MONDAY, APR 19TH--WALVIS BAY, NAMIBIA

Walvis Bay is the major sea port for Namibia. Namibia’s major industries are: #1-mining & fishing, #2-agriculture (cattle & sheep), and #3-tourism. Uranium mines export 12% of the world’s supply. Namibia was a German protectorate until gaining its independence in 1990. Namibia’s coastline is a barren stretch of sand dunes and desert extending up to 100 miles inland. But when desert ends it is rich in agriculture, especially huge cattle feeding lots. Our second day began at 8:30am when we boarded a bus with our friends, Cynthia & John, for a 5 hour tour entitled, “Swakopmund Highlights”. On the way we stopped to see some flamingos on the ocean’s edge. Swakopmund is an old German costal town located 19 miles north of Walvis Bay. It was a very colorful and clean city. Our first stop was at a crystal museum where once again Rebecca found something to spend her money on. Next we visited a handicraft factory and showroom. They were making leather shoes and some beautiful rugs here. Then our bus driver/guide took us on an orientation drive through the town before dropping us off in the town center so we could shop or get a coffee. We headed to an area with a lot of local people selling all kinds of homemade wood, painting, and jewelry handicrafts. We bought several things and you had to bargain with them to get a good price. For example I bought a 3 foot wooden giraffe that he wanted $100 for but I paid $25. Now how am I going to get it home?? It was interesting to see all their handicraft items. On our drive back to Walvis Bay we took the coastal highway which was very scenic. The ship sailed at 6pm for our next port which is Cotonou, Benin. We will be at sea for 4 days as it is 1900 miles away. I have never heard of this very small country in West Africa so will be interesting. Last night we had a nice dinner and visit with our next door neighbors, Caroline & Don. I had ask the chef for some French fried soft shell crabs as our appetizer and they were great. Following dinner we went to the showroom for a production show starring the Regent orchestra and the singers & dancers. We have seen the same show about 4 times now but it is always very enjoyable. Note: I uploaded my Walvis Bay photos.