Namibia - Botswana and Namibia - page 642

$$$ >US$20 per main course
Gay & Lesbian Travellers
As in many African countries, homosexuality is illegal in Namibia, based on the common-
law offence of committing 'an unnatural sex crime'. Namibia is also very conservative in
its attitudes, given the strongly held Christian beliefs of the majority. In view of this, dis-
cretion is certainly the better part of valour as treatment of gay men and women can range
from simple social ostracism to physical attack. In 1996 Namibia's president Sam Nujoma
initiated a very public campaign against homosexuals, recommending that all foreign gays
and lesbians be deported or excluded from the country. One minister called homosexuality
a 'behavioural disorder which is alien to African culture'.
Out-Right Namibia ( http://outrightnamibia.org ) is a human rights organisation based
in Windhoek that was formed by gay and lesbian activists to challenge homophobia and
advocate for equal rights. Its website contains information on its bimonthly events as well
as links to other information sources. Namibian lesbians (and other women's interests) are
also represented by Sister Namibia ( www.sisternamibia.org ) .
Insurance
Travel insurance to cover theft, loss and medical treatment is strongly recommended.
Some policies specifically exclude 'dangerous activities', which can include scuba diving,
motorcycling and even trekking. If 'risky' activities are on your agendayou'll need the
most comprehensive policy.
You may prefer to have an insurance policy that pays doctors or hospitals directly rather
than you having to pay on the spot and claim later. If you have to claim later, make sure
you keep all documentation. Some policies ask you to call back (reverse charges) to a
centre in your home country, where an immediate assessment of your problem is made.
Check that the policy covers ambulances or an emergency flight home. See also Click
here f or car insurance.
Worldwide travel insurance is available at www.lonelyplanet.com/travel_services . You
can buy, extend and claim online anytime - even if you're already on the road.
Internet Access
Internet access is firmly established and widespread in Namibia, and connection speeds
are fairly stable. Most larger or tourist- oriented towns have at least one internet cafe. Plan
on spending around N$60 per hour online. An increasing number of backpacker hostels,