Experience in Windhoek, Namibia by Lisa

What is it like to live in Windhoek? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Windhoek is one of the most clean and sophisticated cities in the whole of Africa. It has so many unique features that many take for granted: beautiful sunsets, clear and bright night sky and an overview of the city lights while driving through town (thanks to the hilly landscape).
I would definitely recommend visiting if you are into nature and the safari life. Being the capital city of Namibia it allows you access to the best guesthouses and hotels that are located outside the city and give you the real safari life.
Living in Windhoek is very relaxed and comfortable. With large houses and big yards, you have large space to host barbeques or even just have space to yourself. Being such a small city, everyone knows everyone. The youth is very connected and familiar with another, making it feel like a big family.

What is the student lifestyle like in Windhoek?

Very few stay in Windhoek (or Namibia for that) for higher education, past high school. This is mainly because many want to study abroad and experience something new and exciting after having lived here all their life, while others just prefer better education. I love Windhoek (Namibia actually) and it is my home but I would not necessarily recommend it as a studying opportunity. It depending on your needs and expectations but you will not find a normal "university life" here in Windhoek, that includes a wild nightlife and dorm room parties.

How much does it cost to live in Windhoek?

Considering that the euro is in favor when exchanging with the Namibian dollar, it can be quite cheap (at least for visiting - approx. €30 per night). However, not many apartments exist (rather houses) but can be affordable to someone earning in Euros. A normal two bedroom apartment can be as little as €500 per month. A house (which has become increasingly expensive) can be around €380,000 or more.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Windhoek? Is there any advice you can give?

Temporary accomodations can be difficult. Many want long term tenants and mostly only houses are up for grabs.
However, location (city area) shouldn't necessarily be a criteria when searching. All areas have supermarkets which are in walking distance and several shopping malls exist around town. Since Windhoek is small, any walking distance shouldn't be too far. Just keep in mind that public transportation is not necessarily the best.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

If you are a meat lover, Namibia should be your top destination. Every meal consists of 80% meat and 20% vegetables and/or starch.
The meat is completely healthy with absolutely no added antibiotics or any other harmful enhancers. The meat is one of the best things about Namibia.

What places would you recommend visiting in Windhoek?

Grove Mall is definitely a must visit. It's quite a large mall where you find several international shops that will suit visitors.
Places such as the Tintenpalast and National Museum as well as the Christuskirche should definitely be seen when visiting.
The main attractions lie outside of Windhoek which simply consists of the wildlife such as Giraffes, Elephants, Kudus, Oryx and Warthogs. The nature surrounding Windhoek is definitely a must-see.

Is it good to eat out in Windhoek? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Eating out is quite cheap and there are many places that serve food that let you experience some typical Namibian dishes but also always known dishes such as Schnitzel, Noodles or Pizza.
Here are my favorites:
Andy's Pub (best pizza)
Blue Olive
Peppercorn
The Social
Gourmets Inn

Pizza deliveries such as Scooters Pizza and Debonairs are cheap and delicious.

Is the nightlife good in Windhoek? Where is good to go?

The nightlife is, sorry to say, terrible. There are two clubs in Namibia (London and Vibe) which you could go to. Both are fairly small and a packed club is never guaranteed. There are several bars and pubs such as Dylan's, Andy's Pub and Joe's Beerhouse but don't expect to have a party there necessarily.
Comparing the nightlife to a European one is definitely not possible.

What advice would you give future students heading to Windhoek?

Like I already mentioned: I adore Namibia and is the most beautiful place on earth with its landscape and friendly people but the things you should be doing in your student years can not be found in Namibia.
If you are someone that would like to attend a fairly good university and doesn't mind going to the same club every night, meet amazing people and possibly have some crazy adventures at night that include driving around town, smoking on a hill or simply having KFC at 3am and simply see the beauty of the ciry and the country, then I say go for it!
If you're into the nightlife and the typical student years, I'd say pick something like Cape Town which offers slightly more variety.
Don't get me wrong, I really love Namibia but I'd rather be honest about this part. Not every country can have everything