Windhoek: The Heartbeat of Namibia

• HelloHallo
  [HAH-loh]
• GoodbyeTotsiens
  [TOHT-see-ens]
• YesJa
  [yah]
• NoNee
  [nee]
• Please/You're welcomeAsseblief
  [AH-suh-bleef]
• Thank youDankie
  [DAHN-kee]
• Excuse me/SorryJammer
  [YAH-mer]
• How are you?Hoe gaan dit met jou?
  [HOH-hahn deet met yoy]
• Fine. And you?Goed. En jy?
  [GOO-eht. Ehn yey]
• Do you speak English?Praat jy Engels?
  [praht yey EHNG-uhlss]
• I don't understandEk verstaan nie
  [ehk fehr-STAHN nee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEk wil asseblief die spyskaart sien
  [ehk vil AH-suh-bleef dee speys-kaht seen]
• I don't eat meatEk eet nie vleis nie
  [ehk eet nee flehs nee]
• Cheers!Gesondheid!
  [guh-SUHNT-hayt]
• I would like to pay, pleaseEk wil asseblief betaal
  [ehk vil AH-suh-bleef buh-TAHL]

• Help!Hulp!
  [huhlp]
• Go away!Gaan weg!
  [gahn vekh]
• Call the Police!Bel die Polisie!
  [behl dee poh-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Roep 'n dokter!
  [roop uhn dohk-tehr]
• I'm lostEk is verlore
  [ehk iss fehr-LOH-ruh]
• I'm illEk is siek
  [ehk iss seek]

• I'd like to buy...Ek wil koop...
  [ehk vil kohp]
• I'm just lookingEk kyk net
  [ehk kayk neht]
• How much is it?Hoeveel kos dit?
  [HOH-veel kohss deet]
• That's too expensiveDit is te duur
  [deet iss teh doo-er]
• Can you lower the price?Kan jy die prys laat sak?
  [kahn yey dee preys laht sahk]

• What time is it?Hoe laat is dit?
  [HOH laht iss deet]
• It's one o'clockDit is een uur
  [deet iss een uhr]
• Half past (10)Half tien
  [hahlf teen]
• MorningOggend
  [OH-khent]
• AfternoonMiddag
  [mihd-dahkh]
• EveningAand
  [ahnt]
• YesterdayGister
  [GIHS-tehr]
• TodayVandag
  [fahn-dahkh]
• TomorrowMôre
  [moh-ruh]
• 1Een
  [een]
• 2Twee
  [twee]
• 3Drie
  [dree]
• 4Vier
  [feer]
• 5Vyf
  [fayf]
• 6Ses
  [sehs]
• 7Sewe
  [seh-weh]
• 8Agt
  [ahgt]
• 9Nege
  [neh-guh]
• 10Tien
  [teen]

• Where's a/the...?Waar is die...?
  [vahr iss dee]
• What's the address?Wat is die adres?
  [vaht iss dee ah-drehs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kan jy my wys (op die kaart)?
  [kahn yey may vees op dee kahrt]
• When's the next (bus)?Wanneer is die volgende (bus)?
  [vaan-nehr iss dee fohl-gehn-duh]
• A ticket (to ....) 'n Kaartjie (na ....)
  [uhn kahrt-chee nah]

Windhoek's history begins with the indigenous Nama, Herero, and Damara people who inhabited the area for centuries. The name 'Windhoek' is believed to have been derived from the Afrikaans word 'Wind-Hoek' (wind corner), possibly referring to the windy conditions of the region or from a Nama word ‘ǃAisǃGams’ meaning 'firewater', referring to the hot springs that were found there.

In the early 19th century, Jonker Afrikaner, a leader of the Oorlam people, established a settlement at Windhoek. He constructed a stone church and built a small community, marking the first significant settlement by non-indigenous people. This laid the foundation for Windhoek as a central location in Namibia.

In 1884, Windhoek became part of German South West Africa. The Germans established Windhoek as their colonial capital in 1890, constructing fortresses, churches, and other European-style buildings. Notable structures from this period include the Christuskirche and the Alte Feste, which served as a military headquarters.

Between 1904 and 1907, the Herero and Nama people rebelled against German colonial rule, leading to a brutal conflict. German forces committed atrocities against the Herero and Nama, leading to significant loss of life and displacement. This dark chapter remains a significant part of Windhoek's history and is commemorated at various sites in the city.

Following Germany's defeat in World War I, South Africa took control of Namibia, including Windhoek, under a League of Nations mandate. This period saw the expansion of the city's infrastructure and further segregation policies, which led to the establishment of separate residential areas for different racial groups.

The mid-20th century witnessed growing resistance against South African rule. Windhoek became a central hub for nationalist movements, including SWAPO (South West Africa People's Organization), which led the fight for independence. The city's residents played a crucial role in the liberation struggle, with many significant protests and events occurring within its bounds.

Namibia gained independence on March 21, 1990, and Windhoek became the capital of the new nation. Since then, the city has experienced rapid development and modernization. The government has focused on addressing historical inequalities and promoting cultural heritage, making Windhoek a vibrant and diverse city.

Windhoek is home to numerous cultural landmarks and institutions that reflect its rich history. Notable sites include the Independence Memorial Museum, which offers insights into Namibia's struggle for freedom, and the National Museum of Namibia, housed in the historic Alte Feste. The city also boasts a lively arts scene, with galleries, theaters, and events celebrating indigenous and contemporary Namibian culture.

Windhoek, the capital of Namibia, is accessible via Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH), located approximately 45 kilometers east of the city. Major airlines operate flights from various international destinations. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a shuttle service to the city center. Alternatively, you can reach Windhoek by road from neighboring countries such as South Africa, Botswana, and Zambia.

Windhoek has a range of transportation options. Local taxis are abundant and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. Ride-hailing services like LEFA are also available. Public buses and minibuses (commonly called combis) operate on fixed routes within the city. For more flexibility, consider renting a car, which will allow you to explore Windhoek and its surroundings at your own pace. Be mindful that driving is on the left side of the road.

The official currency is the Namibian Dollar (NAD), which is pegged to the South African Rand (ZAR). Both currencies are used interchangeably. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available throughout Windhoek.

While Windhoek is generally safe, petty crime like pickpocketing can occur, particularly in busy areas such as Independence Avenue. Avoid walking alone at night and be cautious in the Katutura and Khomasdal neighborhoods, which have higher crime rates. Always keep your valuables secure and stay aware of your surroundings.

In case of an emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, and medical assistance. Windhoek has several hospitals and clinics, including the Windhoek Central Hospital and the Lady Pohamba Private Hospital. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious or cultural sites. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Namibia is religiously diverse, with Christianity being predominant, so showing respect in places of worship is important. Public Transport: Do be polite and patient when using public transportation. Avoid discussing sensitive topics like politics. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. A friendly 'hello' or 'good day' is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Windhoek like a local, visit the Old Breweries Craft Market for unique Namibian crafts and souvenirs. Explore the vibrant Katutura township to understand the city's history and culture better. Enjoy a sundowner at Joe's Beerhouse, a popular spot among locals. For an authentic experience, try local dishes such as kapana (street food barbecue) and biltong (dried cured meat).