What To Expect When You First Get To Kuwait
First Impressions from a Year 5 teacher who just arrived from
Canada…
I must admit that I really didn't know what to expect when I
accepted the job in Kuwait, but I believed that having no expectations would
make it easier for me to 'go with the flow' once I got there. I figured that it
would be very hot and that the culture would be different from what I was used
to, but I'm very open to new things and enjoy adventure, so I packed very
little in my suitcases and hoped for the best.
Upon arriving in January, I discovered that it was actually quite
chilly in the winter, so bringing warm clothing is definitely advisable!
However, I've also realized that the shopping here is quite comparable to
prices in North America, and everything that you would want to buy at home is
available here. That includes clothing, appliances and food. There are also
many chain restaurants available here including: Starbucks, Burger King,
MacDonald's, Hardee's, Johnny Rockets, Costa, Pizza Hut, Texas Chicken, Hard
Rock Café, Chillis and more. It is also possible to enjoy a variety of local
and international flavours at a very reasonable price.
|
 |
|
Being conscious of the culture you are entering is a must. You
need to be open-minded and respectful of the beliefs of others, but at the same
time, you should feel free to be yourself. As a 'Westerner', you WILL be
noticed and it is not uncommon to receive harmless looks and comments from
locals. Remember that half the population is comprised of foreigners and that
you are in a very safe country. Some of the laws and customs are different from
what we are used to, so being aware of what is and isn't acceptable is very
important. Above all, be cautious and use common sense! Don't be afraid to ask
if you are unsure and don't put yourself in situations where you are alone and
no one knows where you are. Remember to register with your country's embassy
upon arriving in Kuwait as an added safety precaution.
|
It would be beneficial to bring things to school to decorate your
classroom with, as well as any favourite resources that you use for teaching.
The staff are very friendly and helpful and make it easy to settle into school
life. There is a wide range of resources available for all staff with
specialists to provide support. Fortunately, the location of the school is very
close in proximity to the staff accommodations, which makes it handy to come
and go at your leisure.
The accommodations for staff are very modern and spacious.
Everything required for comfortable living is provided and any extras can be
easily and affordably obtained. It's about a 20 minute walk to the beach with a
wide assortment of shops and restaurants along the way. Resorts including
private gyms and beaches are also very accessible in this area. It is just as
safe to walk here as it is in any large city. Of course it is advisable to stay
with a group of people when walking at night just as you would if you were
anywhere else in the world.
Finally, remember that you are in the Middle East and there is
much to be learned and explored. Experience as much as you can while you are
here and enjoy the opportunity that is upon you. Not too many people can say
they've lived in Kuwait so why not make the most of it and share your newfound
knowledge with family and friends. This is a very rich nation full of
possibilities – it can be anything and everything that you want it to be!
Miss B. H.