October 11 2025 - Finding Coffee and Connection in Nouadhibou

📍 Location:

Nouadhibou, Mauritania

🗓️ Date:

October 11

📝 Episode Notes:

It was Johan’s 73rd birthday, and what started as a simple mission to find coffee turned into a day of discovery in Nouadhibou — a gritty, bustling port city on the edge of Mauritania. I talk about how difficult it was to find even basic services, the serendipitous meeting with two young German travelers on motorbikes, and their daring plan to ride the legendary Mauritanian iron ore train.

As we explored the peninsula, I got a feel for the rhythm of life in this place — raw, industrious, and full of contrasts. We eventually found a hidden gem for dinner, proving that good things here take patience and persistence. I also reflect on the harsh realities locals face, including the story of  ...