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

Good Luck!

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.

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!

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!!!

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.

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.

Aramco Sued for death of beauty queen camel

I dare you to come up with creative comments. Dare you. Dare you. Double dare you.

SOURCE LINK

What Desert Girl Wants for Christmas

I know it is a little early, but still... I can keep this in my purse. It is cute and convenient. I wonder if it comes in pink. I wonder if they have a version with crystals. OH - the possibilities!

1 day plus 1 day plus 1 day equals.... two weeks, right?

I had a fantabulous time in DC for the convention. The weather was perfect, the convention went just right, and I got to hang with the fam. I also met a whole lot of new people. It was outstanding.

I visited a botanical garden with my mother one day and fed some enormous catfish and turtles. T’was amazing. It was such a nice day with my mommy. I miss her so much that I get weepy. I think she may come to visit me in February. I hope.

I managed to stretch a 3 day convention into 2 weeks. That worked out well. Ok, in the process, we made several good deals and I hope that one or two will hit and that I will be a Superstar (job security). That was my real goal. I’m very happy with the way things turned out.

Hey, look at how Agility pimped their booth (see photo). Fassssssscinating. So much for sexual harassment and the military, eh? What man's bright idea was that?

I got to go to one of my nephew’s football games. My sister wouldn’t let me embarrass the entire family. It saddened me, but out of respect for her, I didn’t scream like I usually do…. Well, ok, I got off one or two. Our entire bleacher section when painfully silent. I don’t care – I don’t know them.

Let me just say – again – how much I love the United flight to/from DC. They’re having a sale for 135 KD now. Awesome. I sleep the entire trip. Snoring? Do I care if I snore? I have no shame. It may feel like turbulence. It may sound like engines ripping apart. Do I care?

So then, so then, so then I got home and found out that the phucking gardener hadn’t watered my plants… the same plants that I have been nursing back to health all summer after he almost killed them back in the Spring. I am so mad! I got back and all the leaves were off the trees on my terrace and he had taken some kind of pruner to them. OMG! They were thin to begin with, but then dude goes after them like it is the Texas Chainsaw Massacre or something! He’s from Bangladesh and seems to hate me. Every time I see him, he scowls at me. I think it is because of my dog. You know – people from Bangladesh (male or female) believe that if a dog bites you, you get pregnant (with what – I don’t know). Anyways, I’m so mad, I’m so mad, I’m so mad! All my pretty trees are dead and I wish to batter him about the head with pots and pans (that’s my sister’s phrase – I can’t claim it).

The 2 stray cats (not mine) who live on the terrace, Paint and Petunia, are now pooping in my dog’s poop area. I think they’re doing it to make her angry. They can’t hiss at her anymore because I’ve taken the hose to them on more than one occasion. So, they stare her down and then poop. That’s so catty. Haaaaaaaaaaa!

I got an invitation to a Filipino friend’s home this weekend. The Man and I decided to do something different and actually venture off the sofa on a weekend night and go. She made a lot of food. He looked frightened (he’s not really good about trying new food things). I got him a plate of food with the same things that I ate. I explained to him later what ox tail stew is. He gagged like a little girl. Come ON! Bedouin dudes eat sheep heads and a little ox tail makes him gag? That’s just plain silly. What does he think is in hotdogs? I laughed until my stomach hurt. “Why didn’t you TELL me?! Why did you let me eat it?!” Dude! I ate it too. I said it was ox tail. When you hear “tail” anything, perhaps you should politely decline. Want a piece of tail, baby? (See, now I’m just crackin myself up again!).

This Wednesday night, there is supposed to be a meteor shower. Last night, I was up somewhere ungodly North of Kabd (like, I’m not kidding: half an hour plus past the 3rd traffic circle on 604) and I saw 4 shooting stars. I wish for what I usually wish for (can’t say – it won’t come true). It was so beauteous. I kinda wish I could be out there in desertland again on Wednesday night, but it is a work night. I’ll try.

Slaps moved into her new chateau this weekend. She bought a friend’s apartment contents which were in storage – something like 100 boxes. Way cool. She’s still going through them. She’s got a nice place – a lot quieter than where she was in the Sheikha Complex. It also doesn’t smell like poop. Maybe I should send the cats over there.

Right before I left, I sent Diana a nice e-mail explaining how I felt about the problem we had at the chalet. No response. Ok fine. Now I know where she stands with me.

Desert Girl say: Life is too short for poorly fitting panties or people who don’t really like you.

Where men can go for a massage in Kuwait

I've been blogging since 2004 and now have over 500 posts. So, ask me what the #1 question that my readers ask me .... is it about residency visas? Is it about restaurants? Is it about legal issues? Is it about me personally?

Noooooooooooooooo.

Ladies and Gentlemen, the number ONE question most asked by my readers is.... (here it comes)

"Where do I go to get a massage by a woman?"

(Always asked by men. Not always asked so politely.)

Sometimes I try to be kind instead of just deleting the e-mail message. Then, I'm usually punished for my kindness by come-ons, "So, how old are you? Where are you from?"

To this I say, dudes.... WTF!? I'm a woman. Why do I care where you go to get your massage? And no, I'm not going to GIVE you a massage either. I mentioned one or two little lines in between 499 other posts over a FIVE year timeframe, and this is all youse can come up with?

(This just really proves my point that no one listens to me - either verbally or written.)

So, here are a few places below you can go to get a LEGAL massage. I don't KNOW of any places that do illegal massages (females massaging males). Honest - I don't. If you really want a female to massage you and you believe that I can help you, dial 2484-3900 ask for a nice temperature controlled room and a nice woman to massage all your cares away. If you don't speak Arabic, dial "0" for the operator and ask for the sexy girl who gives massages.

Some men here chose to ask their housekeepers for a massage. Then, they end up married to them. Then, they end up paying for their wife's parent's roof somewhere. (Puhleeze - don't even get me started.)

First, Chinese massage place in Bnaid Al Gar: phone 2251-1101. I couldn't go in because I'm FEMALE, but it looked okay from the street.

Here are a few others below. (I HATE Blogger's formatting issues with pictures!!!!)

Thar ya go. NOW LEAVE ME ALONE WITH THE STUPID MASSAGE QUESTIONS!!!

DG out.

A Quick Fix for the Non-Virgin

From BBC

Egypt anger over virginity faking

"A leading Egyptian scholar (male!) has demanded that people caught importing a female virginity-faking device into the country should face the death penalty.

Abdul Mouti Bayoumi said supplying the item was akin to spreading vice in society, a crime punishable by death in Islamic Sharia law.

The device is said to release liquid imitating blood, allowing a female to feign virginity on her wedding night.

There is a stigma about pre-marital sex in some conservative Arab societies.
The contraption is seen as a cheap and simple alternative to hymen repair surgery, which is carried out in secret by some clinics in the Middle East.

It is produced in China and has already become available in other parts of the Arab world.
The device is reported to be on sale in Syria for $15.

Professor Bayoumi, a scholar at the prestigious al-Azhar University, said it undermined the moral deterrent of fornication, which he described as a crime and one of the cardinal sins in Islam.

Members of parliament in Egypt have also called for banning import of the item. "

- end -


It is pathetic that women have to resort to this. I have had friends who have either gotten their husbands drunk on their wedding nights so they couldn’t remember anything – to friends who have had the hymen repair surgery (which they have told me costs around $500). How many husbands are virgins on their wedding nights? Well, for $15 (KD 4.300), I guess this thing is worth it to some. Sheeeet - for that much, you could stock a whole closet of them. Thats cheaper than the mascara I buy.

Getting Ready to Go to the AUSA Convention in DC

My how time flies when you are sitting on your fat ass doing nothing.... I can't believe how fast this year is going! Eeek. My mother used to tell me that the older you get, the faster time passes, but what tha Fuuuuu!

I'm getting ready to go to the Association of the US Army's annual convention in Washington, DC. I've been bugging my company to send me (again) for 2 years. I was really really looking forward to it, but then somebody threw a monkey wrench into my gears. I minor glitch. I try not to harp about work-related issues online because one never knows. It is just not prudent. Anyhoo, when Sally did my hair she also read my coffee cup. I hadn't told her that I am going on the trip, but she said, "Oh, I see you are travelling. It will be (pause) annoying." Yeah! That just about summs it up. Annoying.

Anyhoo, the convention is cool (although I always get nervous prior to business-related travel). It is enormous: 500 booths and takes up the entire area of the Washington DC convention center. It lasts for 3 days every year at the beginning of October and is the largest gathering of defense contractors and military personnel in the world. Because of my job in the Wonderful World of Defense Contracting, I should really be there every year. Ultimately, we should exhibit there, but I don't think I'll ever get them past the "Oh my GOD that's expensive" scenario.

My personal opinion is that if you are doing any kind of business development work with the US military, your company should be there - either as a participant or as an exhibitor. At the very least, your company should become a local member of AUSA's Kuwait Chapter (which is listed to the right of the screen here).

What does AUSA do? It is an organization that supports the troops and their families - basically in any way they can. It isn't political - it is about the human side of the scenario. (That is a very loose statement because any military organization is a military organization.) But locally, AUSA runs activities like barbecues for the troops and provides a locker of civilian clothing so that soldiers returning home on emergency leave (like when someone at home dies), they don't have to travel in their uniforms. Nationally, the organization lobbies for better benefits for troops and their families. If at all interested, you can check them out online.

I printed out the list of activities schedule and it is 24 pages long. The list of exhibitors is something like 15 pages long.

Anyhoo, it is in DC and I get to see my family. When I went in 2006, I got to hang out with Bobarino and he's all about the military, so we had fun. I learned a lot from him and I appreciated his input.

Several years ago, the Washington Post, ran an article about the convention and provided a map to the booths that had the best marketing give-aways. The Consul to the US Embassy along with one of the local AUSA guys went to the convention and did the treasure hunt. I wish I could get my hands on another map. The give-aways that I got were pretty standard except for some military type video games where you shoot the crap out of people in different terrain (ok, not so different from most of the video games available commercially, but still). I also got goggle wipes, a tube of goo that will keep your gun from jamming in the sand, a little toy eagle, a whole lotta pens, some key rings, and a few tote bags. Yeah, basically junk, but free junk.

I also shipped back 30 pounds of information on everything everybody had to offer. My boss told me "bring back brochures", so I did (via DHL). I'm not carrying all that crap on a plane! My shoe purchases take up too much weight quota for that. As if.

I still haven't heard from Diana or The Romanian and guess what - I'm not waiting next to the phone. This year has been very revealing to me. It is strange. Just when you think you have everything kinda figured out - BaBAYAM! I have lost a few people who I thought were my very dearest friends and I have found others who I wouldn't have imagined I would become close to. Life is fascinating, isn't it?

All I got for Eid was Drama!

Sometimes you just have those kinds of holidays. Mine has been poopy so far.

Friend Drama #1

The first thing that happened to me since Eid started was that I had a falling out with The Romanian. I’ve been friends with her for how long?.... 11 years. Some people have a problem with communication; they don’t just come out and say things when they have a problem. I believe in discuss, resolve, move on. I wonder if she doesn’t share this philosophy; I wonder if it could be cultural, coming from a former communist country; or is it just a personality issue? The Romanian chooses to ignore me. “I’m in a bad mood.” Is the only clue I get that there is something wrong. So, this is the millionth time it has happened and I have to make a determination if this is a real friend or not. I’m thinking the later.

I have done waaaaaay too much for her over the years and put up with waaaaaaay too much in the way of betrayal to keep up. It’s draining and I don’t believe I deserve it when weighing the balance of how well I have treated her. All of a sudden, I have come to the realization (not just based on the above, but more) that maybe she doesn’t like me very much. When you are faced with that knowledge – after befriending someone for so long – it is very hurtful.

On the Flip: Good Thing That Happened

My friend, T, called me and invited me to dinner that night at Gaucho. We had a really great time and I got to see my brother-from-another-mother, Desmond. It was all smiles and warm and fuzzy. The Man even knew I was feeling bad and he showed up to cheer me up. Thank you, God, for sending me your Angels every day! I always try to count my blessings.

Friend Drama #2

I have a very elegant friend (I’ll call her “Diana”) who invited me for the first time to her family’s chalet. I had a splitting headache yesterday but decided to drive down to (close to) Julai’a anyways just because I adore this woman so much.

It is beautiful and enormous; everything is in colors of light yellow and blue. It is the only chalet I’ve ever been in with an elevator. The table seats 16. There were all kinds of food in about 6 huge containers. I’ve had waaaay too much rice lately, but couldn’t help chowing down on mrubian because it was so good. The deserts were also AMAAAAAZING. (They said they came from a bakery, Caramel?, right next to “Soya Sauce” across from TGI Fridays. I’m going to have to go there and get more of the pumpkin cake. Yummm.)

Diana invited another girl who I know and like very much. She’s (I’ll call her “Ash”) a professional woman with a similar job to mine in management and very polite – like my friend. I like being around her. She always smiles and laughs and has something interesting to say.

And then, there was Diana’s cousin. I thought it was kind of strange the way she came in and ignored me. Her son – around 4 years old – only spoke English, so it was obvious that she did also (just not to me). The three women made polite conversation for a few hours and then things started to change.

Diana doesn’t like vulgar talk or foul language (I’ve never heard her utter a bad word) and both were easily flowing from her cousin. Diana tried under her breath several times to stop her cousin, but she continued. I don’t know if the cousin has a problem with Americans, but she just seemed to be on the attack. I couldn’t really defend myself because I was a first-time guest. First, it was asking me questions like do I like sex followed by “Americans are no good in bed”. (Have you heard this? I’ve heard it over and over again from Middle Eastern people – most of whom have had limited sexual experience of any kind. Can’t you find something else to say that doesn’t make you sound so ignorant and low-class?) Of course the first thing that leapt to my mind (although I couldn’t say it) was, ‘How many Americans have you slept with?’ (Seriously, if you know me, you would know how difficult it is for me to shut up and bite my tongue; not to come back with some quick and cutting remark. I respect my friend so much that I just couldn’t. I also come from a family whose manners simply wouldn’t allow it.) Then, she saw an actress on TV and said, “Look – she’s the only blonde I’ve ever seen who is pretty.” WTF?! I was seated about 2’ away from her at the time. She went on and on asking me about my personal life and do I have a boyfriend and she has a man with a large (one) if I needed him…. I tried to remain neutral on all things, ‘maybe’ and ‘sometimes’. The biotch had the nerve to say, “What kind of a weak personality to you have?! Do you ever answer any questions differently than maybe?” This all followed by a discussion about ME in Arabic with Diana right in front of me.

No wonder Diana has such an air of sadness. “When you have friends like that, who needs enemies?”

I thanked my friend for a wonderful evening and left. Not to be vulgar or use foul language, but Phuck that. (I can say it here. DG is my alter-ego and I can say things that I wouldn’t say in polite – or other as the case may be – company.)

I called The Man for the 2nd time this weekend in tears. He has his own drama but was very defensive and was proud of me for not ripping her eyes out of their sockets and force-feeding them to her.

I took an additional 3 days off this week so I wouldn’t have to see The Evil One at work and maybe get some relaxation in before I have to face more of him. This time off is proving to be equally if not more stressful.

On the Flip: Good Thing

Desert Dawg is always happy to see me. She is full of joy and I’m going to spend a lot more time with her and the stray cats, Paint and Petunia.

I only have about a week until I go to the US on business also. I can't wait to see my family! Yippeeee.


This is my 500th post! Hard to believe I have been complaining this long! Wow.

DG Comments on the Comments of the US Ambassador to Kuwait

I went to a dinner with Slapperella where the speech was given by Dr. Masouma Al-Barrak (another reason why the British Business Forum is better than the American Business Council!). I have never heard her speak before (regrettably) and I really enjoyed it. She spoke of the history of political rights for women and gave me a much better insight of how things have been accomplished; but equally of how difficult it has been for her personally. She is a strong and humorous woman with a dynamic personality. I would love to listen to more of what she has to say. I didn’t know, for example, that out of the 10 candidates in her constituency, she received the most votes.

It was because I was all fired up from hearing Dr. Masouma that I thought I should defend another strong woman in politics in Kuwait who I admire.

The US Ambassador, Deborah Jones, has received a lot of flack recently for comments she made about cats and dogs. You can google the whole story if you want, but some of the fanatic religious MPs have asked for her expulsion from Kuwait; which I find preposterous!

So, for the official Desert Girl commentary:

I believe HE Ambassador Jones' comment, taken out of context was, “...refer to them as the four cats and I said does that mean the remainder are dogs in the parliament? ....”

I'm an American woman who has lived and worked in Kuwait for the past 13 years and I love Kuwait. I have seen several ambassadors come and go and Ambassador Jones has been like a breath of fresh air to Kuwait. I have been extremely happy to see a female Ambassador to Kuwait. She has brought a much-needed perspective to her office and there have been noticeable positive changes at the Embassy.

HE Ambassador Deborah Jones is articulate, speaks fluent Arabic (with a regional accent – which is a rarity), knows the culture and religion of the country, and shows sincerity and kindness towards everyone she comes into contact with. In addition, she has an outstanding sense of humor; in almost every photo of her with members of the Kuwaiti government; regardless of their politics or religious values, everyone appears with a smile, as if they are in on a joke.

That is why I am certain that Ambassador Jones' comments on cats and dogs were of a humorous nature and in were in no way meant to insult male members of Kuwait's parliament. Americans generally use the phrase “cats and dogs” like “apples and oranges”.

It is unfortunate that some people - and this could apply not only to Kuwait, but anywhere in the world - are threatened by a strong, intelligent woman and seek any opportunity to create difficulties for her. This could equally apply to the difficulties faced by the four female members of parliament. Dr. Masouma Saleh Al-Mubarak, as an example, was the first female Cabinet Minister to be appointed in the history of Kuwait and faced (and continues to face) tremendous hardship by opponents; as do the other leading women in Kuwait’s political arena.

Women holding high-level positions in Kuwait (and other countries in the Middle East) face battles from people who believe that a man would be better suited to be in their position. These women are in politics because they have worked hard, persevered, and been nominated to their positions based on merit; not gender. If a man had been better suited for the job, he would be in it. Ambassador Jones was posted to Kuwait based on her expertise. She is of great value to Kuwait in terms of positive relations between the US and Kuwait.

I wish that regardless of gender, we could all just get down to business for the collective good of the Country.

Happy Eid

I can't believe this Ramadan passed so quickly!

Happy Eid everybody! I hope you and your families - are all happy, safe, and enjoy the time off.

Newbies - You have your own Expo!

From the paper

First, I think that these types of ads are great - if done properly. By "properly," I mean with photos of people smiling and with text that contains accurate grammar. And then, there's this one.... Is this really the profile they were after? Personally, I don't think these were the guy's own words (but that's just me). Great idea, poor follow-through.

Quick, dude... what does "resonate" mean? ...

And this... So, is the suspect the father? Because that's how I read it. Um noooo, you can't "catch" gonorrhea from an uncleanly home. So, if the parents and kids have it - it's incest. Regardless, I hope someone hangs for it.

DG Index: Salon Picks (Updated 2011)

I've updated this list a little for 2011.  I'm still getting requests/recommendations and that's great - I'll keep adding.  Please feel free to write to me to tell me more.

“Ask and ye shall receive”. I LOVE requests – especially when I have downtime at work and am getting bored being evil to my colleagues. Thanks, Josephine, for asking for this one!

Hair

     Highlights

Ashlee at Strands, Fanar, is still my all-time favorite colorist in Kuwait.  After all these years, she is the best.  I don't mind the prices because after searching around/trying other salons, I know that Ashlee will give me the best quality color that will last the longest.  (I even tried Tony & Guy; the color faded.  I also felt like the stylists were more concerned with their own appearance in the mirror than working on mine.) Ashlee is very good at color/highlights and does quality extensions (CHA CHING at 500 kd to begin and 250 KD for after-care). Strands Fanar: 25711237.

     Haircuts

Doree at Pineapple Salon in Shaab (off 30 – Fahaheel Expressway) does amazing cuts and did Slapperellas bob (bobs are hard to do) for several years. I don't trust her with color, however. [Why do these ladies think it is ok to put color on hair on roots on hair that has been highlighted for years? It is SO WRONG and messes up your hair bigtime.] Pineapple: 22622100.

People have been asking me about Eden. I used to go to Danielle at Images waaaaaay back when I first arrived in Kuwait. She does great hair – both cuts and highlights - and at reasonable prices. However, she is very difficult to get an appointment with – so much so that I get pissed off about it.

I haven't tried her yet, but Candice (formerly of Beach House I believe) cuts my friends' hair and does an amazing job.  She will go to your home to cut your hair now.  (Write to me for her number at amerab@gmail.com).  My friend, Libra (bflyonthewall@gmail.com or write to me for her number) does an amazing job with a pair of scissors.  You have to go to her home in Egalia, but like my friends say, "She has magic hands" and my hair seems to grow faster after a cut from her.

Cutting Edge is always a safe bet for short, trendy styles.

     Keratin Treatments

I haven't ventured beyond Strands, I must admit.  I trust Ashlee not to damage my hair.  I've had both the Brazilian Blowout and the Chocolate treatments at Strands.  Both had good results; although the Brazilian Blowout didn't last as long as the Chocolate (maybe because I started using the wrong shampoo/conditioner immediately following and no one told me different.  You should use non-sulphate, non-sodium).  Most salons in Kuwait offer keratin treatments that smooth out the hair and make it straighter.  All hair has keratin in it and this replaces what you've lost.  It aint cheap (80 to 200kd - although all keratin treatments are basically the same!):  call around for quotes and make sure the room is ventilated when you have the process done.

Manicure/Pedicures


      Nails 


2011 Update:  Eden salon does Shelak and Gelish nails that last 2 to 3 weeks. Nails retain their shine and great look for that entire time.  I've been having both manicures lately; however, my nails are so thin/brittle that if I don't immediately go in for another manicure when the Shelak/Gelish starts to chip/peel, my real nails underneath get very damaged.  Gloria or Jane at Eden are both very good. (Eden:  2241-9557)

For just a regular manicure/pedicure and hamam zaid (hot oil treatment): Oriental Princess in Salmiya. 25711255. Oriental Princess does everything on volume with low prices, so a mani/pedi will run around 4 KD. Oriental Princess also gives great hot stone massages in a clean, tranquil environment at around 30 KD.

Note to tha Newbies, Kuwait’s laws on hygiene in salons aint what you might be used to. You might consider bringing your own tools or a bottle of alcohol to ensure that everything is sterilized.

     Pedicures

I go for paraffin wax because it makes your feet so soft. I tried the Elements Spa at the Royal Hayatt Hospital and oooooooh my God it was nice. Prepare to be there for a while, and bring a book or iPod. You will be in for an amazing experience – at the same price as you would pay for a paraffin wax pedicure anywhere else.They give you fresh fruit and tea and scrub your legs and do your toes.  O.M.G. The spa is run by Banyan Tree and everything is Thai and tranquil. They also use thai products and paint the wax on your feet (more hygenic than dipping). Royal Hayatt’s main number is 2536-0000 and ask for the spa.

Eden doesn't have the massage pedicure chairs and I'm really picky about that (most places in Kuwait - even the really good quality salons do NOT have massage chairs.)  If I'm going to be anywhere for an hour or more having someone to my feet, I've got to have a decent massage chair because I have a bad back (circus sex - let's not go there).  Please write to me and tell me of salons with massage chairs for pedicures. The only one I know of is Femme Fatale in Mangaf and the pedicure wasn't that great.


If anyone knows of other salons with massage chairs for pedicures, PLEASE write to me!!

Tanning

     Tan in a Can

Strands – either location. Mary Lou does either spray tanning or the kind that you apply by putting it on like lotion. I’ve had the later: It was like having a massage because first she exfoliates your skin (while you’re on the treatment bed), you go to take a shower, and then you come back and she applies the tan. While you are laying there (lying or laying? Mom?), you can also get your hair deep-conditioned.  It is like having a massage and getting tanned all at the same time.

     Spray Tan & Tanning Beds

2011 Update:  Tantastic in Salmiya does spray tan and also Shelak manicures.  Eden has tanning booths.

I had NO IDEA how many Kuwaiti women were getting fake-tanned, but OMG - I sat in Eden getting a mani/pedi and their tanning booth actually overheated!  The girls were in and out of there every 15 minutes.  I asked if it is a trend and the manicurist told me that Kuwaiti girls don't care about the dangers; they'll come in straight off the beach and ask to use the booth, already read.  WTF.  There are going to be serious skin cancer issues down the road in Kuwait if someone doesn't step up and educate these girls.

Make-Up

I don't do the "Carnie Ho" look.  My friend, Libra, used to work for CNN and does amazing make up.  She is an artist with spray make-up to make you look flawless.  She can turn you into a ho if that's what you want (heeeeyyyy, no judgement here), but I like the simple, elegant look.  Libra:  bflyonthewall@gmail.com.

Although not a "pick":  Hanan Dashti salons do the Kuwaiti wedding make-up look.  Em... not so much for me, but here is her site (and you can also check out photos online):  www.hanandashti.com.  (Ah, nothing says "blushing bride" better than 10 tons of make-up.)  

     Semi-Permanent Eyelash Extensions

First, you can get fake eyelashes put on at almost every salon in Kuwait.  But - if you want them to last up to 6 months, there is only one person in Kuwait I know that is CERTIFIED to do the procedure - and that is Libra.  She does "Extreme Lashes".  It is a 2 hour process where  you lay/sleep on her massage bed and she applies the lashes one-by-one.  (She also has to take them off.)

Ok readers – you are free to comment with your own favorite picks now. I’m sure there are many.

The BEST Ramadan Tent in Kuwait - The Palms Hotel

Holy snap! I have found it. After years of searching and looking.... It was right there, almost across the street from my house all this time.

The Man invited me to ftour last night and was so sweet. He didn't know where I might like to go, so he made reservations at 4 places (which, ladies, is what happens if you throw a tantrum like a 3 year old because your man has been lazy in the romance department. Ask me. It works.) We hadn't been to the Palms for a while, so we went there.

I have to admit - I almost ran back to the car when we first got there. The Mishref Sewage Incident has left a bad smell all over Kuwait; and last night, the epicenter seemed to be around the pool at The Palms. I covered my mouth and we forged ahead. And I'm so glad we did. The smell stopped at the door. (If you are planning to go anytime soon, bring a perfume-soaked hankerchief - you gonna need it.)

The tent is pretty - in maroon colors with really pretty Moroccan lamps. There are visible fire extinguishers all over the room (kudos Palms!). The only thing that really disturbed me about the tent was that the floor was unstable. I wore cute high heels and one of my heels actually went though the carpeting into an open joint. They need to work on that.

The food: FRICK-IN- AMAZING! Where do I start? Well, I'll start where I started. My mother has written restaurant reviews of popular buffet restaurants and the advice she always received from the Big Eaters is: Never get distracted by the inexpensive side dishes or bread baskets (as restaurants know they will fill you before you move on). Go right for the big-ticket items. So, I made a dash to the seafood station where Dude was grilling lobster and shrimp. I'm not talkin your average pinky-fingernail sized shrimp: these were good sized - probably of the large variety; and so were the lobster tails. Oh.... my.... God!

The Man was being so nice and continued with that, so I would fill plate and he ran them back to the table (low heels!). Then, we went to the Moroccan station. Yummers! They had huge chunks of tagine lamb, couscous with lots of veggies, bastilla, and shrimp in red sauce.

ALL the servers at the buffet wore hygienic masks! You go, Palms!! All of the servers were attentive, happy and very nice. Sometimes they get a little surly just by the sheer mass of people they are dishing to, but not these folks.

The buffet is very large - comfortable enough to accommodate all the people rushing it at ftour time; it runs around the full circle of the room with a salad station in the middle. It is comfortable, unlike some places with uncreative single-file lines (that everybody in Kuwait knows people are bound to jump). The Palms buffet had separate stations so jumping was ok.

Food stations included pasta, pizza, seafood, Indian, African, Moroccan, desert, salads. There was also a big lamb/rice area (ouzi). There was an Egyptian area, but I think that is just for shoor.

The Palms also has THE BEST CHEESECAKE IN KUWAIT. Real cheesecake - like you would make at home with Philadelphia cream cheese. The kind that my sister used to make. I am so going to order one!

For the 2 of us, we paid 19KD and some change. I don't bother going to a lot of the buffets anymore because they are such a rip-off; charging exhorbitant prices for inexpensive or poor-quality food. The Palms is definately not that: exceptional food and service at a good price.

Thank you, The Palms, for giving me something positive to write about (instead of bitching, moaning, and complaining as usual!)

Oh, and The Man - thank you for making me happy. I get a 50 caliber hole in my heart when we fight.

Lack of Hygiene in Kuwait Governmental Offices

I had to go to the traffic department at Farwaniya today. Thank God, it is only the 2nd time in the 13 years that I have been in Kuwait that I've had to go there. Coincidentally, I had to pay a 10 KD ticket because someone hit my car right outside the department doors: I went, not by choice, but to pay traffic tickets from like 1920 for speeding (apparently, just now their manual ledger system is catching up to those who want to renew their residency visas).

Here's a little Kuwait hygiene update for ya: Not one person had hand sanitizer in the entire building. I was whippin mine out left and right. I was totally disgusted. Ew ew ew. One would THINK that with all the hype everyone in country is making over the flu that at least they would provide hand stuff to government employees - or in dispensers. But noooooooooooooooooooo.

The one place I did note that it is everywhere is the International Clinic. There is a big bottle on every counter. Good for them.

Swine Flu and Ignorance

I was at the International Clinic the other day, waiting with a gazillion other people in the waiting room. People all around me were reading the clinic's magazines and newspapers. I kept my arms folded in my lap the entire 45 minute wait (and vowed to go home and scrub my elbows - the only part of my skin that had touched anything in the waiting room). One guy walked in with a mask; he was also reading a paper. Someone looked at him and said, "Don't worry..." I said, 'Yeah, you have a better chance of catching Swine Flu from that newspaper you're holding than anything airborne.' The Kuwaiti woman next to me looked up, wide-eyed in shock, and said, "WHY?!" (magazine still in hand). I said, 'Because you never pick up a magazine in a doctor's office. Think about it. How many sick people before you have been handling it?' The whole waiting room practically threw the periodicals on the tables.

I mean, c'mon people - this is basic common sense...

With all the hype, I haven't seen too many parents teaching their childen NOT to put their hands to their mouths (which is exactly what the Kuwaiti woman's daughter did after throwing her magazine on the floor). I figured I had done enough psychological damage for one day to mention that little tidbit.

WHY do medical facilities even HAVE periodicals in their waiting rooms right now? Doesn't anybody get it? There should be anti-bacterial wipes/wash on all the tables instead of magazines.

I also still see people walking around and coughing into the open air without covering their mouths. At this point, I don't think it is inappropriate for ANYONE to chastise people for not covering their mouths. They could be infecting everyone around them.

Well, not that any of this is going to do any good. All the raw sewage that is seeping out all over Kuwait will probably carry enough germs to get most of us anyways.

And on this note.... I was home sick the other day when my maid was there. I'm usually at work. I noted the one bottle of cleaning fluid that she was using: Fairy. She cleans my ENTIRE apartment with Fairy. WTF?! I have tried to educate her over the years and she still doesn't get it. Guess what I threw out? ALL the Fairy; and she's not getting any more.

Directions to Shatiya Watiya Restaurant

If you want to try good Kuwaiti food during Ramadan - rather than shelling out upwards of 10 KD for a buffet that doesn't include anything Kuwaiti, try Shatiya Watiya. I also like Freej Soweleh, but there have been very long lines during Ramadan and because there is so much construction around Shatiya, people aren't going there.

Directions:

Shatiya Watiya is located in the Behbehani Houses complex downtown between the Gulf Road and the Sheraton. You can take any of the highways leading into 1st Ring Road downtown. At the "Sheraton Round About" - also known as Jahra Round About (and the Suicide Circle) , go past the Sheraton (on right) on Soor Street towards the Gulf Road. Soor Street will T at the Gulf Rd - Go right. Take immediate right onto small street (church on left), take 1st right into parking lot with a dirt road. Go straight until you see (trees and then) the Behbehani houses and Dar Al Funoon Gallery. Shatiya will be on the left.

Shatiya's phone number is 22422088.

DG’s Short List of Great Places/Services Kuwait

Nothing is “short” in my world, but…

You've read my bitching, moaning and complaining about places in Kuwait, and I know, you've probably been thinkin along the lines of Papyrus... One of my readers, Papyrus, has left very kind comments and has made me see the err of my ways in terms of keeping an equal balance of good vs evil; positive vs negative. It is at Papyrus’ suggestion that I offer the following Desert Girl opinion of outstanding places to go in Kuwait – where the standard of quality is consistent (more times than not). Thanks, Papyrus!

… Sidebar: This is rather ironic because only last night I stared to re-read a book called “Count Your Blessings” which advises to equally balance all things: good and bad. Children, that is our lesson for today.

Restaurants

Definitions: What makes a good restaurant in my opinion? 1) Food. 2) Good Service. 3) Atmosphere. By #3, I also mean – no screaming kids/a quiet place where you can hear what your companions are saying. I’m not rating loud restaurants because I never go/return to them – me no like.

I’m going to have to go back to these places and get exact names of meals so I can update this later to be more specific.

Sushi

Who doesn’t know by now how much I love sushi? Purgy… wait for it… Well, I’m in a conundrum: I have been going to Sakura for 12+ years (13 in October) and have always loved it… until lately. They seem to be slipping – not in service, which has actually improved a lot – but in the quality of fish and the variety. I’m thinking Maki and Sushi Club are starting to kick their ass on the playground battle for best sushi in Kuwait. Maki pisses me off (Yo! DG – stay focused on positive!) because they are a rip-off on price, and yet no one can beat their variety. Their fusion thing in a martini glass is awesome. I also like the way they go above-and-beyond being imaginative. I have also had sushi from Sushi Club recently and yum-mers! They rock.

Kuwaiti

Shatiya Watiya Restaurant in downtown Kuwait: I’ve never had a bad meal there. The portions are enormous. The wait staff remembers you and SMILES. It is a traditional Kuwaiti restaurant with meals that taste like home cooking – and portions to match being in your living room with the family. If you make friends with Manager, Nasser, you’ll have a friend for life. What do I like the best there? Hard to say: Tashreeba, murabian, qaboot…. There are many. They have only just increased their prices – slightly – in the past 10 years, but they are still incredibly reasonably priced.

Freej Suwaileh: Also a Kuwaiti restaurant. I like their food. Service needs improvement and the ambiance isn’t terrific, but did I mention the food? They do a little DG trick: Serve gaymat as soon as we sit down. WHO wouldn’t love THAT? It is also open all night.

Mubarakia open-air restaurants: Everybody has got to try the little cafes and restaurants at Mubarakia at least ONCE during their stay in Kuwait. Try shrimp hameesa – it is similar to shrimp fajitas (if you like that). When the weather gets a little cooler, it will be a great place to go for cheap eats. Most places serve tea after dinner. Its just a cool place to visit.

Café: The One Café. They practice continual improvement and they care. They have a comments book – if you have a comment, you can write it then and there and they will show it to other guests and take the time to explain how they made improvements. I complained about something there – once – long ago and the next time I came in, they actually remembered me and went out of their way to fix it. Great breakfasts, great coffee, great squishy chairs to get lost in. Deserts will rock your world! They change their menus all the time, but they always have something interesting and good. My definite all-time favorite on the menu (usually around Christmas) is pumpkin cheesecake. Oh. My. God.

Thai: There is only one Thai place in Kuwait that has won my heart: Oriental Cuisine across from the Dasman Model School in Sharq. It is a hole-in-the wall with only 4 tables, but outstanding Thai food; better, in my humble DG opinion, than the Blue Elephant and waaaaay less expensive. Great service (especially when the owners’ young son is helping!)

Chinese: Peking in the Radisson Hotel. Scallops – yummmm. Expensive, but worth it.

Elegant/Romantic: Probably the most romantic restaurant (so Desert Girl says) is Ricardo in the Sheraton. It’s also purty pricey. This is a “know thy fork” type of restaurant – the kind that my mother spent years teaching me about. The Italian food is great, the wait staff keeps a distance, but a watchful eye. Everything is crystal and roses. Guys, if you have phucked up bigtime with your lady and want to make amends, Ricardo is THE place to take her.

Steak: Gaucho. Argentinean steak house. Need I say more? Ask for server, Desmond. He’s from South Africa and such a great guy with an amazingly sharp sense of humor. There is also a French restaurant at the back side of Fanar Mall (again, feeble mind syndrome – can’t remember the name) that only serves steak, salad, and pomme frittes (French fries, chips, freedom fries – whatever you wanna call ‘em). I have yet to try the Brazilian steak house in the Movenpick at the Free(less) Trade Zone and I’ll let you know on that one later.

Fish/Seafood

No doubt about it – Housny in Hawalli. I have tried many many other seafood restaurants in Kuwait, but I keep going back to Housny. It doesn’t have the ambiance of other more expensive places, but definitely has the best shrimp and grilled fish in all of Kuwait. The service is remarkably good for a less-expensive place also.

Nicest Place to Eat Beside the Sea

Hands-down it is the (what the Hell is the Name) buffet restaurant at the Movenpick, Bidaa. Waaaaay pretty with tables on a terrace facing the sea. "some enchanted eeeevning..."

2nd best: Blue Elephant (Thai) at the Hilton.

Where to Go so the spouse won’t see you together

I don’t do this, but just incase you are wondering: Gulf Royal Chinese restaurants have “cabinas” (small private rooms). Sakura has private rooms (usually for parties of 4 or more). Housny also has cabinas (which might actually work out better if you are a sloppy seafood eater –especially if you like crabs).

Best Restaurant for Where to dine if you want to B.Y.O.B.

They do exist in Kuwait and some places will even bring in the appropriate glasses and de-cork/serve you. I don’t know of ANY specifics and even if I did, I would never tell. If you want to send me guesses – be my guest.

Sheesha

I don’t smoke sheesha, but I like the smell. I have friends who like it, so when I want to eat with them and they want sheesha, I want to be somewhere that is well ventilated and also serves either food or coffee that I want while they’re smoking. I like the atmosphere in Ayam Zaman in the Crowne Plaza. Bless their hearts – they really do try to give good service. The Movenpick at Bidaa is also a nice place to go for sheesha.

The “Way-Home” Breakfast

Bayan Restaurant in Salmiya very close to Noodles. You can take home chapathi and eggs, chai/7alib starting at 4:30 am….well before McDonald's...

Light food/Sandwiches

I have a few favs.

Ayami (Damn, I can’t remember the name – above Starbucks at Marina Crescent). It is a fusion restaurant – kind of a mixture of Lebanese and Moroccan. Me likes. They have a different variation on the standard Lebanese dips. Check it out sometime. The food is great, but unfortunately, the service needs improvement (I didn’t say “it sucks” – I am trying to maintain positive). The food is great. I like the pizza thingys and the spinach/hummos dip.

Awtar Libnan is Lebanese and I’ve been to their locations at Marina Mall and in Jahra. Both are great – good service, good food, very nice appropriately-spaced tables (so you aren’t sitting on top of other patrons like some restaurants). Grilled halloommmmm.

I just re-visited Grillo on Restaurants Street for the first time in several years and their shrimp fajita sandwich rocks. I remember their sandwiches being small, but this was meal-sized and quite a few shrimps. An extra added bonus is that the restaurant is situated right next to the front entrance of the male-only Platinum Gym. You can see all the talent coming and going while you are chowin down; feasting your eyes (one in every 100) while you feast on sammich.

Doo-Doo in Salmiya for falafel sandwiches. It's way better than "doo-doo" or "poo-poo"! :)

(Sheel-o-meshi used to be my favorite place for a steak sandwich, but they reduced the size and the quality and now you have to buy about 5 of them to make it the size of the one they used to serve – and on different bread.)

Take-out

I’ve tried a lot of the restaurants on http://www.6alabat.com/ (which ROCKS by the way!). Casper & Gambini is consistently good with good customer service/drivers. It gets to you quick. Also good for lunch meetings when you have guests at work. Good salads also. Indigo is Indian home-delivery only and those guys ROCK. Again, quick service, great food (try the hamoor biryani). If you can get Fresh Fish (name of the restaurant) delivered where you are – go for it. The prices are so reasonable and they deliver fresh seafood to your door. I love grilled fish and can’t get enough from this restaurant. I wish they had steamed crabs, but no one in Kuwait does.

Here is my restaurant wish-list for Kuwait:

Crab House (what I wouldn't give to bang on a crab on a brown paper covered table, sippin on a cool Barbican....)
Authentic Mexican (not the pseudo crap!)
Large-variety salad bar (salad only!) Why doesn't anyone in Kuwait serve a good salmon salad??
“Happy Hour” – I don’t know why restaurants here can’t do happy hour at 5:00 without alcohol. It would be a great marketing gimmick and they could offer finger foods and non-alcoholic drinks. Even if you started a restaurant CALLED “Happy Hour”… People already go to coffee shops to meet other people. Why not start happy hour for working professionals?

Spas

The Royal Hyatt Elements Spa. By far, my favorite so far. I don’t know if it caters to men, however. It’s gorgeous. They understand good, quality services and products. The Royal Hyatt is managed by Banyan Tree Resorts and the spa is totally Thai.

Spa Aquatonic at the Holiday Inn, Crowne Plaza: Wow. Again, a gorgeous atmosphere. It is huge and clean and new. I have only been there for one treatment so I can’t give anything other than an initial impression, but I loved it and will definitely go back. If you’ve been up in Iraq for a while (or driving in traffic in Kuwait – same thing), book yourself a treatment (male or female). It is guaranteed to de-stress.

Rental Car Agency

I have only one on my list: Automall (formerly Payless) in Rai. Talk about service! They will drop off/pick up to you anywhere in Kuwait and do their best to get you a car in your choice of colors. Consistent with their policies and procedures, kind and professional. Reasonable rates. Unfortunately, they only do GMC and Subaru rentals.

Doctors

GP: Dr. Eman Badawi at the International Clinic. She is a GP but also specializes in asthma.

OBGYN: Dr. Gazawi at Royal Hyatt. I love the RH. It is like a peaceful resort rather than going to see your personal doctor. They make having your vajayjye looked at seem like a tranquil experience.

Dentist: Don’t have a favorite – they all frighten me (this is not limited to Kuwait). I have heard that Gulf Clinic is good (and I want to go there for Invisilyn braces as soon as I have enough cash). Slapps goes to Dr. Sexy at the International Clinic. We just call him that to give him a hard time. His real name is Dr. Edgar.

Hotels

Ok, it really isn’t fair for me to make a pick because there are only 2 that I have actually slept in: The Kuwait Plaza (now the “Swiss Inn”) and the Holiday Inn Salmiya. I HAD to stay at the Swiss Inn and no – not going to make a recommendation on that one. I chose to stay at the HI Salmiya and it was noisy. I have heard that the 4-Points Sheraton is fantastic. I have had several friends at different times stay there on business trips to Kuwait and highly recommended it.

Now, I can tell you about the ones that I think are the prettiest without having seen a room: Marina Hotel (on the sea), Movenpick at Bidaa (on the sea), Hilton (on the sea). Hotels with the best overall restaurants: Sheraton and Crowne Plaza.


2010 Updates

Kuwaiti:
Al Setinat in Hawalli. Service is still so-so, but the food is the best and they deliver. 22665559

Steaks:
Desmond has moved! He's at The Meat Co. now in 360. The Meat Co replaces Gaucho as my favorite, but only if you can afford to pay their OMG ouch prices!

The Meat Co. also has a good salmon salad! (Someone heard my prayers.)

Anybody know where to get decent fish & chips in Kuwait? The Ritz used to own that, but not anymore.

Virginia at Tysons Corner - Scorned Wife Gets Revenge

More women should do this:

http://www.nbcwashington.com/news/local-beat/Scorned-Wife-Exacts-Revenge-on-Hubby-Entertains-Us-55036842.html

DG Review of the Hilton Kuwait's Ramadan Tent

I was invited to a promotional dinner for the Hilton’s Ramadan tent last night. First, let me say that it is always nice to receive any invitation from anywhere and I’m truly grateful when people remember me. I also think that it is an outstanding public relations move on the part of the hotel management – IF everything goes smoothly. If not, they jeopardize losing future business. What they didn’t provide last night was comment cards. They should have as it is free “business analysis” at the hand of people you want to impress in the future (or those who you just don't give a schmidt about, but can provide you with a different perspective; something you may not have considered before).

I was not impressed by the 1st-line-of-contact to the hotel: the security guard at the first checkpoint who on most nights is very polite and asks kindly where you are going (different guards at different times). Last night, we weren’t so lucky. He was an arrogant little prick (tell us how you really feel, DG!) who just said rather aggressively, “Aye mukan”? (translation: which place?). Not, “Good evening, sir. Where will you be visiting on our property tonight?” DG: ‘Run him over, baby! Hit hiiiiim! Git ‘im with the door!’

Way-into-the-hotel review
Valet parker: very good (except when we got our car on the way out and he almost reversed into an on-coming car). Reception staff: very good. Arabic coffee decanter (“della”) strategically placed for guests next to the reception desk: empty and was never refilled. Let me ask you this: Why the HELL doesn’t the Hilton ever clean the fish tanks they have? It is not only bad for the poor fish, but a disgusting visual for guests. Dudes, put in an aquarium filter! How long has the hotel been open? The aquariums have been there an equal amount of time – and are never clean.

The Hilton Sales Management staff greeted us in somewhat of a receiving line on the way into the tent. (Since it was a promotional event, every one of them should have been wearing a name tag with their title and had a business card immediately ready.) The Hilton has bought a new tent structure; one of those pre-fab type (no longer made of fabric, but perhaps heavy-duty plastic siding on a steel frame). It is very pretty inside: chandeliers and flowing silky fabrics (fire retardant materials, I wondered?). I noted 4 well-lit emergency exits. We looked all over and never saw a fire extinguisher. After the horrors of the Jahra wedding tent fires; I pay careful attention now. Since the tent fire tragedy was so recent, I thought that any hotel with a large tent would have placards on the tables noting their safety features (but perhaps that was just my wishful thinking). We sat close to one of the walls and immediately noticed that we could crawl under the tent siding should we have to. For some reason, the lighting inside the tent was up to Old People Code: So bright that I could count the crumbs on the floor. Dunno why it was like that. Made my eyes hurt.

I’ve been to the Hilton tent during past Ramadans and had vowed not to return. I remember distinctly that they ran out of food on the buffet one year and all that was left were remnants of food in the bottom of chaffing dishes. It really made me angry that no one tried to make amends about it. If you pay a sizeable chunk of money for a meal, there should actually be FOOD there. We went another time during Ramadan and the food just wasn’t very tasty; quite bland actually. Last night, we arrived early - at 9 - so we got their on the beginning of the night rather than the end; plenty of food on the buffet.

Unfortunately, the tent’s food is still boring (again, I am grateful I got the invite – not to look a gift horse in the mouth). The “spouse” had pasta and he didn’t even like that. I tried “samples” of just about everything: bland, bland, bland – and tasteless. If you are going to offer bland; offer condiments that people can use to shake it up a bit. Even Tabasco would have helped. Chef – have you not heard of those leetle things called “spices”? I noted in the Hilton Newsletter that the chef studied in the US, but c’mon y’all – our food is not that bland. Even McDonald’s has special sauce.

Also, it really disturbs me when I go to a Ramadan tent IN Kuwait and there is nothing even slightly resembling Kuwaiti traditional Ramadan foods. As you know, I promote Kuwaiti traditional things – especially to visitors to Kuwait. The Hilton has a kousheri station (Egyptian), but nothing Kuwaiti at all – not even gaymat. Unfortunately, newcomers to Kuwait (mass visitors to the hotel) might not even know that these dishes aren’t Kuwaiti – which disturbs me even more. (“Yeah, I went to that thar Ramadayn tent over at the Hill-tun in Kooowayt and got me some traditional Koowayti food called “kooo-sherry”. Mighty good.”) Don’t get me wrong, I like pasta and adore some kickass kousheri, but not for Ramadan. They also had fish on the buffet. Who serves fish during Ramadan??? It makes you so thirsty –regardless of when you eat it. They also had a station with plastic containers of yogurt. I’m sorry, but I think that any type of food in plastic containers is best left for a picnic, not a dinner buffet – ok maybe a breakfast buffet. (A good chef will be able to create good yogurt and offer it in an appropriate serving vessel – like crystal surrounded by ice – quite nice.)

What I did like: The desert station (although I wish there was fresh gaymat). The mutabal was good. The kousheri was good (again, not for Ramadan).

The wait staff was cloistered in one corner of the room for a good part of the night. We had a hard time getting a waiter’s attention and went without water for most of our meal. Chel-loo – C’est Ramadan, dudes. There was one outstanding guy – an Egyptian man who was dressed in Kuwaiti national dress, serving Arabic coffee and dates. He worked the entire tent, making sure that guests were happy. He even gave instructions to the servers and cleared tables – all while simultaneously serving coffee. I think he should be promoted to a sales position – really stellar performer. (If someone from Hilton Management happens to read this – his name is Abdulnasser.)

I guess, perhaps, because it was a promotional (free) event, the quality of the guests was lower than normal (God, I hope that’s the case!). It was purty hailag last night. The invitation said, “…pleasure to invite you and your spouse…” It said nothing of inviting screaming brats; but hey, it was free, so why not invite the whole family and anybody else living in your version of a trailer park? There was also a man right next to the buffet table – smoking sheesha all night – who I swear must have Swine flu. He hacked and spewed all night long; seemingly oblivious to the fact that people all around him were trying to eat a nice meal. We both started shouting out “WOOJAH!” every time he did it. It became like "bullshit bingo". We had to walk past him on our way out and I looked at him and made the same noises he had made all night. People at surrounding tables laughed. There was also an obvious misunderstanding of appropriate attire: Torn jeans, t-shirts, and one young lady who appeared to be wearing not only a very bad wig, but what might have been some form of spandex undergarment in its previous existence. I'm sorry, Hilton Staff, but the patrons last night reminded me of the buffet at Chicken Tika in Salmiya.

There is just too much competition out there for the Hilton not to kick it up a few notches. I would say that the Movenpick Bidaa is probably giving them a run for their money right now. It will be interesting to see what happens when the Messila Beach Hotel eventually opens: it’s a large property that can compete with the Hilton on size and perhaps on venue (sea front, etc.).

My overall opinion of the night: Refer to Paragraph One, Sentence 3 above. I hope that my insightfulness has worked towards the improvement of the quality management system. Feedback is always positive. Change is good.

For 11 KD per person (total of 22 KD out of pocket for the Hotel), I have provided the management with my business analysis and written a letter (report). Normally, I would charge in the neighborhood of 250KD. I think they got a real bargain. I hope they see it that way.

Setting the bar for Kuwait's Engineers

This is priceless. The Kuwait Society of Engineers' tent is closed for not being up to code. Dudes, you set the example for all of Kuwait. EVERY construction employee in Kuwait must be certified by the Society. The story makes it sound as if it was a voluntary action on the part of the KSE. Perhaps it was, but it is still an embarrassment. I mean, I don't have an engineering degree, but I can tell you that you don't run electric cables (for example) across the floor of a general use area (or office area, or hallway, etc...)

Arab Times, 26 August 2009, Page 7