Air Traffic Strike Forces Moroccan Expats to Embark on Epic Road Trip Home

On Saturday, Omar and his family are going to Morocco to spend the summer vacation. While they are used to reaching the kingdom by air, this time they are making a two-day drive to join their loved ones due to the air traffic controllers’ strike. "We left the Yvelines at midnight and made stops throughout the night with the children," he recounts Sud Ouest.

Omar and his family took a lunch break as early as 11 a.m., at the Cestas rest area, south of Bordeaux, like other vacationers. They were able to enjoy chips, pink candy donuts, and freshly brewed Moroccan tea on a small stove. After this break, they headed towards Spain. "We’ll make a stop at a hotel in Spain for only 50 euros, compared to 100 euros here," Omar specifies.

For the French, traveling by car has become a tradition. According to the annual barometer of Europ Assistance and Ipsos, 65% of the French are inclined to use their car for travel this summer. Why this choice? One reason would be the budget. Another advantage: unlimited luggage.