But first things first; I'm off to the doctor for those nasty inoculations. Oh, how I hate needles, but they won't let me go if I am not vaccinated for hepatitis A and cholera. Of course it's covered by my incredible comprehensive health insurance. Otherwise, the vaccinations would cost around $65 a pop. Although it's not really necessary, my doctor insists that I also get a vaccination for yellow fever, which would cost me another $111 without insurance. Some of the other nasty little health issues I'll have to watch out for are malaria, sunburn, and the incredibly embarrassing cast of Diarrhea!
Three other things on my "to-get" list are:
- My passport, which is already up-to-date, so that saves me $97.
- A visa—and I don't mean the plastic kind. I mean the one from the State Department. Although a visa is not required for tourist visits to Namibia of 90 days of less, I'm going to spend the $50 to get one anyway.
- Travel insurance. I need to purchase a short-term international medical insurance plan and make sure it covers evacuations. While I could easily pay the bill for an evacuation out of pocket—and I've read it can run up to $50,000 if you get hurt in a remote location—just having that piece of paper in hand will assure the medical team that they will get their money. And I'd better look into a travel protection plan to cover any non-reimbursed travel expenses in case of an emergency. I am having a hard time getting through on the phone to get information on quotes, but I don't think it costs more than $4 to $5 per day.
I've decided to pass on the self-drive safari; my BFF won't be there behind the wheel, and I'm not trusting a total stranger to drive me around! Same goes for the camping safari—tents are just not my style. I did see a 13-day lodge safari that I like. The brochure said it was for the "discerning traveler"…and that's me! I'll have my choice of a luxury lodge, tented camp (scratch that one), hotel, or B&B. A bed and breakfast could be fun. I might have to give up a little style, but hey, I will be on a safari. Some of the activities include mountain biking, hot air ballooning, scenic aerial flights over the Namib Desert, sandboarding, and hiking. Prices start at $5,635 per person if you share a room. Hmm…I'm not good at sharing; I'll just pay double.
