The people Mauritania

One arrives in Nouakchott, the capital of Mauritania and the location of a sizable majority of the country's population, after getting off the train, exiting the desert, riding on and off a few bush taxis, and returning to civilization. The finest thing to do in Nouakchott, which isn't Paris and is just somewhat more scenic than Nouadhibou, is to find a hookah and smoke with some Mauritanians.

Mauritanians are forced to live a simpler lifestyle because the majority of their country is covered with desert, and as a result, they are constantly friendly, open, and hospitable, willing to share their experiences with you and hear some of your own. One may experience the actual treat of the country, which is, like most of West Africa, the people, with a basic grasp of French (or, if you're really driven, the more widely spoken Hassini).

So, whether you're in the capital or basically anywhere in the nation, spend some time getting to know some Mauritanians, hookah or not. If you must, discuss life, travel, or, if you must, camels. Whatever you decide to discuss, make sure you get an opportunity to meet the people of Mauritania, who are the country's true treasure.

Give Mauritania serious consideration if you're ever in the area or just want to travel to a unique, less-explored part of the world. Highlights include the Western Saharan border, the iron ore train to Choum, camel rides through the desert, a sunset in Chinguetti's Old City, and a hookah conversation with locals.