Stop judging and/or analyzing me.
If you don't like what I have to say, don't read my blog.
If you don't like what I have to say, don't read my blog.
Friday, March 30, 2012
Vacation Time - The Angry White Woman Post
You know when it is time to get an attitude adjustment and get out of your surroundings for a while when people start to piss you off in great numbers; some koshable offences (the kind where you kosh someone over the head with say ... a 2x4) and some just general annoyances/irritations/stupid shit.
I've had several of the former lately and people.... I'm just waiting for someone to prove me wrong about humanity. I know, you're thinkin', "Desert Girl, look at the cup as half full..." Phuck that. If you have paid 60KD for a cheap bottle of tequila, you are fer sure thinking, "OMG. It's half empty! I need to slow down."
Butterfly, my dear and trusted advisor on spiritual and soul-healing matters says, "Ask for what you want. Don't tell The Universe the negatives that you don't want." So true, girlfraynd, so true. So here is what I want:
I need to stop getting pissed off and (unfortunately) just break ties. If you let me down, I'm not going to stick around. I'm not going to reward bad behavior. You don't get my time. You don't get my help. You don't get my compassion. Life is too short and sometimes it is damn hard to replenish positive energy.
And speaking of positive energy, shout out to my dear friend, Special K. I appreciate your pep talks and trying to talk me out of dark moods when others have let me down. We're going to rock Dubai and I am so very very grateful. I wish Mrs. Special K was here to join us. I'm sure we'll be calling you, girl.
My mommy is coming to Kuwait soon- in the next few weeks. As she says, this will probably be her last trip to Kuwait so I'm hoping she has a fantabulous time. She picks up my spirits and being with her will be like a holiday for me.
Then, it is off to the GSA conference in San Antonio in May with Stella, her daughters and cousin, my 2 sisters, my friend who lives in SA.... endless margaritas on the River Walk. Sigh...
I can get through until then without koshing anyone, right?
I've had several of the former lately and people.... I'm just waiting for someone to prove me wrong about humanity. I know, you're thinkin', "Desert Girl, look at the cup as half full..." Phuck that. If you have paid 60KD for a cheap bottle of tequila, you are fer sure thinking, "OMG. It's half empty! I need to slow down."
Butterfly, my dear and trusted advisor on spiritual and soul-healing matters says, "Ask for what you want. Don't tell The Universe the negatives that you don't want." So true, girlfraynd, so true. So here is what I want:
- Good health. [Including, but not limited to: Boobs that will never sag (big concern). Maintaining the current state of my butt.]
- I want my mom to live as long as I do (that's a wish). If I never have a family of my own, at least I have had the most amazing mentor/friend/companion that I could ever have asked for.
- A man who can stick to his promises. Intelligent. Make me laugh. Intuitive to know what I want; often to the point of pre-empting my verbalization of it. Care sincerely about me/my well-being. (And then the superficial stuff like tall, asmar, dark eyes, good looking, financially stable/job, an animal in the bedroom...). But seriously, let him stick to his promises. Please. For the Love of God, please make him stick to his promises.
- Friends who value me as much as I value them. Who reciprocate - in friendship and in other ways. Keep promises. Say what they mean and mean what they say. Respond to invitations.
I need to stop getting pissed off and (unfortunately) just break ties. If you let me down, I'm not going to stick around. I'm not going to reward bad behavior. You don't get my time. You don't get my help. You don't get my compassion. Life is too short and sometimes it is damn hard to replenish positive energy.
And speaking of positive energy, shout out to my dear friend, Special K. I appreciate your pep talks and trying to talk me out of dark moods when others have let me down. We're going to rock Dubai and I am so very very grateful. I wish Mrs. Special K was here to join us. I'm sure we'll be calling you, girl.
My mommy is coming to Kuwait soon- in the next few weeks. As she says, this will probably be her last trip to Kuwait so I'm hoping she has a fantabulous time. She picks up my spirits and being with her will be like a holiday for me.
Then, it is off to the GSA conference in San Antonio in May with Stella, her daughters and cousin, my 2 sisters, my friend who lives in SA.... endless margaritas on the River Walk. Sigh...
I can get through until then without koshing anyone, right?
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
What does the US troop drawdown mean to Kuwait?
What is going to happen in Kuwait now that the US troops are out of Iraq? Well, let's see, CSA was living large off the US military contract they had for support services to all the camps in Kuwait. ITT Exelis took over from them last year at a fraction of the contract value that CSA had. Employees got longer hours, less pay and less benefits (shared transport, less luxurious accommodations).
Local support services like car leasing, apartment furnishings have suffered (however rents have not dropped in the market as many of us had hoped. Damn greedy landlords!!!). There have been cutbacks in many areas.
What is going to become of the military camps? What's going on?
The camps in Kuwait are just that - "camps". The were created for a deployment into Iraq, meaning that the soldiers have not been allowed to go off the camps. The barbed wire, surveillance cameras, and guards don't just keep people out: Camp Arifjan has been described by many as a "medium-security jail." Soldiers rarely get out and it is very difficult to get in. Further, as a deployment, the camps were built with the intention of being able to return the land to an "as it was" condition. No doubt, several of the camps are probably headed in that direction.
"Troops live in transitional barracks, which are pre-fabricated concrete buildings. Camp Arifjan is in an area that Congress has deemed a hostile-fire zone. As such, deployed troops are unaccompanied on their tours of duty. " (militarybases.com)
There have been rumors that Camp Arifjan may become a permanent base. (I heard that a secret agreement was signed on Valentine's Day - hours before the new Parliament was sworn in. Again, that is just heresay.) When Camp Arifjan was built, the US Government signed a 50-year land lease with the Kuwaiti Government. My guess is that Arifjan isn't going away anytime soon. A permanent base would be nice. It would allow Kuwaiti support services to conduct permanent business with the US military. It would also allow (as is the case most places in the world) military personnel to bring their families with them. DoD schools would be built and infrastructure would be put in place for military housing and services.
A Defense Cooperation Agreement (DCA) is signed between the US and Kuwait every 10 years. The DCA was up for renwal last year (2011). Details of the DCA are kept secret, as is the SOFA agreement between the two countries.
"A status of forces agreement (SOFA) is an agreement between a host country and a foreign nation stationing forces in that country. SOFAs are often included, along with other types of military agreements, as part of a comprehensive security arrangement. A SOFA does not constitute a security arrangement; it establishes the rights and privileges of foreign personnel present in a host country in support of the larger security arrangement." (Wikipedia)
What is going to happen? One source quotes: 15,000 are staying in the tiny country, at least for now, By Michelle Tan, Staff writer, Army Times, Posted Saturday, Jan 14, 2012 8:39:16 EST. Nearly 15,000 soldiers are now deployed to Kuwait — including two brigade combat teams and a combat aviation brigade — as the mission there evolves and the U.S. works to maintain a combat-capable presence in the unstable region. “This is a larger contingent than we’ve typically had,” a senior Army official, who spoke on background, told Army Times. “Working with the Kuwaitis to have a U.S. presence there is very helpful as far as general regional security is concerned,” the official said. What remains to be seen is whether troop levels, particularly among the combat units, will remain in the long term. In November, after the U.S. withdrawal from Iraq was announced and officials were trying to determine whether some forces should remain in the region, the defense minister for Kuwait was quoted as saying the Arab state would only be used as a transit point for troops. A military official told Army Times that it’s likely the U.S. will have a “continued presence in Kuwait, similar to before 2003.”
From all indications, Arifjan is staying. There are new HUGE warehouses being built in Mina Abdullah, for example. It appears very permanent. It is all to the benefit of the local economy.
Regarding Iran, I have noted that on the camps that I've visited within this past month, surface-to-air (SAM) launchers have been erected. There are also notifications in common areas of how to take cover for a SCUD attack. (I haven't heard the word "SCUD" used since 2003. Fascinating.)
Local support services like car leasing, apartment furnishings have suffered (however rents have not dropped in the market as many of us had hoped. Damn greedy landlords!!!). There have been cutbacks in many areas.
What is going to become of the military camps? What's going on?
The camps in Kuwait are just that - "camps". The were created for a deployment into Iraq, meaning that the soldiers have not been allowed to go off the camps. The barbed wire, surveillance cameras, and guards don't just keep people out: Camp Arifjan has been described by many as a "medium-security jail." Soldiers rarely get out and it is very difficult to get in. Further, as a deployment, the camps were built with the intention of being able to return the land to an "as it was" condition. No doubt, several of the camps are probably headed in that direction.
 |
| Storage/pre-positioning of equipment - Arifjan |
There have been rumors that Camp Arifjan may become a permanent base. (I heard that a secret agreement was signed on Valentine's Day - hours before the new Parliament was sworn in. Again, that is just heresay.) When Camp Arifjan was built, the US Government signed a 50-year land lease with the Kuwaiti Government. My guess is that Arifjan isn't going away anytime soon. A permanent base would be nice. It would allow Kuwaiti support services to conduct permanent business with the US military. It would also allow (as is the case most places in the world) military personnel to bring their families with them. DoD schools would be built and infrastructure would be put in place for military housing and services.
 |
| Semi-permanent buildings on Arifjan |
"A status of forces agreement (SOFA) is an agreement between a host country and a foreign nation stationing forces in that country. SOFAs are often included, along with other types of military agreements, as part of a comprehensive security arrangement. A SOFA does not constitute a security arrangement; it establishes the rights and privileges of foreign personnel present in a host country in support of the larger security arrangement." (Wikipedia)
What is going to happen? One source quotes: 15,000 are staying in the tiny country, at least for now, By Michelle Tan, Staff writer, Army Times, Posted Saturday, Jan 14, 2012 8:39:16 EST. Nearly 15,000 soldiers are now deployed to Kuwait — including two brigade combat teams and a combat aviation brigade — as the mission there evolves and the U.S. works to maintain a combat-capable presence in the unstable region. “This is a larger contingent than we’ve typically had,” a senior Army official, who spoke on background, told Army Times. “Working with the Kuwaitis to have a U.S. presence there is very helpful as far as general regional security is concerned,” the official said. What remains to be seen is whether troop levels, particularly among the combat units, will remain in the long term. In November, after the U.S. withdrawal from Iraq was announced and officials were trying to determine whether some forces should remain in the region, the defense minister for Kuwait was quoted as saying the Arab state would only be used as a transit point for troops. A military official told Army Times that it’s likely the U.S. will have a “continued presence in Kuwait, similar to before 2003.”
From all indications, Arifjan is staying. There are new HUGE warehouses being built in Mina Abdullah, for example. It appears very permanent. It is all to the benefit of the local economy.
Regarding Iran, I have noted that on the camps that I've visited within this past month, surface-to-air (SAM) launchers have been erected. There are also notifications in common areas of how to take cover for a SCUD attack. (I haven't heard the word "SCUD" used since 2003. Fascinating.)
 |
| US bases in the Region |
Monday, March 26, 2012
Britains Got AMAZING talent
I heard about this clip while listening to Linda on 99.7 this morning..... WOW!
Sunday, March 25, 2012
Saturday, March 24, 2012
African Night by Indigo Shadows
My friend, Lorie Beverly of Indigo Shadows invited me to an event she produced. She had told me almost a year ago that she was interested in doing an event and when it came around, I was just so tired that I almost bowed out; however, she is an amazing friend and I would do anything for her and to support her, so I went. I am so glad I did.
Lorie is a magician at pulling things together. She is an "outward processor" meaning that she usually talks her thought process through verbally instead of internalizing it. She's full of boundless energy which is sometimes too much for an old 29 year old like me. I don't know how she does what she does, but she is extremely good at it; as well as being very very ethical in how she chooses to conduct her business. Qualities which I strongly admire.
She created Indigo Shadows to produce children's events and parties. Although I haven't been to any of those (and can't say that I would ever promise to because of my desire to always be in peace and quiet) the events that I have attended like the Africa Night have been very entertaining.
The event was held at a ballroom at the Holiday Inn in Salmiya; a ballroom that I didn't know existed, but was so pretty that I will recommend to people later. There was a small vendor area for African gifts at the entrance and the main hall was decorated with hand-painted animal scenes like lions and elephants and a 3-D cat in a tree. The event consisted of dancers, a singer from Nigeria, singing by an African congregation in Kuwait, a fashion show, a raffle, and drum recitals by the guys from the Meat Company (shout out to my cousin, Desmond, from South Africa!!! Love you, bro!). The Holiday Inn's buffet (although not African) was very very good. It was all really well done and everyone in the room had a great time.
Lorie, thank you so much for your hospitality and for another wonderful evening. I know you did so much work and I look forward to your next event.
Indigo Shadows Event Planning specializes in quality children's events. For information, contact Lorie Beverly at 9995-5403 or lorie@indigoshadows-events.com
Lorie is a magician at pulling things together. She is an "outward processor" meaning that she usually talks her thought process through verbally instead of internalizing it. She's full of boundless energy which is sometimes too much for an old 29 year old like me. I don't know how she does what she does, but she is extremely good at it; as well as being very very ethical in how she chooses to conduct her business. Qualities which I strongly admire.
She created Indigo Shadows to produce children's events and parties. Although I haven't been to any of those (and can't say that I would ever promise to because of my desire to always be in peace and quiet) the events that I have attended like the Africa Night have been very entertaining.
The event was held at a ballroom at the Holiday Inn in Salmiya; a ballroom that I didn't know existed, but was so pretty that I will recommend to people later. There was a small vendor area for African gifts at the entrance and the main hall was decorated with hand-painted animal scenes like lions and elephants and a 3-D cat in a tree. The event consisted of dancers, a singer from Nigeria, singing by an African congregation in Kuwait, a fashion show, a raffle, and drum recitals by the guys from the Meat Company (shout out to my cousin, Desmond, from South Africa!!! Love you, bro!). The Holiday Inn's buffet (although not African) was very very good. It was all really well done and everyone in the room had a great time.
Lorie, thank you so much for your hospitality and for another wonderful evening. I know you did so much work and I look forward to your next event.
Indigo Shadows Event Planning specializes in quality children's events. For information, contact Lorie Beverly at 9995-5403 or lorie@indigoshadows-events.com
4th of July at the US Embassy
I had the great fortune of attending the US Embassy's National Day party this week. It is actually the 4th of July recognition, but it is moved to another date every year for several reasons: First, because having it on the 4th would be too obvious and cause security problems; next, lots of people leave town around May when it gets hot and the kids are out of school; and lastly because March has beeeeeautiful weather, so why the heck not? :)
Last year's event was larger because it was the 50/20 celebration and there were fireworks and a lot of congratulations on the 20 years of the liberation and all that. I was glad that this year's event didn't have quite so many people. It is held outside around a grass area where you just can't wear heels. Some of the ladies were wearing 4" heels (which make your legs look fantastic, however, not when they are 4" deep into terrain). I did that last hear; huge mistake.
Yes yes, I have BMC'ed in former years about the courtesy of the Embassy, and their first-line staff in particular. I couldn't be more complimentary about the night's event. Everyone (and I mean EVERYone) from the cleaning staff all the way up to Ambassador Teuller himself greeted us with, "Welcome to the US Embassy." Outstanding hospitality. (I now want our site staff to do the same in our company's offices because it made such a huge first impression.) I went with The Man and he said, "Are you sure we are in the right place?"
Last year, The Man's daughter went with me to the embassy, so I thought it was only fair that he got to go and see what it is all about. I think (hope) he had a great time. I saw a lot of people I know, got to shake a lot of hands and get hugs from a few special people. I also saw my Sheikha friend's handsome brother from afar and no Stella, I did not run across the quad and pounce upon him. tee hee.
OMG and talking about special (not in a short-bus way), Kimberly Lewis sang the National Anthem. Oh.My.God. From where I was standing, I couldn't see who was singing, but what a voice!!!! You go, girl. Want to come to my house and sing happy birthday to me next month? :) You're invited!
So, if you are a follower (hey - I gots 101 of them now! - that probably doesn't seem like a lot to some, but I treasure my stalkers.), you probably know that I have long complained about "How do I, as an average American working in Kuwait, score an invitation to our country's national day party at the embassy?" I posed this question once to Ambassador Deborah Jones (I MISS YOU and your pithiness) and she responded with, "Do something for the embassy." My mind immediately went dirty. (Well, okay, she did follow it by a comment that made me think dirty - something about dating someone there or something like that, but we won't go into it here...) Anyhoo, this made me ponder (not about the dating someone at the embassy).... Just what could score me an invitation (by the serious part of her response). I have figured it out. If you, American people, want to know, write to me and I'll tell you the secret. (amerab@gmail.com).
The one thing that is still a disappointment to me at the Embassy National Day Parties (I'm sorry, but this has to be said. I'm sorry - I know you are going to say, "C'mon DG!!! Please stop complaining!" ): The bathrooms. I have been to desert camps for parties with better bathroom facilities for parties. Port-a-Pottys? Really? If I have a choice between a sand lot and a port-a-potty, the sand is going to win every time. You've got VIPs and dignitaries... port-a-pottys? Seriously? There are trailers you can rent that have marble floors and gold fixtures. I've been in 'em. They're great.
So thank you, everyone at the embassy. But most particularly, Media Girl, Ms. R, and Ms. G. for the hospitality and a lovely evening.
Last year's event was larger because it was the 50/20 celebration and there were fireworks and a lot of congratulations on the 20 years of the liberation and all that. I was glad that this year's event didn't have quite so many people. It is held outside around a grass area where you just can't wear heels. Some of the ladies were wearing 4" heels (which make your legs look fantastic, however, not when they are 4" deep into terrain). I did that last hear; huge mistake.
Yes yes, I have BMC'ed in former years about the courtesy of the Embassy, and their first-line staff in particular. I couldn't be more complimentary about the night's event. Everyone (and I mean EVERYone) from the cleaning staff all the way up to Ambassador Teuller himself greeted us with, "Welcome to the US Embassy." Outstanding hospitality. (I now want our site staff to do the same in our company's offices because it made such a huge first impression.) I went with The Man and he said, "Are you sure we are in the right place?"
Last year, The Man's daughter went with me to the embassy, so I thought it was only fair that he got to go and see what it is all about. I think (hope) he had a great time. I saw a lot of people I know, got to shake a lot of hands and get hugs from a few special people. I also saw my Sheikha friend's handsome brother from afar and no Stella, I did not run across the quad and pounce upon him. tee hee.
OMG and talking about special (not in a short-bus way), Kimberly Lewis sang the National Anthem. Oh.My.God. From where I was standing, I couldn't see who was singing, but what a voice!!!! You go, girl. Want to come to my house and sing happy birthday to me next month? :) You're invited!
So, if you are a follower (hey - I gots 101 of them now! - that probably doesn't seem like a lot to some, but I treasure my stalkers.), you probably know that I have long complained about "How do I, as an average American working in Kuwait, score an invitation to our country's national day party at the embassy?" I posed this question once to Ambassador Deborah Jones (I MISS YOU and your pithiness) and she responded with, "Do something for the embassy." My mind immediately went dirty. (Well, okay, she did follow it by a comment that made me think dirty - something about dating someone there or something like that, but we won't go into it here...) Anyhoo, this made me ponder (not about the dating someone at the embassy).... Just what could score me an invitation (by the serious part of her response). I have figured it out. If you, American people, want to know, write to me and I'll tell you the secret. (amerab@gmail.com).
The one thing that is still a disappointment to me at the Embassy National Day Parties (I'm sorry, but this has to be said. I'm sorry - I know you are going to say, "C'mon DG!!! Please stop complaining!" ): The bathrooms. I have been to desert camps for parties with better bathroom facilities for parties. Port-a-Pottys? Really? If I have a choice between a sand lot and a port-a-potty, the sand is going to win every time. You've got VIPs and dignitaries... port-a-pottys? Seriously? There are trailers you can rent that have marble floors and gold fixtures. I've been in 'em. They're great.
So thank you, everyone at the embassy. But most particularly, Media Girl, Ms. R, and Ms. G. for the hospitality and a lovely evening.
Friday, March 23, 2012
Somebody got smaaaaart....
This is a reprint from blogbuddy, American Girl. THANKS for posting this. I would love to see more Americans wise up to their rights under Kuwait Labor law - and not just skip the country when the going gets tough with their unethical employers.
KUWAIT CITY , March 21: The Court of First Instance has referred a case filed by a group of Americans employed in some companies associated with the US Army in Kuwait
Case files indicate the plaintiffs have been deprived of some employment privileges stipulated inKuwait
Attorney Mussa’ed Jamal Al-Riyahi, who represented the American employees in court, argued his clients should receive privileges as per the Kuwaiti law.
Posted on March 22, 2012 by American Girl
Should be interesting to see the outcome (if Arab Times provides an update). I know exactly what the defense of the company is going to be — but as long as those employees had residency in Kuwait Kuwait
__________________________________________________________
‘Violation of global rules’
Case files indicate the plaintiffs have been deprived of some employment privileges stipulated in
Attorney Mussa’ed Jamal Al-Riyahi, who represented the American employees in court, argued his clients should receive privileges as per the Kuwaiti law.
__________________________________________________________
DG say - The Kuwait/US Defense Cooperation Agreement (DCA) is secret, so who knows what is agreed to in there, really, pero IF you have a Kuwait Article 18 residency visa, you are governed by Kuwait Labor Law - weather or not you work on Arifjan or the other camps. You reside off camp. You are not military. You should get compensated under the Kuwait Labor Law. Bada bing.
There were many cases under CSA. I'm sure there are probably a few under the new contract holders. Hmmm. Fascinating case law....
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Law Bans Skinny Models
CNN Online
21 March 2012
Israel has passed a law banning the use of underweight models in advertising. The legislation, known as the "Photoshop Law," also requires that agencies tell their audience if they've digitally altered pictures to make models look thinner.
"This is such a happy day for me, and it should be for everyone in the modeling business," said Israeli modeling agency owner Adi Barkan, who has been working in fashion for more than 30 years. He said he lobbied Knesset members for years to get a law like this passed.
"All over the world, 20 years ago, we saw girls who were skinny, but today we see girls who are too, too skinny," he said. "They are dying. The business only wants the skinny girls. So the girls, they stop eating. It's terrible. We must be more responsible and say to them that it doesn't have to be that way."
The new law prohibits the use of models with a body mass index of 18.5 or less, a designation based on internationally accepted measures. The figure matches parameters set by the U.S. Department of Health.
The law has no criminal consequences, said Liad Gil-Har, a Knesset spokesman. It could be enforced only through civil litigation. He offered an example by saying that the law would make it possible for parents of a 15-year-old girl suffering from anorexia to sue the makers of an advertisement if they believed their daughter was being influenced by an ad featuring an underweight model.
The law doesn't set a money amount that can be gained in court from such a suit, Gil-Har said. Lawmakers realize that it may be a long and difficult process to prove in court that a company violated the new law, but they feel that simply having the law in place will accomplish what they want: deterring advertising companies from continuing to influence Israelis with images of unhealthy-looking models as the gold standard of beauty, he said.
Gil-Har said lawmakers have spent years deciding what action to take to curb an alarming number of Israelis suffering from eating disorders. The Knesset's Research and Information Center told lawmakers that there are about 1,500 children, including teens, diagnosed with eating disorders in Israel annually. Knesset members relied on data presented to them that linked eating disorders to exposure to media images that glorify thinness.
"We think this will be enough, that no advertising company will want to violate this law," Gil-Har said.
"They just won't want to take that risk."
Some modeling agencies in Israel aren't happy.
"The indexes on which the law is based are arbitrary and are not appropriate for every model. I know many models who are totally healthy girls who might be disqualified because of the law," said Eli Edri of the Roberto Models Agency in Tel Aviv, according to Haaretz. He told the newspaper that some models are naturally thin and unable to gain weight and that the new law would unfairly prevent them from getting booked for jobs.
Plus-size American supermodel Emme told CNN that she thinks the law will spur other countries to institute similar measures against showing underweight models. "I think this is fantastic because so many young women and men are suffering to look a way that is unrealistic and unhealthy," she said.
The United Kingdom, she said, has aggressively pursued advertising agencies that alter images to an extent that grossly misrepresents the photo's subject. Advertisements for Lancome featuring Julia Roberts were banned in Britain because they were overly airbrushed.
END
Okay, so I’m against Israel in many many ways; however, this is one point that I completely agree with and I applaud them for (hopefully) being at the forefront of this movement. Enough of the stick people.
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
No fresh milk, but you can find old cheese....
Out of focus (had to snap quickly at TSC Salmiya), but ingredients are: Old cheese, oil, and pepper.
Supposedly, KD Cow is trying to double their production to counter the customs strike and subsequent lack of fresh milk in the country. I've never seen cows in Kuwait, so I am wondering where the local milk farms are. I know that happy cows produce more milk. Wonder how you would accomplish that in Kuwait. Classical music? Massages?
And hey, this would be a perfect opportunity for local camel milk farmers to get into the market.
Saturday, March 17, 2012
Tours of Kuwait: Desert Girl ♥'s the People of Morqab Tours!
I had the BEST time last night! I felt like I was in the company of long-lost friends. I love those moments. They are few and far between.
In September of last year, I posted about Narodna Trading and Morqab Tours. Freya of Narodna wrote to me and asked me if I would please post information about their new business venture and tours of Kuwait. I have recommended the tours to several friends - and several more readers of the blog.
Stella's mom took a tour with them a few months ago and gave a glowing review; she went on to say how much she loved the tour guide. Although I was skeptical, she said he was Kuwaiti and knew the history of buildings and places around town - and bargained for her, even leaving her a small gift item she was looking for - the day after the tour. Since then, other readers have provided me their feedback and they all love Morqab Tours - can't say enough good things about them.
So this weekend, the Narodna people invited me to their farm in Kabd. Not for a tour, people who can't read, but for a lovely private dinner to get to know them and probably in gratitude for a little bit of promotion. As they say in their fliers, they will pick up and drop off from anywhere in Kuwait for their tours.
I was kinda skeptical and wondering if I really wanted to go by myself. What would these people be like? Would it be fun? Why am I doing this? None of my friends were up for the trip and The Romanian is still in recovery. I needed to get out of my bubble and meet new people. What the heck, okay. I know Kabd like the back of my hand, so it isn't like it is a big scary place. However....
My mother would be shocked to death had she known that I was going to Kabd alone to meet with a bunch of people who I had never met nor even spoken to - and didn't know their names. I was kinda sorta thinking twice about it when I got up to Kabd - especially waiting for them in the parking lot of KFC (which is NOT female-friendly). I was purty sure that I would be sold into white slavery by some of the weirdos that cruised by. Two of the guys circled several times and looked at me like I was a rotiserie chicken dropped in the middle of Somalia. (Sorry - I know that is incredibly UN-PC, but hey, they looked HONgry and it wasn't for food either....)
Then Freya and friend showed up. They looked welcoming and familiar (I can hear my mom saying, "Yeah - like ALL good kidnappers/white slaver/sexual deviants do..." - Nuh uh, mom!). So they offered me some candy and I got in their car. (No I didn't. Just kidding, mom! I had my own car and it was booze not candy... Just kidding again. ha ha. Take your blood pressure meds, mommy....).
I got to their farm and it was like dog sanctuary; lots and lots of furry, bounding, happy dogs! I love that. Good people have happy dogs. These were good people.
We sat outside. We talked. We laughed and laughed. I talked about things that are normally exclusive to my inner circle (and I actually revealed some things that even my inner circle/diwaniya gang don't know). Only when I feel REALLY comfortable do I do that. We had a wonderful dinner. We talked some more. I stayed from 5 to around 11:30pm. I know that I overstayed my welcome and I felt sorry about that, but I just didn't want to leave. I love them. I felt like I had known them all my life. They were my long-lost buddies that part of me has been missing for years. I'm a highly trained bullshit detector; I treasure genuine sincerity when I come across it. It is rare like a jewel that should be coveted. These people are the real deal.
So, nuts and bolts: A bunch of retired (or soon to be retired) Kuwaiti friends decided to start the tour group, along with their friend, Freya - a looooovely Irish lady, who does (from what I can tell) the marketing materials and some of the admin work. It's a winning combination. The guys know and love their country, their customs, and their history and are PROUD to share it with Westerners. They get a tremendous amount of satisfaction in what they do and it shows. Their customers become their friends - and that's an important aspect of their business. I am so happy to see this business in Kuwait - I can't even tell you. It has been on my wish list for Kuwait for years - and here they are!
When I told tour guide Ali that I was skeptical that a Kuwaiti was actually doing the tours; and how I naturally assumed he was Pakistani or another nationality, all the friends laughed. They said that always happens. It is just so rare for Kuwaitis to be doing what they do. But in my experience in Kuwait, many more Kuwaitis would jump at the chance to do the same thing. These guys have just taken the initiative and are doing a great thing for their country.
Check out my post on the tours with their prices or contact them directly. Tell them that I sent you. E-mail
No, this is in no way a paid advertisement - it all comes back around and I owe it to them for making me so happy this weekend. Thank you, my new long-lost friends! You were there just when I needed a battery recharge. You were nothing but positive energy. You ARE the kind of Kuwaitis I remember (and Freya - you are obviously an honorary Kuwaiti because you have the heart!) Thank you for making me remember and I hope to see you again soon.
In September of last year, I posted about Narodna Trading and Morqab Tours. Freya of Narodna wrote to me and asked me if I would please post information about their new business venture and tours of Kuwait. I have recommended the tours to several friends - and several more readers of the blog.
Stella's mom took a tour with them a few months ago and gave a glowing review; she went on to say how much she loved the tour guide. Although I was skeptical, she said he was Kuwaiti and knew the history of buildings and places around town - and bargained for her, even leaving her a small gift item she was looking for - the day after the tour. Since then, other readers have provided me their feedback and they all love Morqab Tours - can't say enough good things about them.
So this weekend, the Narodna people invited me to their farm in Kabd. Not for a tour, people who can't read, but for a lovely private dinner to get to know them and probably in gratitude for a little bit of promotion. As they say in their fliers, they will pick up and drop off from anywhere in Kuwait for their tours.
I was kinda skeptical and wondering if I really wanted to go by myself. What would these people be like? Would it be fun? Why am I doing this? None of my friends were up for the trip and The Romanian is still in recovery. I needed to get out of my bubble and meet new people. What the heck, okay. I know Kabd like the back of my hand, so it isn't like it is a big scary place. However....
My mother would be shocked to death had she known that I was going to Kabd alone to meet with a bunch of people who I had never met nor even spoken to - and didn't know their names. I was kinda sorta thinking twice about it when I got up to Kabd - especially waiting for them in the parking lot of KFC (which is NOT female-friendly). I was purty sure that I would be sold into white slavery by some of the weirdos that cruised by. Two of the guys circled several times and looked at me like I was a rotiserie chicken dropped in the middle of Somalia. (Sorry - I know that is incredibly UN-PC, but hey, they looked HONgry and it wasn't for food either....)
Then Freya and friend showed up. They looked welcoming and familiar (I can hear my mom saying, "Yeah - like ALL good kidnappers/white slaver/sexual deviants do..." - Nuh uh, mom!). So they offered me some candy and I got in their car. (No I didn't. Just kidding, mom! I had my own car and it was booze not candy... Just kidding again. ha ha. Take your blood pressure meds, mommy....).
I got to their farm and it was like dog sanctuary; lots and lots of furry, bounding, happy dogs! I love that. Good people have happy dogs. These were good people.
We sat outside. We talked. We laughed and laughed. I talked about things that are normally exclusive to my inner circle (and I actually revealed some things that even my inner circle/diwaniya gang don't know). Only when I feel REALLY comfortable do I do that. We had a wonderful dinner. We talked some more. I stayed from 5 to around 11:30pm. I know that I overstayed my welcome and I felt sorry about that, but I just didn't want to leave. I love them. I felt like I had known them all my life. They were my long-lost buddies that part of me has been missing for years. I'm a highly trained bullshit detector; I treasure genuine sincerity when I come across it. It is rare like a jewel that should be coveted. These people are the real deal.
So, nuts and bolts: A bunch of retired (or soon to be retired) Kuwaiti friends decided to start the tour group, along with their friend, Freya - a looooovely Irish lady, who does (from what I can tell) the marketing materials and some of the admin work. It's a winning combination. The guys know and love their country, their customs, and their history and are PROUD to share it with Westerners. They get a tremendous amount of satisfaction in what they do and it shows. Their customers become their friends - and that's an important aspect of their business. I am so happy to see this business in Kuwait - I can't even tell you. It has been on my wish list for Kuwait for years - and here they are!
When I told tour guide Ali that I was skeptical that a Kuwaiti was actually doing the tours; and how I naturally assumed he was Pakistani or another nationality, all the friends laughed. They said that always happens. It is just so rare for Kuwaitis to be doing what they do. But in my experience in Kuwait, many more Kuwaitis would jump at the chance to do the same thing. These guys have just taken the initiative and are doing a great thing for their country.
Check out my post on the tours with their prices or contact them directly. Tell them that I sent you. E-mail
narodna_trading@yahoo.com, or mobile: (965) 6510-0772
No, this is in no way a paid advertisement - it all comes back around and I owe it to them for making me so happy this weekend. Thank you, my new long-lost friends! You were there just when I needed a battery recharge. You were nothing but positive energy. You ARE the kind of Kuwaitis I remember (and Freya - you are obviously an honorary Kuwaiti because you have the heart!) Thank you for making me remember and I hope to see you again soon.
Kuwaiti Cooking Course
Villa No 67, Street 413, Block 4, Shuhada Area, Kuwait.
Tel. 25231015
Mob. 9779822
(Re-post from LWDLIK blog)
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Black Fags Cause Ruckus
First of all, use of the word “fag” is politically incorrect. I don’t use it. It is offensive to our gay friends and a slur.
I really don’t understand why black gay men would cause a ruckus in parliament. Hey – to each his own. Why should they be so disruptive to a parliamentarian session. No one has ever before questioned sexuality in such a session. Why now?
… seems I need to do more research about this. Why would some MP’s bring their black (slur)’s in parliament? So wrong.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
Decency Bill - WTF
Well spank me and call me 'Susan'... as if there weren't enough problems to deal with....
‘Blatant intrusion in personal lives’ ‘
‘Blatant intrusion in personal lives’ ‘
Decency’ bill rapped
KUWAIT CITY, March 12: The President of the Women’s Cultural Social Society Sheikha Al-Nisf has criticized the MPs who have tabled the so-called ‘Decency Bill’ of playing political Islam. She pointed out to the deteriorating situation in Kuwait which has led to the emergence of backward thinking, reports Al-Seyassah daily.
In an interview with the newspaper, she pointed out behavior of decency is not confined only to wearing clothes, saying the women in the Kuwaiti society are known for modesty and Islam and does not need recommendations from the MPs.
She regretted what she called the blatant interference in the behaviors and personal life of the people. She noted these currents promote the thought of (Osama) bin Laden. She added they want Kuwait to be another Taleban-minded country.
In an interview with the newspaper, she pointed out behavior of decency is not confined only to wearing clothes, saying the women in the Kuwaiti society are known for modesty and Islam and does not need recommendations from the MPs.
She regretted what she called the blatant interference in the behaviors and personal life of the people. She noted these currents promote the thought of (Osama) bin Laden. She added they want Kuwait to be another Taleban-minded country.
The composition of the 2012 National Assembly will end up issuing a package of laws against the society as a whole and not against women only.
She pointed such restrictions which are imposed on the Kuwaiti people have made thousands of Kuwaiti families flee from Kuwait on vacations because of the mentality of close-minded people who fight tooth and nail tourism and recreation in Kuwait. For these people everything is ‘haram’.
She said Kuwait is governed by the Constitution. She added these currents want to impose their ideology on the society and even though they contradict themselves in all things, they in the past stood against all the political rights for women and now they take advantage of women’s vote to exploit their position and call for demolition of churches.
In another development, several academics, economists and politicians have outrightly rejected the decency draft bill, while calling for decency of the idea itself since it casts doubts on the ethical standards of women in the Kuwaiti society.
They have voiced objection to the suggestion of a parliamentary bloc, which they accused of using religion to serve political interests, affirming that the Kuwaiti community knows what is unethical, ‘halal’ and ‘haram’ even before the formation of the group.
They have also pointed the people of Kuwait voted for the members of the bloc to address pending issues, instead of calling for the demolition of churches and preventing the construction of new ones. Apparently, the bloc is not content with such calls; hence, it is now pushing for the approval of the decency bill as if women walk naked on the streets of Kuwait. The group seems bent on taking Kuwait back to the old ages, the experts added.
Commenting on the proposal, Social Sciences Professor at Kuwait University Dr Dalal Al-Zibn said the Kuwaiti society rejects the precepts being spread by religious movements in and outside the National Assembly, because the entire community has been aware of the decency code, customs, traditions and public moral standards long before the entry of the bloc into the local political arena.
On the other hand, economic expert Dr Adel Al-Saadoun believes the first proposal presented by the Islamic group in the 2012 National Assembly will only push Kuwait backwards, wondering how the so-called Justice Bloc conceptualized a bill that is tantamount to invading people’s privacy. He observed the group is terrorizing the society, urging them to relax a little because Islam is not about forcing people to follow a certain direction in their life.
Journalist Aisha Al-Rushaid asked if any woman has been seen dressed indecently in a public place in Kuwait, wondering why the decency bill seems not applicable to men who walk in shorts and pajamas in the market and malls. She affirmed she will not allow anyone to restrict her freedom because she was born free.
National Democratic Alliance (NDA) Dr Ahmad Al-Munayyes contended this kind of bill is deemed offensive to the people of Kuwait, considering its proponents want to impose their will on a society with a set of moral principles that have been observed for decades. It is unacceptable for someone to insult the women through the implementation of a decency law because the country has its own ethics code.
Prominent columnist Ahmad Al-Sarraf added the bill is flawed and lacks decency. He asserted the proponents of the bill are still living in the past.
Monday, March 12, 2012
Arab Times, 12 March 2012
70-year-old man’s 20-year-old wife caught having fun with her lover
KUWAIT CITY, March 11: Police have arrested an Asian woman, believed to be in her 20s, for cheating on her husband and having fun with her lover, reports Al-Rai daily.
When the husband, a Kuwaiti in his 70s, returned home unexpectedly, the lover reportedly pushed him to the ground and ran away. The Kuwaiti filed a complaint at Abu Halifa Police Station and police are now looking for the lover.
- End -
DUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUU
UUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUHHHHHHHHHH
HHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
Apparently, Viagra isn't the only solution.
My question is – where did he buy the wife?
Sunday, March 11, 2012
BFF Heart Attack Update
The Romanian was transferred to Al-Sabah Cardiology Hospital today to have an angioplasty in the morning. She said that her view from her hospital room during the day is gorgeous - overlooking Kuwait Bay with flamingos flying by.
I'll know more tomorrow after her surgery. She's been really happy with the treatment she's received so far and says that her doctor is one of the best cardiologists in Kuwait. Inshallah, her operation will go well.
I'll know more tomorrow after her surgery. She's been really happy with the treatment she's received so far and says that her doctor is one of the best cardiologists in Kuwait. Inshallah, her operation will go well.
Saturday, March 10, 2012
My BFF, The Romanian, had a heart attack
I have been putting off posting this for a few days until she could tell her family back in Romania, but now that it is out and her sister knows, I can.
Monday night, I called my BFF and asked her if she wanted to come over for dinner. She said she was tired and she'd pass. At 2:30am, she sent me a cryptic message asking me to pick up her dog, Tinkerbell, from her house because she was worried about her. She (The Romanian, not Tinkerbell) wouldn't answer her phone. A few cryptic messages (several in Romanian - WTF?) later, she told me she was in Mubarak hospital after having a heart attack.
She's younger than I am. She's had problems with high blood pressure and cholesterol and has been taking meds for it.
Ok, so we all think we can "sneak" foods once in a while when we know we're not supposed to. So, she had an omelet for dinner and then had severe chest pains. She called her son who was out with the guys and he immediately called an ambulance.
The ambulance (in Salmiya) arrived in approximately 5 minutes. Her son arrived right after. The technicians (I don't think they could have been paramedics) sprayed something under her tongue and told her that if she didn't feel better in an hour, to call them back. Her son drove her to the hospital. The ER doctor told her that she was having a heart attack and emergency services should have taken her immediately to the hospital. (Mark has a very interesting post on 2:48am blog about emergency services in Kuwait and how high-tech they have become - ergo the 5 min response time; however now it is time to get the employees up to the level of their equipment.) They almost cost her her life.
She's a heavy smoker, so this is a huge wake-up call to her. When she decides to do something, she is as stubborn as a mule about it, so I know she is going to take this very seriously. She's already told me that MY lifestyle is about to change to suit hers; that's fine except for the refreshing drinks. It will be good for me, I'm sure.
Her doctor (who has the same name as The Man) told her that they are seeing more and more heart attacks of young people in Kuwait - people in their late 20's and 30's - because of the lifestyle here. High cholesterol, fatty foods and lack of exercise. I look around at some of these guys with what appear to be 9-month-pregnant bellies, smoking cigarettes and wonder how they are still on their feet. Anyhoo, maybe this is my wake-up call too - start living better.
The Romanian is doing much better. For the first several days, they had her on some kind of morphine mixture for the pain and did literally round-the-clock tests. It is a blockage of one artery and they think it is from high cholesterol. She's been on a drip to and blood thinners to remove the blockage and they have checked to determine if there should be another course of action (angioplasty or whatever). So far, it looks good; that it was a mild heart attack that can be cleared without anything invasive. Inshallah.
And now for a
NOTE TO FOREIGNERS in Kuwait
Got Civil ID? Kuwait has a universal healthcare system
Lots of Western expats come to Kuwait and get private insurance and think that is the only way to go. You've got a favorite doctor at International Clinic or Mowasat and think you're set. You pay your deductible (and more) without ever even considering the national universal Kuwait healthcare system. If you have a civil ID, a full blood work-up at the local Kuwaiti clinic in your area is 2KD. Not covered under my private insurance, the same full blood work-up cost me 100KD at a private clinic. (Dental care is also treated at local clinics - look into it.)
First, find out where to go in your community; both clinic and hospital. It is determined by the address on your civil ID.
Also - the health care The Romanian has received at Mubarak Hospital has been OUTSTANDING (from the time she arrived to the young, professional Kuwaiti nutritionists/dieticians who come in every day at 1pm to train her how to adjust her lifestyle). My friend, Bobaliscious, had a similar good experience at Al-Sabah, and yet another American friend recently at Adan Hospital. We visited Al-Bahar Center (specializes in eyes) and the treatment both the Romanian and I got there was excellent.
I am here to tell you: Healthcare in Kuwait has improved dramatically over the past few years and most people speak English and are very willing to assist you (even the porters at Mubarak Hospital walked me right to The Romanian's room and were very friendly).
IF (God forbid) you or anyone you know needs emergency care for heart problems, the government hospitals are THE ONLY hospitals who have the latest equipment to deal with cases. Don't just get in your car and run over to a private hospital; you may be wasting valuable life-saving time and they will only charge you for the use of one of their ambulances to transport you to a government hospital.
And by the way, ambulance service in Kuwait is free; dial 112 and INSIST that they take you to the hospital or you will report them. There is no shame in going to the hospital and having it be a false-alarm. It would be worse if, as in my BFF's case, it was something serious and they didn't take you.
Wastah helps tremendously. This is yet another reason why, foreign people in Kuwait, you should make and retain friendships with Kuwaitis. They know the best doctors/dentists in the areas and if something bad happens, you might be able to score an upgrade to a private room or better treatment. But just remember, wastah is a 2-way street. You can't just drop people (use them) once they've helped you. Remember your friendships. It isn't (always) like you owe them something in return, but even kindness or a returned favor in some small way will do it. (I know a few Americans who have been helped through Kuwaiti friends and their wastah and the Americans haven't figured this rule out; burning bridges that could help them cross over a problem in the future. Bad juju.)
Monday night, I called my BFF and asked her if she wanted to come over for dinner. She said she was tired and she'd pass. At 2:30am, she sent me a cryptic message asking me to pick up her dog, Tinkerbell, from her house because she was worried about her. She (The Romanian, not Tinkerbell) wouldn't answer her phone. A few cryptic messages (several in Romanian - WTF?) later, she told me she was in Mubarak hospital after having a heart attack.
She's younger than I am. She's had problems with high blood pressure and cholesterol and has been taking meds for it.
Ok, so we all think we can "sneak" foods once in a while when we know we're not supposed to. So, she had an omelet for dinner and then had severe chest pains. She called her son who was out with the guys and he immediately called an ambulance.
The ambulance (in Salmiya) arrived in approximately 5 minutes. Her son arrived right after. The technicians (I don't think they could have been paramedics) sprayed something under her tongue and told her that if she didn't feel better in an hour, to call them back. Her son drove her to the hospital. The ER doctor told her that she was having a heart attack and emergency services should have taken her immediately to the hospital. (Mark has a very interesting post on 2:48am blog about emergency services in Kuwait and how high-tech they have become - ergo the 5 min response time; however now it is time to get the employees up to the level of their equipment.) They almost cost her her life.
She's a heavy smoker, so this is a huge wake-up call to her. When she decides to do something, she is as stubborn as a mule about it, so I know she is going to take this very seriously. She's already told me that MY lifestyle is about to change to suit hers; that's fine except for the refreshing drinks. It will be good for me, I'm sure.
Her doctor (who has the same name as The Man) told her that they are seeing more and more heart attacks of young people in Kuwait - people in their late 20's and 30's - because of the lifestyle here. High cholesterol, fatty foods and lack of exercise. I look around at some of these guys with what appear to be 9-month-pregnant bellies, smoking cigarettes and wonder how they are still on their feet. Anyhoo, maybe this is my wake-up call too - start living better.
The Romanian is doing much better. For the first several days, they had her on some kind of morphine mixture for the pain and did literally round-the-clock tests. It is a blockage of one artery and they think it is from high cholesterol. She's been on a drip to and blood thinners to remove the blockage and they have checked to determine if there should be another course of action (angioplasty or whatever). So far, it looks good; that it was a mild heart attack that can be cleared without anything invasive. Inshallah.
And now for a
NOTE TO FOREIGNERS in Kuwait
Got Civil ID? Kuwait has a universal healthcare system
Lots of Western expats come to Kuwait and get private insurance and think that is the only way to go. You've got a favorite doctor at International Clinic or Mowasat and think you're set. You pay your deductible (and more) without ever even considering the national universal Kuwait healthcare system. If you have a civil ID, a full blood work-up at the local Kuwaiti clinic in your area is 2KD. Not covered under my private insurance, the same full blood work-up cost me 100KD at a private clinic. (Dental care is also treated at local clinics - look into it.)
First, find out where to go in your community; both clinic and hospital. It is determined by the address on your civil ID.
Also - the health care The Romanian has received at Mubarak Hospital has been OUTSTANDING (from the time she arrived to the young, professional Kuwaiti nutritionists/dieticians who come in every day at 1pm to train her how to adjust her lifestyle). My friend, Bobaliscious, had a similar good experience at Al-Sabah, and yet another American friend recently at Adan Hospital. We visited Al-Bahar Center (specializes in eyes) and the treatment both the Romanian and I got there was excellent.
I am here to tell you: Healthcare in Kuwait has improved dramatically over the past few years and most people speak English and are very willing to assist you (even the porters at Mubarak Hospital walked me right to The Romanian's room and were very friendly).
IF (God forbid) you or anyone you know needs emergency care for heart problems, the government hospitals are THE ONLY hospitals who have the latest equipment to deal with cases. Don't just get in your car and run over to a private hospital; you may be wasting valuable life-saving time and they will only charge you for the use of one of their ambulances to transport you to a government hospital.
And by the way, ambulance service in Kuwait is free; dial 112 and INSIST that they take you to the hospital or you will report them. There is no shame in going to the hospital and having it be a false-alarm. It would be worse if, as in my BFF's case, it was something serious and they didn't take you.
Wastah helps tremendously. This is yet another reason why, foreign people in Kuwait, you should make and retain friendships with Kuwaitis. They know the best doctors/dentists in the areas and if something bad happens, you might be able to score an upgrade to a private room or better treatment. But just remember, wastah is a 2-way street. You can't just drop people (use them) once they've helped you. Remember your friendships. It isn't (always) like you owe them something in return, but even kindness or a returned favor in some small way will do it. (I know a few Americans who have been helped through Kuwaiti friends and their wastah and the Americans haven't figured this rule out; burning bridges that could help them cross over a problem in the future. Bad juju.)
Thursday, March 08, 2012
Kuwaiti food and restaurants
What is Kuwaiti cuisine? I believe that people ask this question because until recently, there were less than a handful of Kuwaiti restaurants in the entire country. Most of the restaurants that you see here are Lebanese, so people assume that Kuwaiti food is of a Mediterranean nature. Where Mediterranean cuisine is light, Kuwaiti is more of the comfort-food variety: hearty meals with large portions of fish or meat and sauces. You won’t find nouveau cuisine portions at Kuwaiti restaurants. Comfort food comes in family/economy sizes, so pull up your sleeves and put on your most comfortable stretchy pants. Generosity is a pillar of Kuwaiti hospitality and that means bringing out the large trays when guests arrive.
Generally, all Kuwaiti restaurants will offer the same dishes (it would be similar to comparing menus at steak houses). What defines one restaurant from another is their use of spice (“baharat); as the spices are key to completing the dish. For example, murubbian (shrimp with dill, peppers, and cilantro over rice) would not be good without just the right amount of seasonings: Fresh dill is a must. Without turmeric or saffron (or in some dishes, pistachios or dried cherries), rice can be bland and boring. There are many spice markets in Kuwait and I suspect that this is where McCormick™ shops; as spices here are sold by the kilo and/or sack full. Kuwaiti mothers and grandmothers blend their own “secret” spices for unique tastes.
So, when you visit a Kuwaiti restaurant, you learn to compare how good the cuisine is by the spices used (and how fresh the fish, lamb, or chicken is. Beef is rarely used). Your palate will eventually differentiate between sumac and dried lemon (for example). Both are bitter, but there are slight nuances. Sometimes, it is even possible to determine (perhaps after many years of eating Kuwaiti cuisine) where the chef is from and if he/she is trying to impersonate a Kuwaiti grandmother-chef. (At this point in my life, I am actually able to make that distinction; my waistline is my evidence.)
Types of Kuwaiti dishes, broken down (English spellings of translated names may differ. Sometimes you will find funny spellings on menus like “lamp” for lamb.): Duqoos is a tomato sauce that accompanies rice dishes. It is made with tomatoes, salt, and garlic. Hameesa is similar to a ratatouille with chicken, meat, or shrimp, onions and peppers and accompanied by bread. Jarish (pronounced “yareesh” in Kuwaiti dialect as Kuwaitis turn “J” sounds to “Y”) is a thick oatmeal based stew with meat broth and small pieces of lamb. Jarjeer is a form of watercress or rocket. Most meals will include jarjeer either in salad or alone. Logaymat are Kuwaiti-style donut holes. The best logaymat are crisp on the outside, lightly seasoned with saffron, coated in a sugar paste and with a hint of lemon. Machboos is a dish cooked with either lamb or chicken (sometimes, although rarely, with camel), browned then baked, and served on a bed of yellow rice. Margooga is a pasta dish in sauce with cilantro. Mowish is similar to murubbian, but with dried shrimp, shrimp, spices, and onion (sometimes green pepper) served on a bed of rice. It is more aromatic than murubbian. I prefer murubbian which is fresh fish, dill, cilantro, onion and green peppers. Mutabag is a tomato-based stew and can be made with fish, chicken or lamb. Qabot is Kuwaiti style dumplings: rolled dough around ground meat with raisins served in a tomato broth. Tashreeb: I love tashreeb. It is Kuwait’s lasagna and uses very thin flat bread in place of noodles, and a tomato lamb stew with vegetables and dried lemon. Tashreeb is the ultimate comfort food in Kuwait. Torshi is homemade pickles which accompany most meals.
(A note on biryani: Although you will find biryani on almost every menu in almost every Kuwaiti restaurant, biryani is an Indian dish so I haven’t included it above. A variation of biryani Kuwaiti style which I have not come across in restaurants is pouring a small amount of saffron-infused rosewater over the rice at completion for aroma.)
Fish is an entire section on its own. Hamoor (grouper) and zubaidy are the favorites in Kuwait. Sheem is my favorite; similar to a small bluefish with dark meat. Kuwait exports jumbo prawns; they thrive in the shallow waters in Kuwait at the tip of the Gulf. Seafood is cooked a variety of ways in Kuwait (although steaming is not common). Fish is either fried or grilled with hashu (stuffing consisting of dried lemon, cilantro, raisins, onions and spices). A true Kuwaiti fish meal will never neglect the accompaniment of tamarind fish sauce. Gub-gub (crabs), although plentiful and cheap in Kuwait, are not popular and great deals can be found at the fish markets. There are many seafood restaurants that are either carry-out or delivery only. Whole fish can be ordered to cook any way you like and several of these restaurants can be found online. Try the crabs from Fresh Grill or grilled shrimp or hameesa from Fresh Fish; both on 6alabat.com.
[A note on ingredients: Lamb: Most Kuwaitis will tell you that local lamb is better than imported; it is certainly much more aromatic. If you are really lucky, you might find camel on a menu – take the opportunity and try it. It tastes like a very lean beef – if you’ve been given a good piece, especially from the hump of a young camel. Rice: Always basmati. Vegetarian dishes: If you are a vegetarian, Kuwaiti cuisine is really not for you. If you ask for “no meat”, they will just remove it (meaning that the stew may have been cooked with lamb). However, there are several very good vegetarian restaurants in Kuwait and you can always find veg dishes in Indian restaurants. ]
Fresh fruit juice can be found everywhere in Kuwait : You can find just about every possible type of fruit juice here, from moz-halib (banana and milk) to shammam (mellon), to layered cocktail juice with banana, strawberry and mango stripes. Try a samadi (mango juice with fresh pieces of fruit) or an embratoor (similar to a samadi with ice cream). If you don’t like too much sugar; let them know as it is added generously.
Tea in Kuwait has different variations of seasonings like saffron, cardamom and mint. Loomi tea is dried lemon (and great for colds).
Kuwaiti restaurants and décor: There seems to have been a cultural revival going on during the past five to seven years in the restaurant industry in Kuwait. Most of the Kuwaiti cuisine restaurant owners have honored their ancestry and heritage by decorating their venues to depict a former traditional Kuwaiti way of life; many even showcasing photos of their family members from years ago. It seems to be almost a statement on social life and values, as the country has modernized so quickly. Even fifteen years ago, most Kuwaiti families didn’t dine in restaurants and today, many modern families don’t eat (or have the time for) home-cooked meals. Perhaps the owners are creating interactive mini-museums, nostalgic of a previous existence not so long ago. Almost all of the Kuwaiti-cuisine restaurants still maintain the tradition of “family” sections and “singles” (male) sections. Many offer “cabinas” or private dining rooms – most often to make the veiled ladies more comfortable while dining. So now, an introduction to Kuwaiti restaurants (in alphabetical order):
Al Boom restaurant in the Radisson Blu hotel is of Kuwait’s oldest landmarks and the only restaurant in Kuwait which is housed in an authentic Kuwaiti boom (sailing ship). It is a truly unique dining experience and anyone visiting Kuwait should really take the opportunity to see visit it. Walls of the boom are decorated in teak with inlays of brass. The restaurant specializes in seafood and always has a fresh and interesting salad buffet bar. Coffee is served on an upper level and guests can get a view of the surrounding waters from visiting the top deck of the ship. Fresh bread is baked in an outdoor oven at the entrance, enticing hungry customers to venture inside.
Alwatani Kitchen has locations in downtown Kuwait, Hawally and Abu Halifa and can be ordered online. Those who don’t like a lot of spice in their food will enjoy the meals from Alwantani.
Beit Dixon Restaurant (although spelled slightly differently) is the namesake of the historic residence of Dame Violet Dickson and British Colonial Administrator, Harold Dickson. The Dicksons were beloved by the Kuwaiti people, having spent most of their lives in Kuwait. Beit Dixon’s décor is traditional Kuwaiti; decorated to replicate old Kuwaiti living. The walls are reflective of the mud walls used in housing; there are wood beams with old/traditional food storage baskets hanging from them, and artwork which depicts Kuwait’s history.
(Note on the word “Freej”: Many Kuwaiti restaurants are prefaced with the name “Freej”. Freej is an old Gulf term for “neighborhood”.)
Freej Bin Shamlan has one of the nicest home-delivery packages I’ve ever come across – and even includes a traditional plastic table (ok, floor, as many people sit on the floor to eat) covering. Sometimes it is the extras that set a restaurant apart from the competition. Their food was well seasoned and fresh.
Freej Eqaab is located in Dajeej off 6th Ring Road. Similar to other freej’s, it is decorated to replicate old Kuwaiti living. Freej Eqaab is my pick for an inexpensive menu, offering items at prices lower than other restaurants I’ve listed.
Freej Suwaileh is on Salem Mubarak Street in Salmiya. The décor is a replica of a Kuwaiti village with items that depict Kuwait’s history and heritage. They say you can tell how authentic a local cuisine restaurant is by the number of locals who dine there. Freej Suwaileh is packed on the weekends, especially on a Friday after prayer services. They serve a sample portion of logaymat as soon as guests are seated which is a nice touch and always makes you want to order more at the end of the meal.
Maadenaa Restaurant is the most elegant Kuwaiti restaurant in town. Perched on the 28th floor of the Jasem Tower in downtown Kuwait, the restaurant offers a 360 degree view of Kuwait and the Gulf. Maadenaa serves an updated Kuwaiti cuisine and also offers Morroccan food on the menu. There is no traditional ambiance at Maadenaa; furniture and décor is modern.
Muhallab at the Palms is a traditional Kuwaiti seafood restaurant that offers all-inclusive pricing on meals. For example, if you order a whole nagroor (fish), the meal includes (for the table) mezza (assortment of cold salads), freshly baked bread, fresh fruit basket, tea and deserts. Muhallab’s seafood is consistently high quality as is their service. As a bonus, the restaurant is beach-front, overlooking the Hashemi boom next door and the gulf waters. It is a weekend lunchtime “must-do” especially if you are entertaining out of town visitors.
The oldest Kuwaiti restaurant in the country is Shatea Alwatyia restaurant in the Behbehani Homes complex in downtown Kuwait behind the Sheraton. Unlike many Kuwaiti restaurants that have followed, Shatea Alwatyia is located in an original old Kuwaiti-style family home, built in the 1950’s. The Behbehani houses are the few remaining remnants of Kuwait’s (not-so-distant in Western terms) past; now lost to concrete and glass. Many current Kuwaiti restaurants have tried to replicate the ambiance of yesteryear whereas Shatea Alwatyia’s ambiance is original. If you are interested in seeing how Kuwaiti families used to live, in rooms surrounding an atrium and courtyard supported by original wood beams, Shatea Alwatyia is the place to go. The restaurant began with a Kuwaiti grandmother in the kitchen. She has managed to retain her legacy through several chefs who have retained the consistency of quality Kuwaiti food.
Setinat is located in Hawalli on Beirut Street and offers the most tender lamb I’ve had at any restaurant. Like it’s freej cousins, Setinat is also decorated in old Kuwaiti traditional style.
Sandwich shops are everywhere in Kuwait and all you have to do is pull up to one and honk your horn and you’ll get immediate service. If you are looking for a shawarma (similar to a gyro) try Nowara with locations downtown and Salem Al-Mubarak Street in Salmiya. Doo restaurant in Salmiya has the best falafel anywhere – try it with mint. Caporia serves wonderful grilled shrimp sandwiches. You’ll find many sandwich shops for a quick-fix on Shaar Al-Mata’em (Restaurants Street) in Salmiya.
You would be remiss (as a resident or a visitor) if you left the country without ever having experienced a meal at Souq Mubarakia in downtown Kuwait. Mubarakia is the oldest and largest traditional Kuwaiti souq. It is home to numerous small restaurants that specialize in seafood, grills and other delicious items. The restaurants are mostly open-air and the best time to visit is in cooler months in the evening. Sample great Kuwaiti food, then take a walk down numerous off-shoot alleys that sell gold, spice, Bedouin weavings, and a variety of miscellaneous merchandise within the souq.
(A note about delivery: Most of the aforementioned restaurants deliver. Several are listed on www.6alabat.com.)
Wednesday, March 07, 2012
African Night - March 22nd
Indigo Shadows presents the African themed event - "Drums of Africa" on Thursday, 22 March 2012 at Holiday Inn, Salmiya from 7-10PM.
The event will include:
The event will include:
- Live African Drumming
- Live African Performances
- Dinner - Buffet Cocktail Style
- Great stage decor
- African music
- Fashion Show - African theme
- Hair Show - African theme
- Mini "Market" - some African ladies displaying and selling African souvenirs
- Raffle for adults
- Contest for children (age 4-12) - "Best African Costume"
- If you could kindly bring along a small food gift for the dogs and cats at PAWS it would be appreciated.
For more information, please contact Lorie Beverly at 999.55403 or lorie@indigoshadows-events.com
Lorie is phenomenal. She did an event for me last year and the level of detail she went to made it all appear seamless. Her prices are reasonable and she's a wonderful person to work with.
Freej Swaileh
Why is it that when restaurants have it right, they go wrong?
For years, Freej Swaileh in Salmiya has been one of my favorite Kuwaiti restaurants; good food, good value. Bada bing. But we ordered from them the other night and not only have their portions been cut by 2/3, but get this - WHERE'S THE MEAT??? SAME PRICE....
I ordered tashreeba with lamb (kinda like a Kuwaiti lasagna with bread instead of noodles). I love tashreeba and I know the proper way to cook it also (but it takes time that I usually don't have).
Stealth called Freej. He is (like me) one of those people who gets bent out of shape by delivery food injustices. He's Kuwaiti, so he can complain far more eloquently than I can. (Although several times I have seen him go OFF on managers because they neglected to deliver either chili peppers or pickles, but that is besides the point. Boy loves his peppers...) He was very polite to dude who answered the phone.... "There was no meat in the lamb tashreeba." The answer he got was that it was just MADE with lamb in the broth. Uh.. NOOOOOO. That is NOT how you serve it. You serve it WITH the lamb - usually big chunks of it. That's like boiling a hotdog and only giving someone only the water! Ridiculous! "You go and ask the owner (Kuwaiti) if he serves tashreeba in his home without any meat. That's just shameful."
It makes me feel bad for promoting Freej Swaileh so heavily if they are going to pull stunts like this cheap maneuver on consumers.
And yes, publicly bitching about it does make me feel better.
Has anybody else had this problem with them?
Freej dudes: Let me let you in on a little secret. You have competition; lots of it. Kuwaiti restaurants are popping up all over the place. You better get on the ball or places like Setinat, Bait Dixon, or Shatiya Wateya (which is also on www.6alabat.com) are going to kick your ass on market share. Dude!
Kuwait: Not quite ready for it
From www.almahha.com blog:
“IT’S A MAN’S WORLD” Exhibition, Al M Gallery , Kuwait , March 6, 2012: Opening of Shurooq Amin’s anticipated exhibition “It’s A Man’s World” in Al M Gallery , Kuwait
“Dear friends,
We would like to thank you for having participated the Opening “It’s a Man’s World” yesterday night. Unfortunately, the exhibition of Shurooq Amin is temporarily suspended and for the moment we cannot release any information about the situation. We apologize for the inconvenience. Please follow our updates n Twitter and Facebook. Best regards, Al M Gallery”
Sunday, March 04, 2012
A frickin BASKETBALL HOOP...
There's really nothing you can do when you have noisy neighbors in Kuwait. I always like to check out the neighborhood before I move in - see what it is like on a weekend night, etc. I thought I was pretty safe with the landlady living upstairs - and for almost a year, I never heard anything...
Until she decided to move and rent the apartment to new tenants.
I tried to be neighborly - did the new neighbor thing. But the first day they (Brits) moved in, they started slamming things on their floor. "Oh sorry, noisy moving men..." And then it was, "We have 3 kids. They're used to living in a house and not having to share with others." Otay, so rent a villa! For what they are paying for the place upstairs, they could get an entire separate villa somewhere (somewhere where you could hang your bras on your terrace where no one would mind, eh? Think we ALL didn't notice your unmentionables hanging in the wind like we live in an Egyptian boarding house? Nobody needs to see all that. Buy a freekin dryer!)
So this has been going back and forth for several years now. I've asked them to come down and listen to the noise from their apartment. I've asked them to come down if my noise ever gets to be too much. They never have. I kinda wish they would have because then I could gauge the level I should keep it at. I went upstairs the last time to say something and dude slammed the door in my face. Not nice. (He later came down to mine after I shouted up the stairs and I had the opportunity to slam my door in his face. Touche.)
The response by the lady of the house (the sensible one) has been, "It's your right to be noisy. It's your home." I don't agree with that. I share the home with neighbors and it isn't my house. I don't live alone. I can't be noisy. ... and neither should they. Granted, they shouldn't have to walk around like mice (put down some carpeting - you get a 30% discount) but they don't have to walk around like elephants either.
She made a big deal of stating time and again that they have THREE children. Hey, if I had THREE children, I would want to live in a separated home or somewhere where my THREE children wouldn't bug the heck out of others and scare the bejezus out of their little dog. Me, I don't think that children are an excuse to disturb others; but many out there will probably disagree with me. If you can't teach your kids appropriate manners maybe you should make other living arrangements. Maybe in a place where the neighbors have kids too - and are more understanding.
I have a dog. She has better manners than my upstairs neighbors kids. She doesn't bark all the time....
Je, I guess I'm not terribly understanding. I'm a hard working person who wants to come home to peace and quiet. I pay extra for that. I want to sleep late on the weekends and take naps after a really hard day.
Bitchy? Perhapseee...So anyhooo..
Today I came home and happened to look at their window - the one right upstairs from my bedroom. They have a BASKETBALL HOOP installed on the wall right above where my bed is! WTF! Game on. I'm going to buy Bose speakers this week. "Surround sound" will have new meaning. I have LOTS of children; all invisible; all wildass redneck; all like to party. Rock on with your bad selves. ....'Invisible Baby Bubba, you put down that layamp!!'
Until she decided to move and rent the apartment to new tenants.
I tried to be neighborly - did the new neighbor thing. But the first day they (Brits) moved in, they started slamming things on their floor. "Oh sorry, noisy moving men..." And then it was, "We have 3 kids. They're used to living in a house and not having to share with others." Otay, so rent a villa! For what they are paying for the place upstairs, they could get an entire separate villa somewhere (somewhere where you could hang your bras on your terrace where no one would mind, eh? Think we ALL didn't notice your unmentionables hanging in the wind like we live in an Egyptian boarding house? Nobody needs to see all that. Buy a freekin dryer!)
So this has been going back and forth for several years now. I've asked them to come down and listen to the noise from their apartment. I've asked them to come down if my noise ever gets to be too much. They never have. I kinda wish they would have because then I could gauge the level I should keep it at. I went upstairs the last time to say something and dude slammed the door in my face. Not nice. (He later came down to mine after I shouted up the stairs and I had the opportunity to slam my door in his face. Touche.)The response by the lady of the house (the sensible one) has been, "It's your right to be noisy. It's your home." I don't agree with that. I share the home with neighbors and it isn't my house. I don't live alone. I can't be noisy. ... and neither should they. Granted, they shouldn't have to walk around like mice (put down some carpeting - you get a 30% discount) but they don't have to walk around like elephants either.
She made a big deal of stating time and again that they have THREE children. Hey, if I had THREE children, I would want to live in a separated home or somewhere where my THREE children wouldn't bug the heck out of others and scare the bejezus out of their little dog. Me, I don't think that children are an excuse to disturb others; but many out there will probably disagree with me. If you can't teach your kids appropriate manners maybe you should make other living arrangements. Maybe in a place where the neighbors have kids too - and are more understanding.
I have a dog. She has better manners than my upstairs neighbors kids. She doesn't bark all the time....
Je, I guess I'm not terribly understanding. I'm a hard working person who wants to come home to peace and quiet. I pay extra for that. I want to sleep late on the weekends and take naps after a really hard day.
Bitchy? Perhapseee...So anyhooo..
Today I came home and happened to look at their window - the one right upstairs from my bedroom. They have a BASKETBALL HOOP installed on the wall right above where my bed is! WTF! Game on. I'm going to buy Bose speakers this week. "Surround sound" will have new meaning. I have LOTS of children; all invisible; all wildass redneck; all like to party. Rock on with your bad selves. ....'Invisible Baby Bubba, you put down that layamp!!'