📍 Location: Tin-Tin Beach → Tarfaya → Laayun, Western Sahara

🎧 Episode Notes (1st person)

Good day, October 7, 2025. We started our morning at Tin-Tin Beach with a nice breakfast at the hotel, getting ready for a day full of unknowns. I never knew if we’d see just one town, maybe two, or none — the options along this stretch are slim, and you need to be prepared for anything, including a potential breakdown. Thankfully, the roads are much improved compared to decades ago: well-traveled four-lane highways make for safe and steady driving.

Our first stop was Tarfaya, a good place for a coffee break. From the road, the coast occasionally appears, rugged and scenic. Along the way, we noticed small cabins with soldiers stationed every few kilometers, guarding the coast — a lonely but important job in such a remote area.

After Tarfaya, we aimed for Laayun (also called Laune). The city appears suddenly after hours of barren desert and rocky landscapes — one moment you’re in nothingness, and the next, there’s a skyline. Laayun feels isolated, like an island in the desert, with vast stretches separating it from the next town.

We stayed at the Saharan Hotel, a relatively new six-story building. Rooms were tight, but it was clean, reasonably priced at around $50, and had a functional internet setup. Walking around the town was an adventure — French and a little English helped, but Arabic and Berber dominate. The shops come alive in the evening, and even the kids play in parks after dark, giving the town a lively feel.

It was another day of contrasts: long stretches of desert roads punctuated by unexpected bursts of city life.

⏱️ Key Moments

• 0:00 — Morning at 10:10 Beach and hotel breakfast
• 0:45 — Preparing for remote travel with essentials, aware of potential breakdowns
• 1:20 — Coffee stop at Tarfaya
• 2:00 — Observing rugged coastline and isolated coastal soldiers
• 2:45 — Approaching Laayun: city appears suddenly after long desert stretches
• 3:30 — Checking in at the Saharan Hotel
• 4:00 — Walking the town: shops, ambiance, and local interactions
• 4:45 — Reflections on the isolation and life along the desert highway

📍 Location: Agadir → Tiznit → Tan-Tan Plage, Morocco

🎧 Episode Notes (written in 1st person):

Good day for October 6, 2025. We started our morning in Agadir with a rare find — a beautiful bakery that actually served both pastries and coffee. In Morocco, most cafés either serve drinks without food or the other way around, so this was a perfect start to the day.

After breakfast, we hit the road heading south toward Tiznit and eventually Tan-Tan. The roads were surprisingly smooth and new — freshly paved four-lane highways almost the entire way, with no tolls at all. The landscape along the coast was rocky and dry, with only patches of sand in between, but the wide, easy roads made the drive enjoyable.

We reached Tiznit briefly before continuing on to Tan-Tan, where we found the coastal area known as Tan-Tan Plage. By dinner time, we checked into the Hotel Sahara Beach — a new place right on the water. The elevator wasn’t working yet, but the view and the restaurant made up for it. Prices were still very reasonable, so it felt good to splurge a little without really breaking the budget.

It was mostly a driving day — quiet, scenic, and relaxed. Sometimes, that’s exactly what you need on a long journey.

⏱️ Key Moments:

• 0:00 — Morning in Agadir and the rare find: a bakery serving both pastries and coffee
• 0:45 — Setting off toward Tiznit with no fixed plan beyond the next stop
• 1:30 — Smooth, newly paved four-lane roads make for easy travel
• 2:00 — Following the coastline through rocky, dry terrain
• 2:45 — Arriving in Tiznit before continuing toward Tan-Tan
• 3:30 — Discovering Tan-Tan Plage and checking into the Hotel Sahara Beach
• 4:00 — Reflections on a day of easy driving and coastal calm

📍 Location: Agadir → Tiznit → Tan-Tan Plage, Morocco

🎧 Episode Notes (written in 1st person):

Good day for October 6, 2025. We started our morning in Agadir with a rare find — a beautiful bakery that actually served both pastries and coffee. In Morocco, most cafés either serve drinks without food or the other way around, so this was a perfect start to the day.

After breakfast, we hit the road heading south toward Tiznit and eventually Tan-Tan. The roads were surprisingly smooth and new — freshly paved four-lane highways almost the entire way, with no tolls at all. The landscape along the coast was rocky and dry, with only patches of sand in between, but the wide, easy roads made the drive enjoyable.

We reached Tiznit briefly before continuing on to Tan-Tan, where we found the coastal area known as Tan-Tan Plage. By dinner time, we checked into the Hotel Sahara Beach — a new place right on the water. The elevator wasn’t working yet, but the view and the restaurant made up for it. Prices were still very reasonable, so it felt good to splurge a little without really breaking the budget.

It was mostly a driving day — quiet, scenic, and relaxed. Sometimes, that’s exactly what you need on a long journey.

⏱️ Key Moments:

• 0:00 — Morning in Agadir and the rare find: a bakery serving both pastries and coffee
• 0:45 — Setting off toward Tiznit with no fixed plan beyond the next stop
• 1:30 — Smooth, newly paved four-lane roads make for easy travel
• 2:00 — Following the coastline through rocky, dry terrain
• 2:45 — Arriving in Tiznit before continuing toward Tan-Tan
• 3:30 — Discovering Tan-Tan Plage and checking into the Hotel Sahara Beach
• 4:00 — Reflections on a day of easy driving and coastal calm

📍 Location: Sidi Kaouki & Agadir, Morocco

🎧 Episode Notes (written in 1st person):

October 5th was a day of transitions and surprises. We left Azure behind and hit the road for Agadir, following a route that took us through the surf village of Sidi Kaouki — a place Morris had checked out the day before.

Not long after setting out, we were stopped — not by traffic, but by Morris himself, who was out training for an upcoming marathon. It was one of those unexpected but fun travel moments that make the journey memorable.

The day unfolded with a few small adventures — driving down the wrong street (which somehow led us to cheaper diesel), spotting the quirky “Jimi Hendrix Restaurant,” and finally reaching Sidi Kaouki, where surfboards and camels share the beach. We grabbed a coffee there before continuing on the scenic but less-traveled road to Agadir.

Agadir turned out to be a modern city with a tragic past — destroyed by twin earthquakes in 1960, then rebuilt anew. Walking through its massive Medina, I was struck by how vibrant and full of life it is. Later, we met a Dutch-Moroccan couple traveling through the area — a reminder that the world is small, and the Dutch really are everywhere!

It was a long but rewarding day, full of contrasts: surf vibes and city lights, ancient landscapes and modern recovery.

⏱️ Key Moments:

• 0:00 — Departing Azure and hitting the road toward Agadir
• 0:45 — Unexpected reunion with Morris during his marathon training
• 1:20 — A lucky wrong turn leads to cheaper diesel
• 2:00 — Spotting the legendary “Jimi Hendrix Restaurant”
• 2:45 — Arriving at Sidi Kaouki: surfboards, camels, and coastal coffee
• 4:10 — Taking the scenic route to Agadir
• 5:00 — Learning about Agadir’s tragic 1960 earthquakes
• 6:00 — Exploring Agadir’s massive Medina
• 6:45 — Meeting a Dutch-Moroccan couple over dinner
• 7:30 — Reflections on a day full of travel surprises

📍 Location: Essaouira, Morocco

🗒️ Episode Notes: Good day! Waking up in Essaouira in our very Moroccan hotel set the tone for another adventurous day. Johan and I decided to explore the town in the morning before meeting up with Morris later.

We first wandered along the outside of the medina, where one side opens to the beach. Nearby, we discovered another walled area that included a cemetery — a reminder that not everyone gets to enjoy the view. Walking around, we found small workshops and utility areas where locals were hard at work with minimal tools.

Back in the medina, the intricate alleys and vibrant walkways were a delight to explore. I stumbled upon a small hairdresser shop and decided to get a quick trim — about 50 dirham (~$5). The medina offered endless discoveries: coffee stops, rooftop views, and charming streets where people live their daily lives.

Later, we visited the fishermen’s area outside the medina, where freshly caught fish was displayed for sale. There was lively activity, with boats arriving and locals negotiating space. Birds were a nuisance, and I even got lightly pecked, but it was all part of the experience. The square had music playing, adding to the enjoyable atmosphere.

After returning to the hotel, we met up with Morris and continued exploring the medina, enjoyed another meal together, and shared stories. Morris planned to head about 20 km down the coast to a surfing spot called City Kayuki, where he found a place to stay and maybe even a surfboard. We parted ways for the foreseeable future, enjoying the good company.

Another night at the Kasbah Hotel capped off a truly enjoyable day. Essaouira’s charm and rhythm offer a taste of life in Africa that’s different, vibrant, and unforgettable.

🎧 Key Moments:

• 00:45 – Morning exploration outside the medina, walking along the beach
• 02:00 – Discovering walled areas and local workshops
• 03:15 – Exploring the medina’s alleys and rooftops
• 04:30 – Quick trim at a one-person hairdresser (~50 dirham/$5)
• 05:15 – Coffee and tea breaks while enjoying the medina views
• 06:00 – Visiting the fishermen’s area, watching fish sales and local disputes
• 07:30 – Birds, music, and lively street activity
• 08:15 – Returning to the hotel and meeting Morris
• 09:00 – Evening exploration, dinner, and catching up
• 09:45 – Morris planning his next stop at City Kayuki for surfing
• 10:30 – Reflecting on the day’s experiences in Essaouira

📍 Location: Essaouira, Morocco

🗒️ Episode Notes: Good day! Waking up in Essaouira in our very Moroccan hotel set the tone for another adventurous day. Johan and I decided to explore the town in the morning before meeting up with Morris later.

We first wandered along the outside of the medina, where one side opens to the beach. Nearby, we discovered another walled area that included a cemetery — a reminder that not everyone gets to enjoy the view. Walking around, we found small workshops and utility areas where locals were hard at work with minimal tools.

Back in the medina, the intricate alleys and vibrant walkways were a delight to explore. I stumbled upon a small hairdresser shop and decided to get a quick trim — about 50 dirham (~$5). The medina offered endless discoveries: coffee stops, rooftop views, and charming streets where people live their daily lives.

Later, we visited the fishermen’s area outside the medina, where freshly caught fish was displayed for sale. There was lively activity, with boats arriving and locals negotiating space. Birds were a nuisance, and I even got lightly pecked, but it was all part of the experience. The square had music playing, adding to the enjoyable atmosphere.

After returning to the hotel, we met up with Morris and continued exploring the medina, enjoyed another meal together, and shared stories. Morris planned to head about 20 km down the coast to a surfing spot called City Kayuki, where he found a place to stay and maybe even a surfboard. We parted ways for the foreseeable future, enjoying the good company.

Another night at the Kasbah Hotel capped off a truly enjoyable day. Essaouira’s charm and rhythm offer a taste of life in Africa that’s different, vibrant, and unforgettable.

🎧 Key Moments:

• 00:45 – Morning exploration outside the medina, walking along the beach
• 02:00 – Discovering walled areas and local workshops
• 03:15 – Exploring the medina’s alleys and rooftops
• 04:30 – Quick trim at a one-person hairdresser (~50 dirham/$5)
• 05:15 – Coffee and tea breaks while enjoying the medina views
• 06:00 – Visiting the fishermen’s area, watching fish sales and local disputes
• 07:30 – Birds, music, and lively street activity
• 08:15 – Returning to the hotel and meeting Morris
• 09:00 – Evening exploration, dinner, and catching up
• 09:45 – Morris planning his next stop at City Kayuki for surfing
• 10:30 – Reflecting on the day’s experiences in Essaouira

📍 Location: Essaouira, Morocco

🗒️ Episode Notes: Good day! October 3rd marks our second day in Morocco. We started the day with a walk to pick up some engine oil for the vehicle — it’s always good to check that everything is running smoothly, and so far, our journey from the Netherlands has been going well. While walking, I noticed there’s still a lot of cleanup needed around Morocco, especially with plastic bottles scattered about, although some areas are well-maintained.

The goal today was to reach Essaouira. I didn’t know much about it beforehand, but I had heard good things. We followed the main road to stay on schedule, as we need to be at the south end of Western Sahara on time to comply with export license plate regulations. Some minimal tolls along the way helped us move faster.

In Essaouira, we had a contact to meet — Morris, an Englishman connected through Nathan and Medea. He’s spent time teaching internationally and was enjoying Morocco for a few months. We made it there in time to meet him.

Finding a hotel was a bit tricky because it was Friday night and there was a music festival in town. After a few tries, we were lucky to find a traditional hotel right next to the old town walls, Hotel Kasbah. It was very reasonably priced at around 500 dirham per night (~$50/€40) and even included breakfast.

Having Morris as our guide, someone familiar with the city, made all the difference. We explored the old town, enjoyed dinner, and caught up on stories about Medea and Nathan. Essaouira has a charm and ambience that Marrakech, full of tourists, can’t match. It was a fantastic day, and it set the tone for the adventures ahead as we continue further down through Africa.

🎧 Key Moments:

• 00:45 – Morning walk and vehicle maintenance check
• 02:00 – Observations on Morocco’s cleanliness and litter issues
• 03:15 – Traveling on the main road towards Essaouira and paying tolls
• 04:30 – Meeting Morris, an English friend and guide
• 05:45 – Challenges finding a hotel during a music festival
• 07:00 – Staying at Hotel Kasbah near the old town
• 08:15 – Exploring the old town with guidance from Morris
• 09:30 – Dinner and catching up on stories with Morris
• 10:15 – Reflection on Essaouira’s ambience versus Marrakech
• 11:00 – Preparing for the next leg of the journey through Africa

📍 Location: Morocco — from the ferry port to Mohammedia

🗒️ Episode Notes: Good day! Today was the long-awaited day — making it to Africa. Since we were close to the ferry departure point, we quickly realized that the entry wasn’t where we first thought. After a few twists and turns, some paperwork, and a couple of return trips, we finally got the confirmation needed for our journey.

Our ferry was heading to Ceuta, a Spanish enclave on the Moroccan side, but we wanted to land further east toward Tangier. After navigating a lineup of several ships, we boarded a smaller vessel — the same one I remembered from my first trip to Morocco back in the early ’80s. Onboard, we met France and Bert from the Netherlands, two motorbike travelers, which reminded me how much I enjoy meeting new people and sharing stories.

The ferry journey itself went smoothly, but arriving in Morocco was an adventure. The harbor was massive, and navigating customs and vehicle checks took patience. Vehicles were scanned six at a time, and we waited for our papers to be approved while exchanging some dollars for Moroccan Dirhams.

Once on the road, we made our way through Rabat, admiring its wide boulevards, embassy-lined streets, and attention to cleanliness. We drove along the coast, stopping in Mohammedia just before Casablanca. Along the way, we noticed numerous policemen stationed along the freeway, likely for a government motorcade — possibly even the king of Morocco passing by!

Overall, it was a thrilling first day in Africa, hugging the coast, seeing the water, and taking in the sights. There’s much more to come, and I’m excited to share it as life unfolds.

🎧 Key Moments:

• 00:45 – Arrival at ferry port, initial confusion about entry points
• 02:15 – Paperwork and confirmation for the ferry journey
• 03:30 – Choosing the right ferry to Tangier, not Ceuta
• 05:00 – Meeting fellow travelers France and Bert from the Netherlands
• 06:15 – Ferry ride reflections and remembering previous journeys
• 07:30 – Arrival in Morocco: customs, vehicle scans, and exchanging money
• 09:00 – Driving through Rabat and appreciating its boulevards
• 10:15 – Police presence and motorcade along the route
• 11:30 – First impressions of Mohammedia and the Moroccan coast
• 12:00 – Excitement for the adventures ahead in Africa

📍 Location: Algeciras, Southern Spain

🗒️ Episode Notes: October 1, 2025 — today we set our sights on reaching Algeciras. The goal was clear, but as always, the journey has its uncertainties. We discovered there are several ways to cross the Mediterranean, each with multiple ferry companies. The actual sailing only takes about an hour to an hour and a half, but most of the time is spent waiting and getting things sorted.

Driving through southern Spain was beautiful — toasty weather, mountainous areas, and some lovely landscaping along the way. We used a few toll roads to save time, and Johan’s experience with hotels really came in handy. We ended up staying at Hotel Reina Cristina, a stately hotel in Algeciras. Being out of season, the price was very reasonable and included breakfast.

For me, parking close and being able to walk into town is always important, but this time the priority was being near the harbor to handle any ferry logistics. We spent the evening getting everything ready for the crossing and enjoyed a relaxing night in a fancy hotel instead of camping.

Everything went smoothly on our first day of traveling together, and we’re now ready for the big leap: Africa awaits.

🎧 Key Moments:

• 00:45 – Setting the goal: reaching Algeciras
• 02:00 – Mediterranean ferry logistics: routes, companies, and timing
• 03:10 – Scenic drive through southern Spain, including mountains and sunshine
• 04:20 – Using toll roads to optimize travel time
• 05:00 – Hotel strategies with Johan’s experience
• 06:15 – Check-in at Hotel Reina Cristina: luxury, breakfast, and convenience
• 07:30 – Planning proximity to the harbor for ferry preparations
• 08:20 – First day of traveling together went smoothly
• 09:00 – Looking forward to crossing into Africa tomorrow

📍 Location: Alfas del Pi, Spain

🗒️ Episode Notes: Today I decided to slow things down and stay put in Alfas del Pi. It was a practical kind of day — refueling, restocking, and soaking in the small-town charm. I got lucky and found diesel at €1.30 a liter when most stations were charging €1.50 or more. Those small wins always add up when you’re on the road.

We also stopped by one of those Chinese stores that seem to have everything imaginable — it’s the kind of place where you can find anything from kitchen tools to spare cables. Having someone local who knows where to go really makes life easier here.

Mariana is staying behind to take care of things while Johan heads off for some travel time, and she’s even planning to get some painting done. I guess having the space to yourself helps with that.

I spent some time walking around town, enjoying its simplicity. Alfas del Pi has great prices, a tight-knit expat community — many from Norway escaping the cold months — and just enough activity to keep things interesting. We even played a game with metal balls, something like pétanque, that the locals love.

The weather’s been perfect — around 28 to 30°C — warm enough to enjoy the beach, which isn’t far from here. It’s been a calm and easy day before the big push tomorrow: reaching the very end of the European continent.

🎧 Key Moments:

• 00:45 – Scoring cheap diesel and small savings on the road
• 02:10 – Wandering through the all-purpose Chinese shop
• 03:20 – Mariana holds down the fort while Johan travels
• 04:30 – Strolling around Alfas del Pi and soaking in the local vibe
• 06:00 – Discovering the metal-ball game loved by locals
• 07:20 – Reflections on the Norwegian community and life balance in Spain
• 08:15 – Perfect late-summer weather and beach proximity
• 09:00 – Looking ahead to tomorrow’s milestone: the edge of Europe