The best part of going on an escapade through Namibia is having the ability to marvel at and immerse yourself in the captivating wonders that this country has to offer. – Stunning sunset hues that paint the skies, majestic Makalani palm trees that exquisitely deck the savannas of the four northern regions, wild horses roaming about in the south,near Klein-Aus Vista with an ability to evoke a sense of peace, and a Zambezi experience makes for the perfect river hideout.
More than that, the spaciousness flanked by unique destinations allows for creativity to run wild, and a sweet escape to Sandwich Harbour to behold the Namib Desert meeting the Atlantic Ocean is a picture-perfect escapade.
Also, there is another way to experience Namibia inversely too, which is by drawing inspiration from the local people.
Below are a few instances that I have gleaned inspiration from our local people while appreciating captivating wonders:
It is in their stance – While lost in thought as I stop over at the Outjo Bakery on my way to Etosha Safari Camp to grab that highly recommended chai latte, and engage in conversations with the local people or bargain with street vendors for a purchase of their ‘finest’ items, I am touched by their humility and warmth. What amazes me is that they do not have much to offer yet they are genuinely happy. – That is what I call being rich. Immediately, through this interaction there is a reassurance that whatever I seem to be concerned about is meagre and everything will be okay.
It is in their empathy – there are many instances while travelling that I had noticed another individual’s tyre punctured or the vehicle has trouble starting alongside the road. And often, countles scars in the on-coming traffic do not hesitate to pull-over to offer their assistance.– Maybe next time they too will require this kind of assistance.
It is in their work ethic – people use creative means to make a living from the natural resources in their backyard namely eembe, marula oil,Jackalberries,ombike, oshikundu and many more. This being said, local markets and road side vendors are a norm here. Vendors would enthusiastically stand alongside the roads or markets for hours and hours, and continue doing so the next day, whether they made a sale or not.Taking care of their families or others requires some tenacity. So, if you notice monkey oranges or craft sales en-route to Hakusembe River Lodge, don’t hesitate to stop and support them.
It is in their sense of community – one thing I had noticed whilst exploring markets, the vendors sell their various products co-dependently and never in isolation as they realise their need for one another. Therefore, you'll come across Olivia, who braids hair at her salon who would source braid extensions from Rachel’s mini market stand. And don't forget Tic-Tacs who also needs tomatoes, onions and green peppers for his famous salsa from Rachel’s mini market stand. And that's a beautiful cycle as we are family after all.
Namibia is a special country and so are the people. I hope you visit soon so you too get an opportunity to glean from this way of life.It is home, and we hope to welcome you here soon.
If you have visited Namibia before, how have you been inspired by local people?
Author – I’m Nela, from a small village called Ongha in Namibia. I am intrigued by research, writing and photography as it is an ideal way to gain knowledge about people and the world. And of course… to share it too!
