While on safari or when venturing to the dunes in the Namibian Desert, make sure to enjoy a day or two to recharge in Windhoek, the capitol of Namibia. Windhoek is a wonderful city where English is the primary language of fifteen different dialects spoken. Rich in history and populated by friendly and culturally diverse people, this city is a great launch point for all your adventures.
After a long international flight, there is no better place to refresh than the ultra-luxurious sanctuary known as the Olive Exclusive Hotel. This intimate boutique is stylish and modern, yet it has the warmth and the soul of Africa, thanks to the organic textures, natural furnishings, eco-friendly approach and dedication to top notch personalized service.
The Olive Exclusive is comprised of just 7 luxurious suites – each one individually themed and based on different regions of Namibia. We stayed in the Kunene Premier Suite and the Benguela Junior Suite. Whether it’s the coastal feel or the desert dunes, you will love the separate lounge areas with fireplace, the spa bathrooms, each with a soaking tub and a raindrop shower with water flowing over river rocks. I especially loved the private patio, for relaxing under the trees and the stars. Each suite has air-conditioning, satellite, iPod docking stations and a computer with Wi-Fi. There is a fully stocked bar in each suite and complimentary coffee, tea and mineral water.
This intimate hotel also has several lounging areas on the terrace and inside in the library or bar. Chic and elegant furnishings, artwork, and photos of the nomadic Himba Tribe populate the walls throughout and capture the spirit and essence of this special place. My favorite was the evocative photography of the Namibian coastal shore, by South African photographer Micky Hoyle.
Dining on the veranda that overlooks the city and mountains was one of many tranquil places to relax. The jacaranda trees with its purple flowers come alive with the setting sun. The best part of my stay, and that which made is such an enchanting experience was the friendliness and warmth of the staff. They open their hearts and arms to make sure that every moment of your stay is wonderful.
Oh, and don’t leave Windhoek without spending time at the local craft market to select memorable jewelry, bowls or carvings, produced with surprisingly good craftsmanship and quality. The market is only open until 2pm, so plan your time wisely.
Book your Olive Exclusive Boutique Hotel reservation at: http://www.theolive-namibia.com/
By Julie Biniasz, freelance writer for Global Adventuress
Acknowledgements: thank you to Olive Exclusive for partially hosting our stay.
Note: Opinions and recommendations are our own.
If you are interested in reading more about Namibia, click on these other articles:
- Namibia Breathes Beauty
- 6 Insights: Conservation Breakthrough in Namibia
- Namibia’s Lion Hero
- Children in the Wilderness
- Hiking Paradise at Fish River Canyon
- Namibia’s Erindi Private Game Reserve
- A Photographer’s Dream: Sossusvlei
- The Kalahari, Soul of the World
- This is Africa. This is Namibia. Welcome Home!
If you want to be entertained by some videos during our travels in Namibia, click on YouTube Global Adventuress to watch baby elephants in the Huab or the staff at Kulala Desert Lodge welcome guests.
