CLOSE ENCOUNTER AT TAOURSSIT

There I was near Timimoun, and you know what? So was Ali Booba! We were at the same ahallil party for marabout Sidi (pronounced 'seedy') Somethingorother's birthday, probably humming the same tune, under the stars a Taourssit. Everybody here at Timimoun knows Ali Booba and they are all willing to take me to him, even to his house. But I keep getting that encouraging inch allah. What do you think happened? Allah ghaleb: god had other plans!

It was a great party by the way. Nothing could have been more exotic and wonderful. If you thought Star Wars was spectacular, try one of these outdoor gatherings that occupy a whole oasis with transic rythms. You'll find yourself transposed into another world, and no need for special effect, even if some do indulge in certain natural herbs.

But, getting back to my real purpose in this amazing country, I'm up to my armpits in frustration in a land where absolutely nothing goes as planned. And it isn't always for the better! South, that's where I'm headed now. And, for a change, that should mean cooler weather.

A trying to stay zen,

Jack Stack.