Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Australia
A$1 N$9.20
Canada
C$1 N$8.85
Europe
€1 N$11.65
Japan
¥100 N$9.76
New ZealandNZ$1N$7.31
South Africa R10 N$10
UK
UK£ N$14.07
US
US$ N$8.71
For current exchange rates see
www.xe.com
TIPPING
Tipping is welcomed everywhere, but is expected only in upmarket tourist restaurants
where it's normal to leave a tip of 10% to 15% of the bill. Some restaurants add a service
charge as a matter of course. As a rule, taxi drivers aren't tipped, but it is customary to
give N$2 to N$5 to petrol-station attendants who clean your windows and/or check the oil
and water. Note that tipping is officially prohibited in national parks and reserves.
At safari lodges, it's customary to tip any personal guides directly (assuming they merit
a tip), and also to leave a tip with the proprietor, to be divided among all the staff.
TRAVELLERS CHEQUES
Travellers cheques can be cashed at most banks and exchange offices. American Express
(Amex), Thomas Cook and Visa are the most widely accepted brands.
It's preferable to buy travellers cheques in US dollars, UK pounds or euros rather than
another currency, as these are most widely accepted. Get most of the cheques in largish
denominations to save on per-cheque rates. Travellers cheques may also be exchanged for
US dollars cash - if the cash is available - but banks charge a hefty commission.
You must take your passport with you when cashing cheques.
Photography
While many Namibians enjoy being photographed, others do not; the main point is that
you should always respect the wishes of the person in question, and don't snap a picture if
permission is denied.
