Asilah, Morocco

We were up with the sun this morning, keen to breakfast and be away in good time to drive back to the port at Algeciras.

We paid at the barrier for the overnight parking, and then, the barrier didn't rise. John edged forward, Marge touched the barrier and a woman passing by became enraged at Angela. Why? She wasn't driving. After a tense conversation she instructed us to drive to the marina office. The problem, the camera for the registration plate recognition was too low to pick Marge up. Fortunately, we still left in good time. The port at Algeciras was a nightmare. It seemed totally disorganized. We'd arrived in good time, but were a little concerned if we were being lined up for the correct ferry.

At the due time we boarded one of the many. The crossing should have been a hour and a half, it was three. The vessel sat for over an hour just off from the port of Tanger Med.

Then a tug boat was tied to us and the ferry berthed. Obviously an operational problem. Then, up to the vehicle scanner. Yet more delay. Passports and Marge's documents were checked twice, before we were allowed to move on to buy our vehicle insurance at a cost of 200 euros.

 Then a pretty drive along the coast to Tangier where us and Marge were flung into chaos. Traffic, people, scooters, police. John drove, Angela did her best to navigate and halt traffic from the passenger seat, so we could change lanes and move around roundabouts. At the supermarket we bought a sim card and withdraw cash. Time was getting on and we still had nearly an hours drive to tonight's stop. Plus, there were a few dodgy characters lurking and we weren't happy to leave Marge. So here we are. Our first night in Morocco, staying in the pretty coastal town of Asilah. The campsite is a little down at heal, but has a certain charm. The man who owns it is very friendly. Tired, but wanting to enjoy our first night here, we walked along the extensive promenade and into the busy town alive with local people and tourists. We braved a fruit stall, buying ten apricots, eight oranges and a huge melon all for £2.50. Today has been a long stressful day. Hopefully after a good night's rest we will begin to fully enjoy this country. Everybody is very friendly, and call out Welcome to Morocco to us. We should say. Welcome to Morocco Marge! We weren't sure we'd ever see this day.