POSTCARD: Namibia's breathtaking landscape (Courtesy of Vicky Law)

Outstanding beauty

People who have been to Namibia are mostly attracted to the country's cultural and natural diversity. "As soon as I arrived at the oldest desert on earth, I was shocked. How fabulous the world is," wrote Jerry, a traveler lover in his blog.

Law feels the same way. Apart from being the boss of her own travel agency, she is also a dedicated travel addict, with her passion for Africa leading her to travel to various countries. She describes Namibia's scenery as "absolutely mind-blowing," and spares no efforts to promote its outstanding beauty.

Law cited an example of herself. Years ago, she recommended Vivian, her friend who had come to see her from South Africa, to visit the desert in Namibia. But initially Vivian was skeptical. "She asked me, 'Who would like to go to that desolated place?'" Law recalled. However, Vivian was completely shocked from the moment when she looked down from the scenic flight at the famous red sand dunes, as well as a herd of oryx. The desert undoubtedly became the most memorable and most luxurious place Vivian had ever stayed.

At present, the luxury desert tour is one of the special tour itineraries designed by Lion King Travel. Other tours unique to Chinese tourists include Himba tribe adventure, hunting safari, and self-drive tour. "You will discover that the diversity of the scenery here will always leave you spoilt for choice," she said.

Namibia's tourism experts believe that their marketing strategy must concentrate on showcasing to potential visitors that Namibia is a stunning country quite unlike any other. Law agreed. She said that Namibia is a relatively expensive option. For example, a seven to 13 day tour generally costs from about 26,000 yuan to 36,000 yuan ($4,000 to $5,538), including airfare, accommodation, transportation, tickets for tourist attractions and health services.

But Namibia's public security is very good. "You always hear about how dangerous Africa is, but I've had no problems at all here [in terms of the tourism business]," she added.

Untapped potential

Namibia's tourism sector has focused on China as an emerging market with a considerable untapped potential. In this regard, the NTB has not only launched its official Chinese website, but has actively got involved in working with partners of the Chinese tourism industry to attract more Chinese tourists. Apart from attending annual China International Tourism Fair, the country's tourism sector has carried out a series of promotional activities last year in major Chinese cities, such as Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, to introduce its rich tourism resources.

However, challenges facing Chinese tourists visiting Southern Africa remain.

The Managing Director of Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) Tobie Aupindi is worried that challenges, such as the shortage of tourism facilities, the inadequate development of tourism resources, as well as lack of professional Chinese-speaking guides and Chinese food, may restrict the growth in number of Chinese tourists. But it is good to see that some African governments have begun to train more Chinese-speaking tour guides to attract Chinese visitors.

"I am so glad to see such progress," Law said. "With the sound development of bilateral relations, especially the enhanced people-to-people exchanges, I see a big increase in the number of Chinese tourists visiting Namibia in recent years. That is what we [tour operators] are most willing to see."

She noted that Chinese visitors should respect local religious rules and etiquette, which will make them welcomed by Africans.

Law just attended the annual Namibia Tourism Exhibition to strengthen relationships, learn more about the market, and build new contacts. The Lion King Travel doesn't have any plan to open branches in China, but the Namibia-based company, as she described, "is a young Chinese tour operator that has remained committed to customized tours for Chinese travelers in Africa."

"I really hope more Chinese tourists discover the unique charms of Namibia with our service," she said. "I think Namibia is the best choice in Southern Africa."