Cant upload pictures from internet cafe so will have to add them later when I get home. You will have to put with 1000 words instead. The ride from the disappointing ErRachidia made me smile with stunning views across the Gorge du Ziz requiring frequent halts. Still made good progress and reached Merzouga by early afternoon for a first encounter with the stunning Sand Dunes of the Sahara. Weather was still and hot with the dunes perfectly set against a deep blue sky. Arrived at the Disneyland of the Dunes to be met by dozens of options for accomodation and plenty people trying to convince me they had the best to offer. Flat refused all offers just because they were starting to get on my tits and remembered a recommendation for the Kasbah Erg Chebbi for which I had seen a sign some miles back. With the new found off road confidence I pitched across the piste road in the direction of the Kasbah. At times I worried that the bike would shake itself to bits but we made it safely without incident and I actually am beginning to enjoy this stuff instead of bricking myself. The going was much easier than my adventure of a few days ago in any case. The Kasbah, the Dunes and the people I met at this beautiful location were simply fantastic. It was a tough decision to leave this morning with the promise of a camel trek into th desert on offer but the call of the road won me over. The Sahara and a Head Scarf

I had a very relaxing afternoon chatting with Mohammed and Tarik from the Kasbah along with Dan and Greg from the US and then I walked out into the Erg Chebbi dunes at sunset. Breathtaking, partly through the wind which was blowing sand everywhere but mainly from the view. Fantastic dinner followed by another venture outside to gaze at the most star filled sky I have ever seen. There are so many stars that at first it is hard to pick out the common constellations we see at home. My second 5AM wake up of the trip was definitely worthwhile to complete the experience by watching the sun rise over the dunes and just chilling out as the morning gradually warmed up. I then wrenched myself away mid morning and am writing this from Tinerhir before finding a place to stay and riding through the Todhra Gorge. Seen a lot more bike travellers down in this part of Morocco, mainly French and German and was happy to chat to Debbie and Frank on their Hayabusa on the outskirts of Erfoud. Anyone who visits this part of the world must visit the Erg Chebbi Kasbah and enjoy the warm welcome and spectactular sights on offer. Thanks Tarik and good luck with your travels later in the year, I will return with the family. Dan and Greg, if you do read this blog then thanks for your company, good luck with your travels, especially in India later in the year and I hope you get that novel published.