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Swakopmund

We hold few kilometres, before we arrive at Swakopmund, at one of the landmarks of the city: a (reconstructed) old steam tractor. Once the good and at that time oh so expensive piece should do valuable work for the colonial rulers. After he had been brought with difficulty by Walvis Bay to Swakopmund, the 280-centner-tractor performed only few drives to work, nevertheless, devoured at the same time gigantic amounts in water and broke down, in the end.

steamroller "Martin Luther"
Here stand I, God help me, I am not able to differently.

If we believe our tour guide, the steam tractor should be brought to Windhoek. Because it the draught animals and Africans did not get, however to pull the giant fast enough by the sand, one began to the support the steam machine. A mistake! Since the wheezing and crashing should have done the locals in the escape.
Which story is right, we do not know. Certainly, however, it is that the tractor stand here and its destiny leave became what "Martin Luther" introduced in it the epithet: Here I stand. I can do no other. God help me.

typical house line in Swakopmund
Old district court of Swakopmund

After a little while we arrive at Swakopmund. Before we get to the hotel, Sydney shows us the city from the bus and gives us an overview about the places of interest and the most important streets. At the same time he promises that it is hardly possible here to get lost. And really: if one looks to one side, one sees the sea, one turns round, there are only few metres up to desert and we look after the south, we also see there the end of the town.

Hohenzollern-House in Swakopmund
Souvenirs

Nevertheless, we should pay attention in a street near of the Jetty. There since a few vacationers have been robbed a few years ago sometimes. During the day it is no problem, but in the darkness it can be that we are bothered. How, only one street which is a little bit unsafe even at night? We wish this, nevertheless, for quite a lot of other cities. On the other hand, however, many of the houses resemble small strongholds. The next morning thus we must ring by the shops, before the grids are opened to us before the entrance. At first, however, it goes in the hotel.

in the brewery
Lighthouse and imperial municipal court

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© Lars Freudenthal