Windhoek, Namibia

• Windhoek sits at 1,700 meters (5,600 feet) elevation, which keeps temperatures comfortable year-round but might leave you a bit breathless your first day. The city has German colonial buildings mixed with newer development, and you'll hear English, Afrikaans, German, and various local languages on the streets.
• English is official and most people in hotels, restaurants, and shops speak it well. Cafes in upscale areas like Klein Windhoek see regular solo diners - women working on laptops or reading over coffee won't stand out.
• Crime is a real consideration. Windhoek ranks 7th highest for crime in Africa (crime index 67.6), though it's more manageable than some regional capitals if you're careful. Stay in well-lit areas after dark, use LEFA (local ride-hailing app, works like Uber) or registered taxis at night, and don't flash valuables around. Police are visible in tourist areas and wealthier neighborhoods.
• The eastern suburbs - Klein Windhoek, Ludwigsdorf, Eros - stay active into the evening with decent lighting and security. These are where you'll want to stay. The CBD clears out fast after 5pm and becomes sketchy. Katutura isn't safe for tourists, especially at night.

English is official and widely spoken in hotels, restaurants, and tourist areas. You'll also hear Afrikaans and German, especially in upscale neighborhoods. Emergency services have English-speaking operators. The GBV hotline (106) provides confidential support. Hotel and embassy staff speak English well.

• Dress is casual but modest. Jeans, t-shirts, and light dresses are fine in the city. Cover shoulders and knees for churches or traditional areas. The desert sun is intense - bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Standard greeting is a handshake. For more respect (especially with elders), hold your right elbow with your left hand while shaking. Make eye contact, shake firmly. Some ethnic groups clap hands when greeting - just copy what they do.
• Ask before photographing people. In rural areas, greet the village elder first. Refusing offered food or drink can be rude, so accept graciously even if it's just a sip or bite.
• You'll hear English, Afrikaans, German, Oshiwambo, and other languages around the city. Hotel and restaurant staff usually speak good English. Business settings expect punctuality and formal dress.

• LEFA works like Uber - download the app, register with your phone number, pay with cash or card. Use it after dark rather than walking.
• Regular taxis have big numbers painted on them. They're cheap, but get one through your hotel instead of flagging random cars on the street. Dial-A-Cab is a reliable company.
• City buses exist but run limited hours and routes. Most visitors stick to taxis and LEFA. Walking works fine in neighborhoods like Klein Windhoek during the day, but don't walk around at night even in nicer areas.
• Renting a car makes sense if you're heading out of the city. The center is small enough to walk between sights during daytime, but you'll need transport to move between neighborhoods.
• If you're planning day trips outside the city, consider renting a car.
• For peace of mind on arrival, book your airport pickup in advance.

Explore Windhoek with local guides and curated experiences.