Enjoying Namibia safely
Holidaymakers are encouraged be safe while having fun.
Ellanie Smit - While the tourism ministry has encouraged all local holidaymakers and foreign tourists to enjoy Namibia this festive season, it also warned them not take unnecessary risks.
Ministry spokesperson Romeo Muyunda said the country has a lot to offer tourists, not only in terms of landscape and scenery, but also activities they can enjoy.
“From the spectacular scenery of our landscapes to the exotic wildlife species and amazing cultural diversity of our people, we have got it all,” he said.
Muyunda said Namibia is ready to welcome all tourists and give them an experience of a lifetime, which they will never forget.
“Our people are friendly and very peaceful and our tour operators are mobilised to provide our visitors with a memorable experience this festive season and beyond.”
Muyunda, however, reminded tourists that although the festive season is about having fun, they should not compromise on safety or endanger their lives.
“We have noted disturbing trends where visitors to our national parks contravene the rules by getting out of their cars while in the parks. Please be reminded that our national parks have a lot of dangerous wildlife that have the potential to take lives.”
He, therefore, urged all tourists that visit national parks to adhere to the regulations and rules, which are there for their own safety.
The ministry recently introduced a ban on plastic bags in national parks and this should also be kept in mind while travelling.
Not adhering to this regulation can result in a fine of N$500.
Muyunda added Namibia’s roads are among the most well-maintained in the world and provide a thrill when driving. However, the country’s roads are busy during the festive season, with everyone seeking a holiday experience.
“We encourage our tourists to drive with absolute care and adhere to the traffic rules.”
Muyunda also appealed to all holidaymakers to avoid littering and irresponsible waste disposal.
He said the tendency of throwing bottles, plastic or any unsightly materials from cars is strongly discouraged.
“A similar call goes to our businesspeople, especially those in the liquor business, to assist and join the efforts to keep Namibia clean by adhering to initiatives that promote the safe disposal of waste.”
The ministry also urged tourists to familiarise themselves with and carry emergency contacts with them at all times.
“We wish all our visitors a happy stay in Namibia and a joyous festive season. Tourism is everyone’s business.”
Tourists must also be cautious regarding criminal activities.
Applying common sense measures, such as not leaving valuables in parked cars, safeguarding purses, keeping wallets in front pockets and being alert to one's surroundings are the best deterrents against crime.
Also, when approaching an ATM, be alert for strangers and aware of your surroundings. Choose ATMs in well-lit and populated areas.
Ministry spokesperson Romeo Muyunda said the country has a lot to offer tourists, not only in terms of landscape and scenery, but also activities they can enjoy.
“From the spectacular scenery of our landscapes to the exotic wildlife species and amazing cultural diversity of our people, we have got it all,” he said.
Muyunda said Namibia is ready to welcome all tourists and give them an experience of a lifetime, which they will never forget.
“Our people are friendly and very peaceful and our tour operators are mobilised to provide our visitors with a memorable experience this festive season and beyond.”
Muyunda, however, reminded tourists that although the festive season is about having fun, they should not compromise on safety or endanger their lives.
“We have noted disturbing trends where visitors to our national parks contravene the rules by getting out of their cars while in the parks. Please be reminded that our national parks have a lot of dangerous wildlife that have the potential to take lives.”
He, therefore, urged all tourists that visit national parks to adhere to the regulations and rules, which are there for their own safety.
The ministry recently introduced a ban on plastic bags in national parks and this should also be kept in mind while travelling.
Not adhering to this regulation can result in a fine of N$500.
Muyunda added Namibia’s roads are among the most well-maintained in the world and provide a thrill when driving. However, the country’s roads are busy during the festive season, with everyone seeking a holiday experience.
“We encourage our tourists to drive with absolute care and adhere to the traffic rules.”
Muyunda also appealed to all holidaymakers to avoid littering and irresponsible waste disposal.
He said the tendency of throwing bottles, plastic or any unsightly materials from cars is strongly discouraged.
“A similar call goes to our businesspeople, especially those in the liquor business, to assist and join the efforts to keep Namibia clean by adhering to initiatives that promote the safe disposal of waste.”
The ministry also urged tourists to familiarise themselves with and carry emergency contacts with them at all times.
“We wish all our visitors a happy stay in Namibia and a joyous festive season. Tourism is everyone’s business.”
Tourists must also be cautious regarding criminal activities.
Applying common sense measures, such as not leaving valuables in parked cars, safeguarding purses, keeping wallets in front pockets and being alert to one's surroundings are the best deterrents against crime.
Also, when approaching an ATM, be alert for strangers and aware of your surroundings. Choose ATMs in well-lit and populated areas.
Comments
Namibian Sun
No comments have been left on this article