During our travels through Maroc, we only slept in a hotel once. The rest of the time was divided between campsites and free-camping, if it was safe to do so. I decided to capture some of our campsites on tape. Below are some of the sites we stayed at

Our camping surroundings were very different from day to day. In Spain, we were tired of the day's driving, it was late, about 11pm, and with four people all having different views, it was difficult to come to a mutual agreement. In this instance, we opted for a campsite next to the main road towards Barcelona - not the best of choices, but at least we had the security of a campsite

Other times we had no choice but to sleep over in a parking lot with the added security of a night-watch or guardian, as they are called. You pay about £1 per car. This was the only option, as you were not allowed to camp on the beach. Many European campervan travellers made use of this facility. The advantage was that at least you were on the doorstep of the town centre

Most of the times we were really lucky with our night spot. In France, we were fortunate to stumble upon an open space next to a little river. No one could see us, it was away from the motorways, but the only security we had was the locked doors and four guys (none of them who slept lightly). At least free camping is very cheap, at the cost of fouling nearby surroundings...

Aha! Then there are the sites dreams are made of. 10 out of 10 for initiative, luck, views and security. No people, no hassles, just the pure freedom we wanted so much

Every night was a feast. We divided ourselves into teams of two, and each team had to cook for the four of us every alternate day. The competition was severe, "Who could make the best meat/vegetable/fish tagine?"

Only time did tell, and in the end we surrendered and let the locals walk away with the trophy! It was amazing what they could do with some cous cous, a bit of meat, minimum vegetables and an array of spices. How I long for those lazy afternoons preparing with our friends, laughing, joking, not understanding each other, laughing some more and then eventually throwing our tired bodies around the campfire and indulging in the great food. Fresh bread dipped into a large tagine pot, what more can you ask for?

Which brings me back to those ultimate moments during our trip..., there were always those special places, and for me it was in the desert. Managing to traverse a few minor sand dunes causing no too much ecological disturbance, we would place the vehicles in such a way that the sand dunes would engulf us. Pointing the tents east, we had the perfect view of sunrise the next morning. Blessed are those who find peace between the dunes. Blessed am I to experience this peace