Let me answer the most obvious questions that are going to come to mind as this is being read by many of you; No, I am not bitter. No, I have not been emotionally scarred, or even hurt by a Kuwaiti man. And no, I don't know everything.

Moving right along...

After living in Kuwait for many years some things just become obvious to those who take the time to look. Rarely did I interact with Americans, and all of my friends were Kuwaiti -- male and female. Some of the most amazing people I have ever known, I met in Kuwait. Some of these people will always be considered dear to me. Others I met through business, or casual acquaintances and fade out over time.

First and foremost -- if you were unappealing, unattractive, and undesirable in 'American standards' that hasn't changed in Kuwait. You're still all of those things. Only now you have something to offer -- money, freedom, time, and probably an apartment. This doesn't make you a '10', just a target.

Second, learn the culture. Don't just meet some young hather boy in his rented car and Nike outfit and assume he's 'Westernized.' Take the time to have some understanding of what you're dealing with, and who you're dealing with. Kuwaitis are not like some other countries where marrying an American is desirable to them. They don't need or want a green card, and their blue passport is much more appealing than ours.

Additionally, if you are in a physical relationship with a Kuwaiti man (or close to it) and start hearing, 'I want to spend the rest of my life with you'... plug your ears. This is just his next step in the game. Where you (the American woman) see it as the next step in the relationship. Take the rose colored glasses off and get back to planet earth.

Furthermore, 'I am going to talk to my family about us getting married' generally translates to, 'I have been to bed with you, you're getting too clingy, and I need a nice way to end this relationship without having stalker girl on my ass every day.' There is no requirement for family acceptance in marriage. Not even in Kuwait. Sure, it would be lovely, but you're chances are better if he says, 'We can get married, but my family can never know.' At least then you're dealing with more honesty and you can decide if it's something you want to go forward with.

Finally, if you are 'dating' a Kuwaiti man who has convinced you he doesn't care if you're not Muslim, he still respects you though you're having sex with him, and he continues to plan dates outside the country or at your apartment -- he's probably already married.

This is not to say all Kuwaiti men are liars. But the reality is Middle Eastern love is very different than American love. Not that one is better than the other. But their love consists of respect -- you're not going to get that while you're naked and sharing stories of your grandparent's Halocaust experiences. Our love is very pure and without many restrictions. They are very aware of this. Do you think they don't talk?

As you feel the relationship is 'growing', they feel as though the game is 'working.' You have dreams of marriage, they have dreams of sex. No, they're not going to leave you once you give into the endless text messages spewing love, the daily phone calls expressing emotion, and the unexpected surprises that make you smile. Why would they? You are available, giving it away (which translates to no self respect), and only sleeping with them. However, once you start to get too close, and they're aware of this, they'll start to come up with every reason possible to end it. Even if it means being mean, ugly, calling you names, etc.

Fortunately, these are not things I've had to learn on my own. These are things I have been told by my male Kuwaiti friends. One even said to me, "Yeah, we met them, are friendly, make them laugh, pretend we're not really interested (or even purposely make them mad), give them our number anyway, wait for their call (because they will call), take them out for the first date, show up at their apartment for the next one (with a small token or gift), treat them like a friend, tell them anything they want to hear, and ride it out from there." Where the woman thinks she's being 'charmed' he is simply walking the steps they're all so familiar with and have mastered.

If you're really interested in marriage with a Kuwaiti man (or any man for that matter), work on yourself. Your self respect should always be most important. If it seems too good to be true -- it probably is... this is the case with men as well. If there's ever a moment you're wondering, or unsure... trust yourself. If you feel like he's so great, 'he must be lying', chances are... he is.

No offense to any American woman working in Kuwait -- but sometimes I find the blind way that you wander through Kuwait without a clue to be a shame. It gives us a bad name, and eventually we're going to be compared to those women in hotel bars in Dubai. If we're not already!

Wise up, ladies. Stop running away to neighboring countries for a drink every now and then, and expect to return to open arms and respect from your 'boyfriend.'

Today was quite hectic. Errands to run, business to take care of, and a major hunt through the storage area which proved fruitless. It seems I've misplaced something in all the packing, moving, and relocating from one side of the world to the other. Those of you who know me knowwww how much I hate to lose something. Though it's not uncommon for me to maintain homes on both sides of the world, I generally have a mental picture of where everything I own is. Even if it's not physically present at my location.

Tomorrow is going to be spa day. I like to plan spa day between super busy days to make me feel as though I am getting a break. Unfortunately, I sometimes find myself thinking, 'Can you hurry so I can get back to business!' Relaxing isn't something I've mastered. In most cases I sleep through my massages, doze during the microdermabrasion, and struggle through conversations with the nail techs. How this is supposed to be a day of relaxation is beyond me since I rarely seem to enjoy it to the fullest. Perhaps it's time to invest in Botox or something equally as painful -- at least then I'll stay awake!

Now for even more whining, blah.

For the past few days I've been feeling under the weather, though I can't really pinpoint exactly what doesn't feel right. I've been doing well by sticking to whole grains, steamed veggies, and low calorie items. I've also been increasing my exercise a bit, and trying to spend a little more time outside the home. However, I am finding I have muscle aches for no reason, exhaustion to the point of daily naps, and even sometimes just falling asleep in my favorite chair by the fireplace wrapped in my handmade Indian blanket which smells of my favorite oud. Could it be Chronic Fatigue Syndrome? The flu? Or just a need for a 'change in the routine'? Whatever it is, I hope it goes away soon. I can't take much more of this blah.

OK, this is going to seem incredibly shallow and arrogant -- but it's really not meant that way at all. With the lovely world of Facebook we all get the opportunity to 'reconnect' with old friends from HS, college, and former co-workers. In HS we all had those people we saw as 'cool, popular, and desirable'. These were the kids we figured would go on to rule the world, or some other really awesome occupation. In any event, they weren't failures by a long shot. So as I have been looking over Facebook, checking out old friends, I find myself almost shocked -- even disappointed. Not that my life is so great, grand, and amazing -- but what the heck happened to some of these people?! How is it the coolest, most popular people ended up strung out on heroin living in the trailer park?! Or worse -- operating a Mobile Car Detail business. Huh? And no, I didn't grow up in the back woods of Louisiana or anything. I lived in a nice area of a filled with a good number of different ethnicities and cultures. These people had parents who worked, provided a good life, and seemed to have instilled goals in their children. Could it be that I grew up faster than most, and lived my life almost backwards -- like a poor version of that Benjamin Button guy? Or am I truly just pointing fingers and being judgemental? Oh well, tomorrow is another day -- I'll avoid Facebook.

Ever think back over your life about the people who had the most impact, played a huge role, and this silly part of you always assumed would be there? And when the day comes that you realize they're not you feel a sense of emptiness, almost paralyzed from fear? Ever wonder how they're doing? What they're doing? Or where they are?

I've recently experienced this. Someone from a life which seems to far away, and so long ago. This is a person who played a huge role in my 'growing up', maturing, and taking a very close look at the woman I am -- once they were gone of course. This isn't the fairy tale where we suddenly make all these grand changes and end up happily ever after.

So, I was taking a nap with the cat who generally takes up most of the bed and eventually wakes me up by demanding even more space. I figured I might as well crawl out of bed, get the standard ice water with lemon, and check emails. I was barely awake, eyes still blurry, and I open an email which I initially assumed was spam, or some other random advertisement. Had I taken a moment to read the subject line I would have known. As I begin to read this email I find myself thinking, "Huh, what is this? Who is this? They must have emailed the wrong person, but what an amazing person doing the writing!" Until I saw a name mentioned -- a name I will always remember as if I had known this person all my life. Fact is, I didn't know the person mentioned in the email at all. But the role she played at that time was huge. It was then I backed up, read the subject line, and took a deep breath before continuing. I knew who it was from without a doubt. I could feel my eyes fill with tears of happiness before I even started reading the email (from the beginning) again.

Long story short -- I couldn't be happier this person made contact with me. I tried to express this in my reply without being insanely immature, or ridiculous. Though I haven't seen this person in about 11 years, I didn't want to seem like the immature teen they initially met on the swing-set behind our town-home -- because I'm not.

Will I ever hear from this person again? Who knows.

Sometimes the things from our past we once thought were gone forever have a pleasant way of sneaking back in.... even if only in one email.

I've mentioned many times before the emails I've received about 'where to find hookers in Kuwait.' And again, I will remind you all, I am not a pimp, madam, or brothel owner! I do not seek out prostitutes and therefore can't give you the exact location, phone numbers, or addresses of the lovely ladies of the night (morning, afternoon, and evening as well).

However, because of the number of emails, I will actually address this. It's not going to be pretty, and many are going to be offended. My apologies in advance.

First and foremost; prostitution is a crime in Kuwait. Regardless of whether you're the giver or receiver.

Second; most hookers are easily recognizable -- they're standing outside the Sultan Center looking for men who appear to be American, semi well dressed, and desperate. At this point they either throw their phone number at you on a small piece of paper, or they approach you mumbling something in broken English about 'clean, apartment, cooking, I clean, want maid'... you get the idea. A reputable maid doesn't stand outside the supermarket throwing her number at unsuspecting men!

Third; the majority of these lovely little women frequent Mangaf, Mahboula, Fintas, Abu Halifa, and Fahaheel. Why? Because this is where the majority of those American, semi well dressed, desperate men live. You can also find the less desirable of these women in Shwaikh and Jleeb. In these areas it's not going to look like anything you would have ever considered spending a few minutes with on a lonely night, but it's probably not going to cost you more than a cup of coffee... so what the heck.
Finally, these women are generally not stupid. They are very familiar with the blue passport, and all the little 'perks' they assume comes along with it -- the bright lights of the good ol' USA, the land of opportunity, and freedom. To those of us who have this from birth see nothing so great about it, but remember, these are women who think running water and central heat are a luxury item. These women will be funny, cute, witty, and charming. They will play the 'I'm a virgin' game, though she's managed to live 15 years in Kuwait on an expired Visa and she's 34 years old. You'll eventually find out she has 2 kids back in her home country, which is a preeeeeettttyyyy good indication she's not a virgin. By then you won't care... you'll be hooked. After your long day of work on Camp Arifjan, in the heat, sweating, and miserable, you'll come home to sheer bliss. And as you lay there and she bathes you, massages your feet, and feeds you dinner, thoughts of your wife back in the states aren't quite so appealing anymore. Remember though, it's your wife who knows all your nasty little habits and points them out to you... little Ms. I Love Your Scaly Crusty Dirty Feet is a great actress. You'll find all the things your wife hates about you, the 'maid' loves! 'How could this be' you ask? I'll tell you how -- the 'maid' hates them too, she's just smart enough to tell you otherwise.

Time will pass, you'll convince yourself you're in heaven, and the pitter patter in your heart will be screaming 'I am in love!" Wait, is that pitter patter really in your heart? Uh, no! Oh but wait -- if the Virgin Maid hasn't succumb to your wit, charm, and class (Haaaaaaaa!) at this point, then she's probably already playing the 'no baby, no sex' game. Ring a bell, gentlemen? Oh yes, she has said it a number of time... perhaps the first words she even learned in English. This really translates to, "If I am going to have to crawl into the same bed as that funky man, I will get an anchor baby out of the deal!"

So, men, while you're choosing a few moments of pleasure over that morning coffee -- remember, it could all go down hill from there. Pop in a porno and call it a night. Oh wait, those are illegal in Kuwait also. Save your money and buy your WIFE a ticket to visit.

Now stop with the "I wanna hooker" emails already!

A little over a month ago I mentioned I expected to be heading back to Kuwait by early January. However, that hasn't quite happened yet. Insha'Allah soon. Don't get me wrong... life here in the states definitely has an upside; no lines at the grocery stores, no need for valet parking at Starbucks, no weather so hot you're afraid your sunglasses have melted when you forget them in the car while grabbing a quick shawerma. Driving is much safer also... considering men don't recklessly chase you down the road as though they have never seen a woman. As charming as men might think this is, I am not flattered by your willingness to kill yourself or others to get my number. Relax! Of course Kuwait has its upside as well; no cleaning, laundry, or car washing. No concern about what the weather is going to be tomorrow... because it's going to be FRIGGIN' HOT! And as boring as many people say Kuwait is... it's really not. I don't recall many boring moments there at all. If I found myself without plans, I could easily get a salon visit scheduled and spend a day being pampered. I suppose the most pleasurable part of Kuwait was the constant surrounding of luxury and comfort.

Moving right along...

I also mentioned 'house cleaning' of the drama in my life. Let me say this; I am one of those few people who really does have very little drama. The moment I even suspect it, I back waaaay up and slowly, quietly find the nearest, most convenient exit. Drama? Ew. Not my thing. Furthermore, what creates drama amongst people? Personally I think it stems from insecurity and a desire for attention. It's so easy to me... you want my attention? Feeling a little insecure? SAY SO! I can fix that problem soooo easily. But start playing games and creating drama and the last thing you're going to get is my attention. And I hope you like the view of my teez, because that's the last thing you'll see as I slide out that exit door. It really is soooo easy. Why make it all so difficult?

Now that I've gotten that off my chest, I would like to vent about American food and restaurants. What's up with the portion size?! I recall when I first returned to the states I was literally shocked by the portion of food served in a restaurant. Now it almost appears normal to me. Is this how we all eat? This is insane! If we cut the portion size in HALF at restaurants, we could lower the obesity rate and national debt within a year!

So I think tomorrow is going to be pedicure and manicure day. That's something America has the best of. Kuwait has great salons, and amazing facials, but their nail care options are limited and not as sanitary as I prefer. Every time I land in the states I already have a nail appointment scheduled for the first day in country, and the last day. I cling onto those good mani/pedis like it's the last time I'm ever going to have one!

And there you have it -- the extent of my random rant.

KUWAIT CITY, Feb 16: Police arrested a man who fatally stabbed two of his friends in Al-Qaser area, Jahra, Monday. One of the victims died on the spot while the second one succumbed to his injuries early Tuesday.
The alleged murderer, who was arrested within 12 hours of the crime, said he had a fight with the victims, but did not expect it to lead to murders. He said while he was having dinner with the victims in the diwaniya of the first victim’s house (hosh), one of them laughed at him. He said he could not control his anger and ended up stabbing both of them.
The first victim, in his 30s, was stabbed in the chest, heart, face, head and hands and died instantly. The second victim, a Bedoun in his 20s, suffered similar stab injuries and was rushed to the intensive care unit of Jahra Hospital, but despite all efforts, he died in the early hours of Tuesday.
Sources say the neighbors of the first victim found both the victims in a pool of blood and when their attempts to call the Medical Emergency Department failed, one of them ran on foot to the department and informed them. Paramedics and secruitymen then rushed to the scene of crime along with the informant and took charge of the situation. 
Securitymen recovered the weapon used in the crime and based on witnesses’ statements, launched a manhunt for the driver of a gold-colored vehicle. Within 12 hours of the search, they managed to arrest the alleged murderer and he reportedly confessed his crime. He also claimed to have psychological problems. It was discovered that he was involved in several other cases too.
Meanwhile, securitymen recovered one kilo hashish and two machine guns from the house of the first victim and handed them to authorities.

In my personal opinion, I feel Valentine's Day is the most commercial holiday of the year. It results in over indulgence in high calorie junk, and flowers that die a week later.

Of course if you're in a relationship, married, or have a significant other you're expected to remember this day (how could one forget with all the stores decorated in big red hearts?). You're expected to make plans, buy candy, and act all romantic and whatnot. What about the other 364 days of the year?

Now, if you're single, this is a great day! It's a day when we have an excuse to indulge in self gratification (flowers, candy, movies, meals -- mind out of the gutter, pervs). Many of us have a family to care for, and generally find we're putting others needs above our own. Well, this is the day we can focus on ourselves, invest in something we want, and spend an entire day (guilt free) celebrating our love for ourself! Not to mention, should we choose to buy a box of candy, we know we won't have to pick through them all, looking for our favorites! Because no one knows our likes and dislikes better than we do.

So, if you're single and think this day sucks -- celebrate! Make this your special day. Even better, find a few single friends and make it a group thing.

Enjoy the day!

YYYYYYYYYYYYY

In Islamic countries arranged marriages are still quite common. As are marriages where the man only sees his future wife in photos, or meets her briefly in the company of other family members. This is a practice where all parties are expected to be honest -- him about his expectations of a wife, and the other family in regard to the daughter they are presenting. The mother of both the potential bride and groom are greatly involved as a mother generally knows her children better than anyone. These marriages are taken seriously, and expected to last.

The article below is from a UAE newspaper. It's a story of a man who asked for a divorce immediately after the wedding because his wife was cross eyed and had facial hair. Sure there are people who are going to say he was shallow, and judgemental. And perhaps he is. But when seeking a wife, the mother of the bride showed him pictures of her other daughter. She was deceptive, and didn't present him with the facts. This would anger me much more than facial hair (unless it was on my face). Furthermore, if the daughter agreed to go along with the deceit, she should be ashamed as she now can't be trusted. The entire marriage foundation has been cracked before their wedding due to lies. How can this man ever trust the woman he married considering she partook in this lie? And if she didn't, and her mother went through with it anyway, shame on her.

I'm just sorry the man wasn't awarded the funds he had invested in this fraud. He is the victim of a crime, and should be treated as such.

After being out of the states for so long, and now returning for a few months, it's really come to my attention how narrow minded and uneducated people can be. Yeah, I'm venting... go away now if you're not interested.

Today one of my 'friends' put on their Facebook the following:

OK, the below video was sent to me by a friend in Kuwait. Camping in the desert during the winter isn't uncommon at all, and many are absolutely amazing. But this one definitely wins the 'most elaborate' award in my opinion. I can imagine the time, effort, and money required to build this.

Totally Kuwaiti Style.

 

HRW criticises Kuwait Focus on domestics, stateless Arabs

KUWAIT CITY, Jan 24: Housemaids in Kuwait are exposed to different forms of abuse due to the absence of a law that protects them, women rights researcher Priynaka Motaparthy in a press conference organized by Kuwait Human Rights Society (KHRS) Sunday. This came after the Human Rights Watch - an international organization that conducts research on human rights around the world — released its annual report on Jan 20. Besides Motaparthy, HRW member, human rights observer and researcher in Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region Christophe Wilkie, KHRS Chairman Ali Al-Baghli, KHRS General-Secretary Amer Al-Tameemi and KHRS member Ibrihal Al-Khateeb were also present at the press conference.

Motaparthy enumerated different forms of abuse inflicted on domestic workers in the country, including delayed payment of salaries, long work hours, no time off from work during weekend, lack of proper food, confiscation of passports, and prohibiting them from going out of the sponsor’s home. She asserted the isolated work environment of the housemaids makes them more vulnerable to other forms of abuse like physical and sexual. She said it is also difficult to file a lawsuit against the perpetrators, while the temporary shelter for absconding housemaids is not suitable.

On the passage of the new labor law, Motaparthy opined the new law includes stiffer penalties on erring companies, but it does not cover around 600,000 household workers in the country. She lamented these workers have been deprived of privileges granted to their counterparts in other sectors, such as limited work hours. She argued the housemaids need more protection than other workers, emphasizing the importance of laying down clear procedures to settle work-related disputes between the maids and their employers. She warned the absence of law on protecting domestic workers encourages employers to abuse the household helpers.

About the problems of Bedouns, Motaparthy stated 120,000 stateless persons have been residing in the country for a long period but the government merely recognized their presence, instead of granting them citizenship. She said these people have been deprived of their basic rights, such as access to vital services like education and health and acquisition of important documents like marriage certificates.
On freedom of expression, Motaparthy opined Kuwait is one of the countries that fully respect this freedom but in November 2009 one of the critics of the government was detained for allegedly defaming HH the Prime Minister Sheikh Nasser Mohammad Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah. She asserted this incident is a clear manifestation of limited freedom of expression in the country. She slammed the government for violating this freedom through the implementation of a law approved in 2007, which criminalizes the appearance of the members of the so-called third sex. This, she contended, poses a grave threat to transsexuals, more so the personal freedoms.  

HRW has lauded Kuwait for its improved human rights record last year, while pointing out that extensive discrimination remains prevalent among various groups like domestic workers, Bedouns and women.
 HRW, an international organization that conducts research on human rights around the world, released its annual report on Jan 20. Besides the maltreatment of Bedouns and household helpers, the organization also highlighted the fact that women in Kuwait do not enjoy their full political and civil rights compared to their male compatriots. It also criticized the continuous violation of people’s freedom of expression and privacy rights.
Motaparthy said the Constitutional Court in Kuwait granted Kuwaiti women right to obtain a passport without the approval of their husbands or any male relative in October 2009. She was however quick to add that discrimination against women is still prevalent as they have yet to enjoy their citizenship and ownership rights. She stated the Family Law does not stipulate equal rights for men and women in the country.

On the recommendations of HRW, Motaparthy revealed the organization has asked the Kuwaiti government to provide more protection to the workers, including the housemaids, ease procedures for the transfer of sponsorship, investigate reports about employers abusing housemaids, track down employers proven to have abused their household helpers, and provide shelter to female workers to protect them from all forms of abuse.
Motaparthy said HRW has also urged the Kuwaiti government to take the necessary steps to stop discrimination against Bedouns, amend the Citizenship Law which denies this group their civil, economic and social rights.
Meanwhile, Wilkie clarified HRW covers 90 percent of the world and it does not accept financial support from any party. He said the major human rights developments in the Middle East in 2009 include the attacks on Gaza and Israel, elections in Iran and internal conflicts in Yemen.

In addition, another one million foreign workers remained hostage to the so-called sponsor or “kafeel” system which was a “major barrier to the redress of labour abuses,” the report said.
“Sponsorship traps (foreign) workers in abusive situations, including in situations of forced labour, and blocks their access to means of redress,” it said.
Normally described as a form of slavery, the system is applied in all the energy-rich Arab states in the Gulf, but was recently relaxed in Bahrain. Kuwait also said it is considering a similar step.
HRW also criticised Kuwait for the maltreatment of about 100,000 stateless Arabs  — known as “bidun”  — saying the state failed to recognise the right of these long-term residents to citizenship or permanent residency.

Lately I've lacked the motivation to write much of anything. However, I seem to have all these thoughts and ideas roaming around in my head. They generally hit when I've just laid down to sleep, under the comforter, wrapped up like a shawerma, and have no interest in crawling out of bed to make notes. By the time I wake up the following morning, get through the routine, and overcome the morning "I need caffeine" headache, I've totally forgotten what it was I wanted to discuss. Fortunately I can pretend no one is reading this and forgive my silly ramblings of nothingness from time to time.

I have received several emails from Bidoons thanking me for spreading the word to as many English speakers/readers as I can, because often times the Arabic newspapers don't disclose quite everything regarding this ongoing situation. For instance, the Al-Watan published an article quoting one of the MPs saying, "I agree to give human rights to the Bidoons, but I disapprove of having it as a part of Kuwait's constitution". This is a shame, because it's obvious to many (especially the Bidoon) Kuwait isn't necessarily always going to keep their word, or live up to the many promises they've made. Just recently Kuwait has started to review whether or not they would continue to grant citizenship to 2,000 Bidoons every October -- as promised. What's there to review? It was a promise made, it gave people hope, now they're going to change their mind? It's cruel, and a control mechanism in an attempt to manipulate the behaviors of the people, as well as keep an accurate count of the Bidoon population.

In addition to the 'thank you' emails, I have also received many telling me the Bidoons don't deserve right, citizenship, or any of the 'perks' of being a Kuwaiti. I would respect this statement if becoming a Kuwaiti meant blood, sweat, and tears for their forefathers. If they had once given everything in their power to sacrifice for their country. But this isn't the case -- it pretty much boils down to who woke up on the right side of the sand one morning. And furthermore, there have been many times (Iraq Invasion being the most prevalent) where it was the Bidoons who protected and cared for Kuwait -- while many citizens fled. For all of you who truly feel Bidoons deserve no rights at all, I beg you... leave your home in Qurtoba, Sabah Al Salem, Al-Bida'a, or which ever area you live in, and take a ride to Taima, Ayoun, or any other area in Jahra. I'm sure it would be a first trip there for many, but a true eye opener for most. Go see your brothers and sisters living in poverty, and squalor. Go see their children playing in the streets with a puddle of water and sticks, as yours are sitting in front of the XBox all day. Go see what it is you're really refusing to support. But be very careful while you're there observing -- you may see something which actually generates emotions. One could certainly hope.

I truly do appreciate the emails I get from all of you -- whether or not you support my cause is a different story. I have also replied to every one of your emails. If it's not in your inbox, please check your spam. It will be coming from Diane@AmericanGirlinKuwait.com. Please feel free to email me directly, or use the 'contact me' forms on the site.

Now, I think I'll slink out the door and head to the Drive-Thru Starbucks while still wearing my pajamas and my hair pulled up on top of my head. It's these sorts of things that I really love about America.

Think pink for peace of mind … call Hawa Eve Taxi set for take off

KUWAIT CITY, Jan 13: “The most important thing is that we are bringing some color to the streets of Kuwait, all the while making women feel comfortable and secure,” said Bedoor Al-Mutairi, owner of the soon to be launched Hawa Taxi (Eve Taxi) service, nicknamed the Pink Taxi.
“Women now have safer transportation options where men are not allowed. In the Pink Taxi, the fares are the same as normal services and the women can even sit in the front seat,” she added enthusiastically. So make way gentlemen drivers, for the ladies will be taking over the streets.
Speaking to the Arab Times, Al Mutairi said that this past decade women have been expanding into many professional areas. “Our drivers are a mix of Asian and Arab females, even a few Kuwaiti women have applied for a part time position. Kuwait now has policewomen, ministers and members of parliament. Why not taxi drivers as well?” she commented.

In general, women using taxi services are frowned upon in Kuwait and can be potential dangers.  Therefore, Al-Mutairi thought the idea of starting a female taxi service could become feasible in this society. However, her ambitious plan was formed in 2008 when the global economic crises began, which resulted in some setbacks.
“One day I read an article in the newspaper about a roaming taxi driver who kidnapped an Asian woman and sold her. My domestic worker told me that this is a normal occurrence in Kuwait. The next day I had a flat tire and had to wait for a whole hour until my brother arrived. I wished that I had a reliable taxi service to call,” she recalled.
Kuwait was not severely affected by the economic crises so Al-Mutairi seized the opportunity and began collecting capital and talking to investment companies.
“I approached banks and investment companies with the idea and they rejected it outright due to their fears of the risks of the economic crises. I argued with them that this idea is a basic societal need and has a high potential of success, but they still refused,” she said.
After constant rejection, Al-Mutairi then started working on the project on her own. “I collected all my cash and sold my car and approached the Kuwait Small Projects Development Company for support. Their conditions were reasonable and after three months of consideration they became enthusiastic about the project. Now, a year has passed and all the official documents are ready for the taxi service to be launched,” explained Al-Mutairi.
Since plenty of countries have already implemented the women-only taxi service, even in the Middle East, Al-Mutairi travelled to Dubai to study them. She stayed there for a week just taking rides, talking to the women and taking notes about the positive impacts and challenges.
Speaking on the challenges of Kuwait that may face the drivers, who will begin their routes in approximately a month’s time, Al-Mutairi said that people may be taken aback at first by the pink colored cars going around.
“They may stare, honk or even try to harass. However, that may be normal for Kuwait in the beginning until the society gets used to the idea. The drivers are instructed to call our lawyers with the license number of any vehicle that goes overboard. They, in turn, will go to the police station and report the incident,” she explained.

According to Al-Mutairi, the vehicles and drivers are completely insured and secure. The service will operate from 8 am to 8 pm and the vehicles are equipped with GPS systems covering the routes of the governorates of Hawalli, Asma and Farwaniya so far. The cars are Nissan, painted pink with perfumed and comfortable interiors that contain woman magazines, music CDs as well as Quranic CDs.
“The fares of the taxi rides will be equal to any other taxi service in Kuwait as per the rules and regulations of the Ministry of Interior and the drivers are licensed, qualified and have experience on the roads of Kuwait. They are currently under training but are very enthusiastic to start,” she said.
Al-Mutairi added that the female drivers will be compensated very well as their salaries are similar to the salary of the average secretary.

On the future, Al-Mutairi is hoping to expand the service after it takes off and is successful as there has been a very positive reaction from the female population of Kuwait so far.
She thought that mostly expatriates will be open to the idea; however, Kuwaiti women have been pestering her about the launch date. Kuwaiti businesswomen, mothers, housewives and students are the service’s main client because they are comfortable with a lady driving them and their kids around.
“The investment companies that refused my project in the beginning are now offering their help in promoting it, so hopefully everything will go well according to plan.” concluded Al-Mutairi. 
 

It seems the past few days I have been inundated with emails telling me I am 'wrong' about the bidoons, and they shouldn't receive citizenship, etc. blah blah blah.

To that I say -- HUMAN RIGHTS, people! I am not implying bidoons should be handed citizenship, salaries, homes, ministry jobs, and all of the other Kuwaiti benefits. But I am saying they are people, and their human rights are not being met. This is a CRIME.

Now, for those of you who disagree I suggest you read the Human Rights Act, and understand Kuwait is a country which agreed to this act, and signed on to it. Therefore, in the future, understand exactly the message I am attempting to convey, and the cause I support before sending emails filled with selfish fear of losing your 2010 Mercedes because another human might get a meal every now and then.

Shame shame shame.

Haram!

New Year's Resolutions? Blah -- not for me. And it's a good thing since I woke up the first day of the year following the same schedule and routine I always do. I don't believe in resolutions because I believe it's just another way to set ourselves up for failure. Additionally, I believe we should work towards positive goals every day -- not just the first day of the year.

Now I'll get back to the regular venting I usually do here and call it a day. My sleeping! What's up with it?! Though I am still in America, my sleeping seems to have gone back to Kuwaiti time! I drag out of bed every morning feeling like death, not eating until almost dinner time, napping by 5pm, and then waking up like it's time to start the day. By 11pm I am ready to cook, clean, do laundry, and be a functional human being, but instead I find myself tossing and turning in the bed unable to get to sleep until about 3am. I just don't get it! And I'm not liking it very much either.

Several months ago I blogged about 'cleaning house' and getting rid of all the people in my life who just didn't deserve to be here. I did rather well. However, I am starting to think another house cleaning is in order. I find myself in this constant struggle of guilt about whether or not I am being a good person, doing the right thing, being a good friend, etc. When I evaluate the situation, and share my experiences with friends -- it seems they agree. Sure, I am sharing one side of the story, but it's the only side I know... my own. That being said, I think serious change is in order. I'll let you know how that worked out.

Now that I've pinned down a few things I would like to change, I would like to say these are not resolutions, just realizations. I don't have a clue where to begin. Ever see those really 'well put together' people whose lives seem to always be in order, they're always moving forward, and they never seem to miss a beat? Well, I'm not one of them! If you are, please feel free to write me with tips, tricks, ideas, and advice -- I am open!

And there you have it -- the venting of the American Girl. Nothing new, nothing exciting, just the same ol' drama. When I start to feel like my life is one big circle, I know something has to change soon or I'll go insane. OK, more insane.

Below are the Links to "About Being Without" in English and Arabic. This is a very important issue in Kuwait, and something I am very passionate about. I believe we have a responsibility to bring attention to this in hopes of making necessary changes to ensure all human rights are being met, and people all over the world are being treated humanely.

http://www.refintl.org/sites/default/files/Kuwait_statelessrpt.pdf

http://www.refintl.org/sites/default/files/stateless_report_arabic.pdf

http://www.refintl.org/policy/in-depth-report/about-being-without-stories-stateless-kuwait

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This is my last post of 2009 (American time). It's already 2010 in Kuwait -- happy new year!

For this post I thought I would say how important human rights and equality for all is to me. I understand we're not there yet, but I do have faith in humanity, and perhaps I won't be alive to see it, but I believe it will happen one day. I truly believe people will no longer be judged based on the color of their skin, ethnicity, religion, financial status, etc.

Often I say I am one person and I can make only a small difference. But there are many of us with the same ideas and goals. Insha'Allah with enough of us making our small differences, in the end it will be big. One person who truly takes extensive action to make a difference is  Fawzia Salem Al-Sabah. This woman has done as much as one person can for human rights in Kuwait, for bidoons of Kuwait, and for minority nationalities in Kuwait. This is a person who truly doesn't judge others based on their ethnicity or social status. She is kind, compassionate, and geniunely caring about the well being of others. Keep in mind, it would be quite easy for her to spend her days at the salon, or traveling the world, closing her eyes to the needs of others. She is affluent, and probably wants for nothing in life. Yet she takes the time to invest her compassion into making the lives of others better.

If more people would follow in the footsteps of this selfless woman, and care for others the way she does, I have no doubt we would see more changes in the quality of life for many people in Kuwait.

Fawzia, thank you for all you do. I pray you are appreciated by everyone who has ever encountered you and all you have to offer. You are a unique, yet genuine woman who brings hope to many. Masha'Allah.

 

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It will be 2010 in about 45 minutes in Kuwait and a little over 8 hours here in America! Happy New Year, all. I hope this year brings happiness and comfort to all.

Okie dokie, so it snowed here in NC. Absolutely gorgeous. We only got about an inch whereas the northern states got up to a couple of feet. But our snow was short, sweet, and to the point -- just like I like it. It started falling, it was pretty, it sat around for a day, and it left without leaving behind messy roads or power outages. Awesome!




















I've been doing a lot of baking and candy purchasing lately. It's Christmas here in America, the stores are all decorated, and for some reason a Resee Peanut Butter Cup Miniature looks more appealing when wrapped in pretty green, red, and gold foil. I've had my share.

As of right now it looks like I'm heading back to the Middle East the first or second week of January. I love being home and am really going to miss it -- but I miss life on the other side of the world as well. I live firmly by 'everything happens for a reason' so I am generally emotionally prepared for the next journey and try very hard to look forward to it.

During my time here in the states I spend a lot of time just living a good old fashioned 'normal' life of coffee, family time, sleeping in, and overall relaxing. Therefore, my blog updating slows down quite a bit. I'll try to do a little better in the future.