Jaunted

Namibia is often called "Africa for beginners" because of its paved roads and the wide use of English. For first-time travelers to this vast continent--and beautiful country--the capital city of Windhoek is an ideal place to start. That's partly because it's close to one of the only airports in this sparsely populated country but also because it's a lot more like California than say, Timbutini.

Getting Oriented:
Sure, Windhoek may not feel like Africa, but it's the best place to take those Safari pants with hidden pouches and lots of pockets for a test drive. Tar roads, heavy traffic and even shopping malls make Windhoek the perfect buffer between the Western World and complete culture shock. (This part, I assure you, will come later.) Windhoek doesn't offer much in the way of Namibian culture, but it's a good place to be if your luggage doesn't land with you. This happens pretty often on flights from Johannesburg, so it's best to travel through Germany whenever possible.

Staying Safe:
Namibia is a peaceful place, but tourists and travelers should still exercise caution in the capital city. Incidents of street crimes, particularly muggings and assaults, have been on the rise. Tips usually reserved for the paranoid--avoid carrying bags, don't use cell phones in public and keep money in several places on your person--are best observed for safety.

Gearing Up:
Maerua Mall has a handful of stores that cater to the outdoorsman who finds himself sans tent, sleeping bag or sunscreen, and the shops at Wernhill answer the need for just about anything else if you still need to stock up.

Though Windhoek may not be brimming with culture, it is home to the largest craft center in the country. Handmade goods from all 13 regions make it the perfect pit stop for "real" African souvenirs. Serious hagglers should barter for a better price, since most items cost three times more here than they do in other parts of Namibia.

Spending the Night:
Like other major African cities, Windhoek's got plenty of places to stay. But for the traveler on a budget, the Chameleon City Lodge's location and price are tough to beat. A night at this lively backpackers' hostel includes free breakfast in the morning, kitchen access, unlimited movies and TV and an outdoor bar that might as well be open all night. Plus the guy at the front desk is a lot like your own personal guide. He'll book trips (in fact, the Chameleon runs its own), call taxis, draw maps and even meet you on time for an early checkout.

Dorm rooms are around $9 a night and the Chameleon offers transport to and from the airport for less than the city's taxis (which will probably take out-of-towners for a ride). Private rooms are available, but if the fee is too high, go for a dorm bed in the hostel's new addition. Sure, the unusually high top bunks prove a mighty challenge after a late night and a few too many Springbok shots at the bar. But the backpack-size storage lockers under every bed mean this is one place in Windhoek where your stuff will be safe and sound.

Related Stories:
· Sand in My Shoes [Official Site]
· Africa Travel coverage [Jaunted]

[Photo: Fiona]

Where: Namibia

Tags: Namibia Travel Guide / Africa Travel

by jnaw