15 Ways on How to Live Well in Kuwait: Expatriate or Local
Living in Kuwait can be a unique and enriching experience, offering a blend of modern amenities and rich cultural traditions. Whether you’re an expatriate or a local, adopting certain habits and practices can help you make the most of your time in this fascinating country. Here are 15 ways to live well in Kuwait:
1. Embrace the Local Culture
- Learn Arabic: Basic Arabic phrases can greatly enhance your daily interactions and help you build rapport with locals. Consider enrolling in language classes or using language apps.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Familiarize yourself with local customs and traditions. For example, dress modestly in public places and respect prayer times. Understanding these cultural nuances can make your stay more comfortable and respectful.
2. Enjoy Local Cuisine
- Explore Traditional Dishes: Delight your taste buds with Kuwaiti specialties like Machboos (a spiced rice dish with meat or fish), Mutabbaq Samak (marinated fish with rice), and Harees (a slow-cooked wheat and meat dish).
- Visit Souqs: Souq Al-Mubarakiya offers a rich array of spices, sweets, and traditional foods. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the local culinary scene and pick up fresh ingredients for cooking at home.
3. Stay Active
- Join a Gym: Kuwait boasts numerous well-equipped gyms that offer various fitness classes such as yoga, pilates, and Zumba. Popular gyms include Oxygen Gym and Platinum Gym.
- Outdoor Activities: Utilize parks like Al Shaheed Park for jogging or cycling. The coastline provides opportunities for water sports such as jet skiing and paddleboarding.
4. Focus on Health and Wellness
- Regular Check-ups: Schedule routine health check-ups to monitor your well-being. Kuwait has several reputable hospitals and clinics.
- Mental Health: Incorporate mindfulness practices like meditation or yoga into your daily routine. Consider joining a local yoga studio or attending mindfulness workshops.
5. Expand Your Knowledge
- Take Courses: Enroll in courses offered by institutions like the American University of Kuwait or language schools to improve your skills.
- Attend Seminars: Participate in workshops and seminars related to your interests or profession. These events are excellent for networking and professional growth.
6. Build a Community
- Join Clubs: Engage with clubs that match your interests, such as book clubs, sports teams, or hobby groups. The Kuwait Expatriate Community offers various social and recreational activities.
- Volunteer: Get involved in community service through organizations like the Kuwait Red Crescent Society, which allows you to contribute positively while meeting new people.
7. Travel and Explore
- Weekend Getaways: Plan trips to nearby countries like Dubai, Oman, or Bahrain for a change of scenery and cultural experiences.
- Local Sites: Discover Kuwait’s attractions such as the historical Failaka Island, the serene Al Shaheed Park, and the iconic Kuwait Towers.
8. Enhance Your Living Space
- Home Decor: Invest in quality furniture and decor that reflect your style. Stores like IKEA and Pottery Barn offer a range of options.
- Organization: Keep your home organized and clutter-free. Utilize storage solutions and regularly declutter to create a calm and relaxing environment.
9. Stay Connected
- Keep in Touch: Maintain regular contact with family and friends back home through social media, messaging apps, and video calls.
- Local Network: Build a network of friends and acquaintances in Kuwait by attending social events and community gatherings.
10. Enjoy Arts and Culture
- Museums and Galleries: Visit the Tareq Rajab Museum and the Contemporary Art Platform to explore Kuwait’s rich cultural heritage and contemporary art scene.
- Cultural Events: Attend festivals, theater productions, and concerts to immerse yourself in the local arts and cultural scene.
11. Adopt a Balanced Diet
- Healthy Eating: Focus on a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Avoid excessive consumption of fast food.
- Local Produce: Shop at local markets for fresh, organic produce. Al-Fanar and City Centre markets are excellent places to find a variety of fresh foods.
12. Manage Finances Wisely
- Budgeting: Create a detailed budget to track your expenses and manage your finances effectively. Use budgeting apps or spreadsheets to keep everything organized.
- Savings: Set aside a portion of your income for savings. Consider opening a savings account or investing in local financial products.
13. Stay Informed
- Local News: Stay updated with local news and events through newspapers, online news portals, and social media platforms like Kuwait Times and Arab Times.
- Global Trends: Follow international news to stay connected with global developments. Websites like BBC, CNN, and Al Jazeera provide comprehensive news coverage.
14. Respect Local Laws
- Legal Awareness: Be aware of and adhere to local laws and regulations, including those related to residency, driving, and employment. Violations can result in fines or legal issues.
- Work Permits: Ensure your work permits and visas are up-to-date and comply with local requirements. Regularly check for updates or changes in immigration policies.
15. Enjoy Leisure Activities
- Shopping Malls: Explore Kuwait’s shopping malls like The Avenues and 360 Mall for both luxury and everyday shopping. These malls also offer entertainment options like cinemas and play areas.
- Dining Out: Kuwait has a diverse range of restaurants offering international cuisines. Try restaurants like Mais Alghanim for traditional Kuwaiti food or Slider Station for modern American fare.
Living well in Kuwait involves embracing the local culture, staying active, focusing on health and wellness, and building a supportive community. By exploring local cuisine, staying informed, managing finances wisely, and respecting local laws, you can enjoy a fulfilling and enriching lifestyle in Kuwait. Adopting these habits will help you make the most of your experience and create lasting memories in this dynamic country.
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A multi-award-winning blogger and advocate for OFWs and investment literacy; recipient of the Mass Media Advocacy Award, Philippine Expat Blog Award, and Most Outstanding Balikbayan Award. Her first book, The Global Filipino Bloggers OFW Edition, was launched at the Philippine Embassy in Kuwait. A certified Registered Financial Planner of the Philippines specializing in the Stock Market. A recognized author of the National Book Development Board of the Philippines. Co-founder of Teachers Specialist Organization in Kuwait (TSOK) and Filipino Bloggers in Kuwait (FBK). An international member of writing and poetry. Published more than 10 books. Read more: About DiaryNiGracia
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