Kuwait justifiably takes price in its progress and modernization, but retains strong ties with cultural tradition. The religious heritage of Islam has provided the Arabs with a strict code of ethics which differ in many ways from those of the West, making the experience of living in Kuwait pleasant and interesting.

Hospitality is a basic rule of life in the desert, and one is well advised to avoid admiring or praising to a great extent the belongings of one’s host. Guests should generally accept offers of food or drink and be free with compliments and thanks. Even shopkeepers will offer tea, coffee, soft drinks or water to browsing shoppers.

The role of women in society is an evolving issue in the Muslim world, but the well-informed recognize the high esteem generally accorded women in Kuwait. In order to preserve that respect, visitors should take care to dress modestly whenever going outside their homes. Wearing of shorts, tank tops, form-revealing clothing etc. should be avoided in public.

Alcohol and pork are prohibited in Kuwait. Non-prescription drugs and possession or use of illegal drugs is also prohibited. Persons convicted of drug or alcohol possession could face prison sentences and deportation.

Residents of Kuwait must not expect American-style judicial due process in Kuwait’s handling of social misconduct. Rather, any behavior that might result in unfavorable criticism should be avoided.

Teachers are held in high esteem in Islam, and Americans are well regarded in Kuwait. However, all representatives of the American community are closely observed. Expatriates are advised to be moderate in expressions of feelings about politics and religion. Especially in school, discussion of politics, religion and sex are potentially explosive and must be approached very discreetly or avoided altogether.

THINGS TO DO IN KUWAIT
Newcomers to Kuwait may observe that a Western-style entertainment is in short supply, but most expats stay as busy and involved as they please. Here is a short list of some thing to do and places to see:

Zoo: Kuwait’s zoo is respectable, if small, and set in a peaceful park, which features playground equipment and rides for children and picnic benches and tables.

Beaches: Although most of the beaches have been cleared by ordnance crews, a degree of danger persists on all Kuwait’s beaches. Boating, jet-skiing, and wind surfing, scuba diving and snorkelling, swimming, and fishing are among the most popular recreational activities.

Camping: As with the beaches, the desert is potentially dangerous, but many families continue to explore, camp in, and enjoy the desert.

Doha: A traditional fishing village located half an hour’s drive from Kuwait City. Not only do the fishermen craft their own nets and build fish traps there, but the traditional fishing vessel known as the dhow is still constructed by hand without the use of power tools.

Entertainment City: A small, impressive amusement park complete with rides and arcades popular among the younger set in Kuwait. Although the park was dismantled and largely destroyed by the Iraqis, it has been restored and reopened to the public.

Aqua Park: At the bas of the Kuwait Towers, this swimming park includes a wave pool and giant slides.

Theater Groups: The Kuwait Players and some fledgling theater groups are very active and present a variety of musicals and dramatic offerings several times a year.

The Kuwait Singers: This informal group of music lovers meet throughout the year to rehearse for a Christmas performance and occasional seasonal or special program.

Women’s Groups: The American Women’s League is an active group that sponsors regular meetings, a Christmas bazaar, and many activities for expatriate women and children. There is also active International Women’s Group in Kuwait.

Souks: The Old Souk in Kuwait is a fascinating area. You will find gold, spices, incense, oriental carpets, ordinary household goods, clothing and almost anything else one would care to purchase. There is also a Friday Souk where sheep, goats, birds, second-hand furniture, household items and a few antiques can be bought. Also available here are cleaning supplies, plastic and paper goods, etc.

National Museum and Art Museum: Displayed here is one of the largest collections of Islamic art in the Middle East. Until recently, on section of the museum was preserved in the deplorable condition left behind by the Iraqis.

Al-Qurain House: This house of martyrs was the site of a fierce and protracted battle between Iraqi troops with tanks and a group of ill-equipped Kuwaiti freedom fighters, many of whom died just hours before the Iraqi withdrawal from Kuwait.

Rajab Museum: This private collection of magnificent art pieces is widely regarded as the best in Kuwait.

Sadu House: This traditional Kuwaiti home features Bedouin weaving demonstrations and classes, and handicrafts.

The Science and Natural Science Museum: Just what the name suggests, this government museum is worth a visit or two.

Kuwait Towers: An important landmark of the city, the Towers feature panoramic views of the city and the Gulf. A restaurant, revolving snack bar, and observation deck are included in this magnificent modern symbol of Kuwait.

Cinemas: Numerous movie theaters are located in the city, but the Salmiya Cinema shows the films Westerners most want to see.

Health Clubs: Many health and exercise clubs are available, and each of the major hotels features and exercise and facility.

Ice Skating: Kuwait’s ice-skating rink features family recreation time as well as segregated skating on a regular basis.

Golf: Kuwait is the home of three sand golf courses. Avid golfers may wish to bring golfing gear to Kuwait. Balls and tees are available for purchase, but clubs cannot be rented and are very expensive to buy, if available at all.

The Hunting and Equestrian Club: This recreational facility hosts numerous activities in addition to opportunities for equestrian showmanship and show jumping.

Fine Arts: Ballet and contemporary dance groups are available.

Darts: Kuwait owes its strong tradition of dart competition to its British heritage. Die-hard dartists may inquire among the British community for opportunities to participate in established leagues.

Shopping: Modern supermarkets stock goods from nearly everywhere in the world, including US brands of most products.

Restaurants: There are various American restaurant chains represented in Kuwait, such as Kentucy Fried Chicken, Hardees, Wendys, Pizza Hut, Baskin Robbins, Chi Chi’s, TGI Fridays, Kenny Roger’s Roasters, Fuddruckers, Burger King, Chili’s and McDonald’s. In addition to many ethnic restaurants such as Indian, Lebanese and Chinese, one can find international cuisine at the quality hotels.