Here we go again… everyone’s in merriment and ready for this festive season. We all love to celebrate uniquely and mostly a getaway to admire the countless stunning vistas in Namibia seems so appealing. But of course, when it comes to this time of the year it is all about giving and receiving unique keepsakes.
Everyone desires and deserves a little souvenir this Christmas, so here’s where you can get a unique Namibian present for your family and friends:
As you stroll in Windhoek during your vacation, pop into the Shilongo Leather Works shop in the Town Square Mall. Here you can have your pick from the endearing vellies or veldskoene (leather shoes) that come in trendy styles to fit your Mom or Brother’s flair.
Just hang on… they also have travel bags, suit cases, handbags, purses, cellphone pouches, hand bands, key holders and belts.
Not too far from Shilongo Leather Works will you find the Namibia Craft Centre. So, go on and grab a slice of that well deserved Lemon Meringue and sip on a freshly squeezed Mango juice at the Craft Café after experiencing a fraction of the Namibian heat during your stroll. But of course, browse through the many stalls where you will find colourful embroidered linen, Himba bracelets, Traditional Oshiwambo Dresses, woven baskets, San ostrich eggshell jewellery or Makalani nut key rings, necklaces or ornaments. Ample choices!
If you are making your way to the Zambezi Mubala Camp while travelling along the B1 road as you arrive in Okahandja you will come across the Okahandja Mbangura Woodcarvers Craft Market. It is where you will get glimpses of Namibia in the most artistically carved wood masterpieces such as musical instruments, nature or animals. You might have a tough time picking a suitable piece for your cousin’s living room and it sure will be fun too.
Or will you be making your way to our seaside town Swakopmund, to spend a few days at The Delight Swakopmund? The Ûiba-Ôas Crystal Market is a perfect pit-stop and is set alongside the B2 road on the Spitzkoppe turn off between Usakos and Swakopmund. The dazzling necklaces, bracelets, precious gemstones or crystals should do enough just to take your breath away. If you have a friend like mine, Jen, who believes in the healing power of crystals, then you might have found the ideal place for their present.
Finally, navigating into the velvety desert to experience the elegance of The Desert Grace. Delight in the various walking trails, cruise on an E-Bike through the Namib Desert landscape. Oh, and do not forget to check into the Souvenir Boutique at reception to have your pick at earrings from Tameka Designs or Bark Design Messenger Bags. It’s all up to you!
Choices, choices… so many options and ample time to get the perfect Christmas presents for your loved ones. Enjoy the shopping and get the perfect Namibian inspired present.
Where else can one purchase unique Namibian presents? Share with us in the comment section below what you would like this Christmas.
Author – I’m Nela, from Windhoek Namibia but born in a small village called Omatunda in northern Namibia. I am passionate about writing, research and photography, as it helps me gain knowledge about people and my country.
