Addel was a real Nomad. I remember reading about nomads in elementary school, but didn’t think many were still living this life. Addel grew up south of the Sahara desert with his family where they would herd goats for a living. Herding is still a very popular way of life for the Berber people indigenous to North Africa. Their goats graze away the grass and land as they move from place to place.

He explains how they would sleep each night when the sun went down. “We carry our tents and food with us.” Once a week, Addel would go into town and try to trade a goat for money. With this money, the family is able to then buy bread, spices, oil and other goods such as soap and clothing.

Addel has since settled down in Merzouga, where he now works as a camel guide for tourists. Tourism is the largest source of income in Merzouga. We had seen a large group of Chinese tourists riding their camels into the Sahara, and another group of 20 or so were scheduled to come in the next day. “The Chinese are very friendly and happy people. They love to take pictures.” It is now night time and cold outside. We pull out a blanket and grab a few beers to sit and chat with Addel while gazing at the stars and moonlit dunes. I ask him if he is happier now that he is no longer a nomad and he says he is. He now brings home more money each night where his mother and younger sister are waiting for him.