The Almighty Dollar

Namibia’s currency is the Namibian Dollar (N$). It is divided into 100 cents and is linked with the South African Rand, which is also legal tender throughout the country. The value of the Namibian Dollar and South African Rand are the same. The exchange rate for the U.S. dollar is about $9.55.

The bill notes are $200, $100, $50, $20, $10; the coins are $5, $1, $0.50, $0.20, $0.10, and $0.05.

A cab ride within Windhoek is N$7.50 per person. And cab drivers will pick up as many passengers as can fit in the car and who are going in somewhat of the same direction (the city is not extremely big). As such, it is not advisable to be in a hurry and expect a cab to get you anywhere fast. Also speaking of cabs, I have finally stopped getting into the cab driver’s seat by accident; the driving wheel is on the right side of the car (and they drive on the left side of the road!)

A 330ml (12oz)can of “cool drink” (soda, pop) is usually around N$5.50. (I’ll write a post on “Namlish” soon).

Items are not very inexpensive; however, I don’t need to purchase many things, so my money is likely to go a long way during the year. That is, if I stay away from bookstores and educational supply stores. I spent N$550 (five-hundred and fifty Namibian dollars) at EduMeds (educational supply store) yesterday.

I actually think I spent more money in the past week than I’ve spent during my entire time here. It is because I now realize what things would make my project, home, or person more complete; and how/where to obtain the items. Regarding the latter, many of the items I need (specific toiletries, computer supplies, home furnishings) are not available in Khorixas. Thus, I took advantage of the opportunity to travel to Windhoek with a colleague for the weekend.