Winning in Windhoek: Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino

Winning in Windhoek, is exactly how I felt when I stayed over at Avani Windhoek Hotel and Casino.

Formerly known as Sun International’s Kalahari Sands, this Namibian 4-star property has undergone a long-awaited and much-welcomed facelift.

Each of the 173 rooms boasts a view of Namibia’s Capital city. It has all the modern conveniences for the weary traveller from your satellite TV, mini bar to a much-craved bath for us water restricted Capetonians.

Winning in Windhoek: Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino - The Jax blog

Avani Windhoek Hotel & Casino (photo credit: Avani Windhoek Hotel)

Desert Oasis

A veritable oasis in the desert. This plush hotel not only caters for the avid high roller, but corporates and leisure guests are welcome also. Conveniently located in the heart of bustling Windhoek close to many of the local attractions and restaurants.

Wifi is a must or bust for me, and I’m happy to report that unlimited complimentary wifi is what you find here.

The Reception (photo credit: Avani Windhoek Hotel)

I was warmly welcomed by their GM Rudi Putter and offered a decadent brownie on arrival. Check in was a smooth and simple process, and before I knew it I was whisked away to my room.

Room With A View

Ample space awaited Princess Picky, working in luxury hospitality, my expectations are very high. Despite no fluffy gown or slippers in my wardrobe, with a touch of a button and magically they appeared at my door in no time at all.

My room for the night (photo credit: Avani Windhoek Hotel)

Like a siren’s call of the deep, the bathtub lured me to a pre-bedtime treat of frothy delight. Pure aqua bliss to this water-starved Capetonian. The irony is not lost on me, that I had to fly a thousand miles to the middle of a desert in order to take a bath. Oh well, when in Windhoek!

My heavenly bath

Snuggled starfish mode is how we solo venturesses sleep in a queen-sized bed.

There was also a shower, which I happily sampled the following morning for not one nor two…but…wait for it….ten whole minutes! Back in good old Cape Town water restrictions has us down for 90-second showers. Sacrilege I tell you!

Bleisure

Bleisure is personified in their Business Room. With their device-connectable smart screen, an in-room colour printer and high-speed WiFi, and fresh Nespresso. Just perfect for the business wo/man on the go.

The Business Room (photo credit: Avani Windhoek Hotel)

Taste the difference

In addition to their sit down restaurant, Dunes, this luxe property boasts a brand new deli come coffee shop, the Pantry, open to the public. Breakfast is included in the room rate and a full hot breakfast is on offer. I was certainly spoilt for choice. If you are too tired to leave your room, with 24-hour room service you won’t starve. Coming soon will be a rooftop bar with skyline views for days.

Dunes restaurant (photo credit: Avani Windhoek Hotel)

The Pantry at Avani Windhoek Hotel (photo credit: Avani Windhoek)

Entertainment

The fitness centre is currently still under renovation, so sadly I did not get to see it. Whilst Lady Luck was in full swing at the casino, a favourite with locals and travellers alike.

Avani Casino (Photo credit: Avani Windhoek Hotel)

Avani Casino Bar (photo credit: Avani Windhoek Hotel )

There is a shopping mall nearby (the hotel is located within it) as well as the Sam Njoma (former President & founding Father of the nation) Namibian memorial, where one can learn about Namibian history.

The Extra Mile

What made my stay so memorable was not only the luxurious comfort and delicious buffet, but, it the friendly attentiveness of the staff. They made me feel right at home. Nothing I asked for was too much trouble. I wanted to walk to a local restaurant for dinner, but I was advised against it as it wasn’t safe at night for a lady alone I was told. A mere two blocks of away from the hotel, determined and defiant against paying $80 NAM for a taxi for 2 blocks I made my way out the door. To my surprise, the porter insisted on escorting me to dinner. A lovely Herero chap who loved his job, his people and his land gave me a brief lesson in his culture. Proving adamantly that chivalry is not dead…not in Windhoek anyways.

Thousand Thank You’s

A thousand thank you’s to Mr Putter and his team for inviting me to stay over at your lovely Avani Windhoek Hotel. Thank you also for gifting me, my lovely Balmain pen set. I treasure these and never lend these babies to anyone!