I feel it necessary to point out to some bloggers that there are some events that are not for the general public to view. Threats to foreigners in Kuwait is still high and I would, personally, prefer not to publicise their events unless they are sent to me for that specific purpose.
I know of one incident where a blogger actually put video footage on youtube of an embassy event. Fortunately, the powers that be had it removed. (Consequently, no cameras permitted rule).
I have seen a seasonal event for the American Business Council members plastered all over public websites. IMHO - a little worrying.
To publicise some events around this time of the year that are invitation only, might ruin my Christmas Carol Evening. Not a chance I'm willing to take.
Let's play safe, shall we?
I know of one incident where a blogger actually put video footage on youtube of an embassy event. Fortunately, the powers that be had it removed. (Consequently, no cameras permitted rule).
I have seen a seasonal event for the American Business Council members plastered all over public websites. IMHO - a little worrying.
To publicise some events around this time of the year that are invitation only, might ruin my Christmas Carol Evening. Not a chance I'm willing to take.
Let's play safe, shall we?
The American Business Council Christmas Party Event is open to the general public as long as you book & reserve your tickets in advance.
ReplyDeleteYou should take into consideration that some of us - like me - were also asked by the associations/groups to post events.
ReplyDeleteI don't see how that event is any different to any other event that you post...eg Latin Party, Puppy Ball...what's the difference?
ReplyDeleteHi Grapevine & DG Thanks for popping by and leaving comments.
ReplyDeleteI think I'm being a lot paranoid. The Brits had an incident recently, as you probably know, that resulted in the embassy being closed and events cancelled.
Of course, it's entirely up to ABC who knows about and attends their events. And what's posted on the internet soon becomes public knowledge to all.
I wonder, sometimes, when I blog some other events ie. dance nights like the upcoming Salsa event - whether having too many people know is such a good thing?
A little something for me to ponder, alone, I guess :OD
Hi Louise, true! But the advice given to Americans on the www.travel.state.gov website is as paranoid as me.
ReplyDeleteSAFETY AND SECURITY: U.S.citizens in Kuwait should exercise a high level of security awareness. The Department of State remains concerned about the possibility of further terrorist actions against U.S. citizens and interests abroad, specifically in the Middle East, including the Persian Gulf and Arabian Peninsula. U.S.citizens considering travel to Kuwait should review the Worldwide Caution.
All U.S. citizens in Kuwait should exercise caution, maintain a low profile, and avoid areas where Westerners are known to congregate. Heightened security awareness should be exercised at all hotels and residential complexes, as terrorists have specifically targeted hotel chains perceived as Western along with a variety of Western housing facilities. Military members, as well as civilians and contractors related to military interests, are also potential targets.
Terrorists do not distinguish between official and civilian targets. Terrorist actions may include bombings, hijackings, hostage taking, kidnappings, and assassinations. Increased security at official U.S. facilities may lead terrorists and their sympathizers to seek softer targets such as public transportation, residential areas and apartment complexes, schools and places of worship, oil-related facilities and personnel, and public areas where people congregate including restaurants, hotels, clubs, and shopping areas. U.S. citizens are advised to immediately report any unusual or suspicious activity in Kuwait to the Kuwaiti police or to the U.S. Embassy.
Stay up to date by bookmarking our Bureau of Consular Affairs website, which contains the current Travel Warnings and Travel Alerts as well as the Worldwide Caution.
You can also call 1-888-407-4747 toll-free within the United States and Canada, or by calling a regular toll line, 1-202-501-4444, from other countries. These numbers are available from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
There is nobody better at protecting you than yourself. Take some time before travel to improve your personal security—things are not the same everywhere as they are in the United States. Here are some useful tips for traveling safely abroad.
Additional information regarding security and crime in Kuwait can be found in the Overseas Security Advisory Council’s Crime and Safety Report. This document can be found at www.osac.gov.
Thanks for your comment Louise.
ReplyDeleteGuess it depends where the events are taking place also. Venues like the CP have metal detectors and x-ray machines for packages. I've noted that whenever there are large events, they are pretty thorough on the security procedures.
ReplyDeleteThe embassy notice above is standard. It is the same one that has been going out since I arrived here in 96.
None of the demonstrations or strikes going on in Kuwait at the moment have anything at all to do with Westerners....
Hi DG
ReplyDeleteYes CP has very good security measures and the embassy notice is pretty standard stuff. I wish the ABC a very successful evening.
And, no, the demos have nothing to do with Westerners, but I didn't say they did.
Hi DG, yes I wish them every success too. My general comment is about the many 'various' events being made public. In fact one embassy has forbidden organisers to publicise most events taking place on their grounds and have warned organisers their event will be cancelled if it is advertised publically. You know I'm not just talking about Santa at a kids' party don't you?
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