Wednesday, December 31, 2014

New Year Sale at Marks & Spencer Starts Jan 1st 2015 at 8.00AM @the_Avenues @360Mall and Salmiya

























Temperature is dropping and so are prices at Marks and Spencer. M&S winter sale up to 75% off on select items. First 50 customers get a free gift on Jan 1st. Doors open at 8:00AM.




New Year's Eve Deportations




















A team from the criminal security sector has been formed to monitor camps, chalet and apartments that are suspected to be holding new year parties and arrest its revellers, an Interior Ministry source revealed following recent reports about such parties in many areas. He added that any expatriates or GCC citizens arrested in the so-called New Year parties will be deported.

LWDLIK - If you are thinking to leave.. You are too late! - I've checked flights and they are all full. No surprises there.






Happy New Year All


#QoutMarket Saturday January 3rd at Arraya Center Car Park


Sunday, December 28, 2014

Fadhl Under Fire For Call to Legalize Liquor in Kuwait – ‘MP seeks to distort Kuwait’s history and image’



















IT: A number of lawmakers, former MPs and religious societies have strongly condemned MP Nabil Al-Fadhl for saying that liquor was part of Kuwait’s history and ancestors were tolerant towards allowing its consumption in the past. Fadhl, an independent MP with liberal-secular views, made the statements with the aim to prepare the grounds for calling to allow the use of liquor in the country.
Kuwait totally banned liquor in a law issued by the first National Assembly in 1964 although the country’s penal code had stipulated stiff penalties for the use of liquor four years earlier. Since its ban, authorities regularly bust large quantities of smuggled whisky from Gulf states where it is allowed like Dubai and also seize locally made liquor.
Before his liquor statements, Fadhl had also called for lifting tough restrictions on musical concerts in the country that were imposed 10 years ago allegedly under pressure from the then strong Islamist groups. He had also vowed to challenge an article in the Kuwaiti constitution banning non-Muslims from getting Kuwaiti citizenship.
Critics charged that Fadhl was trying to legalize the use of liquor which is totally banned in Islam. MP Saud Al-Huraiji said that by issuing such a statement, Fadhl had clearly undermined the image of Kuwaitis and the country’s history, adding that the statement is a clear manifestation that the lawmaker is ignorant about his religion.
Huraij said it is regrettable that a member of Kuwaiti parliament who has taken the oath to safeguard the Kuwaiti constitution and laws, has failed to keep his pledge by calling to legalize the use of liquor. “Fadhl is distorting the history and the image of Kuwait and its people who have elected him” he said. Islamist MP Humoud Al-Hamdan said that the ancestors of Kuwaitis were well known of their fight against moral corruption including the use of liquor.
Hamdan said it is not acceptable from a member of parliament to issue statements that include false information about the history of Kuwait and also calling to allow liquor. MP Faisal Al-Kundari said Fadhl is trying to confuse between the noble traditions of Kuwaitis and those who intruded their life and brought with them liquor and even traded in it.
Former MP Faisal Al-Muslim strongly lashed out at Fadhl’s calls and criticized MPs who did not condemn Fadhl. The Islamist Social Reform Society also strongly condemned Fadhl’s call to allow liquor saying that Kuwait remained an Islamic state that had applied the principles of Islam.
By B Izzak, Kuwait Times

LWDLIK - How does this distort Kuwait's history if prior to 1983 alcohol was permitted? According to Wikipedia it was banned in 1983. I hope the many Kuwaitis who drink out there stand up and support him instead of spouting lies and hypocrisy. Ask any expat (and some Kuwaitis) how distorted the image is already. Why do you think there is a mass exodus to Dubai, Bahrain, London, Thailand, etc, every holiday?  
Al-Kundari's rather naive statement does not seem to address the existing lucrative local trading problem. I do wish all MPs had the gall to say it like it is. Keeping it illegal only keeps the black market price very high and has not eradicated the problem. When I first came to Kuwait in the 80s I had no clue Kuwait was a dry country. I was 19 and my parents hadn't thought to tell me. Every home we visited had a well stocked bar - I had no clue. 
There is a bigger problem with drugs in this country a lot more worrying than a young man having a beer or two. Those drug dealers that are caught dealing or smuggling at the airport know the demand is here otherwise why would they bring it in? Bored, disillusioned youths with money are their target and there are plenty of those here.

Customs officials would have much more time to look for the drug dealers if they weren't opening and tasting my bottles of shampoo and confiscating my balsamic vinegar.

I say 'Go Nabeel Al-Fadhl!' No one is forcing anyone to drink. Works nicely in Bahrain, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Oman, Iraq, Syria, Turkey, Malaysia, Indonesia, etc. And the Saudis built a bridge for their people to do it elsewhere.







Monday, December 22, 2014

The Philippines File A Case of Criminal Negligence Resulting in Homicide Against Owner of Lion That Mauled and Killed Filipino Maid in Kuwait












The Philippines has filed a case against the employer of a Filipino overseas worker killed by a pet lion, it has been reported.
Vice President Jejomar Binay said in comments published by local media that lawyer Raul Dado, Consul General of the Philippine Embassy, has filed a complaint for criminal negligence resulting in homicide against Lourdes Abejuela's employer in Kuwait.
The maid died days after being attacked earlier this month by a lion owned by her employer of 15 years.
She was reportedly doing laundry on the rooftop where the lion is kept. The cage was left unlocked and the lion attacked her.

Xcite Christmas Sale















Brilliant website/online shopping with payment either via credit card or on delivery. Have ordered plenty from them and they have always been excellent. Hope I haven't spoken too soon just made another order today.


Sunday, December 21, 2014

Kuwait to Celebrate 16th Hala February Festival 2015











KUWAIT: The 16th Hala February Festival in 2015 will take place from Jan 8 to Feb 6 with humanitarian work as its motto to mark the honoring of HH the Amir Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah by the United Nations. This was announced during a press conference by the festival’s higher committee organization yesterday in the presence of representatives of government agencies such as the ministry of interior and the fire department and sponsoring companies.
“We decided this year to choose humanitarian work to be the motto of the festival to emphasize the prominent humanitarian role of Kuwait, which began with independence and the foundation of the Kuwait Fund for Development to stretch the hands of Kuwait to the whole world without discrimination or sectarianism,” the general coordinator of Hala Feb 2015 Walid Mohammed Jassim said.
“The Hala February festival this year features many distinctive events that have been carefully selected from the marketing, tourism and the economic aspects to contribute to the revitalization of the economy,” he said, pointing out that the opening carnival will be held on Jan 16 on the Arabian Gulf Street next to the Kuwait Towers this year instead of Salem Al-Mubarak Street in Salmiya.
“The festival will include events like a walkathon from the Marina Crescent to Green Island on Saturday, February 7 from 9 am to 3 pm. The aim is to raise awareness about mental illnesses and the need to change the negative image related to mental illness in an innovative way. There will be five stops to take a break after every kilometer. Booths will have doctors or psychologists to explain the diseases to the public and distribute brochures about the diseases. Also, the Kuwait Chess Championship will be held from January 26 to February 7,” Jassim said.
Main sponsor
He pointed out that the Gate Mall will be the main sponsor of the festival for the first time, adding that cars will be given away in raffle draws and 100 prizes will be distributed daily under the supervision of the ministry of commerce and industry. The chief of the concerts committee of the Hala February Festival 2015 Abdullah Al-Quud said 4 concerts will be held with singers Majida Al-Roumi, Nabil Shuail, Shamma Hamdan, Tamer Hosni, Fayez Al-Saeed, Shirin, Ebadi Al-Johar, Fahad Al-Qubaisi, Nancy Ajram and Mohammed Assaf.
Executive director of relations and communications at Zain Telecom Walid Khashti confirmed that the company is keen to participate in the festival as part of the social responsibility of the company, pointing out that the company is seeking to participate in the festival every year through the exchange of experiences and work as a team for a long relationship between Zain and Hala February. “Zain has many events in parks and public places as part of our commitment to contribute to the support of activities, tourism and the Kuwaiti economy as part of the duty of the company’s presence in all national events,” Khashti said.
Every year Kuwait celebrates the Hala February Festival that was first launched in 1997 to rejuvenate tourism in Kuwait and positively influence the Kuwaiti economy. The Hala Feb festival features cultural activities such as parades and entertainment events, and is a boon for shoppers with shopping carnivals offering discounts.
By Faten Omar, Kuwait Times

Thursday, December 18, 2014

And the World Sits Silently: 150 Women Executed by ISIS for Refusing to Marry ISIS Militants in Iraq. 132 Children and 9 Staff in Peshawar Brutally Murdered
















Along with countless numbers of innocent people dead. 2.14 million displaced Syrians and unrest all over Iraq.

Where is an Arab coalition army? Why aren't millions of Muslims protesting in the streets that ISIS are not representing Islam? A cartoon in Denmark had more impact than this. If the West comes in they are accused of interfering. 

Choosing to bury your heads in the sand will not make this go away. On the contrary it is right on your doorstep. Act before it's too late. 











Man's Best Friend


Wednesday, December 17, 2014

Review: La Brasa Authentic Argentinian Grill Restaurant :O)




La Brasa is an authentic Argentinian grill (parilla) restaurant located in the basement of Dar Al Awadi Tower, Sharq which has very convenient underground parking. Map [link].

La Brasa Tel. 22322230. A delectable 10/10.


Gustavo Ferrari, owner of La Brasa, is passionate about grilled meats.

The empinadas were divine and unforgettable  

The most exquisite, juicy, flavourful chicken I have ever eaten.


Finest cuts of beef grilled to perfection. Just remembering them has me salivating.



Go hungry! As the irresistible parrillada (or all-you-can-eat menu) will have you happily bursting at the seams. The Argentinian chef doesn't let up there are yummy French fries, amazing chimichurri sauces and heavenly pancakes with dulce de leche. Great value for money for incredible quality. Best to book ahead as the word is out and the restaurant is already full on weekends. Tel. 22322230. Website www.labrasaq8.com

Delivery service starts soon.





Know Your Rights - Rent Rules Kuwait










KUWAIT: The law in Kuwait allows a landlord to increase rent only after five years from the date of signing the first lease. He is allowed to increase any amount up to 100 percent of the present rent after the five years only. On the other hand, the tenant can refuse this increase if it was unreasonable and demand the court to evaluate the increase.
But what do you do when the landlord or more likely the haris is knocking on your door, threatening that you must pay an increase in rent – even if the legal five years is not up.
You refuse and in a steady stream of harassments and annoyances, they try to make living in the building impossible. According to Attorney Mubarak Mijze’a you have a few options:
1. File a police case. “If the landlord cuts the water or electricity, for instance, the tenant should go to the police station to report the incident and have a policeman go to his flat to prove his statement. And the tenant should register all incidents such as the malfunction of the air-conditioning system or the elevator,” he told the Kuwait Times.
2. Pay at the court. “If the landlord demands an illegal or unreasonable increase the tenant can refuse it and start paying at the court. the tenant should be careful to pay before the 21st of the month. Otherwise the landlord can expel the tenant from the flat for not paying the rent,” added Mijze’a.
3. Fight back by asking for a rent discount. A tenant can demand the decrease of the rent in some cases. “If the tenant suffered from problems and lack of services in his building the judge may even decide to decrease the rent.
Reporting the various abuses at the police station will support the tenant’s case at the court, and will also serve as a warning for the landlord to refrain from further abuses,” the attorney concluded.
A new center has been set up in South Surra to receive complaints from tenants who live in the Hawally governorate.
This will help collate complaints against specific landlords and also ease the burden the various police stations.
By Nawara Fattahova Kuwait Times


Arabic Zoomorphic Calligraphy Workshop








































Learn how to write zoomorphic calligraphy in Arabic during our two session Calligraphy Workshop with Abdulaziz Alameer on Tuesday, 23 December, 7pm, at the Amricani Cultural Centre. Workshop is limited to 15 participants, so please reserve your place by emailing: workshop@darmuseum.org.kw



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The Pearl Fishers of Arabia

When you think of Arabia today, you think of oil, and unimaginable wealth. But less than a century ago, oil had yet to be discovered. The region was poor and one of its main sources of income - pearl fishing - was about to be killed by cheap competition and the intransigence of colonial administrators, writes Matthew Teller.
"Yusuf was ready to dive. He took his basket, holding it by the rim, and [twisted] one leg about the rope with the stone. Down he went, down, down. I could watch him drop three, four fathoms. Then he was gone."
So wrote Australian explorer Alan Villiers, describing a pearl-diving expedition off Kuwait in 1939, in his book Sons of Sindbad.
"How long he was down! There was silence aboard. [Then came] a slight tug [on the rope] and the tender was hauling in fast, hand over hand. It was a long time before I saw any sign of Yusuf, deep below. A smudge became the blurred outline of a man.

Round the Bend

Map of the Gulf
A series of tales from the days when Britain ruled India and the Gulf, told with documents newly digitised by the British Library
"Here he came, breaking water at last. His basket first, well-filled with oysters, then his old head with an arm thrown up to shield his water-tired eyes from the glare of the sun. He blew once, like a whale."
Villiers knew he was lucky to see, and photograph, the last gasps of an industry - pearl-diving - which had sustained Arabia's coastal communities for generations.
Since the 1920s Japanese cultured (artificially produced) pearls had flooded the world market, their cheapness and abundance fatally undercutting Arabia's labour-intensive harvesting of natural pearls from the oyster banks beneath the warm waters of the Gulf.
Pearl-diving was incredibly taxing. A diver would coat his skin in oil, plug his ears with cotton wool, don leather sheaths on fingers and toes for protection against razor-sharp rocks, hang a rope basket around his neck and seal his nostrils with a nose-clip.
Holding a heavy stone tied with a rope, he would sink to the oyster-beds, as much as 60 feet (18m) down. An assistant on deck pulled up the stone while the diver scraped oysters off rocks with a knife, storing them in his neck-basket.
When his lungs could take no more, he tugged on a line and was hauled up to the surface to recover. This would be repeated perhaps 30 times a day, with divers pooling their oysters on deck for opening under the captain's watchful eye.
Pearl fishers
Divers looking through the oyster catch
Between May and September hundreds of wooden ships headed out to the oyster banks from Gulf towns including Kuwait, Bahrain, Dubai and Abu Dhabi - all, then, small fishing harbours. Crews of divers, pullers and apprentices lived on board in incredibly cramped conditions for weeks at a time.
Sea shanties from that era are kept alive by the old pearling families. British Library ethnomusicologist Rolf Killius recorded one particularlybluesy, evocative session in Qatar in 2013.
Pearl fisher crew
Crew rowing a pearler
Everyone was in debt. The divers were advanced money by their captain against a share of the boat's profits; if one year was bad, they would begin the next in the red, with debts accruing year on year. The captains were in debt to pearl merchants, who loaned money to finance voyages - and the merchants were frequently in debt to buyers further up the chain.
High demand from India and Europe kept the trade going. In 1865 Bahrain - the centre of Gulf pearling - reportedly made a profit from pearls of around £30m in today's money. At its height, in 1904-05, the industry was worth more than £100m.
Merchant examines pearls
Yet pay and working conditions remained terrible, as ruling families and the colonial power, Britain, resisted ideas of modernisation. They seem to have feared that new ways of working would bring social instability.
Refusing to allow technological innovations such as deep-sea diving suits, Britain spread the idea that - as diplomat Hugh Biscoe wrote in 1930 - "anyone using artificial aids for diving incurs great risks".
Letter from diplomat Hugh Biscoe on diving suits
Such intransigence killed off any chance of the Gulf competing against the new cultured pearl business, long before the outbreak of World War Two. A generation lived in desperate poverty - until large-scale oil production, from the 1950s, suddenly changed everything.
Glossary of diving terms
British Library curator Mark Hobbs contributed original research for this article.
Click here to see the original of the vocabulary of diving terms. Alan Villiers' photographs, in the collection of the National Maritime Museum, can be seen here.
Round the Bend is a series of tales from the days when Britain ruled India and the Gulf, told with documents newly digitised by the British Library. You can explore the archive yourself.
Subscribe to the BBC News Magazine's email newsletter to get articles sent to your inbox.


Horeca Culinary Art Show 2015


Jingle Bowls, Jingle Bowls Tournament at Cozmo Bowling











December 1 to 31 join us for the Jingle Bowls Tournament at all Cozmo Bowling Branches Salmiya, Kaifan, Discovery and Mahboula from opening time to closing time everyday. 

• Tournament Fee : KD 10.000 for 4 games 
• All games will be played in regular scoring format.
• There will be 3 Divisions :
• Singles division (1 bowler playing all the 4 games)
• Doubles division (2 bowlers playing the 4 games together)
• Team Division (4 bowlers playing the 4 games together).
• Over All scores from All branches will determine the winner from each Division
• Single’s Division - KD 100
• Doubles Division - KD 200
• Team Division - KD 400

Santa at Cozmo Discovery Mall on 26th December Before He Goes Back to the North Pole











Santa knows whether you have been naughty or nice but you have one last chance to show him what a good little one you are! Come see Santa and tell him what you would like for Christmas next year and get your picture taken with him! Come see a magician perform amazing magic tricks for an hour as well. For 10KD each you will get 1 game of bowling, A 1KD Arcade card, A Cozmo bag, a coloring book, A McDonalds Kids meal, Christmas goodies and a stocking in addition to your time and picture with Santa and the Magic Show. Kids who come in a Christmas Outfit can participate in the Fashion Parade for the following prizes.
Best in Party Outfit - Boy & girl (little & big) - 20KD voucher
Best in Talent - Boy & girl (little & big) - 20KD voucher



Iranian Artisans Exhibition at Dar Al Funoon Gallery

























Dar Al Funoon cordially invites you to an exhibition:

"With These Hands"

Opening on Wednesday 10th December at 7pm and continuing through Wednesday 31st December 2014.

“Honor the craftsmen and the sage in equal degree.”
- Omar Khayam, Norooznameh

Traditionally the word ”artisan” is used to describe a person who is skilled at making both useful and decorated objects by hand. But what if they were to also apply aesthetic principles to the design and decoration of these objects? Would they reach the higher expressive levels of artists?

We follow nine Iranian artisans in three different cities to find out where the boundaries between fine and applied arts lie.

Mural Painting Workshop for Kids





























Visual Therapy presents its latest workshop “Mural Painting for Kids”
in a private garden. The workshop will teach its young participants
how to work collaboratively to create large mural.
Several painting techniques will be demonstrated.

Date: Monday December 22nd
Time: 10-1pm
Location: Rumaithiya
Ages: 7-12 years old
Cost: 25 KD per child

Email visualtherapyonline@gmail.com to register. Space is limited to 10 people.

Sunday, December 14, 2014

British Council Early Years English Courses Free Demo Lesson























You are invited along with your children to join our free demonstration lesson for kids at the age of 4 and 5... 

Being able to talk confidently in English gives your child an edge at school, helps them make the most of technology and the internet, and ultimately gives them a head start in getting into the right university. 

Our Kids courses are specially designed to help young children feel comfortable with language. 

TUESDAY 16 DECEMBER 2014 | 14:00 | BRITISH COUNCIL