Namibia Is A Gem

I AM an experienced worldwide traveller and visited Namibia for the fourth time this July together with my husband and two children.

My conclusion is simple Namibia is a gem….compared even with South Africa – let me tell you why: Upon arrival at the airport we meet friendly immigration officials who made us feel really welcome in Namibia – rather then looking nasty as is the case in many countries. The small but cosy airport immediately gives a feeling of being at home.Government officials, immigration staff and customs alike all are very professional and friendly.I believe these people should know this and be encouraged to keep it that way!! Together with our two children we found travelling extremely easy and secure.All the way I experienced proper Telecom infrastructure, roads and nice people.There are many criticisms of the park staff of Etosha…sorry I didn’t find those unfriendly people.So Namibians be proud you have a gem in your hands and make sure you keep it and develop it with a smile.Another example of where the public administration does well is the Windhoek general post office; the staff was most helpful and friendly to help me with our son’s stamp collection.Why I did write to your newspaper as you probably know all this? First there is my concern that you are not aware that you are doing well.Critics like to cite recent articles like those published in Der Spiegel to warn everyone that the country is in trouble…Second there is a warning: I am scared that Namibia changes its lovely attitude and becomes involved in issues like those in Zimbabwe.This would kill the atmosphere and tourism with it.You need to ensure continued safety: There is nothing you want more on holiday than peace of mind.I always felt safe compared to Belgium (which is NOT the case in RSA and NOT at all in Zimbabwe).That feeling of safety is a result of how people react in Windhoek up to the remotest corners of Damaraland.Something additional to mention is medical back up and police safety; you have a medical evacuation system like international SOS .Make sure these people are well known and can do their work at all times.For tourists knowing that there is such support in case the worst happens is a must…to be a designated destination in the world.It doesn’t stop with being evacuated quickly you also need good medical facilities.I visited Mediclinic in Windhoek and was impressed by the facilities and proper care.If I was the government I would ensure that private initiatives such as Mediclinic and SOS get all support to be able to flourish and offer medical back ]up in case.Dr Melanie van Giel MD BelgiumThe small but cosy airport immediately gives a feeling of being at home.Government officials, immigration staff and customs alike all are very professional and friendly.I believe these people should know this and be encouraged to keep it that way!! Together with our two children we found travelling extremely easy and secure.All the way I experienced proper Telecom infrastructure, roads and nice people.There are many criticisms of the park staff of Etosha…sorry I didn’t find those unfriendly people.So Namibians be proud you have a gem in your hands and make sure you keep it and develop it with a smile.Another example of where the public administration does well is the Windhoek general post office; the staff was most helpful and friendly to help me with our son’s stamp collection.Why I did write to your newspaper as you probably know all this? First there is my concern that you are not aware that you are doing well.Critics like to cite recent articles like those published in Der Spiegel to warn everyone that the country is in trouble…Second there is a warning: I am scared that Namibia changes its lovely attitude and becomes involved in issues like those in Zimbabwe.This would kill the atmosphere and tourism with it.You need to ensure continued safety: There is nothing you want more on holiday than peace of mind.I always felt safe compared to Belgium (which is NOT the case in RSA and NOT at all in Zimbabwe).That feeling of safety is a result of how people react in Windhoek up to the remotest corners of Damaraland.Something additional to mention is medical back up and police safety; you have a medical evacuation system like international SOS .Make sure these people are well known and can do their work at all times.For tourists knowing that there is such support in case the worst happens is a must…to be a designated destination in the world.It doesn’t stop with being evacuated quickly you also need good medical facilities.I visited Mediclinic in Windhoek and was impressed by the facilities and proper care.If I was the government I would ensure that private initiatives such as Mediclinic and SOS get all support to be able to flourish and offer medical back ]up in case.Dr Melanie van Giel MD Belgium