Thumbs Down To NWR

I HAVE just read the story about the price hikes for accommodation in Etosha.

My wife and I stayed at both locations a few years ago and were absolutely disgusted with the accommodation and the service throughout the park resorts. So much so that when we returned and did a tour around Namibia with 12 others we booked our accommodation at private farms outside the park gates, although not as convenient we were at least guaranteed clean rooms, good food and friendly service which is far more than can be said for the so-called resorts inside the park.I am aware that the resorts are being refurbished but really this is only to bring them up to an acceptable standard and would not justify the price rise quoted.As far as removing the braais, I believe that this is just holding tourists hostage and forcing them accept the sub-standard food and service on offer in the restaurants.We love Namibia and Etosha National Park and will continue to return but we will not stay at any NWR resort and will recommend to visiting friends that they avoid them also, as there are far too many good private lodges to make use of to risk spoiling your holiday with the worst service imaginable.Scott Freeman Via e-mailSo much so that when we returned and did a tour around Namibia with 12 others we booked our accommodation at private farms outside the park gates, although not as convenient we were at least guaranteed clean rooms, good food and friendly service which is far more than can be said for the so-called resorts inside the park.I am aware that the resorts are being refurbished but really this is only to bring them up to an acceptable standard and would not justify the price rise quoted.As far as removing the braais, I believe that this is just holding tourists hostage and forcing them accept the sub-standard food and service on offer in the restaurants.We love Namibia and Etosha National Park and will continue to return but we will not stay at any NWR resort and will recommend to visiting friends that they avoid them also, as there are far too many good private lodges to make use of to risk spoiling your holiday with the worst service imaginable.Scott Freeman Via e-mail