Eat at Joe’s, Windhoek

In Windhoek, Namibia, my wife, Kathryn, and I stayed one night in the 4-star Safari Court and, later, in the less-expensive but no-less-comfortable Hotel Safari (phone 262 61 296800, fax 235652, www.safarihotelsnamibia.com), both located at the corner of Auas and Aviation streets and owned by the same company.

Our double room at Hotel Safari cost $65 per night. (In 2009, Safari Court rates start at $156 per night for a double.) A free bus from the hotel goes into the city center.

Don’t miss a dinner at Joe’s Beerhouse (160 Nelson Mandela Ave., Windhoek, Namibia; phone/fax 00 264 61 232 457, www.joes
beerhouse.com), with its “Live the Legend” antiquities to look at and succulent kudu, oryx, springbok and other wild game to eat plus, yes, excellent beers. More than a restaurant, it’s an experience. All entrées cost $9; it’s a great deal. Reservations are essential.

For information on Namibia, visit www.namibiatourism.com.na. Reservations for Etosha and other national parks can be made through the national parks authority at www.nwr.com.na. Reserve well ahead if you want to go during the dry season, April-November. We traveled in September-October (2008), a good time to visit.

HARVEY HAGMAN
Ft. Myers, FL