Mossi Nets.

Namibia might be a dry country, but come summer and rain we are eaten alive by millions and millions of mosquitoes, even here in Windhoek. Thank goodness a very clever entrepreneur from Otavi had the very simple yet splendid idea to provide Namibians with mosquito nets in all sorts of shapes. We were lucky enough to get the luxury version as a wedding gift and it has moved house with us ever since. It makes you feel like a king in a four-poster bed and keeps the little beasts at bay while still allowing you plenty of space. You can get your custom-made mossie protection directly from the company's Otavi headquarters or simply place an order via your local post office. Isn't it incredible how a rather boring, everyday product can have such a profound and positive impact on your quality of life? We are big fans!

Cicada Café.

Lemon Meringue Pie lovers, this is for you! Find yourself a neat table in the shade, order your favourite epicurean delight and a mug of coffee, and treat yourself to some serious summer indulgence. Here at Cicada, hidden in the Wilde Eend nursery in Klein Windhoek, Namibia pretends to be a tropical paradise, complete with birds chirping and bees humming in the distance. Add the clinking of glasses and the cheerful chattering of your fellow patrons for the perfect symphony of extended lunch breaks that we cherish so much during this time of year. After all, you deserve some compensation for still manning the ship here in Windhoek, while half the city has already departed for their seaside playgrounds. So lean back and order another slice. They also do incredibly fresh salads, moreish wraps and yummy sandwiches in case you like it savoury.

Onjowewe - House in the Rocks.

Don't we all want that perfect, charming holiday home with plenty of outdoor areas, space to roam and explore for the kids, and a comfy lounge for leisurely sundowners? Plus, a secluded reading nook, a spacious kitchen, a decent braai, beds to sleep in, a pool to cool off, uninterrupted views, tranquility, bliss? Well, we've found it. And no, it's not in Swakopmund. Head to Kamanjab this festive season and book your retreat at Onjowewe, the House in the Rocks. Chances are it's booked already, but then you might want to explore this exqusite place later next year. The house (with all the above amenities) was built a couple of year ago as the set for French movie La Piste. The owners of the farm luckily decided to keep it and maintain it's rustic splendour, complete with swaying curtains and plenty of romantic candlelight. There's no electricity, but staff will make a turn in time for your evening shower to light the donkey (and the fire and the lanterns and the candles).

The house easily sleeps eight and can be booked via Namibia JJ Tours: http://www.namibiajjtours.com/onjowewe.php

Windhoek City Guide.

Based on the Secretly Namibian blog, the Namibia Business Innovation Centre NBIC has created an awesome City Guide for Windhoek. Other than your usual Windhoek guides, this small booklet is free of ads and only features selected businesses, innovative entrepreneurs and recommended eat-out options. The focus is on well-curated content rather than paid-for advertorials. For locals and tourists alike the Windhoek City Guide provides to complete lowdown on arts, crafts, culture and design, as well as the capitals burgeoning culinary scene. It's a celebration of one of Africa's most liveable cities, a hidden gem on a human scale that waits to be explored.

The booklet is available for N$20 from NBIC, but more outlets in Windhoek will follow soon. You can also check it out online at http://issuu.com/nbicnamibia/docs/windhoek

Pure & Simple.

In the Namibian retail landscape, dominated by big players from South Africa, it's hard to find shops that make an effort to stock beautiful things made in Namibia. Enter Pure & Simple. The airy shop-cum-café in Garten St just around the corner from Sardinia Restaurant awaits with a whole range of household and beauty products, most of them sourced locally. The space is divided into four colour sections to make it easy for customers to find things in their favourite shades. They also serve and stock Slowtown coffee beans and will treat you to a yummy muffin to go with it if you ask nicely. A changing exhibition by Namibian artists rounds off the Pure & Simple experience, so make sure you bring some time to exlore everything on offer.

www.pureandsimpleshop.net

A Weekend in Omaruru.

Not many towns in Namibia qualify as destinations in their own right. One of the few exceptions to this rule is the quaint little artists enclave of Omaruru. And even if it wasn't, with an ideal location at the centre of the Windhoek-Swakop-Otjwarongo triangle, Omaruru is just a short detour en route between these other places of urban interest. So, if you want to get away from it all and are longing for some inspiration and change of scenery, Omaruru is your destination this weekend. Take a walk along the picturesque main road with its many colonial-era houses that have been turned into galleries and craft shops. Then find yourself a cosy chair under one of the huge trees at the Sanddragon café and watch people passing by while you slurp your super-creamy vanilla milkshake. Continue with a chocolate tasting at the Dögerloh Chocolate Factory, add some wine tasting at the Kristallkellerei, one of Namibia's very few wine estates, and call it a day with a decent dinner at Kashana. Let's just hope you will still make it to your lovely campsite next door at the Riverside Guesthouse. Can you see the shooting stars through the foliage of the giant trees that gently sway overhead at night?

Lemon & Mint Cooler.

 

It's that time of year again when you constantly crave a fizzy drink with plenty of ice cubes, a drink that is refreshing and full of flavours but not too sweet. To make sure they don't have to revert to alcoholic options all the time or brake the bank for ready-made beverages, Namibians have perfectioned the art of preparing wonderful Lemon & Mint Coolers. The most important ingredient is, of course, good quality lemon syrup made from Namibian lemons that grow in gardens and on farms around the country. Order a bottle from the Organic Box or buy one at your local farmers market. Pour a generous amount according to your liking into a glass, then add a few ice cubes, a slice of lemon and some leaves of fresh mint. Top up with soda water and enjoy. It's sunshine in a glass.

Katutours.

Do something different today and book a bicycle tour of Katutura. Energetic entrepreneur Anna Mafwila and her colleagues at innovative tour operator Katutours will give you the complete lowdown on Windhoek's former township as you roll along buzzing markets and quiet corners. The social business takes tourists and locals out of their cars and onto the streets to experience the life of everyday Namibians up close. The guides make sure they visit plenty of community projects and other businesses where you can buy a fresh bread, local produce or other authentic items. After a three hour ride, you have had some proper exercise, done something for the environment, and supported local businesses. What a rewarding experience! Tours start and end at Penduka, so you can unwind afterwards and digest all the impressions and inputs with a cold beer overlooking beautiful Goreangab Dam.

www.katuturatours.com

Polytech Hotel School.

Tasty treats needn't be rediculously expensive in Windhoek! The Polytechnic Hotel School's Aloe restaurant has mastered the art of creating an ever-changing lunch menu with yummy dishes at bargain prices. And, with NICE head-chef Ralf Herrgott now at the helm in the Aloe kitchen, things have even improved a few notches. Indulge your senses with moreish meals, such as homemade butternut ravioli, game ragout with poached pear, and Italian-style Tiramisu. Starters and desserts come at N$10 and mains are only N$30. All this is served in their charming courtyard setting in the up-and-coming Windhoek West area, just off Polytech's library campus. If the fare at commercial outlets would only be half as good, we'd all be living in foodie paradise here in Windhoek.

Gondwana Collection.

They don't have to most luxurious lodges and rack rates are not a bargain, but Gondwana Collection definitely takes the cake when it comes to great value for money when travelling the beautiful country. What makes their establishments from Fish River to Damaraland stand out from the crowd is their honest and unpretentious service. While staff at most other lodges are either grumpy or overly obedient and submissive, Gondwana people approach you on eye level and are never short of a good chat, while still maintaining a professional distance. Food is moreish country fare and when you retreat to your well-equipped room after an enjoyable evening, you can look forward to a good night's rest (and a decent breakfast the next morning).
For Namibian residents Gondwana is especially affordable. For a once-off fee of N$100 you get your personalized Gondwana Card, with which you are eligible for a 50% discount on accommodation and 25% on meals, for the rest of your life and without restrictions. We think that's a system many more lodges and lodge operators should have copied long ago. For now, it remains Gondwana's unique selling point with the local tourist clientele, a market that will surely become more important in the wake of overseas visitor numbers declining rapidly.

www.gondwana-collection.com

MoiYa Artisan Deli.

The Namibian culinary scene is developing rapidly! The latest addition to the foodie world is MoiYa Artisan Deli, which was launched with a fest of artisan bread, cheese and tapenades. Even Camelthorn Brewery was there to help the crowd wash down all delicacies with their refreshing sundowner beer until late after sunset. Now MoiYa's spanking new premises at the Village on Liliencron are open for daily business. They have a small and changing lunch menu every day for guests to enjoy in their beautiful garden setting. Food is well-priced and tasty and just the right portion for lunch. Being a true deli, however, they offer a large variety of hand-crafted chocolates, single-variety olives and olive oil, fresh produce from the Organic Box, and bread freshly baked on site. All is set for this intimate place to become Windhoek's new hotbed of epicurean delights. Let's only hope the team manages to find more Namibian suppliers; and that they start having second thoughts about the deli pricing structure, which doesn't seem to go down too well even with foodies prepared to fork out considerable amounts of money for their daily bread.

Sundowner.

Even in summer, evenings in Southern Africa are rather short, so the few hours between the end of the working day and dusk have to be celebrated thoroughly. A much-loved ritual for this time of day in Namibia and neighbouring countries is the so-called sundowner, which essentially is a drink enjoyed, well, during sunset. Typically, you would order a cold beer, Gin & Tonic (for the more British feel) or the ubiquitous Rock Shandy. Then all you have to do is sit back, maybe munch on some nibbles, and engage in trivial conversation. In Windhoek the best place for a sundowner with the whole family is the bar at Hotel Thule overlooking the hills of Klein Windhoek. If you like it more sophisticated, try the Wine Bar or the Hilton rooftop bar in the city centre. For the real bush experience, drive out to River Crossing Lodge on the fringes of the city towards the airport.

Gwaitalale Pottery.

Unfortunately, many gifted Namibian crafters are working away at their beautiful wares in small workshops far from the public and possible customers. One of our favourites is pottery expert Vistorina, who is operating her business Gwaitalale Pottery from a shack in Katutura. You'll probably never manage to find it, but be assured that Vistorina will find you. With her entrepreneurial spirit and bottomless energy she has managed to make her mark well beyond Goreangab Dam and now sends off her mugs, bowls and plates to businesses around Namibia. Que Tapas serve their delicious meals in Gwaitalale stoneware, as does traditional restaurant Xwama. Orders have recently even come in from as far as Ongwediva. And the best thing is, you can choose from her own signature range or simply order custom-designed pieces to match your particular style.

Otto's Antiques.

Tucked away in an alley in Southern Industrial you'll find the very unusual antiques and backyard junk dealer Otto's. The huge shop in a colonial era theatre building houses everything you can imagine from the fashionable and useful to the utterly useless and kitsch. An eclectic mix of furniture, china, books and other paraphernalia that spans more than a century of design waits to be discovered. You will surely find the odd polka dot teapot or cosy rocking chair to enhance your home with things that have a story to tell. And while Otto's is living proof that things were not necessarily better back in the days, it definitely shows that quality was much higher up on the agenda than today.

Because the guys at Otto's know that you will be quite exhausted after hours of browsing and shopping, they have set up a neat little cafe outside in the yard. Order a refreshing lemon and mint cooler and a crispy cheese and tomato sandwich and make plans for a more simple life with less frills, good quality, honest service and things that are re-used again and again instead of being discarded only weeks after purchase.

Okahirongo Elephant Lodge.

The Namibian tourism sector manages to surprise time and again with absurdly luxurious accommodation in the most isolated and remote places. One of those spots certainly is the Kunene village of Purros, where a perennial river has created a most amazing riverine oasis. While you can also pitch your tent at the superb community camp or opt for the equally charming community lodge, it is Okahirongo Elephant Lodge that elevates the surreal Purros experience to a completely different level. From your spacious bedroom and equally large bathroom, including outdoor shower, you look out over the valley below where the greenery of the Hoarusib creates a stark contrast to the surrounding desert and mountains. The best spot though is your private daybed on a separate platform from where you can soak in the amazing scenery and fresh sea breeze coming in from the Skeleton Coast in peaceful slumber.
Ask manager Pieter for a discount when in Purros. Chances are Okahirongo is not fully booked and you can stay at a fraction of the rack rate.

www.okahirongolodge.com

The Farmhouse.

Travelling in Namibia means travelling for long distances, hours on end in some instances. Thankfully, the country is dotted with a number of charming cafés that offer a green sanctuary along your way through the arid country. In Outjo, just South of Etosha National Park, »The Farmhouse« awaits weary travellers with freshly brewed coffee and heavenly pies and gateaux. Served on rustic enamelware a generous helping of Mississippi Mud Pie or Carrot Cake will be all you need to get you going again. Of course, their extensive menu also features savoury dishes for those with a less sweet tooth. Sit back and unwind in their tranquil garden and recharge batteries for the next leg of your trip.

Free & Easy.

Namibia can be quite an expensive, bordering on ridiculously overpriced, destination. Fortunately, the smart guys at tour operator Sense of Africa some years back had the great idea to introduce a last-minute accommodation voucher system for Namibia. It's as simple as can be and opens up some of the most luxurious lodges around the country to less loaded travellers. For Namibian residents a voucher for a double room is N$480 (approx. EUR50), bed only. The rate for tourists is slightly higher but still very affordable. When buying your vouchers from Sense of Africa they will also give you a little brochure that contains all establishments that are part of the Free & Easy system. Whenever you are on the road and looking for accommodation, simply consult the booklet and call your lodge of choice. Reservations can be made earliest 72 hours in advance before arrival.

www.senseofafrica-namibia.com

Ibenstein Weavers.

Not many people make the effort to venture off the beaten track all the way to the sleepy hamlet of Dordabis. However, Ibenstein Weavers, Namibia's oldest weavery, is definitely enough reason to embark on the short drive out into the veld, where skilled crafters produce the most beautiful, high-quality carpets you'll find in Namibia. Manager Wolfgang will gladly give you a tour of their premises and explain the entire process from raw Karakul wool, sourced from Southern Namibia, to finished carpet. All is done by hand right here at Ibenstein in an almost archaic, low-tech kind of way, including the old wooden looms that populate the workshop. So, bring your own design, choose your preferred colours from their huge palette (wool dyed on-site as well), and wait for delivery to your home a few weeks later.

www.ibenstein-weavers.com.na

Teufelskrallen Tented Lodge.

Who would've guessed that just outside the nondescript town of Kalkrand lies a picturesque weekend retreat called Teufelskrallen Tented Lodge. While the check-in and restaurant area pays homage to its farming past, the six tended rooms a few kilometres away on the first string of dunes of the Kalahari desert are all about understated luxury. Make sure you are booked into one of their more spacious tent houses (instead of the less comfy house tents). The tents are all built on wooden platforms, though, from where you have an uninterrupted view over the grassy plains of the Karoo. Through the windows of the cosy reading nook on the other side of your room you can overlook the undulating sea of red dunes that stretches all the way into Botswana. Your own bathroom in a separate little hut is accessible via a raised walkway, making it an even more maritime adventure. Service is honest and friendly, meals are moreish, homey country fare, and the entire experience is surprisingly affordable.

www.teufelskrallenlodge.com

Fruit & Veg.

Admittedly a bit on the pricey side of the retail spectrum when it comes to dairy, drinks and dry stuff, Fruit & Veg, aka the Footlover's Market, is THE place to go to for fresh produce. There are shelves and shelves laden with everything from avos to parsley and butternut to bananas, making it the grocer with probably the broadest selection of vegetables and fruit you get anywhere in the country. And it's not only imported things. The procurement department apparently makes an effort to source locally where possible. To complete the shopping experience they also have an entire wall with containers of exotic nuts, dried fruit and treats. The bakery section is a destination of its own, as is the in-store butchery and biltong station.
Head for their downtown branch if you are a fan of buzz, or drive out to Kleine Kuppe in case you like it more tranquil. The Swakopmund branch was revamped recently.

http://www.fruitandvegcity.co.za

Fishmonger's.

Finally! A fish bistro that brings the bliss of coastal retreats to the capital. No wonder Fishmonger's in Adler St is fast becoming Windhoek's favourite Friday lunchtime spot. Make sure you are there well in time before 13:00 to secure one of the benches outside in the courtyard or a place on their maritime wooden furniture close to the open kitchen. Here's where the young and friendly team is busy preparing honest seafood fare that beats any of the more fancy oyster and crustacean places around town. Order a glass of cold white to welcome the weekend ahead while you wait for your scrumptious fish burger or giant portion of fish and chips. Best fries in town! They also have great shushi and other dishes in case you want to extend your lunch into the late afternoon.

More at http://www.facebook.com/pages/SeaSource/117994724972275

Goreangab Dam at Penduka.

Inhabitants of the more affluent neighbourhoods of Windhoek tend to forget that the city doesn't end at the Western bypass and mostly ignore the treasures that lie beyond. One of them is the beautiful Goreangab Dam at the Western fringes of the city. With its largely pristine surroundings it is a haven for those seeking solitude and quiet, birds and humans alike. Head for Penduka, a crafts-for-development project right at the lake to get the most out of your trip. They have finally teared down fences and barbed wire along the shoreline and constructed a floating platform, complete with navy blue benches and picknick tables. It almost feels like being miles away from the city. But the distant music from the stereo of some more party-minded leisure seekers reminds you of how close this treasure is to he hubbub of town. Bring a good book and a cushion, order a cup of coffee from the restaurant, and have yourself a merry afternoon of reading, ornithological discoveries and chance encounters with fellow urban nature lovers.

Ohandje Baskets.

Now, here's some traditional arts and crafts that we'd really and without reservations recommend. Hand-woven from local material in Namibia's Northern regions, baskets of all sizes have long been a staple household item for rural communities. But they are just as useful and pretty in today's increasingly urban settings. If only more people would ditch plastic and turn to the beautifully simple baskets made by artisans for Artist Cooperative Ohandje in Ondangwa. They come with ornaments, too, but we prefer the plain types with no frills whatsoever. We use them as jewellery case, as bread basket, for supplies from our weekly Organic Box delivery, and even as laundry basket. You get them at some outlets in Windhoek, such as the Craft Centre, and around the country, but make sure you head for their flagship store up North for the widest selection.

More at http://www.ohandje.com/

Nkasa Lupala Tented Lodge.

With the stiffling cold in the capital these days, we envy all those who are on vacation, who can migrate to the much warmer North of the country. When heading for the Caprivi, make sure you schedule at least one night at the magnificient Nkasa Lupala Tented Lodge. This intimate place with only 10 luxury tents is situated on the edge of the Nkasa Lupala National Park amidst the labyrinthine waterways of the Linyanti swamps. It's like being in Botswana's Okavango Delta, just as beautiful but much more affordable. And because the last few kilometres are small tracks and narrow bridges that can only be navigated in a 4x4, it feels more remote than most places in a country that isn't short of remote locations anyway. So when you finally arrive, lean back on their terrace overlooking the surrounding wetlands and savour the tranquility, which is only broken by a concert of frogs (in summer) or the occasional herd of elephants (in winter/spring). Then expect some home-made Italian goodness for dinner. The owners traded their Mediterranean home for life in Southern Africa, so you might be lucky and enjoy a Tiramisu in the middle of nowhere.

Visit their website at http://www.nkasalupalalodge.com/

Bojos.

It's Sunday morning in Swakopmund and you know that you'll have to return to Windhoek for the work week ahead. But not yet. First you head for a decent breakfast of scones with clotted cream, a hearty omelette and a bowl of muesli at Bojos. It's a charming little café with attentive staff, but you'll probably have to wait a bit for your breakfast, especially when it's crowded. Use the time to admire their quirky collection of quotes on posters, signs and plates that cover the walls. In case you favour a fresh sea breeze with your latte, make sure you get there early and secure one of the tables outside on the pavement to soak up some winter sun and indulge in serious people watching. It's the place to be at the coast on a Sunday morning, so you'll certainly meet someone you know (and who can give you a lift back home). And because you want to postpone the moment of departure for the capital as much as possible, you order another dish and another drink and another snack until breakfast extends well into lunchtime. 

The Little Red House.

Namibia's premier weekend resort Swakopmund, despite all its holiday homes of the country's moneyed elite, is an architectural nightmare. Apparently, wealth and good taste are mutually exclusive here, so most accommodation options in private flats or villas are strikingly tasteless. That's why we treasure the little red house right at the beach in central Swakopmund so much. It's the only really charming alternative that allows for relaxed seaside vacations as they should be. The small cottage is all wood, natural fabrics and patina, it has a hundred exciting stories to tell if you are ready to listen. Just sit by the window, your feet on the cosy Ibenstein rug, and enjoy a good read while the weekend companions are busy with dinner preps in the kitchen.

Only problem is, you can't just rent it from an estate agent. There is no website and no Tripadvisor account. You have to know someone who knows the owner and shares the relevant contact details with you...

Waterberg in Dry Season.

It's that time of year again. It's sunny and cold and bone dry in the capital and even the most persisting greenery has faded into pale shades of grey and beige. If you long for some lush vegetation and a hint of rainy season, look (drive!) no further than the Waterberg plateau. Well, chances of rain are just as low here than anywhere else in the country during the winter months, but when climbing the slopes up to the Waterberg lookout this beautiful destination still has an almost tropical feel. The good thing is, it's a short drive from Windhoek (by Namibian standards at least) and just the perfect distance for a relaxing weekend trip. Pack your camping gear and stock up on fire wood and mulled wine on the way. It will keep you warm when sharing stories around the fireplace after your descent from the mountain. But beware of the leopards...

La.Uni

Nice. The guys at Landau University in Germany started featuring »Secretly Namibian« in their charming student mag La.Uni. Bringing Namibia to the world. Thanks, folks.

Check the latest issue of their weekly publication. »Secretly Namibian« on page 23: http://issuu.com/la.uninews/docs/125th.launi/23

Back issues here.

Leather Products.

If there is one thing available in abundance in Namibia it definitely is good-quality leather. It comes in a variety of textures and colours from ebony calf skin to bronze Kudu. Skilled crafters at workshops around the country transform this natural product into wonderful fashion accessories and luxurious cases for our beloved Mac Books and iPhones. Alas, well-designed items are a rare find in the capital's leather boutiques and for the most part kitsch still seems to prevail. But don't despair. Most shops are happy to assist with custom-made pieces tailored to your liking, a prohibitively expensive endeavour elsewhere in the world. Put your design ideas to paper and get yourself that leather weekender you've always wanted. And don't forget a set of simple folders for your creative projects. You'll see your colleagues green with envy. So be kind and bring some for them, too.

Grootberg Lodge & Camp.

As Namibia's first community-run middle market establishment, Grootberg Lodge has received considerable attention in the past from both local and international travelers and the media crowd. But even without the added benefit of community involvement Grootberg Lodge is worth checking out. Perched among the rocks right at the edge of a large plateau, the main building and bungalows all look out into the valley below. Depending on the season, elephants and lions can be spotted close to the lodge. Now, the guys at Grootberg have also taken over management of Hoada, a beautiful campsite 20 kilometres to the East of the lodge. Complete with open-air bathroom and kitchen, each site is an outdoor home away from home. Plus, neighbouring sites are far away to guarantee complete privacy. A pool has recently been added and a bush bar overlooking the surrounding landscape is under construction.

http://www.grootberg.com/

Flowered Earth.

Get yourself a hint of summer this winter with some fresh and beautifully arranged flowers from Amanda at Flowered Earth, Windhoek's most charming florist. We love to pay the guys a visit every now and then to check out the wonderful yet simple and natural arrangements from unpretentious tulips to majestic Proteas. It's always an inspiration, because their small space at the Maerua Lifestyle Centre doubles as a gift and decor shop with a well-curated selection of pottery, pots and other paraphernalia for the design enthusiast. There are few places in Namibia where so much effort goes into creating a feel-good shopping experience like here at Flowered Earth. Wouldn't it be nice to see more dull offices and homes around town brighten up with some floral freshness? Even if it's only a bunch of sunflowers.

Camelthorn Garden.

The perfect foodie stop-over destination on the way North from Windhoek, Camelthorn Garden in Otjiwarongo invites to linger with lush greenery, lemon trees galore and quirky objects scattered all over the place. And what a nice a garden it is. No traffic sound enters here, so you feel like in a cosy lunchtime cocoon with the only concern being what to choose from the mouthwatering menu. Portions are very generous, so opt for one of their gourmet sarmies or the monstrous burger to share. Then finish off with a helping of one of their divine cakes freshly baked on site. Only problem is, you might not be able to move an inch after you are done with this epicurean feast. And even if you make it back to your car, chances are you fall asleep before you reach the B1 again.

Fish River Hike.

    

It's Fish River season again! Now, with water levels in the Fish getting lower by the day (unless NamWater decides to open the Hardap Dam), pack your outdoor equipment and head South for this iconic hike. It won't be long after the descent into the canyon and you feel lightyears away from the real world. As the river meanders through the breathtaking landscape, you get closer and closer to nature. Well, naturally you will, as you have to drink the water from the river, endure the elements and camp rough (unless you want to carry your tent all 90km down to Ai-Ais). But then, it is definitely manageable and worth every single blister. Just don't forget to bring a proper map along to find shortcuts and know your position, as it's not uncommon that the MET office in Hobas runs out of maps.

Opuwo Bracelets.

Now, here's an affordable, uniquely Namibian gift for loved ones back home. And a quintessential local fashion accessory for design-savvy Windhoekites, too. Testament to creativity and crafting skills of Opuwo-based artists, beautiful, ornate bracelets made from mundane plastic piping come in a variety of colours and patterns. They might have found their way into arts and crafts outlets around the country by now, but still the more intricate examples can only be purchased in Namibia's northwestern Kunene outpost. Head for the OK parking lot in the centre of Opuwo and simply wait for the sales ladies to approach you with their wares. Queen Elizabeth and her colleagues are so convincing, you will leave with no less than an entire kitchen plumbing system's worth of very special jewellery.

Slowtown Coffee Roasters.

Swakopmund is Namibia's laid-back weekend getaway. For days on end you can while away the time, doing nothing in particular. Come Sunday lunchtime and you wonder what you have been doing for the past 48 hours. Bliss. Now, Swakop has its very own and aptly named coffee roaster, Slowtown. The moment you enter the small workshop-cum-cafe, you know you have arrived in barista heaven. The air is filled with the delicate smell of freshly ground Ethiopian Yirgachefe and the espresso machine is humming in the background. Grab a hot cup of Americano, find yourself a seat on one of their cosy benches outside under the palm trees and, well, while the morning away with a good newspaper. Did you see the black cat dozing behind you on the window sill? We can't wait for cafes and restaurants in the capital to switch to one of Slowtown's great roasts made in Namibia.

www.slowtowncoffee.com

Shark Island Lighthouse.

 



One of the most charming pieces of architecture in the country can be found in the quaint, little seaside town of Lüderitz. In fact, it is one of the main reasons we keep going back to this unreal, remote place wedged between the Atlantic to the West, the Namib to the East and two restricted areas to the North and South. The moment you enter Shark Island Lighthouse, perched on a steep rock just outside Lüderitz, the possibilities that this gem hold suggest themselves to you. The squeaky floor planks, the old French windows, and of course the lighthouse tower with the spiral staircase that leads all the way up to a roof-top terrace. The signs of neglect and non-maintenance can be seen all over this NWR property, but this only adds to your urge to buy it and turn it into a small guest house or cafe. The view from the front porch is so amazing, you can just sit there all day long and watch the fishermen without the slightest sense of boredom.

Que Tapas.

We try to stay away from soulless malls and too much retail pollution. And until recently there was no good reason to head for Maerua Mall, most definitely not for food. Unless you like some uniform junk from Wimpy or Panarottis that is. Enter a few Spaniards with enough style and vibe to make even the most drab shopping arcade a happening place. Whenever we feel like some leisurely eating and a glass of red or cold cerveza, we now head for Qué Tapas on the upper level of the Maerua courtyard. If the Spanish regulars you can meet there on any evening of the week are anything to go by, the tapas on offer are authentic Iberian fare. Try a portion of tortilla and some olives in oil and garlic!

Mopane.





Try something new this year for decorations. Thanks to the versatile Mopane tree, which provides us with its signature angel wing leaves, Easter and Christmas and any other special occasion can easily become uniquely Namibian. Try to dust them with gold spray to make intricate ornaments. Or maybe make them appear on eggs, which you have coloured with onion peel with only the distinct Mopane shape remaining uncoloured. Be on the lookout, there will soon be essential oils from Mopane pods to fragrance your body lotion and shampoo. So, what applications can you think of for Mopane?

NamibRand Family Hideout.

         

If you want to get away from it all and spend a few days in complete relaxation, you should head for the wonderful, rustic Family Hideout in the private NamibRand Nature Reserve. And a hideout it is. From the front porch you look out to an endless sea of grass that washes up against rugged mountains in the far distance. Just a few hundred metres behind the house red sand dunes grace the eye in stark contrast to lush green trees and the crisp blue sky. For breakfast a bunch of Sprinboks pass by and for sundowner a lonely Oryx pays his regular visit. And this as exciting as it gets. Else, there is only you and the occasional bird and silence and peace. And the starlit night. http://www.hideout.iway.na/

The Stellenbosch.

To the Namibian culinary crowd, the Cape Winelands are always a bit like the grass that is much, much greener on the other side. No year without a trip of recreation from the mediocrity of dull country fare to check out new concepts and tastes between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Well, that is now a matter of the past. Since late in 2011 the oak city lends its name to »The Stellenbosch - Wine Bar & Bistro«, a refreshingly sophisticated yet relaxed restaurant between Klein Windhoek and Ludwigsdorf. Have some buttery avo with olive oil and sea salt for starter, then go for a divine Biltong and blue cheese salad with homemade bread, and finish off with an Amarula creme brûlée. Linger for longer in the airy courtyard and listen to the gentle stream of water from the central fountain. Of course with a good red from the Cape.