Happy New Year, my friend!
It seems my body decided it needed a well-deserved rest, but of course, I didn’t listen. That neglect earned me a really bad cold right after Christmas, which followed me on our road trip through Morocco. I’ve been slowly regaining my energy since mid-January after spending my birthday in bed—though I did manage to squeeze in some boat work to prepare for the next adventure.
From Sailing to Exploring Morocco
For December, we had paused our sailing journey to explore Morocco’s regions and cities. The break has been a welcome change, allowing us to gear up for a multi-day crossing toward the Canary Islands.
Weather patterns made the decision to continue a difficult one. A series of large systems approached from the west, and while forecasts suggested they’d stay north of us, it felt tempting to wait them out. Well, we didn’t. We’re own the canaries and by now, the storms have passed, brushing the Canaries and the Moroccan coast. We’re happy to find ourselves anchored between Lanzarote and La Graciosa, the northernmost islands of the Canaries.
Settling into the Canaries
After chilly Moroccan nights and limited, well, no swimming opportunities in a river marina, I’m looking forward to wearing shorts again and finally diving into the water. The temperatures here hover in the 20s, and though I haven’t swum yet, the crystal-clear water is tempting. For now, we’re easing into a relaxed “work mode,” enjoying the sunny weather and calm anchorage. I am slowly back to energy and just a slight coughing remains.
Moroccan Road Trip Highlights
The time in Rabat and throughout Morocco was nothing short of incredible. Toward the end of last year, we rented a small car and ventured into the heart of the country, visiting Meknes and Fez. In Fez, we stayed in a charming Medina riad with a young Moroccan family. Traveling with the two dogs in Morocco was a new experience, especially in an Arabian old town, but it worked out wonderfully. Even Jango, who’s usually nervous in unfamiliar surroundings, behaved like a champ—perhaps thanks to the calming presence of Boga.
Crossing the Atlas Mountains
From Fez, we crossed the Middle Atlas, marveling at towering cedar trees and playful monkeys. The snowy peaks and biting cold (just 2–3°C!) left me speechless. Then came the dramatic canyons and valleys of Todra and Dades, each a feast for the eyes despite the freezing temperatures.
Our journey continued over the Anti-Atlas mountain range, where I had the “brilliant” idea of taking a shortcut. Though it worked out, it led us to an altitude of 2,300 meters and into a sudden snowstorm. There we were—freezing, navigating snow-covered roads in a tiny car with summer tires. Somehow, we made it through, adding another layer of adventure to our trip.
The Desert and Old Friends
From the mountains, we descended to the desert town of Zagora and finally to M’Hamid El Ghizlane, the “Plain of the Gazelles.” It felt like coming home, as I’ve been here so many times before. Reuniting with my long-time friend Yahya was a joy. Together with Hussein, two camels, two dogs, Nike, and me, we embarked on a peaceful three-day desert tour—a perfect way to start the new year.
Marrakesh: A Buzzing Finale
After the desert, we headed to Marrakesh, where a last-minute hotel cancellation threw a wrench into our plans. Luckily, my friend Vincent came to the rescue. He let us stay in his older hotel, which he plans to renovate after cracks from a major earthquake two years ago. Once again, we found ourselves in the heart of the medina, free to roam and soak up the buzzing energy of this enchanting old town.
A Challenging End and Exciting Beginning
Returning to Rabat, my lingering cough finally caught up with me, confining me to bed for a week. Despite that, the start of 2025 has been amazing—thrilling, exhausting, and full of adventure. I’m incredibly excited for the next chapter of this journey.
How about you? How was your start to the new year, and what are your plans for the months ahead?