Kuwait, a small yet affluent country located on the Arabian Peninsula, is not typically atop the list of tourist hotspots when compared to its more frequented neighbors like Dubai and Qatar. However, its understated charm and rich cultural heritage make it a unique destination for those looking to explore the Gulf region beyond the usual skyscraper-laden skylines. In this travel vlog, I share my first impressions of Kuwait, diving deep into its history, culture, and modern attractions.
**Arrival and First Impressions**
Landing in Kuwait International Airport gives you the immediate sense that you’re entering a place that balances modern development with traditional roots. The airport itself is sleek yet not overwhelmingly large, making it fairly easy to navigate for first-time visitors.
As you step out into the city, Kuwait’s weather greets you—hot and dry for most of the year but pleasantly mild during winter months (November to early March), which is an ideal time to visit.
**Cultural Riches and Historical Insights**
One cannot truly appreciate Kuwait without delving into its historical context. The first stop on my vlog was the Tareq Rajab Museum of Islamic Arts. This privately-owned collection includes over 30,000 items that offer a window into Islamic art and history not just from Kuwait but from across the Muslim world.
Another significant landmark is the Kuwait National Museum. Though much was destroyed during the Iraqi invasion in 1991, efforts to restore it have been successful, offering visitors insights into traditional Kuwaiti life and archaeological findings from Failaka Island—an ancient trading post that dates back to the Dilmun civilization.
**The Vibrant Corniche and Modern Skyline**
What I found particularly captivating about Kuwait is its beautiful coastline along Persian Gulf Street. The promenade or ‘corniche’ as it’s called provides spectacular views of both sea and skyline—a modern metropolis peppered with iconic structures like the Kuwait Towers. These towers aren’t just an emblem; they’re also observation points offering panoramic views of urban sprawl juxtaposed against desert landscapes.
**Souq Shopping: A Dive Into Traditional Markets**
No visit to a Middle Eastern country would be complete without exploring its souqs (markets), and so my camera next took me through Souq Al-Mubarakiya—one of the oldest in Kuwait. Here I experienced a sensory overload: spices’ scents wafting through air thick with bargaining chats; colorful displays of attire ranging from traditional dishdashas to modern fashion pieces; food stalls serving everything from freshly-caught fish grilled right before you to traditional sweets like baklava.
**Kuwaiti Cuisine: An Undiscovered Gem**
Kuwaiti cuisine reflects its trading history—a delightful amalgam of Persian, Indian, Iraqi influences alongside Bedouin staples. I indulged in machboos—a flavorful rice dish seasoned with local spices and cooked with chicken or fish—and enjoyed gourmet dates that are a staple in every household here.
Through my vlog lens, I captured my meal at Dar Hamad restaurant—an elegant establishment combining local culinary traditions with haute cuisine techniques—turning each dish into an artwork.
**Hospitality Like No Other**
Perhaps what stood out most prominently throughout my travels was the warm hospitality extended by every local I met. Whether it was restaurant owners inviting me inside their kitchens or shopkeepers regaling me with stories behind their wares at various souqs—the people make this country truly special.
In conclusion, my travel vlog on first impressions of Kuwait aims to shed light on this often overlooked gem in Middle East tourism. From bustling markets filled with heritage crafts to serene views along waterfront promenades and meals that speak directly to one’s soul—Kuwait offers myriad experiences that beckon deeper exploration.