“There are so many beautiful reasons to be happy” . The country that we live in is a land of deserts which give children such an exquisite excuse for an ice cream. Yes Kuwait! My home away from home! Three generations of my lineage have made Kuwait our home and many of our relatives too have found safe haven in this cozy corner of the Arabian Sea.

I am a native of India, a land known for tolerance and peace. India is like the whole world combined together because of its diverse culture. It is an amalgamation of different religions, traditions, celebrations and delicacies. Whereas, Kuwait is a country that embraces Islam, with mosques at every nook and corner. Ramadan is a time which reminds us about making sacrifices and helps in realising how privileged we are. It is a nostalgic month that cannot be ignored as timings, rules and regulations change for schools, offices and malls. Despite these sharp contrasts, there is a wonderful relationship between these countries – India and Kuwait. As much as I am proud to be an Indian, where happiness, togetherness and brotherhood resides; I am equally proud to be living in Kuwait.

Kuwait is a desert country and life is not a bed of roses, yet, Kuwait has dozens of beds of roses and lush greenery in the parks and around the beaches. This gives us a feel of India and families get together to spend quality time. During these reunions, children play in the water and in the playgrounds, while parents have some leisure time to themselves to sit together to watch the sunset and sunrise as though they seem to pop right out of a romantic novel.

Kuwait has innumerable number of malls of which my favourite and most visited malls are ‘The Avenues’ and ‘Lulu Centre’. During weekends when we go to the malls we feel as though we are on an adventure since there are so many shops to explore, visit and buy from. There are not just shopping arenas but also play areas and eat outs too. As we exit these malls, we go with our wallets empty but our hands and trolleys full.

“Nothing brings people together like good food”. In Kuwait, we are blessed with a variety of cuisines and delicacies, not only Arabian and Indian but from all around the world. We often go out with family and friends just to have some good food and create good memories. On lazy days, the venue turns out to be home sweet home.

During vacations or extended weekends, we have many options to pack our bags and go for staycations to resorts or tents right in the middle of the desert. There are many farms in the South of Kuwait too which are must visit spots for educational and recreational purposes. No wonder these farmhouses are a delight to the sore eyes as one would be awe struck by the ingenious crops in this area and the wildlife reared on these farms ranging from hens and lovebirds to llamas and camels. These exquisite trips that are possible in Kuwait make up for the fun we miss out in our home country. Even during this pandemic when we are confined within the boundaries of our home, we still feel at home here in Kuwait- safe and protected. Hence, I reserve the exploration of the majestic ranges of the Himalayas, the serenity of the Dal Lake, the panoramic view of the Coonoor tea plantations and the great historic monument of Taj Mahal for yet another day. I am overjoyed at the very thought of being able to stay in this safe haven with my family and explore its endless beauty and adventure in the meanwhile.