Back in Swakopmund
September 22, 2007
Mirka and I leaving base camp
We arrived and unloaded our belongings into our rooms at the Villa Weise, and then headed out for lunch. Everyone was so excited to have milkshakes---something you only dream of when in the desert! After lunch, Mirka and I did a bit of shopping, then later, we had our farewell group dinner. Afterwards, we all received an EHRA patch.
Today (9/22), I attempted to go skydiving. I did the training, was assigned a group to jump with, and waited for four hours. Sadly, they called it off due to bad weather. I went back to Swak and did a bit of walking around and shopping at the open market near the lighthouse. There are tons of local arts and crafts sold there, and everyone tries to get you to buy from their stand, using, "I haven't sold anything today, maybe you'll be my first sale!" or "Hey sister, please, I need to sell something." There are many deals to be had! I am now the proud owner of some lovely African jewelry, a few scarves, and a sculpture or two...
After shopping, we had a partial group dinner (some people had already left), and we said our goodbyes. Tomorrow I leave to go home. It's much harder to say goodbye than I'd ever anticipated.
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Mirka and I leaving base camp
Our group before leaving to go b…
The Open Market in Swakopmund, Namibia is where local artisans sell their products. Here, you can find handmade, unique Namibian jewelry, sculptures, dolls, bowls, textiles, art, etc., at a fraction of the price these items sell for in the more unscale shops in Swakopmund. Sellers ALWAYS start at a high price and will bargain down A LOT. Be prepared for sellers to aproach you and attempt to get you to their booth (or blanket on the floor with their items), and to hear things like, "Hey sister, PLEASE, I haven't sold anything today..please...." The market is very safe, so worry not! But sellers are persistant.
There is a special nut that they carve designs into----beware.....if you tell them your name they will carve it in and try to guilt you into buying one. :)
To find the market, walk towards the lighthouse. Ask anyone for the market and they will assist you....there is no official address.
There is a special nut that they carve designs into----beware.....if you tell them your name they will carve it in and try to guilt you into buying one. :)
To find the market, walk towards the lighthouse. Ask anyone for the market and they will assist you....there is no official address.
