NAMIBIA THE PERFECT BACKDROP TO A FOREVER LOVE STORY

On the southwestern coast of Africa, where the vast Namib Desert meets the Atlantic Ocean, is Nature's playground - lending itself to endless exploration.

- THOBEKA PHANYEKO

There's something magical about Namibia — something that wraps itself around you in warmth and nostalgia before you even realise you've arrived.

Touching down at Hosea Kutako International Airport, I instantly felt lighter, as if the quiet skies and warm air were ushering me into a slower, more intentional way of being. The drive into Windhoek was a dream in motion — rolling greenery stretched out beside the road like a welcome mat from nature itself. There were hardly any cars, a strange and peaceful contrast for someone who's used to the stop-and-go rhythm of Cape Town traffic.

The driver mentioned the population — just over three million — and it suddenly made sense why everything felt so open, so free. As we passed small estates tucked among trees and bushland, I was reminded that people live gently here, in sync with the land.

Forty minutes later, we pulled up to the Mercure Hotel — our home for the next few days. Perfectly located, the hotel — the perfect balance between business and leisure — boasts 130 premium rooms and offers a variety of dining and bar options; Mirage being the main restaurant. The check-in process was smooth and welcoming, the space inviting. I barely had time to take it all in before the phone rang — lunch was waiting!

Our host, Lauren Christians, arranged a Namibian heritage-themed lunch at The Village, situated within the Mercure grounds. The sun greeted us warmly, casting a golden filter over everything.