How to enjoy Namibia, Africa

This article tells you how to get the most out of your trip to Namibia, one of the lesser known destinations in Africa, but it is safe and fun!!

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Time to travel
• Patience
• Reference Materials

1. 
   Namibian Flag

   Begin to research your trip. Go to a bookstore or buy online a Travel Guide for Namibia only. General travel guides for Africa are good, but you always get more information when you buy a separate book for each destination!

2. 
   Rastas

   After you've learned a bit about the culture and customs remember not to take it too seriously. Downtown Windhoek is just like any small town USA. Observe the basic customs and you will be fine. TAKE GREETING SERIOUSLY. Before you ask for anything greet people, seek tips for greeting* People will react differently to you depending on your nationality but keep in mind, the city center of Windhoek is very cool and they are accustomed to seeing many different types of people. There is a big Rastafarian community and if you run into some of them, you will have a great time! Have them take you to a Shebeen/Cuca Shop which is a small bar that sometimes has food, a dance floor, and a little juke box.

3. 
   Cuca Shop

   Stay in a hostel downtown, and navigate your plan from there. They are safe, especially Diamond Diggers. Safe for women traveling alone as well. The high season will be expensive, so it is best to travel during the off season. If you plan on traveling alone, the best thing to do is try to contact some Peace Corp volunteers. They will know the local language and will be happy to connect with someone from the States. Go to the Peace Corp website and find information on the volunteers.

4. Definitely take a trip to the sand dunes. It is touristy, but fun. If you really want to go off the beaten path, you will need to learn Oshiwambo or Afrikaans. Locals will respond better and will be more welcoming. Other than that, everyone is nice and use your better judgement.

Tips & Warnings

• US winters are their summers and trust me their summers will be hot!!
• Bring the basics; sunscreen, mosquito net, bag of basic over the counter medicines, even ones you hardly use in the states, you may need it.
• GREETING-Whoo-hala-po Meme(female) Tate (male) and curtsey. Greeting older people is a must. They may ignore you if you don't. Especially if you look like a local, you will be taken as rude.
• Kombi drivers are similar to New York City taxi drivers. Rent a car if you don't think you can handle it. Remember they drive on the opposite side of the car and only have stick shift/5 speed, NO AUTOMATIC CARS!

[bg8510]

on 11/17/2008 Excellent article thanks!

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