The wife of the ambassador of Kuwait enjoys the dining, shops and scenery that Washington has to offer.
Rima Al-Sabah with her husband Salem Al-Sabah, the Kuwaiti ambassador to the United States. (Photo by Tony Powell)
Some of Rima’s favorite things
My husband and I love to take our kids to Sushiko, 2309 Wisconsin Ave. NW, on the weekends. The sushi there is always so fresh and our 4-year-old son, Nino, loves the shrimp tempura.
For lunch I like to meet friends at Cafe Milano, 3251 Prospect Street NW, where proprietor Franco Nuschese is always such a welcoming host.
My favorite place to exercise is The Sports Club/LA, 1170 22nd Street NW, at the Ritz Carlton. Their pilates and power yoga classes are terrific workouts.
Photo courtesy of the National Zoo.
We are loyal fans of Sullivan’s Toys, 3412 Wisconsin Ave. NW. It’s birthday party central, and I know we can always find that special memorable toy for Nino’s friends.
I love Washington’s many special shops and vendors, especially: Patisserie Poupon, 1645 Wisconsin Ave. NW, for birthday cakes; Thomas Sweet, 3412 P Street NW, for ice cream; and Daniel Espejel‘s Flowers by Daniel in Silver Spring for beautiful floral arrangements.
After our youngest son was born in 2007, we discovered parts of Washington we never had occasion to see before. We’re big fans of the National Zoo and also like to ride bikes in Rock Creek Park. It’s given me an opportunity to make new friend with the mothers of my son’s friends. We have swim parties in the summer, go to each other’s houses for play dates and talk about schools and pediatricians. It keeps me young!
I enjoy the thought-provoking productions at Ford’s Theatre, 511 10th Street NW, where I serve on the board of trustees. Their annual production of “A Christmas Carol” is an absolute must.
Pastries from Patisserie Poupon.
What are the things you most like to tell your countrymen about America?
I tell them that we have a great deal in common. We both have a democratic tradition and we care very
Thomas Sweet ice cream.
much about the future of our respective nations. I also like to tell Kuwaitis about Americans’ great generosity in responding to calls for support by charitable institutions. Over the years I have seen Americans extend themselves to help so many worthy projects, from the USO and Conservation International to building schools for girls in Afghanistan. Americans are open-hearted people.
What is your role in supporting your husband’s mission?
My role is to provide a congenial setting for individuals from all branches of government and the American business community to come to the Embassy of the State of Kuwait and learn a bit about our country and our culture. We hope they will come away with a sense that we are friends and allies.
