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August 2015

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In this month’s Flamingo

4 Visitors’ Filo Facts

Useful and interesting information on Namibia

5 Air Namibia Information

Travel information, Frequent Flyer Information, Cargo Service, Destination Map and Fleet Information

16 Nambwa tented lodge

Nambwa opens its doors with a new level of luxury

24 Earth and Sky

This year’s Earth & Sky Photo Contest and its winners

34 The peculiar case of remote sensing

The reality of Big Brother surveillance

42 Shout it from the rooftops

Renewable energy gets big in France

50 Burning mountains

Mountain biking off the beaten track

58 Can market research be affordable

Deciding when to outsource market research

64 Motoring

James Siddall gives us a new model roundup

74 De Meye

The hidden boutique winery in Stellenbosch’s Wine Route

86 Horseback Safari - The ultimate experiance

The initmacy and silence of riding horses in the desert

106 Sci Tech

Gadgets, gizmos, concepts and utter innovation

112 High Humour

Time for a smile while you are high above the clouds

116 Entertainment

Try your hand at Sudoku - easy, medium and hard

118 Air Namibia’s Flight Schedule

Plan your next trip on your favourite airline

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FLAMINGOFlamingo is published by Media Nova Namibiawww.media-namibia.com

ISSN: 2026-7924

PublisherMynard Slabbert

Contributors• AnneSchauffer• AndreasVogt• AxelKreuter• CSGlobe|TheWorldOnline• DonShimoda• JamesSiddall• tuvie.com• AfricanMonarchLodges• PhilipEllis&Partners• Alpsolut|HanneMair

Advertising SalesMedia Nova NamibiaFerreira’sGardenCentreShop #2MaxwellStreetSouthern Industrial AreaWindhoek,NAMIBIA

MARNOXMEDIA122BarkstonDrive,Blairgowrie,2194South AfricaTel:+27(0)117896614Fax:+27(0)117898320Cell:+27(0)824581629E-mail:mark@marnox.co.zaWeb:www.marnox.co.za

Namibia and AfricaMynard Slabbert+264(0)852272380mynard@media-namibia.com

ChrisCoetzee+264(0)816680697chris@media-namibia.com

Godfrey Lancellas+27(0)835015999godfrey@madhattermedia.co.za

Art & layout designMPDPS(PTY)Ltd+27(0)218561276mark@mpdps.com

Printers:SolitairePress,BrahmanStreetNorthern IndustriaWindhoek,NAMIBIA

TEAM NAMIBIAMedia Nova Namibia cc is a proud partner of TeamNamibia

DisclaimerAll material is strictly copyrighted. All rights are reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without prior written permission from the publisher.Opinions expressed inFlamingo are not necessarily those of Air Namibia.

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T he United Nations Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela Prize was founded in remembrance and as a tribute to

the legacy of its visionary namesake. It’s an honorary award presented for the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals who have dedicated their lives to helping others.

Awarded in recognition of their dedicated service to humanity, the promotion of reconciliation, social cohesion, and community development, extraordinary individuals such as Namibia’s own Dr Helena Ndume immediately spring to mind.

It was back in 2010, as part of the Windhoek Lager Ambassador Search, that Namibia Breweries � rst recognised Dr Helena Ndume for her unprecedented humanitarian contributions. Her unrelenting com-mitment to helping the visually impaired and her pioneering work in the health sector have, and continue to, enable her to better the lives of countless Namibians.

Today, we are proud to congratulate her on yet another World-Class milestone. On 24 July 2015, Dr Helena Ndume will become not only the first Namibian, but also the first person in the world to receive the prestigious United Nations Nelson Mandela Prize.

Thank you for your World-Class work.

HERE’S TO WORLD-CLASS.

Not for Sale to Persons Under the Age of 18. Drink Responsibly.

DR HELENA NDUMEWinner of the United NationsNelson Mandela Prize

A WORLD-CLASS ACHIEVEMENT

FOR OURWORLD-CLASSAMBASSADOR

Today, we are proud to congratulate her on yet another World-Class milestone. On 24 July 2015, Dr Helena Ndume will become not only the first Namibian, but also the first person in the world to receive the prestigious United

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A Manufacturing Basket that Overflows with Opportunities…

Namibia is endowed with rich natural resources and offers lucrative investment opportunities across a broad spectrum of economic sectors such as Agriculture, Energy, Infrastructure, Manufacturing, Mining, Services and Tourism.

With fast turnaround times and a professional service at all times, the Namibia Investment Centre (NIC) is proud to welcome you to the land of the brave. Contact us today for a tailored FDI solution. Namibia, a gem worth investing in…

Executive Director | Telephone: +264 61 283 7335/2837254Facsimile: +264 61 220278 | www.mti.gov.na

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| 73

Dearest GuestIt is my absolute pleasure to welcome you on board an Air Namibia flight.

A few months ago we started to introduce to you, our team at Air Namibia. This month, I would like to highlight our team of cabin crew. This dedicated group of men and women are highly trained and motivated to ensure not only your comfort on board our flights, but the safety of all those on board. We are continually receiving positive reports from our customers on the service they receive from our team.

We are proud of the members who have gone that extra mile to become trainers and are now able to train our cabin crew in a number of disciplines. This has also contributed to Air Namibia once again winning the feather award in both Johannesburg and Cape Town in 2014 as voted for by the flying public. Our compliance and safety record speaks volumes for their dedication.

A number of our cabin crew have now completed courses in Portuguese to ensure we are able to give our passengers choice in the language they speak. We also have a number of crew who are fluent in German.

So as you fly with us; we are proud to introduce to you, those who will take care of you during your flight. We are proud to have them as part of our team.

Thank you for choosing to fly with Air Namibia, and we look forward to welcoming you on board again soon.

We are very proud to be your preferred airline.“ “

Rene Gsponer Chief Operating officer & Acting MD

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WELCOME ABOARDBEM-VINDO A BORDOWILLKOMMEN AN BORD

ENGLISH PORTUGUESE GERMAN

Thank you for choosing Air Namibia. We will do everything to ensure you have a pleasant flight. If you need assistance, please ask any of our cabin attendants.

Obrigado por ter escolhido voar com a Air Namibia. Nós prometemos fazer tudo o que podermos para garantir que você tenha um vôo agradável. Se você tiver alguma dúvida ou precisar de ajuda, não hes-ite em pedir a qualquer um dos nossos assistentes de cabine por favor.

Danke, dass Sie sich dafür entschieden haben mit Air Namibia zu fliegen. Wir werden alles tun um Ihnen den Flug so angenehm wie möglich zu gestalten. Wenn Sie Fragen haben oder Hilfe benötigen, wenden Sie sich bitte an einen unserer Flugbegleiter oder Flugbegleiterinnen.

Our highly trained cabin attendants are at your service on all our flights, for your safety and comfort.

Todos os nossos voos são servidos por assistentes de cabine altamente profissionais. Eles estão à sua disposição em todos os momentos para fazer o seu voo mais confortável.

Unser versiertes Flugpersonal steht Ihnen während des Fluges jederzeit zur Verfügung. Für Ihre Sicherheit und Bequemlichkeit sind Sie bei unserer Crew in besten Händen.

We carry first-aid kits on all our flights, should a passenger need assistance for minor conditions.

Existe um kit de primeiros socorros a bordo de nossos voos, e se os passageiros precisarem de gotas para os olhos ou medicamentos para dores de cabeça, náuseas, azia ou qualquer outra condição relativamente menor.Faça mais perguntas sobre os nossos serviços especiais ao fazer reserva

Eine medizinische Erstversorgung ist auf allen unseren Flügen sicher gestellt. Eine Erste-Hilfe-Ausrüstung befindet sich immer an Bord.

As a safety precaution, it is important to read the safety card stored in the seat pocket in front of you

Por favor, leia o folheto de segurança no bolso do assento à sua frente e observe a sua saída de emergência mais próxima.Nos voos superiores a três horas (voos de longo curso), recomendamos que você revise o conteúdo do panfleto de segurança novamente.

Zu Ihrer eigenen Sicherheit bitten wir Sie, sich die in der Zeitschriftentasche vor Ihnen befindliche Sicherheits-Instruktionen aufmerksam durchzulesen.

Life vests are stored under your seat. Only use them as demonstrate, and only when instructed by the cabin attendants.

Por favor, tome nota que o colete salva-vidas está localizado embaixo do seu assento. O assistente de cabine vai demonstrar quando e como usar o colete salva-vidas em caso de emergência

Ihre Schwimmweste befindet sich unter Ihrem Sitz. Bitte benutzen Sie diese nur auf Anweisung der Flugbegleiter/-innen.

Smoking is prohibited on all Air Namibia flights.

De acordo com a lei da aviação é proibido fumar em todos os voos da Air Namibia, isso inclui fumar quaisquer dispositivos artificiais ou cigarro, como e/ou cigarros eletrônicos.Só é permitido fumar em áreas designadas no edifício do terminal dos aeroportos.

Auf allen Air Namibia Flügen gilt ein absolutes Rauchverbot.

Seats must be in the upright position during take-off and landing. For your own safety, you are required to fasten your seat belt whenever the seat belt sign is illuminated and we recommend that you keep your belt fastened throughout the flight.

Para a descolagem e aterragem, todos os assentos devem estar na posição vertical.Por favor, tome nota que os assentos nas linhas de saída de emergência não reclinam.Por favor, apertem o cinto de segurança sempre que o sinal do cinto de segurança se acende.Para sua segurança, recomendamos que você o mantenha apertado durante todo o vôo.

Während Start und Landung müssen sich die Sitzlehnen in aufrechter Position befinden. Bitte schnallen Sie sich an, sobald das Anschnallzeichen aufleuchtet. Zu Ihrer eigenen Sicherheit empfehlen wir während des gesamten Fluges angeschnallt zu bleiben.

We offer complimentary meals and beverages on all our flights. Special-diet or vegetarian meals are available upon request when making reservations.

Uma refeição quente ou um lanche é servido em todos os nossos vôos.Alimentação-Special ou refeições vegetarianas estão disponíveis mediante solicitação no momento da reserva.Nós oferecemos uma grande variedade de bebidas.

Auf unseren Flügen werden Mahlzeiten und Getränke serviert.Diätische oder vegetarische Mahlzeiten können bei der Flugbuchung angefragt werden

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ENGLISH PORTUGUESE GERMAN

We carry an extensive range of duty free products at competitive prices on selected flights. Please refer to our catalogue for details.

Nós carregamos uma grande variedade de produtos com isenção de direitos a preços competitivos.Por favor, consulte o catálogo no bolso em frente do seu assento.

An Bord ist ein umfangreiches Sortiment an Duty-Free-Produkten zu attraktiven Preisen erhältlich. Informationen hierzu entnehmen Sie bitte unserem Duty-Free-Katalog.

Audio and visual entertainment programmes are available on flights operated using our A330 and A319 aircraft.

Programas de entretenimento de áudio e vídeo estão disponíveis nos nossos voos de longo curso e de médio curso

Audio- und Videoprogramme sind an Bord unserer Airbus A330 und A319 Maschinen verfügbar.

Our A319 and ERJ 135 aircraft have individual air vents which can be adjusted to provide a refreshing stream of air.

Alguns dos nossos aviões têm saídas de ar individuais, que podem ser ajustados para fornecer um fluxo de ar.

Unsere Fluggeräte des Typs Airbus A319 und Embraer ERJ135 verfügen über individuelle Frischluftdüsen.

Health regulations in some countries require that the aircraft cabin must be sprayed. The spray is harmless, but if you think it might affect you, cover your nose and mouth with a handkerchief.

Regulamentos de saúde em determinados aeroportos exigem que a cabine da aeronave deve ser pulverizada. O spray é inofensivo, mas se você acha que pode afetá-lo, por favor, cobrir o nariz e a boca com um lenço.

Um den Gesundheitsvorschriften einiger Länder zu entsprechen, muss die Flugzeugkabine mit einem für den Menschen unbedenklichen Spray behandelt werden. Wir empfehlen dennoch, die Atemwege durch Vorhalten eines Taschentuchs zu schützen.

Should you travel with a baby we recommend you request a bassinet especially on the long-haul flights.

Se você viajar com um bebê, recomendamos que você reserve o seu voo mais cedo e não se esqueça de pedir um berço especialmente nos voos de longo curso

Sollten Sie mit einem Baby reisen, empfehlen wir Ihnen besonders auf Langstreckenflügen ein Babybett zu beantragen.

Please do not place any luggage under seats at the emergency exit seat.

Carry-on luggage should be stored in the overhead stowage.

Por favor note que no assento da saída de emergência é proibido colocar bagagem de mão debaixo dos assentos.Excesso de bagagem de mão será colocada no porão Para garantir uma gestão eficiente e minimizar os danos, certifique-se que os artigos não pesam mais de 32 kg. Certifique-se de etiquetar sua bagagem e garantir que devidamente bloqueado.

“Bitte beachten Sie, dass das Verstauen von Handgepäck unter Ihrem Sitz an den Notausgängen nicht gestattet ist.“

Handgepäck ist in den Gepäckfächern über Ihrem Sitz zu verstauen.

We suggest that passengers do stretching exercises, and move during the flight to improve blood circulation.

Exercício durante a espera para o banheiro. Esta é uma boa oportunidade para se esticar e se mover enquanto em pé na fila.Beba muita água durante todo o vôoUse roupas folgadas, confortáveis para que você se possa descolar facilmenteUse sapatos confortáveis, macios para que você possa deslizar ou descalçar facilmenteLeve apenas um pequeno saco como bagagem de mão, assim você não precisa de sobre-carregar seus pés e restringir o seu espaço para as pernas

Versuchen Sie, sich während des Fluges möglichst oft zu strecken und zu bewegen. So wird Ihr Kreislauf angeregt.

10 |

Air Namibia’s Frequent Flyer Programme is called “Reward$”. Becoming a member

enables you to earn valuable miles from all your travels with Air Namibia. These miles

can be used to buy tickets, pay for upgrades to business class and pay for excess

baggage.

Miles are transferable between members and can also be used to purchase tickets

for persons other than the member. Joining is absolutely free, PLUS you get up to

500 complimentary miles upon successful subscription. For more specifics on the

programme, please refer to the appropriate topic below.

RegistrationYou can register online by visiting our website: www.airnamibia.com.na, or at any Air Namibia ticket office. You will receive a membership pack, including your permanent card, 2-3 weeks after your first flight after registration.

Activation RulesA membership account will automatically be activated after the first flight and successful completion of registration.  

Enrolment BonusEnrolment Bonus is 500 miles.  Enrolment bonuses are allocated to the member’s account on the first activity after registration.

Electronic BonusAn Electronic Bonus of 300 miles will be allocated to the member on first activity if the member has registered online and selected his communication preference to be e-mail.

Miles ExpiryMiles are valid for five (5) years after the year in which they were earned. Miles due to expire will always be reflected on your Mileage Summary.

Missing MilesIf your Miles are not credited for any reason, they can be promptly credited provided the relevant documentation is submitted. It is essential to keep all the relevant documentation including original boarding passes and copies of airline tickets. Members can also claim missing miles online by entering the e-ticket number without the airline code “186”, or contact our Call Center for assistance.

Spending MilesFor more information visit:

www.airnamibia.com.na. If you do not

have enough miles for a free ticket, you

can purchase miles in batches of 1000

miles at N$220 – this is only applicable

if you have 50% or more of the value of

the Award ticket available. Award tickets

are valid for 12 months from the date of

issue and are processed and issued after

payment of Airport taxes is received.

Corporate ClientsAir Namibia has also introduced the

Corporate Client component to the

Reward$ Programme. Corporate

Management enables companies

to accumulate miles through their

employees. Members can accumulate

miles in both corporate as well as personal

accounts, depending on directives from

their corporate head.

For more information on the Corporate

Client enrollment, please contact our Call

Centre at Tel: +264 61 2996111/6333/6444

or Call.Center@airnamibia.aero

Very Important Note:Members need to fly once after registration in order to activate their accounts and before miles can be used to redeem tickets, request upgrades or to transfer miles from his/her account to another member’s account.

Our Frequent Flyer Programme

| 11

Our FleetAverage Fleet Age: 7 years

Economy Class Business Class

Economy Class Business Class

All Economy Class

Embraer ERJ135

Airbus A319 -100

Airbus A330-200

Number of Aircraft 2 Length(m) 59 Height (m) 17,4 Cruising Speed 860 km/h

Maximum Passengers 244 Wing Span (m) 60.3 Maximum Fuel Capacity 138 000l Maximum Take-off Weight 233 000 kg

Number of Aircraft 4 Length(m) 33.84 Height (m) 11.76 Cruising Speed 820 km/h

Maximum Passengers 112 Wing Span (m) 34.09 Maximum Fuel Capacity 23 860l Maximum Take-off Weight 70 000 kg

Number of Aircraft 4 Length(m) 26.33 Height (m) 6.76 Cruising Speed 820 km/h

Maximum Passengers 37 Wing Span (m) 20.04 Maximum Fuel Capacity 4 198l Maximum Take-off Weight 19 000 kg

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| 11

KUF

ABZ - Aberdeen, United Kingdom | Aberdeen Dyce AirportAMS - Amsterdam, Netherlands | Amsterdam Schiphol AirportARN - Stockholm, Sweden | Stockholm-Arlanda AirportATH - Athens, Greece | Eleftherios Venizelos International AirportBCN- Barcelona, Spain | Barcelona International AirportBGO - Bergen, Norway | Bergen Flesland AirportBHX - Birmingham, United Kingdom | Birmingham International AirportBIO - Bilbao, Spain | Bilbao AirportBLL - Billund, Denmark | Billund AirportBLQ - Bologna, Italy | Bologna / Borgo Panigale AirportBRE - Bremen, Germany | Bremen AirportBRU - Brussels, Belgium | Brussels AirportBUD - Budapest, Hungary | Budapest Liszt Ferenc International AirportCDG - Paris, France | Charles de Gaulle International AirportCPH - Copenhagen, Denmark | Copenhagen Kastrup AirportDME- Moscow, Russia | Domodedovo International AirportDRS - Dresden, Germany | Dresden AirportDUB - Dublin, Ireland | Dublin AirportDUS - Dusseldorf, Germany | Dusseldorf International AirportEDI - Edinburgh, United Kingdom | Edingburgh AirportFAO - Faro, Portugal | Faro AirportFCO - Rome, Italy | Leonardo Da Vinci (Fiumicino) International AirportFMO - Muenster, Germany | Muenster Osnabrueck AirportFRA - Frankfurt, Germany | Frankfurt International AirportGOJ - Nizhny Novgorod, Russia | Nizhny Novgorod International AirportGOT - Gothenburg, Sweden | Gothenburg-Landvetter AirportGRZ - Graz, Austria | Graz AirportGVA - Geneva, Switzerland | Geneva Cointrin InternationalHAJ - Hannover, Germany | Hannover AirportHAM - Hamburg, Germany | Hamburg AirportHEL - Helsinki, Finland | Helsinki Vantaa AirportIST - Istanbul, Turkey | Ataturk International AirportKBP - Kiev, Ukraine | Boryspil International AirportKRK - Krakow, Poland | John Paul II International Kraków-Balice AirportKTW - Katowice, Poland | Katowice International Airport

KUF - Samara, Russia | Kurumoch International AirportLCA - Larnaca, Cyprus | Larnaca International AirportLED - St. Petersburg, Russia | Pulkovo AirportLEJ - Leipzig, Germany | Leipzig Halle AirportLHR - London, United Kingdom | London Heathrow AirportLIN - Milan, Italy | Linate AirportLIS - Lisbon, Portugal | Lisbon PortelaLYS - Lyon, France | Lyon Saint-ExupéryMAD - Madrid, Spain | Madrid Barajas InternationalMAN - Manchester, United Kingdom | Manchester AirportMLA - Luqa, Malta | Luqa AirportMUC - Munich, Germany | Franz Josef Strauss International AirportMXP - Milan, Italy | Malpensa International AirportNAP - Napoli, Italy | Nápoli / Capodichino International AirportNCE - Nice, France | Nice-Côte d’AzurNUE - Nuremberg, Germany | Nuremberg AirportOPO - Porto, Portugal | Francisco de Sá CarneiroOSL - Oslo, Norway | Oslo Gardermoen AirportPOZ - Poznan, Poland | Poznan-Lawica AirportPRG - Prague, Czech Republic | Ruzyn International AirportRIX - Riga, Latvia | Riga International AirportSOFSTR - Stuttgart, Germany | Stuttgart AirportSVG - Stavanger, Norway | Stavanger Sola AirportTLL - Tallinn, Estonia | Tallinn AirportTLS - Toulouse, France | Toulouse-Blagnac AirportTRN - Torino, Italy | Torino / Caselle International AirportTXL - Berlin, Germany | Berlin-Tegel International AirportVCE - Venice, Italy | Venezia / Tessera - Marco Polo AirportVIE - Vienna, Austria | Vienna International AirportVKO - Moscow, Russia | Vnukovo International AirportVNO - Vilnius, Lithuania | Vilnius International AirportWAW - Warsaw, Poland |Warsaw Chopin AirportZRH - Zurich, Switzerland | Zurich Airport

Through interline agreements with our partner airlines, Air Namibia helps you reach your �nal destination almost anywhere in the world

10 |

We offer our passengers a generous free hand baggage allowance, with maximum weight of 10kg each, and maximum size 55 x 38 x 20 cm; plus an overcoat, an umbrella, a walking stick, a ladies hand bag, a reasonable amount of reading material, and a laptop.

We also allow a fully collapsible wheelchair and/or a pair of crutches as hand baggage.

Free allowance for checked in baggage

• No item of checked in baggage may exceed 32 kilograms.

Excess baggage fees on extra pieces of baggage carried, per bag up to 10 bags per passenger are

Applicable excess baggage fees on excess weight over the free baggage allowance per bag.

At Air Namibia we are committed to ensuring that our passengers are re-united with their luggage at end of their journey. Given the complexity of the environment in which we operate, passengers’ luggage often gets out of our control and care, (for brief moments when they are subjected to control and handling by various agencies.)

It is for this reason we request passengers to check their luggage on point of arrival (immediately after collecting their bag) to ensure that bag was not tampered with; and to report any suspected losses immediately. We request passengers not to check-in valuable items, especially those that are susceptible to theft, such as cash, jewellery, electronic devices like mobile phones, watches, sunglasses, to mention a few. In line with International Industry Conventions on passenger baggage liability, Air Namibia cannot be held liable if these valuable items are pilfered from checked-in baggage.

We encourage our passengers to lock or wrap their bags where possible.

Baggage Guidelines

Our rules pertaining to baggage include the following

Airbus A330-200 Airbus A319-100 operated flights

Embraer ERJ 135 operated flights

Business: 2 pieces each weighing not more than 32 kg’s

Business: 2 pieces each weighing not more than 32 kg’s

1 piece not exceeding 23 kg’s

Economy:1 piece weighing not more than 23 kg’s

Economy: 2 pieces each weighing not more than 23 kg’s

Domestic routes US$ 100.00 per extra bag

Routes within Southern Africa US$ 110.00 per extra bag

Frankfurt route US$ 200.00 per extra bag

Domestic routes US$ 100.00 per bag

Routes within Southern Africa US$ 110.00 per bag

Frankfurt route US$ 200.00 per bag

• For further information on sports, highly fragile items, and security guidelines, we recommend that you visit our website on www.airnamibia.com.na

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Cargo

For bookings contact us on telephone number +26461299 6610/11 or via email on cargo.@airnamibia.aero.For more details, please visit our website on www.airnamibia.com.na, select the cargo icon and navigate easily to get all information you need.

With over 700 scheduled flights per month, our network and reliable service makes us the best solution for your freight needs. No matter how big or small your parcel is, from the size of an envelope to the size of an elephant, we will get it there for you in GOOD TIME. We provide security for valuable and dangerous goods. We also handle highly perishable goods, and even live animals.

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BRAN

DM

ARK

| 51www.spurcorp.nl | Customer Care: +27 21 525 6670

Welcometo another Spur country.

Namibia: a land ofculture, heritage...and � avour!

OngwedivaSILVER WOLF SPURMaroela Mall. (00264) 65 23 2064Swakopmund DESERT CREEK SPURWoermann Street, Stadtmitte.(00264) 64 462 755Tsumeb COPPER LEAF SPURTsumeb Shopping Centre. (00264) 67 22 1270Walvis BayHICKORY CREEK SPUR140 Ninth Street. (00264) 64 20 7991

WindhoekSANTA FE SPURThe Grove Mall, Shop 500,Kleine Kuppe. (00264) 61 25 0423

MOUNTAIN EAGLE SPURMaerua Lifestyle Centre, Centaurus Street.(00264) 61 30 3711

GRAND CANYON SPUR1st Floor, House of Southern Estate, Independence Ave.(00264) 61 23 1003

OkahandjaGRAND LAKE SPUROkahandja Shopping Centre. (00264) 625 02 711KeetmanshoopMOHEGAN SPURCorner of 5th Avenue &Ernst Kalweit Street.(00264) 63 22 4123

6996S

Air

Nam

ibia

Mag

azin

e

Maroela Mall. (00264) 65 23 2064

Tsumeb Shopping Centre. (00264) 67 22 1270

140 Ninth Street. (00264) 64 20 7991

Kleine Kuppe. (00264) 61 25 0423

MOUNTAIN EAGLE SPURMaerua Lifestyle Centre, Centaurus Street.

Floor, House of Southern Estate, Independence Ave.

6996S

Air

Nam

ibia

Mag

azin

e

Keetmanshoop

Windhoek

Okahandja

TsumebTsumebTsumeb

OngwedivaOngwedivaOngwedivaOngwedivaOngwedivaOngwedivaOngwediva

Swakopmund

Walvis Bay

16 | 16 |

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Nambwa tented lodgeIn January this year, Nambwa Lodge opened its doors with 10 luxury tent suites, beautifully built in the

treetops. Set in Namibia’s Zambezi region, Nambwa epitomises the indelible wildlife experience, complete with a rare sense of peace and sheer well-being.

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By: Anne Schauffer Photographs by: African Monarch Lodges

18 |

Nambwa Tented Lodge is situated on the banks of the Kwando River,

within the Bwabwata National Park. This partnership with the Mayuni Conservancy gives the Lodge traversing rights to over 300 000 hectares of unspoilt wilderness, with over 35 large and small game species, and upwards of 330 bird species.

Nambwa is in the heart of the Kavango Zambezi Trans Frontier Conservation Area (KAZA) and forms part of the larger Peace Park initiative. The diversity of habitat not only supports a wide range of wildlife, but provides guests with the most unimaginable varied surroundings: wide open floodplains, thick teak woodlands, reed beds and floating grass mats, as well as spreading knobthorn and jackalberry trees.

Your accommodation at Nambwa is in a stylish, spacious 100 square metre luxury tented suite, built up in the trees, overlooking the Kwando River and floodplains. The outlook and views are incredible. Each tent has an en-suite bathroom, with a bath and a large inside shower, an expansive private deck on which to relax, watch the game wander by or even the elephants walking between the tents. Each tent is perfectly positioned so as to have maximum privacy, and you are linked to the main lodge via an elevated wooden walkway. You will be in the lap of luxury, an oasis in the midst of the wilderness. A sense of privilege prevails.

The central lodge has all the facilities you could wish for, including a lounge, bar, dining area with individual tables, a fire pit, and a spacious main deck. A waterhole and views onto the floodplains provides endless game viewing opportunities.

The wildlife around Nambwa moves freely through the area, and it is a wildlife lover’s paradise. Countless herds of elephant, water buffalo, hippo, roan, sable, wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, letchwe, as well as lion, leopard and the endangered

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African wild dog roam freely. For birders, Nambwa is home to numerous rare and endemic bird species.

A photographer’s dream destinationNambwa is situated within a part of the Bwabwata National Park and has permission to conduct night game drives, providing guests with the rare opportunity to enjoy elusive sightings of nocturnal animals – including some of the big cats. From bush babies to aardvark, nightjars to owls, not to mention the leopards, it is a thrill.

At Nambwa, activities include Guided Game Drives and Morning or Afternoon Boat Cruises on the Kwando River. Guided Game Walks through the park are conducted by local guides, and give those who enjoy being up close and personal with nature, a golden opportunity to do so. A Mokoro Trip is another real treat – a mokoro is a local canoe, crafted by carving out the trunk of a large, straight tree. You will be propelled through the shallow waters of the backwaters by a poler, who stands in the stern and pushes along the canoe with a pole. It is so silent that you stand a good chance of coming upon unsuspecting birds and reptiles in the reeds.

Nambwa’s bush breakfasts and evening sundowners are a wonderful experience, something on everybody’s wish list for

Africa. The extreme beauty, the silence, the bird song, while watching the sun rise or fall, is the stuff that dreams are made of. They generally last around two hours, and there is no finer way to start or end a day.

For those who like to fish, Nambwa offers a catch-and-release only adventure. It is more about the enjoyment of the activity and makes for a wonderfully relaxing morning or afternoon.

African Monarch Lodges have as their pillars: the community, conservancies and conservation. The local conservancies are partners in all their projects, and they team up with local chiefs and councils to help create sustainable communities. As part of this interconnectedness, guests are able to enjoy a Cultural Village Tour: experience the life of a local village, meet the people who are part of the conservation and development projects in the area, as well as interacting with the villagers who create and sell crafts.

At Nambwa Tented Lodge, you’ll find yourself submerged in the wonders of the north-eastern Caprivi landscape, its magnificent wildlife and its extreme beauty. But along with the undeniable adrenaline of Africa, you will discover a rare peace and tranquility that you are unlikely to find anywhere else. You will see.

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“Star Trails Above Table Mountain” by Eric Nathan (www.ericnathan.com) | The image juxtaposes a moonlit Table Mountain and the

star trails above it with the artificial lights of Cape Town, South Africa; a stack of over nine hundred 30-second exposures, captured in June

2014. The first winner in the Against the Lights category.

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Earth and SkyThe 2015 International Earth & Sky Photo Contest Winners have just been announced.

The winners highlight the beauty of the night sky and its battle with light pollution.

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TOP ROW LEFT TO RIGHT Eric Nathan; Brad Goldpaint; Evgeny Trisko

MIDDLE ROW LEFT TO RIGHT Ben Coffman; Caren Zhao; Lyubov Traifonova

BOTTOM ROW LEFT TO RIGHT Zhou Yannan; Hui Chieh Teo; Sigurdur Brynjarsson

Selected from images taken from 54 countries, the

International Earth & Sky Photo Contest is organised by the international programme, The World at Night. According to the contest criteria, the submitted images are taken during 2014 - 2015 and are all created in the “TWAN style” - showing both the earth and sky - by combining elements of the night sky set in the backdrop of the Earth horizon, often with a notable scenery or landmark. Known as nightscape imaging (or landscape astrophotography), this is similar to general night photography but with

a special attention to the sky, astronomical perspectives, and celestial phenomena. The contest’s focus on preserving the night sky as part of our natural heritage, is to support global efforts in controlling light pollution. The contest was founded by TWAN and the Dark Skies Awareness Project in 2008 as a regional programme, subsequently it was expanded to a global programme in 2009, during the International Year of Astronomy. It’s growing larger each year.

The contest was open to anyone of any age, anywhere in the world; to both

professional and amateur/hobby photographers. About 1 000 entries were received and 839 of them were approved for judging. David Malin of the judging panel, a well-known pioneer in scientific astrophotography, explains that “This competition encourages photographers with imagination to push their cameras to their technical limits, and to produce eye-catching images that appear perfectly natural and are aesthetically pleasing. Hundreds of nightscape photographers from across the world rose to the challenge, and the panel of nine judges was ultimately faced with finding the best

from over 800 images.” TWAN founder and the contest chair, Babak Tafreshi, adds “The sky above us is an essential part of our nature, a heritage for us and other species on this planet. The contest’s main goal is to present the night sky in this broader context that relates to all of us, while it is also the astronomer’s laboratory to explore the universe. Perhaps from this perspective we can better preserve the natural night sky and reconnect it with our modern life.” According to the contest theme of “Dark Skies’ Importance,” the submitted photos were judged in two categories: “Beauty of the Night Sky” and “Against the Lights.” The selected images are those most effective in impressing the public on both how important and delicate the starry sky is as an affecting part of our nature, and also how bad the problem of light pollution has become. Today, most city skies are virtually devoid of stars. Light pollution (excessive light that scatters to the sky instead of illuminating the ground) not only is a major waste of energy, it also obscures the stars, disrupts ecosystems and has adverse health effects.

The contest is also a collaboration with the outreach and education group of the National Optical Astronomy Observatory and Global Astronomy Month, the Astronomers Without Borders annual worldwide programme in April.

Winners: International Earth & Sky Photo Contest

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“The Enchanted Forest” by Lyubov Trifonova (www.vk.com/id10329233) | The moon and the northern lights lit up the snow-covered

forest in Murmansk, north-western Russia, Dec 2014. The first winner in the Beauty of the Night Sky category.

“Moonlit Darklings” by Brad Goldpaint (www.goldpaintphotography.com) | The moonlight strikes Mt Rainier in Washington,

north-western USA, as the Milky Way drifts across the night sky, July 2014. The 2nd winner in the Beauty of the Night Sky category.

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“Above the Light Pollution” by Evgeny Trisko (www.vk.com/trisko_foto) | The Milky Way emerges from the clouds over lights in the

valley. In the center is the Peak Terskol Observatory near Mt Elbrus, northern Caucasus Mountains, Russia, photographed in Aug 2014.

The 2nd winner in the Against the Lights category.

“A Raising of the Hackles” by Ben Coffman (www.bencoffmanphotography.com) | In a crystal clear winter morning, the Milky Way and

the crescent Moon rise above the Crater Lake National Park, Oregon, USA, Feb 2015. The 3rd winner in the Beauty of the Night Sky category.

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“Blood Moon Rises Over Chongqing” by Zhou Yannan (flickr.com/photos/zhouyannan) | As the moon rose and the sun set on 8

October 2014, a lunar eclipse was in progress as seen from Chongqing, China. In this photo sequence, the rising eclipsed Moon began as a dark

reddened disk and gradually comes out of the shadow while rising above the Yangtze River. The 3rd winner in the Against the Lights category.

“The Dome” by Sigurdur William Brynjarsson (facebook.com/siggiphoto) | A 180° panoramic view of the aurora borealis in a winter night

of Iceland, stretching from the city of Reykjavik (right) to the town of Keflavik to the west (left), Dec 2014. The 4th winner in the

Beauty of the Night Sky category.

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“Star Trails over Bromo” by Hui Chieh Teoh of Malaysia (www.mydarksky.org) | A time-exposure image of star trails around the south

celestial pole, above volcanoes in the Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park of East Java, Indonesia. Lit by the rising Moon, Mt Bromo

is the steaming crater in the center, June 2014. The 4th winner in the Against the Lights category.

“Strolls in the Star River” by Caren Zhao of China (weibo.com/u/2250248783). | The arc of the southern Milky Way and the zodiacal

light above Salar de Uyuni, the world’s largest salt flat, in Bolivia, Feb 2015. The 5th winner in the Beauty of the Night Sky category.

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“Above and Underneath” by Evgeny Trisko (www.vk.com/trisko_foto) | The night sky above clouds illuminated by towns and villages

hidden underneath, photographed in Pyatigorsk, the Stavropol region of Russia, Feb 2015. The 5th winner in the Against the Lights category.

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‘Big Brother Is Watching You’ has shifted very rapidly from a fantasy-type science fiction concept, to a widespread daily reality with, in many ways, unimaginable and far-reaching personal and global consequences.

Years ago, the saying “Big Brother is Watching” was the

stuff of sci-fi movies. The implied discomfort was that your privacy had been compromised, and that an unseen ‘Big Brother’ could track and monitor your every move. Well, gradually that became very true. Via cell phone usage, numerous applications that monitor and track from where (and for what purpose) you use your cell phone, bank card usage, passport control points, customer loyalty systems and CCTV systems - we are all monitored. The disturbing thing is that this invasion is just the proverbial tip of the iceberg!

Drones, satellites and Google Earth - all are changing how we see our environment, and making far more of our environment visible and accessible, way more than what was previously even contemplated. Both have a serious and significant impact on matters like privacy, evidence, markets, and the way we interact with our world.

Have you ever looked at your house on Google Earth? Did you give permission

to be photographed? Did you consent to the images of your private, sometimes fenced-off property, being made available to every person with internet access? That is everyone, from the property developer, to a foreign military power, your own government, and nosy neighbours, to the people whose informal industry it is to relieve you of your possessions in ways other than the regulated (and expected) government tax services! Have you looked at your neighbour’s house, pool and car on Google Earth? You did have their permission, right? Makes you think, does it not?

Let us start with satellitesBy international law, states have absolute sovereignty over their geographical area, and over their airspace. The space above any sovereign country is sacred, and internationally respected as that country’s sovereign domain. Therefore, no aircraft, or any flying object for that matter, may enter another country’s airspace without the host’s express permission. This has been internationally recognised by the

The peculiar case of remote sensing

By: Don Shimoda

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Chicago Convention of 1944, and was ratified by almost every state on earth. It follows that every country has the right to decide who and what overflies its territory, and for what purpose - a straightforward rule to follow for everyone.

During the Cold War, technology deployed from ultra high-flying spy planes like the SR71 - the Blackbird - and the U2, was used to overfly sovereign states without their permission. The objective was spying, monitoring military strengths and movements, and - while you were at it – to have a peek-a-boo at some other interesting snippets that your neighbour was reluctant to share. These included crops, natural resources, mining activities, natural and other disasters, and other snippets of information that may come in handy - economically or otherwise.

But the Cold War is over?Is it? This activity of remote sensing continues today, just on a much, much wider scale than the Cold War. In comparison, the Cold War spying was on such a miniscule scale, it is dwarfed by what is going on now. And every country is remotely sensed, photographed, analysed and recorded - without exception.

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Here is the problemThe difference between the Cold War era and now, is that remote sensing is done by satellites (some a mere 10 x 10 centimetres in size) without the countries, being sensed, giving their consent and permission. These satellites are owned and controlled by states and private entities, who use them for a multitude of applications. As far as the private sector is concerned, the underlying objective is almost, without fail, economical. Data is collected, analysed and then put to some commercial use. That means that data collected, most often

without any permission or consent, is then sold to parties who can gain leverage off of this information.

Let’s look at one example: the state of California buys more than 2 000 analysed satellite images annually, to see how their citrus crops, production and potential yield compare to almost every competitor in the world - from Chile to Argentina to Greece. These figures are monitored almost constantly, and as a result the Californian industry can prepare for every international market eventuality, months before the crops are even harvested! If you know what yield and quality your

main competitors are going to be taking to market, months before the fact, one can see that this information is phenomenally powerful.

Advance information like this is immensely powerful in every conceivable industry - not just agriculture. It allows those with access to the analysed data to see into the future - and to prepare for exact outcomes, not eventualities.

As an intellectual exercise, think about your current industry. Imagine you can actively monitor every one of your competitors almost in real time - and prepare accordingly for their future

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market positions - months in advance! This applies to mining and agriculture through to fishing and tourism.

Not fair, you say? The legal problem that all states face is that the upper limit of their sovereign airspace has never been set. This means there is no internationally recognised border where sovereign airspace stops, and outer space begins. Australia has recently set the upper limit of their sovereign airspace at 100 kilometres. All this means is that a satellite operating at 101 kilometres is now legally outside Australian airspace, and the proverbial hunting season is open! Many other states - including the huge space-faring nations like the USA, the Russian Federation, China, India, and the European Union, have not recognised or set an upper limit where their sovereign airspace stops, and outer space legally begins.

If a satellite is not in your airspace, you have no say over it - legally speaking. That means the activity of such a satellite is ruled by international laws other than the sensed state’s laws of privacy and sovereignty. See where this is going? In one country it may be illegal to play Peeping Tom; in a next, it may

be practically encouraged. If conducted from “neutral” outer space - whose laws apply? The short answer is this: no one is sure. The problem is this: no one has a solution!

Space Law is governed by five international treaties, which were subsequently signed and ratified by a diminishing number of sovereign nations between 1967 and 1979. It has been a full 36 years since the last internationally recognised space treaty was signed. In that time, the technological advances and applications for what space satellites are used for have literally exploded.

In the Geostationary Orbit, approximately 35 000 kilometres above earth, there are more than 400 active satellites. In the Geosynchronous orbit, some 42 000 kilometres above earth, there is an active satellite separated by only 73 kilometres from its nearest neighbour! There are an estimated 1 800 satellites in that orbit alone! Some are there for communications, some for GPS applications, some for outer space observation, and some look down on us. Some monitor weather, some say their purpose is of similar peaceful and innocent intent, and others are simply classified satellites “for national interest.”

In the formerly mentioned Space Treaties, there are a couple of modest principles to guard against potential apocalyptic applications of satellites. It is stated that no nuclear weapons, or weapons of mass destruction may be placed in space. You may find that a relief, but define a weapon of mass destruction. What must its killing potential be to be branded as such? If it can kill only 5 people, is it ‘harmless’ and ‘ok’ to have it up there? How about 50 or 500? The problem, again, is an elusive, vague, legal definition. Weapons in space, per se, were never banned. The definition prohibits weapons of mass destruction, and no one agrees on the definition of that.

There is the similarly altruistic principle of the demilitarisation of outer space. The underlying idea is that technology may not be employed that has a military application. However, please define a set of binoculars, a steak knife, or a magnifying glass. Are they peaceful, or not? It all hinges on its application. What it is ultimately used for, determines its ultimate definition. If the same satellite monitors a wildfire in the Australian outback, and enables fire fighters and rescue operations to save and evacuate people and property - it

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would be classified as humanitarian, and essential. But if that same satellite’s images are used to monitor a state’s military manoeuvres the next day - and parting with that information for a small fee - what shall we classify it as now? The reality is that this is exactly the scenario. As a set of binoculars can be used for bird watching, and less savoury applications, the same applies for satellites. The problem is that one can far more easily police a misguided binocular-wielding person in one’s own country, than a satellite travelling at 40 000 kilometres an hour, while monitoring and recording everything with impunity even through dense cloud and smoke.

Many - noticeably African and other Third World countries - have recognised the importance of this new and staggering development, but have been hamstrung by the prohibitive costs to procure, launch and maintain own satellites.

A country like Brazil has recognised the strategic importance of having access to analysed satellite data for a host of very obvious reasons. Instead of deploying their own costly hardware, they seem to have opted for collating and purchasing

commercially available data from a host of private satellite operators, and thereby levelling the playing field. With the vast number of satellite operators and data being available, this seems like the most practical solution - and one most African countries and multinational companies are well advised to consider - unless “flying blind” is a commercial activity and vision that appeals for its adrenaline inducing properties!

Big Brother is no longer a singular ham-fisted schoolyard bully to watch with a beady eye. There are now thousands of Big Brothers up there; watching, recording activities and developments with staggering national and multinational importance - every second, each day. It is no longer in the sphere of science fiction either. This massive phenomenon shapes our world, our future and our economies, every second of every day!

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Shout it from the rooftopsFrance declares all new rooftops must be topped with plants or solar panels.

By: CSGlobe | The World Online

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A new law recently passed in France mandates that all new buildings,

which are built in commercial zones, must be partially covered in either plants or solar panels. Green roofs have an isolating effect, which helps to reduce the amount of energy needed to heat a building during the winter or cool it in the

summer. They are capable of retaining rainwater and reducing problems with runoff, as well as offering birds a place to call home in the urban jungle.

French environmental activists originally wanted to pass a law that would make the green roofs cover the entire surface of all new roofs. However,

partially covered roofs make for a great start and are still a huge step in the right direction. Some say the law that was passed is actually better, as it gives the business owners a chance to install solar panels to help provide the buildings with renewable energy, thereby leaving an even smaller carbon footprint.

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Green roofs are already very popular in Germany and Australia, as well as Canada’s city of Toronto! This by-law was adopted in 2009 by the city of Toronto, which mandated green roofs on all new industrial and residential buildings.

Benefits of Green RoofsThere are so many benefits to green roofs. Here are just a few:

● Adding natural beauty and major aesthetic improvement to buildings, which can, in turn, increase the investment opportunity.

● Helping contribute to landfill diversion by prolonging the life of waterproofing

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membranes, using recycled materials, and prolonging the service of heating, ventilation, and HVAC systems through decreased use.

● Assisting with storm water management because water is stored by the substrate, then taken up by plants, and thus returned to the atmosphere through transpiration and evaporation. They also retain rainwater, moderate the temperature of the water and act as natural filters for the water that does run off. They delay the time at which runoff occurs, which results in decreased stress on sewer systems during peak periods.

● The plants on green roofs do a great job of capturing airborne pollutants and other atmospheric deposition. They can also filter noxious gasses.

● They open up new areas for community gardens, commercial and recreational space in busy cities where this space is generally quite limited.

France is definitely on the right track, but it should be a mandate that all new buildings, being built worldwide, must adopt this amazing idea to reap all of the potential benefits.

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Burning mountains

By: Axel Kreuter Photographs by: Alpsolut/Hannes Mair

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Namibia, a wide open land of extreme harshness and surreal rocks. Three mountain bikers from Austria set out to explore the granite of the “burning mountains” for a rideable trail. A bike adventure into

unknown terrain and a story of failure and triumph.

There is still room for sure to further push the limits of mountain biking

in terms of technical difficulty, but another line of thought had developed in my mind: why not take our bikes and skills and move to new grounds, to a totally different kind of mountain, outside the Alps, outside the familiarity of vertriding technical but mostly well maintained hiking trails.

I grew up in South Africa and I still had vivid memories of Namibia: the wide open, simply vast land, the contrasts of colour and light, the dry heat, and the night skies. It had hit some resonance in me. Now it was time to return to Africa. We would explore the Brandberg Massive, just north of the Tropic of Capricorn. The 130 million years old accumulation of granite hosts the highest mountain in Namibia, 2 600 metres above a savanna plain. The absolute remoteness and harshness of the environment struck my

imagination. How would our experience translate in such a terrain, isolated in a remote and harsh environment? We were a group of three riders to find out: Sylvia, Lars and myself.

Already during the first hours of hiking, reality had kicked in and made it pretty clear that this was indeed no bike terrain, rideable sections were rare. Not because of the topography but because of the lack of a defined path and the abundance of wild vegetation. The rainy season had been good, after three years of drought, so the grass and bushes were going strong. We had our first break around noon. The dry heat was not unbearable, but you would rather seek the shade of some of the large boulders. The typical African hiker’s diet: biltong, dried fruit and nuts.

We reached the prominent steep slab with the white stripe that we could already see from the base camp. From

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the top, the granite started off almost flat and curved down, becoming steeper, and ending nearly vertically in a gully. One would have to make a well-defined traverse and exit the slab at a lonely tree. So on the way back, a good length of beautiful riding was ensured. I kept saying that at least it was something. Not that I had promised Sylvia and Lars a perfect bike park, but hiking the bikes for three days for a ten metre ride, might be putting some tension on to the group.

We reached the ‘longest pool’ campground just before sunset. The last rays of sun touched over the silvery grass. It was near perfect scenery; we lit a fire, started cooking a rustic dish and talked into the night under the Southern Cross sky. As Colin explained, “In Africa we share everything. We share the food, the stories, and the mountain. But we do not share everything, we do not share our wives. That is the red line, and you should never cross it.”

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The next day we reached the summit of Königstein. The panorama was unsurpassed. Our heads were turning around to digest the views over the genuine African savanna, which reflected the light brownish colour of a lion’s back. A cool, refreshing breeze was blowing at the top, and in that moment we felt victory! Slowly the thoughts of our bikes crept back into our minds.

And what a good first surprise: the first elevation drop from the summit to the first plateau could be called rideable. Well, it was a hard fight to navigate through the bush in the fairly steep terrain, with the rumble of granite constantly slurring the tires’ direction. Nonetheless, it felt like biking.

The traverse through grass and a deep sand surface had the odd thorns sticking out. Punctures are a constant minor worry on such a trip. Then we entered a gorge and found a remarkable ride on a solid granite riverbed. Further down, the rock transformed into a labyrinth of giant boulders. In the greed for more photos, Hannes, the photographer, and I stayed behind. We started to hurry back to beat the beckoning twilight and at one stage we realised we had lost our path. When Colin had been leading the way, it was easy to follow. Now, every little stone on a rock could be taken as clue for the path. So we got ourselves into our first real time of trouble, which we managed to get ourselves out of too. It involved abandoning my bike behind an arbitrary rock in the labyrinth rock garden and scrambling through rough terrain towards the bearing where we were expecting the campground. We made it to the camp in the very last light of that memorable day.

The next problem was that this second night was not even planned; Colin had expected us to be back

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down at the base that day. It was no big deal, it just meant that the food ration now was a bit tight. After a whole day of hiking, biking and working, we shared one sachet of onion soup between the eight of us. Not to mention a cup of tea and a chocolate biscuit for dessert. I kept marvelling at how such a dinner could be enough after such an amazing day. But not everybody wanted to agree on that description of the meal.

Finally, the next day, we reached the granite slabs. It was truly a magical ride. The rough, brittle but hard granite surface was a novelty for my tyres. Riding into the steep and open surface did induce some feeling of exposure, but at the same time a sincere sensation of freedom. We reached the cars at our base camp with euphoria. Smiley had been watching the parking area and was waiting for us already. And so were plenty of warm cans of beer.

We drove back for two hours through the savanna on remote jeep tracks, back to Uis, back to so-called civilisation, and back to the rest camp where we had already pitched our tents. The atmosphere was ebullient; everybody was talking until we remembered we had not eaten for a while. As an earnest celebration, we had a communal feast with T-bone steaks. We talked and laughed into the night, until we realized, we had not slept comfortably for a while either. I cannot remember if I actually bothered to shower that night.

So was it worth it? Are you kidding me? Hell yeah!

“A real adventure is something you only in retrospect call good times” - proverb, origin unknown

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As a business owner, marketing or research manager, obtaining

affordable, quick and reliable market information often seems like a hopeless exercise. Instead of finding a better solution, you have just been forced to work around it. If you have to do market research, you focus on larger

projects; and then, of course, there is the continuous debate of cost versus financial benefit. Your internal research team probably works exclusively with your own data since it is not feasible to carry out competitor research; alternatively, you are using free survey software and trying to make sense of

Can market research be affordable?In today’s business environment, trying to make your budget work for your business takes concerted effort, but understanding your customer and your market is just as important.

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the results, while your customers become increasingly frustrated with your lack of responsiveness.

Whatever compromises you are making, you are probably not getting the best results and this, in turn, reflects poorly on you and your business’ performance.

It is a major balancing act Let us face it, usually owners and managers realise the benefit of proper marketing and/or market research, but they need to balance the expense against the available budget or funds.

Attempting to conduct some of this research yourself, you soon realise it is time consuming and, in some cases, ends up more expensive than hiring a consultant - the end result is not always what was intended. Some might even feel that because of this, research is a waste of time and money. Others may have contacted a research agency in the past and were dissatisfied with the services they offered, since some research agencies offer an all or nothing solution, which does not fit the business timeline or budget.

Data collection is expensive and time consuming. It becomes an even greater burden when you rely on a small team of your own employees to do it. You have tried to recruit your own respondents, but the process is tricky and you probably ended up with a smaller sample than you planned for, while using different criteria than you originally had in mind. Some owners and managers have come to accept these realities as part of business and their roles in it. There is an alternative – find the right company for the job. Market and/or marketing research is no longer reserved for large, blue-chip corporates.

What you are looking for is a company which specialises in providing affordable, reliable and accurate information that meets the budget and time constraints of modern businesses. Many businesses, big or small,

need research to answer a specific business question, so you need a company to work with you to ensure information gathered adds value to your business.

Find yourself a company with a cost-effective approach combined with new technology, you will find the cost of research is reduced and you will be equipped with knowledge you lacked previously.

Through proper market research, customers receive the service they expect, the products they need…and your business will grow, creating sustainable value to the local economy.

Contact: Vision Africa Research Services Namibia (Pty) Ltd8 Otto Nitzsche Street, Klein WindhoekP.O. Box 90700, Klein WindhoekNamibia Tel: +264 (0)61 244 660Fax: +264 (0)61 244 551www.vision-africa.com

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Cutting-edge crossoverHonda’s all-new crossover is an elegant yet highly practical beast

It seems that the market – not just in our part of the world but globally – is close

to limitless when it comes to crossover vehicles. The buying public just cannot get enough of them, with offerings from a plethora of motoring manufacturers varying from adequate to excellent, and everything in between.

Now just in case you are wondering, the all-new Honda HR-V fits irrevocably into the category of “excellent.” Which is pretty much what you would expect from a vehicle from this Japanese giant, which has so painstakingly forged an iron-clad reputation for building machines that not only excel in the reliability stakes but have a distinctly premium appeal.

It is a handsome vehicle, and as Honda itself says, while most contenders in this segment reflect a scaled-down SUV approach, the new Honda HR-V combines

the sleek aesthetics of a coupé-inspired design with the rugged attitude of a sports utility vehicle, and the space and versatility of an MPV.

So essentially you are getting the best of all worlds, and from any angle the HR-V is an aesthetically engaging, appealing beast indeed. Yet as with any Hondas, it never tends towards the flash or the vulgar.

In just one of the areas that the HR-V scores is space utilisation, while it is not an intimidatingly large vehicle by any means, the interior is capacious.

Honda’s unique Magic Seat system, already a hugely popular feature in the Jazz and Civic models, is also included, adding further practicality and flexibility to the interior. With the seats raised, the luggage compartment offers 393-litres of boot space. Fold the split rear seat, and cargo capacity increases to 1 002-litres.

By: James Siddall

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That is truly impressive. The cabin is also exceptionally well crafted, the list of standard equipment across the two-model range borders on lavish. Figure on the likes of electronically-operated windows and mirrors, remote central locking, air-conditioning, cruise control, a multi-function steering wheel and a multi-information trip computer.

Depending on the model, the new HR-V’s integrated infotainment system is controlled via a 5-inch monitor, or a 7-inch colour touchscreen display. Both systems feature Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free telephony and audio streaming, USB connections, a CD player, and multiple speakers. So there is no shortage of high-tech on this vehicle. But once again, because this is a Honda, all of that technology is eminently user-friendly.

Safety is taken care of by an array of passive and active safety systems. Passive measures include six airbags, head restraints, inertia reel seatbelts for all seating positions, and Honda’s Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body structure.

The ABS anti-lock brakes with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), Emergency Brake Assist (EBA) and Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) activation,

as well as Vehicle Stability Assist (VSA), Hill Start Assist (HSA), and a high-mounted LED rear brake light; are all included in the active systems.

Two power plants are available. Honda’s familiar 1 497cc in-line four-cylinder engine, already on offer in the new-generation Jazz and Ballade models, powers the HR-V 1.5 Comfort. Expect an output of 88kW and 145Nm, a zero-to-100km/h time of 12 seconds, as well as a top speed of 179km/h. Combined fuel consumption is just 6.2 litres per 100km.

The HR-V 1.8 Elegance, meanwhile, uses a 1 799cc four-cylinder engine, good for 105kW and 172Nm. This equates to a zero-to-100 km/h sprint time of 10.1 seconds, while the top speed is 188 km/h. Fuel consumption is 6.8 litres per 100 km, only fractionally up on its smaller sibling’s. Both models use a self-shifting CVT gearbox.

Under the skin, a highly rigid monocoque, employing a significant proportion of high-tensile steel, creates a stiff platform for the independent, MacPherson strut-based front suspension and torsion beam rear, ensuring effective damping.

Electric power steering is standard in the interests of overall efficiency, while a lower front and raised rear roll centre benefits overall stability and neutral, confident handling traits. The ABS braking system features discs all round. So you can expect sure-footed handling.

The new Honda HR-V is offered in a selection of seven especially elegant colours. As for the cost? For the HR-V 1.5 Comfort CVT you will pay R299 900, and for the HR-V 1.8 Elegance CVT R354 900. That includes a three-year/100 000 km warranty, a four-year/60 000 km service plan, and a one-year AA roadside assistance package.

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The wheel story - new model round upJames Siddall on what is happening in the wonderful world of wheels.

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Focus now!The Ford Focus ST has always been a little hand grenade of a car. Now it is more explosive than ever, with the advent of a new model that packs aggressive styling, uprated suspension, and top-notch in-car connectivity, which just skims the surface. Firepower comes from a 184kW 2.0-litre EcoBoost motor, making 184kW and 360Nm of torque. That is enough to launch the beast from 0-100km/h in 6.5 seconds, topping out at 248km/h.

You will pay R381 900 for the five-door ST1 model and R421 900 for the three-door ST3 model.

Everything keeps going rightThe market-leading Toyota Corolla

has just had a 2015 spec upgrade. Among some other things,

Daytime Running Lights are now standard across the range, the Sprinter gets Display Audio with reverse camera, and even the entry-level Esteem models now have Bluetooth functionality.

But prices are only fractionally up, between 0.5 percent to a maximum of 1.3 percent, and the prices for the vast 11-model range stretch from R230 500 for the 1.3 Esteem to R302 500 for the 1.8 Exclusive CVT.

Magical MiraiIf you thought hydrogen fuel cell vehicles were still stuck in the development stage, think again.

The new Toyota Mirai hydrogen fuel cell vehicle has proved itself in official US combined city/highway driving calculations with a range of 502km, averaging 3.5 litres per 100km.

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That is further than any other zero-emissions car on the market. Toyota will introduce the Mirai in limited numbers in the UK and other selected European markets later this year, following its launch in Japan as well as California. But there are not any current plans to bring the vehicle to our neck of the woods.

Captivating KiaKia just continues to go from good to brilliant. Say hello to the new third-generation Kia Sorento SUV,

which represents another big leap forward for the Korean manufacturer.

It is a large SUV, and an especially handsome one, with a distinctly premium appeal. It still contains the high levels of standard equipment we have come to expect from Kia. The new Kia Sorento SUV is also bigger than the outgoing Sorento, with a choice of a 2.4-litre petrol engine or a 2.2-litre turbo diesel power plant.

It is available in front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive, with a choice between the six-speed manual and the automatic transmissions – the combination dependent on the specification grade.

Prices range from R379 995 for the Sorento 2.4 LS to R634 995 for the Sorento 2.2 CRDi SX AWD.

People’s busThe VW T5 is part of our collective automotive conscience. It has recently become just a little more desirable with the introduction of the seven-speed DSG transmission in the Kombi 103kW derivative. Kombi is the bestselling derivative in the T5 model range, and I recently spent a week

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with one of these machines – which once more reminded me why we are crazy for them in our part of the world.

It is no slouch in power either. The 2.0-litre 103 kW common rail turbo diesel engine develops 340Nm of torque at just 2 500rpm, and it sails from rest to 100km/h in 10.2 seconds, topping out at 172km/h. Yet average fuel consumption is just eight litres per 100km.

Prices start at R486 200 for the Kombi. But if it is more sybaritism you seek, there is always the plush Carvelle. There are three Caravelles in the VW line up incidentally, and prices for these babies start at R655 400. Did anyone say “road trip?”

Bellissimo!Over the course of 105 years, Alfa Romeo has spawned cars ranging from good to great. The new Giulia fits firmly in the latter category, as was so clearly demonstrated at its recent world preview in Italy.

The range-topping Quadrifoglio version packs a six-cylinder turbo engine banging out around 380kW. That can hurl it from rest to 100km/h in 3.9 seconds. We do not like it. We love it.

Value leaderThe iconic Jeep Wrangler – and notably the 2015 model – seems to be a good place to park your bucks. After all, Edmunds.com, the US-based car-buying platform serving nearly 20 million visitors each month, has named the new 2015 Jeep Wrangler as the winner of its 2015 Best Retained Value Awards.

Magical MPVLet us be honest. Some MPVs are a little boring, but not the VW Touran, which packs the sort of premium build quality and feel that you would expect from this German marque mated to lashings

of practicality. The entire vehicle is imbued with Volkswagen design DNA, and boasts crisp, compact design and dimensions. It also has a five-star Euro NCAP rating, while the three rows of seats (which are an option) really do make it a vehicle for all seasons.

Standard equipment is lavish, and there is a choice of three engines. These options are two turbocharged petrol engines (making 77kW and 103kW) and a turbo diesel (81kW). Gearboxes include a six-speed manual and a six-speed DSG transmission.

Prices for this eminently practical yet rather alluring four-model range start at R300 400.

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The new BMW 7 seriesThe world’s most comfortable and advanced luxury sedan is here.

Production of the new BMW 7 Series 730d and 740i will start in July 2015,

with the 750i and 750Li planned to start in November 2015.

Having achieved outstanding advances in sporting performance and pioneering electric mobility with its BMW M and BMW i sub-brands, BMW is now applying the same commitment to the pursuit of superior comfort and contemporary luxury in the new BMW 7 Series. The upcoming sixth generation of the BMW flagship model represents a significant leap forward, which ensures it will outshine any comparable premium competitor for the foreseeable future. The new BMW 7 Series represents extraordinary luxury and comfort, a superior cabin ambience, pioneering innovations in all areas, as well as a unique combination of ride comfort and dynamic performance incorporated with by far the best fuel efficiency in its segment. Exclusive innovations include BMW Gesture Control for comfort functions, Remote Control Parking and the BMW Display Key, which provides access to important vehicle functions. Coupled with its prestigious

appearance, the BMW flagship model represents the most innovative and advanced luxury sedan in its class.

The new BMW flagship model will have its world premiere at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show.

At a glance: ● Sixth-generation BMW 7 Series ● Now more elegant, luxurious and comfortable than ever before

● New heights in combining ride comfort and dynamism

● At SoR (Start of Retail): BMW 730d, 740i, 750i and 750Li

● All engines best in class, in terms of power, efficiency and CO2

● Up to 130kg lighter than the previous generation

● Numerous world premieres in terms of equipment

● Media verdict: “New BMW 7 Series has squared the circle”

The new BMW 7 Series: the perfect luxury class automobile. Contact DANRIC Auto, Windhoek, for the experience of a lifetime.

Danric Auto: Cnr Bismarck Street and David Hosea Meroro Road, WindhoekTel: +264 (0)61 295 8100

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employee benefits

Do you have a gap?

...chances are that you do.

Most people are unaware of their retirement and insurance gap.

Only one in nine Namibians save for retirement in the form of a pension or provident fund. 88% will need help from the government or their family.

Almost 5% of our nation is disabled. More than half not being able to find a job.

FundsAtWork can assist you, as a business owner, to help your employees to close their retirement and insurance gaps.

The tooth fairy won’t.

www.fundsatwork.co.naTel: +264 61 297 3000

School Diary Advert - Nam EB - Children.indd 1 2014/04/24 8:49 AM

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The De Meye Estate is a family-owned boutique winery, situated in lush Muldersvlei on the Stellenbosch Wine Route,

South Africa’s most prestigious winemaking region, the jewel in Stellenbosch’s Crown.

De Meye

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Hidden away in the Muldersvlei, on Stellenbosch’s famous Wine Route,

is the charming De Meye Wine Estate. Named after the De Meye River in Holland, this family-owned boutique winery has retained its old-world charm ever since the Myburgh family settled in South Africa in 1665. Five generations later, and not much has changed. Owner Philip Myburgh and his team still like to keep things simple as they were back then, and believe the true elegance of the estate, and the wine it produces, lies in this simplicity.

This does not mean they have fallen behind with the times. Their winemaker, Marcus Milner, uses the latest techniques to make elegant, well balanced wines made from the farm’s hand-picked and hand-sorted grapes that are cultivated on the farm’s rich, fertile soil, which is perfect for growing grapes of superior quality. However, in order to sustain this quality Mother Nature needs to be respected, and along with modern vineyard managing techniques, great care is taken to bringing grapes from vineyard to cellar, ensuring De Meye can continue producing world-class wines for many generations to come. The farm currently

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produces grapes for Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Shiraz reds and rosé, along with Chardonnay and Chenin Blanc white varieties.

De Meye is not only about making great wines, but also great food, and The Table at De Meye, the estate’s quaint little restaurant, showcases the simple art of beautifully cooked meals that are a passion on this wine estate. Owner chef Jessica Shepherd, and her husband Luke Grant, pour their hearts into their food and create a welcoming atmosphere for lazy summer lunches under the trees, and cosy home-cooked winter meals by the fireplace. Situated on the Old Paarl Road just north of Stellenbosch, De Meye Wine Estate will charm you with its old-world beauty, delight you with its selection of world-class wines, and make you feel at home at The Table. So make sure you put this hidden gem of the Stellenbosch Wine Route on top of your list, on your next visit to South Africa’s greatest wine region.

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The Windhoek Country Club Resort offers businessmen, conference delegates and

families a unique combination of exceptional service, and luxurious accommodation.

Your Namibian Gem

WindhoekCountry Club Resort

• 152 rooms & suites • 3km from Eros Airport • 2 restaurants & bars • 24 hour room service • Desert Jewel casino • 18-hole golf course

• Conferencing for up to 800 delegates • Outdoor swimming pool • Lazy river • Fully equipped fitness centre

Contact DetailsTel: +264 (0) 61 205 5109/5911

Fax: +264 (0) 61 205 2797windhoek@legacyhotels.com

The Swakopmund Hotel & Entertainment Centre offers the perfect balance between charming, old world

tradition with the thrill and excitement of modern day entertainment, be it the Casino & Entertainment

Centre, dune boarding, quad biking, golf at the nearby desert course, the dolphins and the flamingos of Walvis

or a romantic banquet in the desert.

Where The Skeleton Coast Comes To Life

SWAKOPMUND HOTEL& ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE

• 90 Rooms• 47km from Walvis Bay Airport• 2 Restaurants• 24 Hour Room Service• Mermaid Casino• Sightseeing Tours & Excursions

• Conferencing for up to 480 delegates• Outdoor Swimming Pool• Fully Equipped Gym• Hair Salon & Spa• 2 Cinemas

Contact DetailsTel: +264 (0) 64 410 5200Fax: +264 (0) 64 410 5360

swakopmund@legacyhotels.com

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1st namibian solar powered companysupporting rhino conservation natural mountain minerals

Rhino Facts: In the late 1970s aggressive poaching took the Namibian Black Rhino to the brink of extinction. Thousands of rhino were slaughtered to satisfy the demand for fashion accessories and oriental medicines. By the early 1980s the population had plummeted from 65,000 to just 60. The ‘Rhino for Erongo’ project was established to reintroduce and conserve rhino in the Erongo region, reintrodu-cing Black Rhino into the area after the last of its kind was caught in 1974. For every bottle of OASIS sold a contribution is made to the ‘Rhino for Erongo’ project, helping to conserve and protect these beautiful creatures.

UNION TILES WINDHOEK (PTY) LTDCnr. Daimler Street & Mandume Ndemufayo Avenue, Windhoek, NAMIBIA

TEL: 00264 61 271 296/7 FAX: 00264 61 271 299Email: windhoek@uniontiles.co.za Web: www.uniontiles.co.za

Stone type: Travertino Classico, size 610x610mm

Photograph: “Courtesy of the Royal Elephant Hotel & Conference Centre” based in Midrand, Centurion

* Marble * Granite * Sandstone * Slate * Quartzite * Travertine * Limestone ** Ceramic * Porcelain * Mosaics * Rivens & Cladding * Terrazzo * Exposed Aggregate *

So much more for you !

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Namibia doesn’t have it all

As a corporate attorney doing mostly mergers and acquisitions, I often

find myself advising foreign clients as much about Namibia as a positive investment destination as I advise on the Namibian Law.

It is, therefore, fascinating for me to see how other sectors, especially the Namibian tourism industry, market our unique and very special product sold under the brand name “Namibia.” Almost every new piece of marketing material adds something more to the basket of “goodies.” The time of marketing Namibia only through its Big Five, sand dunes, and seals are long gone. It now includes bugs of all sizes, shapes and colours, star gazing (which is a product everyone in the world has, but sadly cannot see), hot air ballooning, fishing, hunting, quad biking, dolphin watching, oyster eating, canoeing, Joe’s Beerhouse, Brauhaus, as well as so much more. Make no mistake, these are truly marketable features and it comes to mind that it cost the Walt Disney Company N$5.7 billion to build something that people can experience and see, whilst God thought it good to give all of this to Namibia for free.

But somehow I still fail to see from other marketers of this unique product any reference to those things that Namibia lacks. With the modern direction being to penalise people for all sorts of things that

they do not do, such as having to look after the interests of your competitor (otherwise you are anti-competitive - weird), not bragging too much about the qualities of your unique product (otherwise the media ombudsman will charge you with unbalanced advertising), and so on.

So here follows a list of things that Namibia lacks and which not only bring balance to the hype that the hospitality industry tries to create through its advertising, but which, in some weird way (I found), does much more for a potential visitor or investor than the Big Five:

● Downsides: Namibia does not have Ebola, Yellow Fever, SARS, H1N1, MERS, or even malaria (unless you travel to the most northern parts of Namibia). A quick peep on the World Health Organisation website under the heading “Disease Outbreaks by Country” shows the following for Namibia: “7 June 2006: Polio Myelitis in Namibia, and 11 May 1999: 1999-Plague in Namibia.” Now having lived in Namibia during both those periods, it certainly was not so bad that people remember it. What is, however, important is that the last outbreak of any significance, which required reporting by the World Health Organisation, happened 9 years ago. And in the entire existence of reporting by the WHO, only two events were reported.

● Terrorists: One’s heart genuinely goes out to countries all over the world where terrorism has ruined not only the tourism sector but also whole economies, and it is certainly something that can happen to any country on any given day. But until that day, Namibia is totally free of this evil.

● Airline Accidents: The national airline of Namibia, previously Namib Air and today known as Air Namibia, has been in existence in its current form for 27 years without a single incident in which any passenger lost its life.

● Natural Disasters: Namibia is extremely blessed with an abundance of natural resources and zero natural disasters. Although in some areas of Namibia certain people still argue that they have felt tremors on a certain windy day in the Winter of 1977, it has still not being confirmed what the cause was, but it was certainly not of the magnitude that can be measured on the Richter scale. As for floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, tsunamis and the like, Namibians have to revert to their television sets to understand the concept.

Maybe the above are not shortcomings regularly seen in the marketing material of the Namibian Tourism Board, but when you decide to consider Namibia as a potential investment destination, less is certainly more.

By: Philip Ellis & Partners

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Nitzsche-ReiterSince 1934

www.nitrei.iway.na

● Cameras and photographic equipment● Data cards and batteries● Binoculars and tripods● Film and accessories

t: +264 61 231116 e: nitrei@iway.naSanlam Centre, Ground Floor Shop 20Independence AvenueWindhoek, Namibia

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Asset Management

Unit Trusts Retirement Funds Offshore InvestmentsInvestec Asset Management Namibia is approved by the Namibia Financial Institutions Supervisory Authority. Past performance does not indicate future performance.

An investment as dependable as our sunshine.The Investec Namibia Managed Fund is a multi-asset fund with a diverse portfolio of equities, bonds, cash, property and offshore investments. It has delivered dependable, inflation-beating returns for over 18 years, making it one of Namibia’s favourite long-term investment choices.

Visit investecassetmanagement.com, contact your financial advisor or call us on 061 389 500.

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Halfway between Windhoek & Etosha

Flamingo_Ad_297x210.indd 1 2014/12/10 3:24 PM

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Horseback safari – The ultimate experience?

Been through the desert on a horse with no name? Probably not…but others have, and they know you will find this experience is one of life’s

most extraordinary journeys, all 360 kilometres of it.

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One cannot fail to be intrinsically affected by spending time in the

desert. To be within something so vast, and to have that much space and nothingness around you, is a feeling we rarely get in today’s world. It gives you a perspective from which you naturally begin to consider your life and your values.

Namibia Horse Safaris in Namibia offers what today has become the ultimate luxury – SPACE, in a very different way, on a horse of course!

“You don’t even have to understand the desert: all you have to do is contemplate a simple grain of sand, and you will see in it all the marvels of creation,” spoken by the Alchemist in Paulo Coelho’s popular story - he teaches a young boy that by looking more closely at the simple things in life, one can understand the bigger picture. To combine this introspection with adventure, wildlife, the comforts of a top end safari operation, and stunning horses is a trip of a lifetime.

Our journey was to cross the arid, remote, and barely ever traversed, Southern Namib Desert with its roving red dunes… on a horse. Namibia Horse Safari Company

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had been the first to pioneer this route a year before, and much of our 360km ride towards the Skeleton Coast would be unchartered territory.

The excitement and enormity of what we were embarking on escalated on Day Four as our eyes panned around finding nothing but miles and miles of hot red sand dunes. Our backup vehicle was forced to abandon us, and the only shade that day would be in the shadow of our horses. Still, spirits were high and with our saddlebags stuffed with biltong, a camera and four litres of water each, we set off chatting and laughing as we had done every day since we met our fellow adventurers in Namibia’s capital city, Windhoek, four days earlier for a sundowner and planning meeting.

Water - and water sources - is a daily consideration when planning a trip of this magnitude, and it dictated many of our lunch stops as well as the route. The operations team allocates 120 litres per day for horse and rider. Just one gulp of a horse is roughly a litre so with ten horses on the trip, each break for water can see over three hundred litres consumed. Reservoirs and old farmhouses with boreholes provide a welcome opportunity en route to re-fill our tanks and even have a swim al la birthday suit!

Namibia Horse Safari Company has been in successful operation for over twenty years and runs ten rides a year, one of which is an exploratory ride to pioneer new routes. The rides can be challenging and most of the camps are wild and remote, so you quickly learn to look out for each other and take care of yourself and your horse. The thrill seeking, soul-searching, intrepid explorer, or just the pure horse lover, will all get their fix from joining these amazing adventures. Incredibly, riders on these safaris are not spared their creature comforts. Andrew Gillies, Master Guide, Director and Horseman, together with his fun-loving

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expert team, mixes drinks and serves cuisine delectable by any restaurant’s standard to the wonderment of the guests. To think that we were drinking our gin and tonics with ice and lime, and being served hot lunches and three course dinners from a campfire and a potjie pot, was something to be marvelled at.

Sleeping under the Southern Cross with the Milky Way painted across the sky, more vivid than you can imagine, takes on a whole new meaning when you are engulfed in a five hundred thread Egyptian cotton duvet cover!

The planning and precision of the operation is outstanding. Every last wine glass, fork and condiment had its place on our travelling kitchen. Designed and crafted personally by our guide, Telane Greyling, it left nothing amiss from our now seemingly extravagant life.

The horses were also a joy, each one kind-natured and incredibly fit. We were delighted that even after a six-kilometre gallop they made us feel light as a feather, as they walked out with as much energy and spirit as they had when they had started the trip.

Our ten-day expedition was to culminate with a rare viewing and interaction with

the Namib Wild Horses. For decades their origin was shrouded in mystery. How and why these horses came to inhabit such a harsh environment was perplexing. It turns out that in fact, they were there for perhaps the very same reason as us - to escape and to be free.

During World War One, the Union of South Africa troops were stationed at

Garub with some 6 000 cavalry horses. An official war report describes how in March 1915, German forces dropped bombs onto this enemy camp scattering the horses, many of which would have fled into the desert. Another more romantic origin of the Namib Wild Horse takes us back to the famous diamond rush of the early 1900s, the remains of which can still be seen today

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at Kolmanskop. This area boomed in 1908 when Emil Kreplin was mayor. He bred workhorses for the mines, and racehorses for the newly wealthy inhabitants. With the onset of Europe’s great depression after the war, demand for diamonds rapidly diminished. The town of Kolmanskop and many of the horses were abandoned, and the desert sand took its ownership of them both.

Fortunately for the horses, Garub and its surrounding land formed part of the Sperrgebiet – a highly protected, strictly prohibited piece of land for its likely abundance of diamonds. This gave the horses the protection from hunters or thieves that they needed to survive, and develop into what is now considered a pure breed of horse – the Namib Desert Horse.

Dr Telane Greyling has studied these horses for a little over 20 years, and she is now the leading authority on the subject. Her foundation ‘Namibia Wild Horses’ is dedicated to protecting these horses in their most natural way of life. Namibia Horse Safaris is honoured to have Telane co-guiding these rides. Her passion and dedication is incredible, and

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her horsemanship commands a tangible respect from all those lucky enough to meet her.

And so our trip ended with a last sundowner in a hide, watching the wild horses and oryx drink and play at the watering hole. As the wind blew over the sand dunes, our hoof prints were erased and no mark of us was left. We were merely a moment, a passing occurrence in this land, as indeed we are on earth. The Namib Desert is reputed to be over 240 million years old. What is eight days in millions of eons? The reality of our insignificance was deafening. We were a guest in this desert, and had surrendered our very being to it.

All five of us came to Namibia on our own journey. Within hours we became an integral part of each other’s paths and, as we sipped champagne, and dismounted for the last time (yes in that order), we finished our journey as one. Friends forever bound by the shared memories of a once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

To find out more about riding safaris in Namibia, contact Kate Coleridge at Handpicked Africa: +44 (0)208 354 0458kate@handpickedafrica.co.uk www.namibiahorsesafari.com www.facebook.com/NamibiaHorseSafariCompany

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Ideally situated in the heart of Windhoek CBD, Fig Tree Guesthouse operating in Bed & Breakfast Style, offers boutique accommodation to business executives and elegant tourists. This timelessly stylish guesthouse offers you comfortable accommodation in a relaxed atmosphere, with that extra personal touch. Guests can unwind at the swimming pool, gym or in the shade on our “deck”.

A delicious breakfast is served daily, while lunch and dinner can be supplied on pre-order. Enjoy a good night’s rest in one of our well-appointed and comfortably furnished, en-suite bed bedrooms.

A-grade beds/mattress/bed-linen, air-conditioning, satellite-TV, assist-kitchenette, safe and printer will make your stay comfortably unforgettable.

t: (+264) 61 400 966 w: www.figtree.com.na

t: (+264) 61 400 967 e: info@figtree.com.na

c: (+264) 81 140 0090 t: 11 Robert Mugabe Ave, Windhoek

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Ski Package Includes Ski Package Excludes

Return fl ights from Windhoek via Johannesburg and Dubai to Malpensa, Italy

Passport & Visa’s

Arrival Malpensa – Livigno Airport Shuttle Transfer

Meals & Drinks not mentioned

7 nights Double accommodation at Hotel Bernina 2* with Bed & Breakfast (1 room)

Gratuities & Items of personal nature

6 Day Adult Ski Pass Courier Fees if applicable

6 Day Ski Hire Adult (Boots, poles & Ski’s) Ski Lessons (6 Day Group lesson 2hrs per day): R1 591.83pp (Optional extra unless otherwise stated)

Ski Buff (Neck warmer) Entertainment Programme (4 x 3 course dinner at diff erent venues): R2 508.56per adult (Optional extra unless otherwise stated)

Representation & Ski Guiding NB: All passengers under 18 will need an un-abridged birth certifi cate

10 Days ZURICH Travel Insurance 25million per person

Return Malpensa Airport Shuttle transfer

Skiing in Livigno, ItalyDate: 5 - 12 December 2015N$ 23 955.00 per person sharing

● High Altitude resort 1800m-3000m ● Duty Free shopping Municipality ● Superb skiing for beginners

and intermediates ● Great Kids ski facility’s ● Excellent night life ● Pure ski Hosted resort ● Value-for-money resort ● Pure Skiing entertainment package.

Standard terms & conditions apply. Rates subject to rate of exchange

changes prior to full payment being received. Rates subject to

availability at time of booking. Rates are to serve as an indication only

and rates should be checked prior th use in advertising or marketing

mediums. Rates subject to 30 day advance purchase

Leisure@rennies.hrgworldwide.comwww.renniestravelnamibia.com

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Hasselt Optics, Windhoek t: +264 61 377800 f: +264 61 377801e: hoadmin@optometrist.com.na

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YourAfricanjourney

D A A N V I L J O E NN A M I B I A

Sun Karros Daan Viljoen is a stylish yet relaxed lodge a mere 20km from Windhoek. Located inside the Daan Viljoen Game Park a perfect start or end destination for your safari.

We offer overnight options to all nature enthusiasts be it on a comfortable camp site for the outdoor adventurer or in a modern stylish chalet for the nature lover enjoying the fine comforts in life.

A visit to the Daan Viljoen Game Park is a must when passing through Windhoek. Day visitors welcome to visit our Boma Restaurant.

www.sunkarros.com

Call: +264 61 232393 Email: reservations@sunkarros.com

Follow us: Facebook “sunkarros” |

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TO BE AT THE HEART OF 25 YEARS OF THE NATION’S PROGRESS

We are happy to join the rest of Namibia in celebrating 25 years of a nation unlocking the sparkle of freedom. Shine on Namibia.

DEBMARINE NAMIBIANamdeb Centre 10 Dr Frans Indongo StreetP.O. Box 23016 Windhoek, NamibiaTel: + 264 61 297 8000, Fax: + 264 61 2978100

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IS ROCK-HARD DEDICATIONIS ROCK-HARD DEDICATIONBEHIND EVERY SMOOTH RIDE

You might not see or hear us, but we're with you: every mile of every journey. Before and after every road is created, the Roads Authority team

works tirelessly to ensure your smooth and safe journey. Please adhere to all traffic rules and regulations. Do not overtake at blind spots.

The life you safe could be yours.

Private Bag 12030, Ausspannplatz | Windhoek, Namibia | Tel: +264 61 284 7000

Fax: +246 61 284 7655 | Email: pr@ra.org.na | Web: www.ra.org.na

Private Bag 12030, Ausspannplatz | Windhoek, Namibia | Tel: +264 61 284 7000

Fax: +246 61 284 7655 | Email: pr@ra.org.na | Web: www.ra.org.na

Private Bag 12030, Ausspannplatz | Windhoek, Namibia | Tel: +264 61 284 7000Private Bag 12030, Ausspannplatz | Windhoek, Namibia | Tel: +264 61 284 7000Private Bag 12030, Ausspannplatz | Windhoek, Namibia | Tel: +264 61 284 7000

Fax: +246 61 284 7655 | Email: pr@ra.org.na | Web: www.ra.org.naFax: +246 61 284 7655 | Email: pr@ra.org.na | Web: www.ra.org.naFax: +246 61 284 7655 | Email: pr@ra.org.na | Web: www.ra.org.na

Private Bag 12030, Ausspannplatz | Windhoek, Namibia | Tel: +264 61 284 7000

Fax: +246 61 284 7655 | Email: pr@ra.org.na | Web: www.ra.org.na

72 |

Terms and conditions apply. www.fnbnamibia.com.na

explore Namibia with technology.

The Pocket Guide Namibia is the ultimate Namibian travel tool, connecting travellers with all the information they need to know for their Namibian experience. Download it now from your Android Play Store: http://buzz.mw/b6ttm_n

Introducing our new interactive tourism app, ‘FNB Namibia Pocket Guide’

Tourism A4.indd 1 7/8/15 6:01 PM

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7/8/15 6:01 PM

FOR BOOKINGSOR ENQUIRIES

+264 (0) 61 213 231 (Namibia)+27 (0) 21 430 5300 (South Africa)

info@proteahotels.com.naproteahotels.com

TRUE NAMIBIAN HOSPITALITY.

PHD

S 32

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15PH

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ENJOY TRUE NAMIBIAN HOSPITALITY IN THE LAND WHERE THE OCEAN MEETS THE DESERT.With ten hotels located across Namibia, Protea Hotels Namibia offers you a diverse experience, from the inland Etosha Pan supporting a large and varied wildlife on its plains, to the Walvis Bay Lagoon, one of the most important wetland areas on the African coastline. Protea Hotels Namibia can cater for any type of conference or team building activity, offering both full and half day conference packages.

PROTEA HOTEL PELICAN BAY WALVIS BAY

PROTEA HOTEL FÜRSTENHOF WINDHOEK

PROTEA HOTEL ZAMBEZI RIVERKATIMO MULILO

PROTEA HOTEL WALVIS BAYWALVIS BAY

106 |

SciTech source: www.tuvie.com

Stream your music wirelessly, with Bose SoundLink Colour Bluetooth SpeakerLooking for a great gift for a music lover? You should consider the Bose SoundLink Colour Bluetooth Speaker, especially for stylish people. This portable speaker comes in 5 colour options: black, blue, mint, red, and white.

There are many personal Bluetooth speakers in the market nowadays; it can be challenging to find the one that suits you best. The reason why we chose this

device to be featured here is due to its high portability and oversized sound, a boom box in a compact unit. The body is made out of durable materials; it features a rounded, compact shape that fits perfectly inside your bag. The wireless connection has a range of approximately 30 feet / 9.1 metres, so no need to hassle with wires. Simply pair it with your tablet, smartphone, or music player through Bluetooth technology.

From: Bose

Vespa 946 Emporio Armani - from two of Italy’s most iconic symbols of style and creativityPiaggio has teamed up with Giorgio Armani to develop the Vespa 946 Emporio Armani. It is a special project that celebrates two of Italy’s most iconic symbols of style and creativity. This special edition scooter marks the year 2015 as the 40th anniversary of the foundation of Giorgio Armani and at the same time, the 130th birthday of the Piaggio Group. In keeping up with Armani’s signature subdued colour palette, this Vespa model features a special combination of greys with subtle hints of green, which is only visible under particular light conditions.

The name itself, 946, marks the year of 1946, celebrating the first time this scooter was made. Since then, it has become iconic and famous all over the world. People can easily recognise this vehicle from afar simply due to the design. The Vespa 946 Emporio Armani represents a modern interpretation of the original Vespa style. You can see the words “Emporio Armani” on the side, while the iconic eagle logo is located above the headlight. The metallic parts have been treated in a way to blend harmoniously with the matt effect of the body finishing.

The Vespa 946 Emporio Armani is not only about technology but also style. Its aluminium cylinder blocks, brown leather finishes, and luxury accessories are combined with electronic

riding controls. It features a four-stroke electronic injection engine with enhanced fuel economy and minimal emissions, making this scooter ideal for city transportation. For maximum safety on the road, this scooter is equipped with 220mm double disc brakes, a 2-channel ABS braking system, and large 12-inch wheels.

Designer : Giorgio Armani

| 107

Dominic Wilcox GPS Shoes navigate you home from wherever you areNever get lost again with Dominic Wilcox GPS shoes; your shoes will navigate you home from wherever you are. Dominic Wilcox has developed a fully functional prototype of these shoes, so we have high hopes that we can soon wear them around. The designer inspiration came from the Wizard of Oz, where Dorothy can click her shoes to get her home, just like that.

Simply upload your destination to your shoes using custom-made mapping software and a USB cable. Since the GPS is embedded in the heel, you can activate it by a heel click, simple is it not? It will communicate to the wearer via a ring of LED lights that point in the required direction. The shoe which has GPS, will wirelessly communicate with the other shoe in order to inform you how close you are to the destination through the progress bar lights. It starts with a red light and finally ends with a green light when you have arrived to your destination. Dominic Wilcox GPS Shoes use mini-LED lights because they are visible outdoors in sunlight. It is a great choice instead of using digital display.

From: Dominic Wilcox

You can make your own wine with the Pinocchio Barrique BottleWith the Pinocchio Barrique Bottle, you do not need to make your wine inside of a barrel. This is the first oak bottle that allows you to make your own wine, whiskey, grappa or brandy. It is also suitable for all beverages with an alcohol content of more than 12%, even if previously bottled. Now everyone can have the chance to create, taste, and share his or her own production of wine.

This bottle offers one continuous form, where hardware and innovation function in perfect unison. The oak material comes from responsibly managed European FSC-certified forests, where it is naturally seasoned outdoors for at least 2 years. This bottle is created to take optimum advantage of what oak is capable of. It is easy to use and beautiful to look at.

Designer: Pinocchio Barrique

Aperture Wrench: Modern adjustable wrenchAperture Wrench is a modern adjustable wrench with a specially designed jaw to fit a wide range of nut sizes. Inspired by the apertures in cameras, this unique wrench would drastically reduce the amount of tools needed in

your workshop or toolbox. One tool rules them all; thanks to the unique jaw design, this wrench can be adjusted by rotating the side dial, then press the lock button to make sure the aperture size is locked.

Designer :

Jordan Steranka

108 |

GameVice Controller for iPad MiniHardware controllers are always better compared to touch controllers, do you not agree? That is why we still get to see manufacturers develop special controllers for our touch screen devices, one of them is the GameVice Controller.

This unit is especially designed for the iPad Mini to turn your tablet into a comfortable and powerful handheld gaming system. You can play many games

on the go in the same way as you play them at home. It features the classic D-pad and button configuration, a familiar configuration that

your fingers have loved for many years.

You can simply snap your iPad Mini onto this device and have a gaming console to go. This unit supports

thousands of games and it works with all iOS games that support controllers, so relax and enjoy.

From: GameVice

Smartflower Pop: The all-in-one solar system that directs its solar modular fan toward the sun automaticallyYou can produce clean energy right in your backyard thanks to Smartflower Pop, the world’s first all-in-one solar system. This solar system promises easy installation; a photovoltaic system that can be plugged in and work, just

like any other home appliance.The special construction,

along with its perfectly synchronised components, provide approximately 4 000 kWh per year. This means that this solar system can provide the average electricity requirement for a household in the central

European region. This device can combine with the Tesla Powerwall to bring you renewable energy for a better environment and dramatically reduce

your electricity bill.

From: Smartflower

QBracelet charges your smartphone in styleA stylish bracelet that doubles as your charger, the QBracelet is definitely dedicated to fashion-conscious people. Aside from charging your smartphone, it also charges your other gadgets. It features built-in rechargeable polymer lithium ion batteries with an Apple iPhone 5 lightning connector or a micro-USB for most Android smartphones. This portable charger might look small but it has the ability to power your devices in style.

The simple and minimalist design makes this bracelet suitable for both men and women; it does look like an elegant piece of jewellery, not a tacky one. Simply unfold the bracelet to find a pair of hidden charging connectors; you can use one connector to charge your phone and the other one to charge the bracelet. There are 4 LEDs that show you the charging state and battery level. Available in brushed black, matte black, matte silver, polished silver, and polished gold, you can also choose 3 different size options: small, medium, and large.

Designer: Q Designs

| 109

Dolfi - next generation washing deviceDolfi is a small device that could be our next generation of washing device. It is a simple white gadget that cleans clothes using the power of ultrasonic technology. The company explains that these precise, modulated ultrasonic waves can remove dirt and bacteria right down to the microscopic level, leaving your clothes fresh and clean. The name itself is a tribute to dolphins, those beautiful animals that are advanced users of ultrasound.

If this compact device works as promised, it could be the world’s smallest and gentlest washing device, which you can easily carry

anywhere. It fits perfectly in the palm of your hand. The size really does not describe the power that this gadget has. Imagine that you can always

have clean and fresh clothes, at home or on the go.

The idea of Dolfi was inspired by a few terrible experiences with laundry

services during extensive travel. Lena Solis, the founder of Dolfi, thought that there should be an easy and efficient way to get your clothes clean. Keeping that in mind, Solis had the idea of utilising ultrasound, which has been successfully used in many industrial and medical applications for many years. Lena Solis believes that this ultrasonic technology might change the way we wash.

Since Dolfi uses ultrasonic waves, the fabric of your clothes will not suffer discolouration or damage. You can easily clean your delicates, cashmere, or even lace. There is no longer a need for a costly laundry service.

Designer: Lata Studio

Aumeo Audio: A portable audio-tailoring device to personalise your audio experienceOur ears interpret a range of audio frequencies in different ways. Just as a human has unique fingerprints, each person has a different way of perceiving sounds. Aumeo Audio is a pocket-sized audio device that allows you to personalise your audio experience. It is equipped with award-winning technology, to map your hearing sensitivity to different sounds and to adjust your music based on your audio profile. It sounds pretty cool, does it not? Can you imagine that you can listen to a tailored audio that custom fits your ears only?

Do you know that not only do individuals perceive sounds differently, but also it differs between left ear and right ear, depending on environment, age, and personal habits? Listening to high volume music can permanently damage your hearing. This audio device makes sure that you receive an unprecedented listening experience, your music is personalised and tuned to your hearing sensibility.

When you connect this unit to a standard set of speakers or a headset, it takes a 6-frequency hearing measurement of the user, then analyses the data. It can also store multiple user

profiles. When you connect this device to a music player, Aumeo Audio will retrieve your custom profile and map the outgoing sound to it, giving you unparalleled full range sound, and impressive audio precision to keep your ears unspoiled.

Aumeo Audio features Bluetooth connectivity, 3.5mm audio input and output, and a micro-USB charger. Aside from providing you with superior quality, this unit also has a beautiful aesthetic design. It features a sleek aluminium unibody case and a main knob for smooth, one-touch volume adjustment. There are 6 LEDs that light up when in use.

Designer: Andrea Ponti

100 |

Independently owned and operated by Trip Travel (Pty) Ltd

GLOBAL TRAVEL PARTNER NETWORK

Trip Travel American Express

WE CONNECT THE WORLDTHROugH TRAvEL SERviCES

Your leading travel management company in Namibia.

For a comprehensive presentation contact:Herbert Burmeister on +264 61 285 5700 or email herbert@trip.com.na

| 101

ALL INCLUSIVE AUSTRIAN RESORT

NASSFELD

4* ROBINSON CLUB SCHLANITZEN ALM

from N$13,210 pp

INCL: 7 nights’ accommodation in a 4* hotel

full board by Robinson (incl. all meals, beer, wine and assorted soft drinks

& snacks) evening entertainment Ski Pass

Ski school travel insurance Pure Ski

accessories kids club and more.

EXCL: Passports and visas

gratuities of a personal nature courier fees if

applicable airfare taxes and surcharges Ski Hire

and return transfers

VALID: 12 - 19 December 2015

7 NIGHTS CHRISTMAS SPECIALSAALBACH, AUSTRIA

From N$20,190 pp sharing

EXCL: 06 Day SKI School (+/- N$3,350) Entertainment dinners (+/- N$2,220 p/adult)

7 NIGHTS CHRISTMAS SPECIALST JOHANN, AUSTRIA

From N$17,620 pp EXCL: 5 Day SKI School (+/- N$2,200)

Entertainment dinners (+/- N$2,700 p/adult)

7 NIGHTS CHRISTMAS SPECIALLIVIGNO, ITALY

From N$17,800 pp sharing

EXCL: 06 Day SKI School (+/- N$1,950) Entertainment dinners (+/- N$2,860p/adult)

Packages include: Return resort transfers 7 nights’ B&B

accommodation resort guide travel insurance Christmas dinner 6 day Ski Pass

6 day ski hire

VALID: 19 - 26 December 2016

7 NIGHTS JANUARY SPECIALST JOHANN, AUSTRIA

from N$14,100 pp

EXCL: 5 Day SKI School (+/- N$2,200) Entertainment dinners (+/- N$2,700 p/adult)

7 NIGHTS JANUARY SPECIAL LIVIGNO, ITALY

from N$14,420 pp sharing

EXCL: 06 Day SKI School (+/- N$1,950) Entertainment dinners (+/- N$2,860 p/adult)

Packages include:Return resort transfers 7 nights’ B&B accommodation resort guide travel

insurance 06 day Ski Pass 06 day ski hire

VALID: 09 - 16 January 2016

flamingo@trip.com.na

www.trip.com.na

Tel: +264 61 285 5700

Fax: +264 61 225 430

SKIING is a dance, and the mountain always leads

112 |

The holy passion of Friendship is so sweet and steady and loyal and enduring a nature that it will last through a whole lifetime, if not asked to lend money. - Mark Twain

Friendship is like peeing in your pants. Everyone can see it, but only you can feel the warm feeling inside. - Unknown

You can always tell a real friend: when you have made a fool of yourself, he does not feel you have done a permanent job. - Laurence J. Peter

There are three faithful friends: an old wife, an old dog, and ready money. - Benjamin Franklin

Friendship is born at that moment when one person says to another, ‘What! You too? I thought I was the only one.’ - C.S. Lewis

The capacity for friendship is God’s way of apologising for our families. - Jay McInerney

The imaginary friends I had as a kid dropped me because their friends thought I did not exist. - Aaron Machado

Outside of a dog, a book is man’s best friend. Inside of a dog it is too dark to read. - Groucho Marx

A girl is sitting at the bar in a local tavern, furiously imbibing shots of whiskey. Her best

friend comes into the bar and sees her.“Mary!!!” says the shocked friend, “What are

you doing? I’ve known you for over fifteen years, and I’ve never seen you take a drink before.

What’s going on?”Without even taking her eyes off her newly

filled shot glass, Mary replies, “My husband just ran off with my best friend.”

“But,” says her friend, “I’m your best friend!”Mary turns to her friend, looks at her

through bloodshot eyes, smiles, and then slurs,

“Not anymore! ... She is!”

112 |

High

Friends are people who know you really well and like you anyway.

- Greg Tamblyn

humour

| 113

There is nothing better than a friend, unless it is a friend with chocolate. - Linda Grayson

Love is blind; friendship tries not to notice. - Otto von Bismarck

“Money can’t buy friends, but you can get a better class of

enemy.” - Spike Milligan

It is more fun to talk with someone who doesn’t use long, difficult words but rather short, easy words like, ‘What about lunch?’ - A.A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh

Mail your submission to humor@media-namibia.com and you might become our latest high altitude joker.

My mother used to say that there are no strangers, only friends you have not met yet. She is now in a maximum

security twilight home in Australia! - Dame Edna Everage

I bet dying vultures have lots of awkward moments with their friends. - Guy Endore-KaiserSometimes me think, ‘What is friend?’ Then me say, ‘Friend is

someone to share the last cookie with.’ - Cookie Monster

A true friend is someone who thinks that you

are a good egg even though he knows that

you are slightly cracked.

- Bernard Meltzer

When you are in jail, a good friend will be trying to bail you out. A best friend will be in the cell next to you saying, ‘Damn, that was fun.’ - Groucho Marx

You and I are more than friends. We are like a really small gang. - Unknown

Between friends, differences in taste or opinion are irritating in direct proportion to their triviality. - W.H. Auden

Friends give you a shoulder to cry on, but best friends are ready with a shovel to hurt the person that made you cry. - Unknown

Friendship will not stand the strain of very good advice for very long. - Robert Staughton Lynd

| 113

114 |

Yoga 3 Pro

Visit our store at the Grove Mall to see the World’s Thinnest 2-in-1.

Terms and conditions apply.While stock lasts.

E540 i5 G5030 Yoga 10 HD+

N$20,999VAT Incl.

You could win one of these amazing Lenovo products simply by entering

our lucky draw competition.

How to enterSimply SMS your name and

email address to 081 639 4817.

Draw will take place: 1st October 2015Terms and conditions apply.

Call us or visit

+264 83 300 1000www.paratustelco.com

Paratus_Flamingo_A4_August 2015_ad_v2.indd 1 10/07/2015 11:31

| 115

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7 8 9

10 11

12 13 14 15

16 17 18

19 20

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Across7. Glamour plus vitality (7)9. Proficient (5)10. One can lend one (3)11. Beggar (9)12. Hairnet (5)14. Ill-defined (7)16. Construed (7)18. Radical (5)19. Penny-pincher (9)20. Poetic contraction (3)21. Mountain ridge (5)22. Arthur’s slayer (7)

Down1. Placated (8)2. Shade of blue (4)3. Body of Jewish law (6)4. Lunatic (6)5. Sybaritic (8)6. Proofreaders’s mark (4)8. Meditative disipline (3,8)13. Decreed (8)15. Ancient Greek epic poem (8)17. The daily grind? (6)18. Favourable trend (6)19. Thick, strong pole (4)20. Sea bird (4)

At Liberty we know you only want the best for your employees. You want to show them that you value and care for them. You play a vital role in their financial wellbeing. That is why we make it our business to really understand the needs of our customers and design solutions that are simple, affordable and relevant to their needs. Our knowledge works to your advantage.

Terms and Conditions Apply. For more information on our Group Funeral, Life, Critical illness, Disabiility and Health Insurance please contact us on T +264 61 294 2343 or visit us at Maerua Mall Office Park, Office 5001, 5th Floor, Jan Jonker Road, Windhoek, Namibia

We change realities for the better by making financial freedom possible.

10/07/2015 11:31

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Easy Medium Hard

Sudoko

| 117

© 2015 PricewaterhouseCoopers. All rights reserved. In this document, PwC refers to PricewaterhouseCoopers Namibia, which is a member firm of PricewaterhouseCoopers International Limited, each member firm of which is a separate legal entity.

Our purpose is to solve tax problems for our clients.

To continuously do this better, we’ve built a team of approximately 50 consultants in two offices that specialise in Corporate Tax, VAT, Indirect Taxes, Employee Taxes and related compliance services.

In line with this drive, we are proud to announce that Johan Nel was admitted as Corporate Tax Partner on 1 July 2015. Johan, a Chartered Accountant with over 10 years local and international experience, is a a passionate tax consultant.

We believe his skills and leadership will help our clients to build better businesses.

Johan NelCorporate Tax PartnerTel: +264 61 284 1122Cell: +264 81 141 0497 Email: johan.nel@na.pwc.com

Namibian Tax Leaders

www.pwc.com.na

PwC Namibia tax leaders welcoming Johan Nel as partner.Left to right: Johan Nel, Corporate Tax Partner; Chantell Husselmann, Indirect Tax Partner; Stéfan Hugo, Tax Leader and Nelson Lucas, Indirect Tax Associate Director.

118 |

International

Flight No From To Days Departure Arrival

SW 286 Frankfurt Windhoek Daily 20:10 05:30+1

SW 286/ 703 Frankfurt Cape Town (via Windhoek) Daily 20:10 09:55+1

SW 286/ 723 Frankfurt Johannesburg (via Windhoek) Daily 20:10 09:55+1

SW 285 Windhoek Frankfurt Daily 20:35 07:55+1

Regional

Flight No From To Days Departure Arrival

SW 702 Cape Town Windhoek Daily 06:35 07:45

SW 704 Cape Town Windhoek Daily 17:00 18:10

SW 704 Cape Town Frankfurt (via Windhoek) Daily 17:00 07:55+1

SW 714 Cape Town Walvis Bay Daily 14:35 15:45

SW 373 Harare Windhoek Mon, Fri 14:00 15:15

SW 413 Harare Lusaka Wed, Sun 12:15 13:15

SW 413 Harare Windhoek ( via Lusaka) Wed, Sun 12:15 15:15

SW 722 Johannesburg Windhoek Daily 06:40 07:45

SW 724 Johannesburg Windhoek Daily 12:10 13:15

SW 728 Johannesburg Windhoek Daily 18:20 19:25

SW 728 Johannesburg Frankfurt (via Windhoek) Daily 18:20 07:55+1

SW 730 Johannesburg Walvis Bay Daily 08:45 10:00

SW 304 Luanda Windhoek Daily 12:15 14:45

SW 373 Lusaka Harare Mon, Fri 12:25 13:20

SW 373 Lusaka Windhoek (via Harare) Mon, Fri 12:25 15:15

SW 413 Lusaka Windhoek Wed, Sun 13:55 15:15

SW 403 Maun Windhoek (via Victoria falls) Mon, Wed 11:05 13:10

SW 405 Maun Windhoek Fri, Sun 18:25 18:40

SW 403 Victoria Falls Windhoek Mon, Wed 12:30 13:10

SW 405 Victoria Falls Windhoek (via Maun) Fri, Sun 16:55 18:40

SW 303 Windhoek Luanda Daily 08:35 11:15

SW 373 Windhoek Lusaka Mon, Fri 08:30 11:30

SW 373 Windhoek Harare (via Lusaka) Mon, Fri 08:30 12:55

SW 403 Windhoek Maun Mon, Wed 08:15 10:30

SW 403 Windhoek Victoria Falls (via Maun) Mon, Wed 08:15 11:50

SW 405 Windhoek Victoria Falls Fri, Sun 13:50 16:25

SW 405 Windhoek Maun( via Victoria Falls) Fri, Sun 13:50 17:40

SW 413 Windhoek Harare Wed, Sun 08:30 11:35

SW 413 Windhoek Lusaka (via Harare) Wed, Sun 08:30 13:15

SW 701 Windhoek Cape Town Mon, Fri 08:40 11:40

SW 703 Windhoek Cape Town Daily 06:55 09:55

SW 709 Windhoek Cape Town Daily 16:35 19:35

SW 723 Windhoek Johannesburg Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun 07:10 09:55

SW 723 Windhoek Johannesburg Mon 07:15 10:00

SW 727 Windhoek Johannesburg Daily 13:55 16:40

Schedule 01 August to 05 September 2015 (All time local)Note: check-in time should be two hours before departure.

| 119

Regional

Flight No From To Days Departure Arrival

SW 729 Windhoek Johannesburg Daily 16:35 19:20

SW 713 Walvis Bay Cape Town Daily 10:35 13:45

SW 739 Walvis Bay Johannesburg Daily 16:25 19:40

Domestic

Flight No From To Days Departure Arrival

SW 101 Eros Ondangwa Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun 07:00 08:05

SW 103 Eros Ondangwa Tue, Thu, 11:00 12:05

SW 107 Eros Ondangwa Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 17:00 18:05

SW 107 Eros Ondangwa Sat, Sun 15:55 17:00

SW 125 Katima Mulilo Eros Mon, Fri 13:35 15:15

SW 127 Katima Mulilo Rundu Wed, Sun 12:40 13:40

SW 127 Katima Mulilo Eros (via Rundu) Wed, Sun 12:40 15:15

SW 143 Luderitz Oranjemund Mon, Fri 10:10 11:00

SW 143 Luderitz Windhoek ( via Oranjemund) Mon, Fri 10:10 12:45

SW 145 Luderitz Windhoek Wed, Sun 11:45 12:45

SW 125 Rundu Katima Mulilo Mon, Fri 11:50 12:50

SW 125 Rundu Eros(via Katima Mulilo) Mon, Fri 11:50 15:15

SW 127 Rundu Eros Wed, Sun 14:00 15:15

SW 143 Oranjemund Windhoek Mon, Fri 11:30 12:45

SW 145 Oranjemund Luderitz Wed, Sun 10:25 11:15

SW 145 Oranjemund Windhoek (via Luderitz ) Wed, Sun 10:25 12:45

SW 102 Ondangwa Eros Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun 08:35 09:40

SW 104 Ondangwa Eros Tue, Thu, 12:35 13:40

SW 108 Ondangwa Eros Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 18:35 19:40

SW 108 Ondangwa Eros Sat, Sun 17:35 18:40

SW 125 Eros Rundu Mon, Fri 10:15 11:30

SW 125 Eros Katima Mulilo (via Rundu) Mon, Fri 10:15 12:50

SW 127 Eros Katima Wed, Sun 10:15 11:55

SW 127 Eros Rundu (via Katima Mulilo) Wed, Sun 10:15 13:40

SW 143 Windhoek Luderitz Mon, Fri 08:50 09:50

SW 143 Windhoek Oranjemund (via Luderitz) Mon, Fri 08:50 11:00

SW 145 Windhoek Oranjemund Wed, Sun 08:50 10:05

SW 145 Windhoek Luderitz ( via Oranjemund) Wed, Sun 08:50 11:15

SW 165 Windhoek Walvis Bay Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun 10:10 10:50

SW 165 Windhoek Walvis Bay Sat 09:00 09:40

SW 167 Windhoek Walvis Bay Mon, Wed 13:55 14:35

SW 166 Walvis Bay Windhoek Tue, thu, Fri, Sat, Sun 12:20 13:00

SW 168 Walvis Bay Windhoek Mon, Wed 15:05 15:45

Winner of the 2014 Feather Award - Best Regional Airline operating into and from O. R. Tambo International airport for the 8th time since 2004 At Air Namibia we are on this quest to continue serving our purpose of providing the best air transport services in the safest manner, with consistency and reliability.

Call Centre: +264 61 299 6111 or contact your local Travel Agent Book Online: www.airnamibia.com.na

Regional

Flight No From To Days Departure Arrival

SW 729 Windhoek Johannesburg Daily 16:35 19:20

SW 713 Walvis Bay Cape Town Daily 10:35 13:45

SW 739 Walvis Bay Johannesburg Daily 16:25 19:40

Domestic

Flight No From To Days Departure Arrival

SW 101 Eros Ondangwa Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun 07:00 08:05

SW 103 Eros Ondangwa Tue, Thu, 11:00 12:05

SW 107 Eros Ondangwa Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 17:00 18:05

SW 107 Eros Ondangwa Sat, Sun 15:55 17:00

SW 125 Katima Mulilo Eros Mon, Fri 13:35 15:15

SW 127 Katima Mulilo Rundu Wed, Sun 12:40 13:40

SW 127 Katima Mulilo Eros (via Rundu) Wed, Sun 12:40 15:15

SW 143 Luderitz Oranjemund Mon, Fri 10:10 11:00

SW 143 Luderitz Windhoek ( via Oranjemund) Mon, Fri 10:10 12:45

SW 145 Luderitz Windhoek Wed, Sun 11:45 12:45

SW 125 Rundu Katima Mulilo Mon, Fri 11:50 12:50

SW 125 Rundu Eros(via Katima Mulilo) Mon, Fri 11:50 15:15

SW 127 Rundu Eros Wed, Sun 14:00 15:15

SW 143 Oranjemund Windhoek Mon, Fri 11:30 12:45

SW 145 Oranjemund Luderitz Wed, Sun 10:25 11:15

SW 145 Oranjemund Windhoek (via Luderitz ) Wed, Sun 10:25 12:45

SW 102 Ondangwa Eros Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun 08:35 09:40

SW 104 Ondangwa Eros Tue, Thu, 12:35 13:40

SW 108 Ondangwa Eros Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, 18:35 19:40

SW 108 Ondangwa Eros Sat, Sun 17:35 18:40

SW 125 Eros Rundu Mon, Fri 10:15 11:30

SW 125 Eros Katima Mulilo (via Rundu) Mon, Fri 10:15 12:50

SW 127 Eros Katima Wed, Sun 10:15 11:55

SW 127 Eros Rundu (via Katima Mulilo) Wed, Sun 10:15 13:40

SW 143 Windhoek Luderitz Mon, Fri 08:50 09:50

SW 143 Windhoek Oranjemund (via Luderitz) Mon, Fri 08:50 11:00

SW 145 Windhoek Oranjemund Wed, Sun 08:50 10:05

SW 145 Windhoek Luderitz ( via Oranjemund) Wed, Sun 08:50 11:15

SW 165 Windhoek Walvis Bay Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun 10:10 10:50

SW 165 Windhoek Walvis Bay Sat 09:00 09:40

SW 167 Windhoek Walvis Bay Mon, Wed 13:55 14:35

SW 166 Walvis Bay Windhoek Tue, thu, Fri, Sat, Sun 12:20 13:00

SW 168 Walvis Bay Windhoek Mon, Wed 15:05 15:45

Winner of the 2014 Feather Award - Best Regional Airline operating into and from O. R. Tambo International airport for the 8th time since 2004 At Air Namibia we are on this quest to continue serving our purpose of providing the best air transport services in the safest manner, with consistency and reliability.

Call Centre: +264 61 299 6111 or contact your local Travel Agent Book Online: www.airnamibia.com.na

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www.airports.com.na

PASSENGER’S AIRPORT TAX

We hope we have answered your questions. If you have any more questions or comments about our airports feel free to contact us:

Namibia Airports Company154 Independence Avenue, Sanlam Centre, 5th Floor

PO Box 23061 Windhoek, Namibia

Tel: +264 (0) 61 295 5127Fax: +264 (0) 61 295 5022

E-mail: pr@airports.com.na

Great �ights begin at well-maintained airports; in terms of service delivery, superior facilities, and memorable experiences. In Namibia, Airports are run and maintained by the Namibia Airports Company (NAC), a State-Owned Entity (SOE) formed in 1998 by Act of Government (Act 25 of 1998).

The NAC provides airport infrastructure, amenities, and facilitates airport services for domestic and international airlines and passengers. In ful�lling its mandate, the NAC ensures that airport infrastructure and safety and security equipment are well maintained and meet world-class standards.

Airports under the NAC are: Hosea Kutako Airport, Eros Airport, Walvis Bay Airport, Luderitz Airport, Keetmanshoop Airport, Ondangwa Airport, Rundu Airport and Katima Mulilo Airport.

HOW DOES NAC GENERATE MONEY TO MAINTAIN AIRPORTS? The NAC generates revenue via airport tax fees charged to the di�erent publics – such as airport tax payable by departing and arriving passengers who use their services.

WHAT IS AIRPORT/PASSENGER TAX? Airport tax, as it appears on return or one way �ight tickets, refers to the fee charged to departing passengers. When you buy your �ight ticket (whether directly from the airline, or as part of a holiday package), a portion of the total cost for the ticket is for airport taxes. This service fee is in line with Section 5 (1) of the Airports Company Act 25 of 1998.

WHAT ARE AIRPORT TAXES USED FOR? Airport tax is one of the key revenue streams of any airport and is levied on passengers to recover the cost of running and for the up keep of passenger terminal facilities that are dedicated to passenger services, including the costs of security services attributable thereto (unless security services are charged for separately), and the cost of ground handling facilities and services attributable to passenger arrivals and departures.

“How airport tax isshown ona ticket”

WHAT PORTION OF AN AIR TICKET’S PRICE IS PAYABLE TO NAC? In line with NAC Tari� Publication 2015/2016 the following VAT inclusive tari�s currently will apply at the airports/aerodromes under the NAC’s management:

WHO REGULATES/CONTROLS THE IMPLEMENTATION OF AIRPORT TAXES IN NAMIBIA? The charging of these fees is regulated in compliance with ICAO Doc 9562. In Namibia, the NAC, in compliance with Doc 9562 and its mandate per the Airports Company Act. Both these statutory documents regulate and control the continued implementation, review and collection of these fees.

HOW REGULARLY IS AIRPORT TAXES REVIEWED AND BY WHOM? The NAC reviews the charges in consultation with the Board of Airline Representatives (BAR), who represents the airlines, and aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), who represents general aviation operators.

This review is conducted annually or as decided by the relevant parties in order for the fees to remain commensurate with ever escalating operational and other costs.

Since inception NAC has over the years invested billions of dollars into its key capital projects to improve amongst others; runways and terminal facilities at its various airports.

In line with its mission and vision , the NAC ensures that every experience at landing and departure is of world - class standard and airport taxes play an integral part in making it all possible.

International passengers N$ 410.69

Regional passengers (Passengers departing on an aircraft whose �nal destination is an airport within Botswana, Lesotho, South Africa or Swaziland)

N$ 237.66

Domestic passengers N$ 123.57N$ 16.12N$ 107.45

N$ 237.66

N$ 410.69

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-

NAC tari� excluding

VAT 2015/2016 Value Added

Taxation (VAT)

NAC tari� including

VAT 2015/2016 Description

All passenger service charges for foreign-bound �ights are zero-rated for VAT administration purposes.

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78 | www.bankwindhoek.com.na

Access to Foreign Exchange Serviceswherever you are

When visiting our beautiful country, we want to be sure that you have access to Foreign Exchange Services, no matter where you go. Bank Windhoek caters for all your foreign exchange and banking needs offering you American Express agencies, a large distribution network of 54 branches and agencies as well as 342 ATM’s and Cash Express Machines across Namibia.

Bank Windhoek Branches / Agencies and ATMs

Bureau de Change / Foreign Exchange Services and American Express / Bank Windhoek Joint Venture