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Guide to Kuwait, Kuwait
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KuwaitKnown as one of the premier oil producers of the world, Kuwait is a rocky country where Islamic conservativism is the main attraction of its towns and fields and where city dwellers tend to be more open to worldly ideas. Kuwait is hardly anyone's first pick as a destination. In fact, there are a number of countries in the region that are known to be far less volatile toward newcomers and foreigners in general. Those who do choose to cross its border, however, are swept with a newfound appreciation and understanding for a place that is far more homely than what many have portrayed it to be up to the present day. Yes, the land is hot and, yes, the accepted attire can seem a bit stifling to non-Kuwaitis. But follow the way of the people and smiles and greetings will not be the only things you come across as you make your way from city to city. The cuisines served here are remarkably inexpensive, and the goods you can receive with foreign currency can seem astounding. Of course, this is not to say that Kuwait only has the means to provide low prices and an abundance of materials. Museums here, especially in the capital city (Kuwait City), are deemed some of the best in the Middle East. Hotels offer overnight stays as well as packaged tours and discounts, and hostels are so numerous that finding a room will be among the easiest tasks you'll face here. Visit Kuwait for your chance to experience so much for so little. Who knows? A second visit might soon be on the horizon!
When to go:
Kuwait's minor temperature shifts contribute to its image of having only one season: summer. If you're fortunate to see the country in May or October, though, you'll notice a wane in degree, and despite a lack of change in tourist numbers, you'll see more locals out on the streets enjoying these brief respites. If you find yourself unable to make plans for either month, make your way at any time other than summer, or if you're not a practicing Muslim, December.
Getting there and around:
The hub of the country for air travel is Kuwait International Airport, and with its short distance from Kuwait City, a connection to your hotel will take a relatively short time. Peak travel occurs at midday, so try to arrange for flights around that frame if you wish to avoid terminal and/or roadway traffic. The best way to get into and around town is by taxi, but it's certainly not the most cost-effective. Anyone other than an expert haggler will have to settle for a high price for that cross-town commute. Travel by bus is best for a tight budget, but if you find this mode a bit to crowded for your taste, rent a car. Traffic can be an enormous nuisance, but some solitude in your own air-conditioned vehicle will give you some degree of patience.
Attractions:
The Kuwait Towers are likely to be the most popular spectacle(s) in all of Kuwait, and though they only rise to about 187m (615ft), they're quite noticeable among the particularly flat skyline of Kuwait City. Another great site in the capital is the National Museum, which showcases a collection of Kuwaiti history and timelined progress in amazing detail. Many of its original pieces were destroyed by Iraqi-government sanctioned plundering and pillaging, but the museum's road to restoration is being covered quickly.
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