Moving abroad can be more than just changing of country: it can become a whole new lifestyle! We recently interviewed experienced expat Theresa Dommett, who relocated from Dubai to Kuwait with her husband Chris. It was the sixth international move for Theresa, the twelth for Chris!
Why did you decide to begin this adventure?
Chris's career brought us to Kuwait.
What is a typical day like for you here?
Normally, we are up early to walk our dogs before it gets too warm and before we start work for the day. In summer we usually add in playing golf to our days. In winter we are normally out several evenings a week at events. These range from business events, to social events or community events. There are so many great cultural events in Kuwait between November and March that it's non-stop!
What are the main differences between Kuwait and your home country?
The biggest difference is that no alcohol or pork are allowed in the country. It does make for a healthy lifestyle! Also, there is a mosque located at almost every square mile.
Which challenges did you face during your relocation and how did you overcome them?
Because we have two dogs it was tough trying to find a place to rent that would allow dogs. It was very limited for the areas that we wanted to live in. But we found a place that we love in the end. Also the paperwork, as in any country, it took a lot of time and lots of patience.
Have you had any interesting stories to share about your expat experience?
Because we live in a Muslim country, we can see and experience many aspects of the Islamic religion, such as Eid Al Adha and the Feast of the Sacrifice. In the months before Eid, we would pass a home while walking our dogs that had two sheep grazing on the front lawn, they were being fattened up. Then on the first day of Eid Al Adha they had disappeared. The meat was shared with the families and those less fortunate. Even in our local shopping area, there was a tent set-up where you could purchase your own goat or sheep. We passed on the offer!
What advice would you give to any expat?
You have to embrace any new place and try/experience as much as you can. Never say no to joining a group or turned down an invitation to a cultural or social event.