Granted, I have no plans of leaving my travel companions for any extended amount of time (save for the shower and utilizing my new travel friendly Squatty Potty), knowing how to survive the Sahara desert seems to be the right thing to do.
My Personal Concierge and I customized my vacation to the Sahara desert with a good majority of consideration given to the weather. I, nor my travel companions would be none too happy if we had to endure the skin abrading sand storm during our visit to the Moroccan desert. After learning about the legendary Marathon of the Sands during our recent visit to Walt Disney World my desire to visit the Moroccan Sarah desert grew; and when my Personal Concierge at Travel More Vacations told me that it was within my budget, I was beyond excited that my dreams of travelling more is becoming reality.
The legendary Marathon of the Sands (Marathon des Sables) is the toughest human foot race on Earth. Comprised of six stages and a rest day, with running distances ranging from 13 miles to 51 miles per day for a total for 155 miles. Each running participant is required to carry all food, water and supplies on their backs in addition to fighting mother nature in a sandstorm. Definitely not the type of marathon for the faint of heart. Needless to say, the dedication these marathoners have to signup for a marathon described as the toughest human foot race on Earth is inspiring. My travel companions and I prefer to stay close to our Saharan desert resort, soaking up the sun, drinking coffee and eating like the locals.
5 TIPS TO SURVIVE THE DESERT
- Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate.
A good measure is to aim for a gallon of water a day. If you don’t have enough water when you need it, it could be a matter of life and death. - Do Not Sit or Lie Directly on the Ground.The ground of the desert is 30 degrees hotter than the air temperature. Get creative with your available supplies to raise yourself at least a foot and a half off the hot desert surface. There is also a greater possibility of having a problem with a poisonous insect or a snake when you are directly on the ground. In addition, stay outside of your vehicle, especially in the mid-day heat, until temperatures cool down.
- Keep Your Clothes On.Do not remove your clothing in an attempt to stay cool in the Sahara desert. Removing your clothing hastens dehydration and encourages sun burn. Keep your arms, legs and face covered as best you can; and if you have sunscreen, use it.
- Be Watchful.If you see a Sahara desert sand storm approaching, be sure to pack a scarf and hat to help shield your eyes, nose and mouth from blowing sand.
- Regulate Your Emotions.Traveling the desert landscape is an adventure, but keep calm if an emergency arise. There is nothing more dangerous than acting in blind panic.
