A s the 2010 World Cup Soccer tournament throws South Africa into the international spotlight, the roaring crowds will be a distant cry from the solitude and peacefulness found in Namibia. Located on the south- west coast of Africa, only the roars of the country's spectacular wildlife penetrate the tranquil silence. Namibia's natural world is in abundance at some of Africa's most impressive national parks and private game reserves. Namibia's expansive and sparsely populated landscape is a treasure for those who wish to escape the crowds and are seeking a safe and welcoming holiday retreat. Just over two million people co- exist within an area more than twice the size of Germany. The culture, with its kaleidoscope of influences from many fascinating tribes, leaves its visitors captivated. Wild about Namibia In each region, Namibia's natural treasures are bewitching to encounter. The Caprivi Strip, located in the top right corner, borders Botswana and is home to four great rivers - the Chobe, Kwando/ Linyanti, Okavango and Zambezi. Receiving generous annual rainfall the lush vegetation is a haven for hippos, crocodile, buffalo and lion. The diversity of the Mahango Game Reserve is particularly known for its elephant which thrive on the riverine vegetation. Travel west and visit Etosha National Park, undoubtedly one of Africa's greatest game parks. The name Etosha means ' Great White Place' and its shimmering salt pan offers uninterrupted views across the desolate plains. Home to approximately 144 mammal species including lion, elephants and black and white rhino and also 340 bird species, the park's waterholes are the ideal location to observe a wildlife wonderland. The north- west region of Namibia is home to the world's largest population of free roaming black rhino. Along with the desert- adapted elephants, they have learned to adapt to the unforgiving conditions in their bid for survival. In the same region, the fascinating Himba tribe also continue their traditional nomadic lifestyle within the harsh desert climate. The intriguing culture offers astounding insight into how to survive on such extreme terrain. Customs still used include the red ochre and butter fat mixture applied to protect their skin from the sun, and providing an unusually red-tinged appearance. Along the western coast, flocks of pink flamingo and Cape pelicans can be found at Walvis Bay - a birdwatcher's paradise. Marine excursions visit dolphins and occasionally Southern Right, Humpback, Minke and Killer Whales. For closer wildlife encounters kayak in the South Atlantic along the playful seals. For those looking for an adventurous extension to their South Africa trip, the Cape to Namibia route combines Cape Town's excitement and vivacity with the soulful and natural Namibian experience. Namibia's excellent road infrastructure offers visitors the freedom to travel independently on the well established tar roads or the more exploratory off road tracks. In the south there is plenty of wildlife to enjoy within the Southern Kalahari. The deep red dunes provide vegetation to support the game that inhabits the area, such as oryx, giraffe, bat- eared foxes and adorable meerkats. The more adventurous can hike the spectacular Fish River Canyon - second only to the Grand Canyon - and watch the occasional kudu, klipspringer and baboons who live in the semi arid environment. As well as direct international flights to Windhoek's Hosea Kutako International airport, those who wish to see more of Africa during the tournament can fly to Walvis Bay with flights departing Cape Town via Luderitz, or from Johannesburg via Windhoek with Air Namibia. From luxury lodges to more adventurous camping and guest farms, families and holidaymakers will be charmed by Namibia's warm and friendly hospitality. Plus with the South African rand easily exchangeable in Namibia - take advantage of the great value during your stay. For a truly memorable extension to a South African World Cup visit, or a completely contrasting holiday destination, Namibia is the place which will truly capture your heart. For more information about travelling to Namibia contact the Namibia Tourism Board on 0870 330 9333 or visit www. namibiatourism. com. na

Travel tips Olweendo 54 Travel Namibia Legend has it that the rains will arrive on the anniversary of the Kaiser's Birthday - Kaiser Wilhelm II's birthday fell on 27 January. More often than not, the legend is pretty accurate, give or take a day or two. In the years when the Kaiser's birthday comes and goes with no rain, Namibians get nervous. Equally, too much rain can also be problematic. In central- northern Namibia, people rely on the flow of water, known as the efundja, into the flat pans called oshanas. Every year, prior to its arrival, farmers plant mahango seeds in the oshanas. The water irrigates the millet- like crop, which is then harvested and stored for consumption throughout the rest of the year. The waters also bring with them tilapia, a species of fish that supplements diets in the north. Water matters If you arrive in Namibia in the rainy season, it's difficult to believe that water is a scarce resource. However, if the flow of water is too great, homesteads, towns and crops are submerged, and roads and bridges are washed away. It happened in 2008. The waters that flow into the oshanas come from rain in the area, but are also fed by water that washes down from the Cuvelai catchment area in Angola. Although there may be very little rain in Namibia, it is still possible for the oshanas to flood if rainfall is strong enough over the border in Angola. The Cuvelai catchment area lies in the northern part of the Cuvelai Basin, also known as the Ovambo Basin. The basin is a system of oshanas and rivers that lies on a long slope that begins in Angola and ends in Namibia. The future availability of water is a very real concern for all Namibians. Please be considerate in your use of this resource. n If possible, shower instead of bathing. n Do not overfill baths or take excessively long showers. n Do not leave taps running or dripping. n Report any leaking taps or toilets with a continuous water flow. n Try to use biodegradable soaps. n Don't leave the water to run while shaving or brushing teeth. n Do not request laundry unless it is necessary. If not actually dirty, towels can be reused. n Use a bucket of water and a cloth to wash a car, rather than a hosepipe. n Keep cold water in the fridge or cool box. Don't wait for the tap to run until the water gets cold. Mary Askew Residents of Katatura have to collect their water from communal taps For more information visit www. tourbrief. com