigation and advisory work in relation to internal and external financial statements, internal accounts, management records and statements, preparation and maintenance of financial records and internal and external financial reporting.
Maryam Sharaf has over 20 years of experience in the finance industry.
Fatima Al Jaber, COO, Al Jaber Group was chosen as the Leading Woman Chief Operating Officer (COO). In the context of the UAE, her accomplishments make her a pioneer. Before she joined the family business she was undersecretary for the Building Projects Sector in Abu Dhabi Municipality, a significant achievement for a woman in the UAE.
For Fatima to join the family business was not an easy decision. She worked hard to gain credibility and respect. As she evolved into the role of a leading member of the family and the business community at large, she is the one people turn to for advice and guidance.
On a daily basis Fatima manages the delicate balancing act between the rapidly paced work environment and the traditions of home and faith. Fatima also facilitates women’s access to financial services through Al Bashayer Investment Company.
Meanwhile, the forum is hosting the Traditional Arts Auction for raising money for charity organisations in the UAE and the United Kingdom. It has commissioned the internationally renowned luxury watch and jewellery firm Chopard to promote it.
ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.ae
Here is what the author, Mr. Ahmed Shaaban responded:
"Good morning
Thank you for your respectable feedback.
First, I would like to take the opportunity and extend my respect to all women, be they professional or not, as I do believe the whole world can not do without them, be they professional or not again.
Second, unless the event were important, I would not be interested in going and covering it.
Third, the whole story is full of appreciation and respect to all the women included and alike.
Fourth, though the title is not at all mine - it is the editorial desk's job - I would say the word 'recipe' used does not have any 'insulting' grounds. It is rather kind of simile. Your word 'disgusting' is even more and more offending.
Fifth, what is really wrong with recipes? I believe this is part of women's magical powers to be able to do many jobs at one time, starting from something they themselves really like. and so do men.
Last, I wish you accept my apology for any unintentional offence.
Thanks & regards
Ahmed Shaaban
Reporter / Translator
Khaleej Times"
So, then I wrote to Khaleej Times to tell them that they were being sexist.
This was my reaction to the November 2006 story on that year's women's summit in the Khaleej Times:
I picked up a copy of the Khaleej Times the other day and skimmed through the articles. I wasn’t really paying attention to headlines, but I hadn’t been able to make reservations at the Beach Rotana Hotel in Abu Dhabi as it was fully booked, so when their name was mentioned as hosting the 2006 Middle East and North African Businesswomen’s Summit, I stopped to read the article.
The headline read, “Hotels Curry Favour with Businesswomen” – which really has nothing to do with much of anything (I read it several times and have concluded that they are saying that hotels spice things up with businesswomen). The article basically says that the businesswomen enjoy the hotel services of food, hair styling, and make-up. It mentions nothing of what topics were covered in the Summit, nor their relation to the business world. It is a brief article which was written by two men and provides insight by an “overworked” hotel coiffeur.
Why is it that any time a group of women gather in the GCC, it is automatically assumed that it is a recipe swap or a children's event?
Please feel free to pass along to other women working (or not) in the Gulf who would not like to be objectified in this manner. We can only change perceptions by voicing our objections to this type of thing. Write to the author and/or Khaleej Times!
I can imagine that the women mentioned in the story might be a little angry also.
Here is the full story:
Women Leaders Share their Recipe for Success
Ahmed Shabaan 26 October 2009
Khaleej Times
DUBAI — More than 300 women leaders from the political and business fields from all over the world are participating in the first Women in Leadership (WIL) forum, which commenced in Dubai on Sunday.
The three-day event is being held under the patronage of Princess Haya Bint Al Hussein, Wife of His Highness Shaikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
The forum’s participants will share their experiences in leadership and strategies to deal with challenges during the session titled ‘Bridging the Gap’. They will attempt to address the misconception that the world has about women in the Middle East and discuss how cultural differences affected their daily business tasks.
Raja Easa Al Gurg, President, Dubai Business Women Council, said women across the UAE have taken on pivotal roles in the economic progress and sustainable development of the country, as has been witnessed in other sectors across various levels.
“Emirati women have emerged in high positions in the economy, politics and in various specialisations and in the process, have enhanced their own capacities, highlighted their own capabilities, refined their skills and worked hard to achieve their dreams of serving their homeland,” Al Gurg said.
Among the leading female personalities honoured on Sunday night have been trusted guides, influential mentors and strategic executives and have played a pivotal role in their companies’ success, adding to a career of extraordinary performance and exceptional results.
Dr Ayesha Mohammed Abdullah, CEO, Dubai Healthcare City, was named as the Leading Woman CEO.
Since her association with Dubai Healthcare City in 2004, Dr Ayesha Abdullah has emerged as a force to be reckoned with. The Leading Woman Chief Financial Officer (CFO) title was awarded to Dubai World CFO Maryam Sharaf.
Maryam Sharaf’s main responsibility with the group involves the preparation and maintenance of financial records, managing an effective system of internal financial control, investigation and advisory work in relation to internal and external financial statements, internal accounts, management records and statements, preparation and maintenance of financial records and internal and external financial reporting.
Maryam Sharaf has over 20 years of experience in the finance industry.
Fatima Al Jaber, COO, Al Jaber Group was chosen as the Leading Woman Chief Operating Officer (COO). In the context of the UAE, her accomplishments make her a pioneer. Before she joined the family business she was undersecretary for the Building Projects Sector in Abu Dhabi Municipality, a significant achievement for a woman in the UAE.
For Fatima to join the family business was not an easy decision. She worked hard to gain credibility and respect. As she evolved into the role of a leading member of the family and the business community at large, she is the one people turn to for advice and guidance.
On a daily basis Fatima manages the delicate balancing act between the rapidly paced work environment and the traditions of home and faith. Fatima also facilitates women’s access to financial services through Al Bashayer Investment Company.
Meanwhile, the forum is hosting the Traditional Arts Auction for raising money for charity organisations in the UAE and the United Kingdom. It has commissioned the internationally renowned luxury watch and jewellery firm Chopard to promote it.
ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.ae
Here is what the author, Mr. Ahmed Shaaban responded:
"Good morning
Thank you for your respectable feedback.
First, I would like to take the opportunity and extend my respect to all women, be they professional or not, as I do believe the whole world can not do without them, be they professional or not again.
Second, unless the event were important, I would not be interested in going and covering it.
Third, the whole story is full of appreciation and respect to all the women included and alike.
Fourth, though the title is not at all mine - it is the editorial desk's job - I would say the word 'recipe' used does not have any 'insulting' grounds. It is rather kind of simile. Your word 'disgusting' is even more and more offending.
Fifth, what is really wrong with recipes? I believe this is part of women's magical powers to be able to do many jobs at one time, starting from something they themselves really like. and so do men.
Last, I wish you accept my apology for any unintentional offence.
Thanks & regards
Ahmed Shaaban
Reporter / Translator
Khaleej Times"
So, then I wrote to Khaleej Times to tell them that they were being sexist.
This was my reaction to the November 2006 story on that year's women's summit in the Khaleej Times:
I picked up a copy of the Khaleej Times the other day and skimmed through the articles. I wasn’t really paying attention to headlines, but I hadn’t been able to make reservations at the Beach Rotana Hotel in Abu Dhabi as it was fully booked, so when their name was mentioned as hosting the 2006 Middle East and North African Businesswomen’s Summit, I stopped to read the article.
The headline read, “Hotels Curry Favour with Businesswomen” – which really has nothing to do with much of anything (I read it several times and have concluded that they are saying that hotels spice things up with businesswomen). The article basically says that the businesswomen enjoy the hotel services of food, hair styling, and make-up. It mentions nothing of what topics were covered in the Summit, nor their relation to the business world. It is a brief article which was written by two men and provides insight by an “overworked” hotel coiffeur.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Q8 Realtor & Sheikha Complex
The story below comes to me from a reader who had a bad experience at Sheikha Complex with Q8 Realtor. From what my source tells me, she tried many times - in writing - to have her problems fixed and with no avail.
Feedback is always positive. Companies/individuals can take it and make improvements to make their business better - and perhaps win over new customers.
Dear DG,
Please can you post about my experiences with this real estate company so as to warn others...
I moved into Sheikha Complex in 2008. It was a dream to live on Gulf Road with such a beautiful view... the view was worth the money. The company was great - Q8 Expats. Abdulaziz the marketing guy was so helpful and happily negotiated and worked with me throughout my tenure with them - about 6 months. Then the worse thing happened - Q8 Realtor took over the management contract of the Sheikha building. Without warning they swooped in and took over the building. From that day onwards, it was hell. My experiences included:
1. Satellite cut - refusal to fix the satellite and refusal to allow my own satellite guy to fix it too. eventually fixed it after 10 days of persistent phone calls.
2. Internet line cut - refusal to reconnect unless i paid KD20 per month!
3. Refusal to return my calls - tried to contact Q8 Realtor using 7 different communication methods over the period of 6 weeks. the only person to respond was the haris.
4. Problems with ants throughout the building and no indication of addressing this problem despite several complaints from many tenants.
5. No hot water for a total of 14 days out of 21 - was told by 3 different people in the end it was the whole building but in fact it wasn't
6. Foul smells coming through the bathroom pipes in my apartment and also noticeable downstairs in the lobby by the elevator and in the car park. refusal to acknowledge the smell downstairs. used bicarbonate of soda in my bathroom!
7. Accusation of not paying the haris for washing my car one month.
8. Upon leaving, was told my washing machine didn't work and was expected to pay KD60 for maintenance. Thankfully I explained to them that as i had paid for a furnished apartment it was their responsibility to pay for maintenance and not mine.
9. Upon leaving, was asked to pay KD40 for painting my apartment - despite agreement from the company that it was normal wear and tear. Thankfully I knew that it was their responsibility and not mine (according to Kuwait Tenancy Law) to repaint the apartment for the next tenant.
I know I was not alone with my experiences at Sheikha Complex. A British gentleman and his family who just arrived in Kuwait had rented an apartment upstairs from mine and knocked on my door when they too had his satellite cut. Worse still, Q8 Realtor had sent them a letter to say that they had received complaints from neighbours regarding the noise resulting from them playing loud music. The letter noted that any further complaints would result in immediate eviction. I was drinking tea with them when the letter arrived. I looked around their apartment - they didn't have anything to play music on!!! The family left Kuwait about a month later with a very negative impression of the country.
Thankfully now I have moved to an apartment where the landlord cares about his tenants. My first weekend here, the landlady came to my door with a freshly baked lemon sponge cake to say welcome. They just had problems with a broken pipe resulting in no water throughout the building - i received a telephone call from the landlady to say I'm sorry for the inconvenience, they are coming to fix it in 30 minutes.
What a difference! I hope it continues. I think we all realise that things can't be perfect all the time but how the landlord or management company responds is so important. Even though we don't own our houses here - it is still home. I work in a stressful management job which requires much travel. My home is important to me - it's my refuge where I can relax and let go of my worries and stresses from the day. To go home and experience such problems with such a negative response was awful. I wouldn't wish it upon anyone else. My advice to you is - if you see a property advertised from Q8 Realtor, think twice. You don't know what you are letting yourself in for...
Feedback is always positive. Companies/individuals can take it and make improvements to make their business better - and perhaps win over new customers.
Dear DG,
Please can you post about my experiences with this real estate company so as to warn others...
I moved into Sheikha Complex in 2008. It was a dream to live on Gulf Road with such a beautiful view... the view was worth the money. The company was great - Q8 Expats. Abdulaziz the marketing guy was so helpful and happily negotiated and worked with me throughout my tenure with them - about 6 months. Then the worse thing happened - Q8 Realtor took over the management contract of the Sheikha building. Without warning they swooped in and took over the building. From that day onwards, it was hell. My experiences included:
1. Satellite cut - refusal to fix the satellite and refusal to allow my own satellite guy to fix it too. eventually fixed it after 10 days of persistent phone calls.
2. Internet line cut - refusal to reconnect unless i paid KD20 per month!
3. Refusal to return my calls - tried to contact Q8 Realtor using 7 different communication methods over the period of 6 weeks. the only person to respond was the haris.
4. Problems with ants throughout the building and no indication of addressing this problem despite several complaints from many tenants.
5. No hot water for a total of 14 days out of 21 - was told by 3 different people in the end it was the whole building but in fact it wasn't
6. Foul smells coming through the bathroom pipes in my apartment and also noticeable downstairs in the lobby by the elevator and in the car park. refusal to acknowledge the smell downstairs. used bicarbonate of soda in my bathroom!
7. Accusation of not paying the haris for washing my car one month.
8. Upon leaving, was told my washing machine didn't work and was expected to pay KD60 for maintenance. Thankfully I explained to them that as i had paid for a furnished apartment it was their responsibility to pay for maintenance and not mine.
9. Upon leaving, was asked to pay KD40 for painting my apartment - despite agreement from the company that it was normal wear and tear. Thankfully I knew that it was their responsibility and not mine (according to Kuwait Tenancy Law) to repaint the apartment for the next tenant.
I know I was not alone with my experiences at Sheikha Complex. A British gentleman and his family who just arrived in Kuwait had rented an apartment upstairs from mine and knocked on my door when they too had his satellite cut. Worse still, Q8 Realtor had sent them a letter to say that they had received complaints from neighbours regarding the noise resulting from them playing loud music. The letter noted that any further complaints would result in immediate eviction. I was drinking tea with them when the letter arrived. I looked around their apartment - they didn't have anything to play music on!!! The family left Kuwait about a month later with a very negative impression of the country.
Thankfully now I have moved to an apartment where the landlord cares about his tenants. My first weekend here, the landlady came to my door with a freshly baked lemon sponge cake to say welcome. They just had problems with a broken pipe resulting in no water throughout the building - i received a telephone call from the landlady to say I'm sorry for the inconvenience, they are coming to fix it in 30 minutes.
What a difference! I hope it continues. I think we all realise that things can't be perfect all the time but how the landlord or management company responds is so important. Even though we don't own our houses here - it is still home. I work in a stressful management job which requires much travel. My home is important to me - it's my refuge where I can relax and let go of my worries and stresses from the day. To go home and experience such problems with such a negative response was awful. I wouldn't wish it upon anyone else. My advice to you is - if you see a property advertised from Q8 Realtor, think twice. You don't know what you are letting yourself in for...
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Monday, October 19, 2009
What Desert Girl Wants for Christmas
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