Destination introduction
Unlimited vast deserts and annual quota of 300 days of sunshine is exactly what draws travellers to one of Africa's most intriguing destinations.
Shopping
The map of Namibia shows a swathe of the southwest marked, intriguingly, “Diamond Area 1 (Restricted Area)”. Some of the baubles lying about there turn up in the shops—diamonds and semi-precious stones like topaz and tourmaline. And consider the hand-made jewellerywith traditional African motifs.
Another Namibian speciality is fur. Karakul, a variety of Persian lamb, is fashioned into stylish garments under the Swakara name. Leather goods are interesting, though here the source may be buffalo or ostrich.
Among native curios, look for dolls in Herero costumes, hand-carved tribal trinkets, Himba beads and jewellery, pottery and basketwork.
On certain goods, such as jewellery, overseas visitors are exempt from the local sales tax.