Windhoek seems somewhat deserted as many of the capital's residents, as a norm, travel from mid-December to mid-January, to other parts of the country to celebrate the festive holiday season.

The lack of smoke at the braai stands and the sound of sizzling meat on coals make it evident that Windhoek residents have indeed left the buzz of the city after a long year to spend time with their loved ones.

At this popular City of Windhoek park, widely known as Goreangab Dam, only one family is out relaxing, with their children enjoying the entire playground to themselves.

Eveline Street is one area that normally, during the year, would have a constant movement of traffic and pedestrians, but the street, cloaked by bars and home shops, is empty with very little activity.

The silence at Brakwater Recreational Park, also known as Paltjies, is a regular feature even during the year.

Situated on the outskirts of Windhoek next to the Western Bypass in Brakwater, the recreational area, which is ideal for picnicking in the shade of large camel thorn trees, also boasts a playground.

The decision by the City of Windhoek to put up park tariffs for the Brakwater recreational park came after the City Council stated that it noticed an increase in people using the facility for private and corporate events.

It was after this announcement by the city that many seized the opportunity to make use of the facility, some bemoaning the bureaucratic processes put in place by the city.

City of Windhoek Spokesperson Harold Amukwenye stated in 2018 that the decision to set up tariffs was prompted by the increased demand in the usage of the park, as well as to control crime, which has become a serious challenge in many recreational parks.