The Hope Voyage: A Lifetime Experience
By Joanna Vidal
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Breakfast at the camp |
It all started unexpectedly.
Due to the nature of my work, I found myself in a meeting with my boss—who’s also my mentor—and an American man named Mike. At first, I assumed it was about our usual culture and heritage projects, since that’s what we normally work on. As the conversation unfolded, Mike started sharing stories about his own work. He had some idea about our projects too, though not in detail. Later, I found out that Mike Metzger is a freelancer who has worked on various initiatives, including collaborations with government institutions in Abu Dhabi. But what truly stood out was his deep passion for humanitarian work.
Over coffee and casual conversation, he opened up about a vision close to his heart—a project called “The Hope Voyage.” It was more than just a desert expedition; it was a mission to raise awareness and funds for the people of Hadramout, Yemen. His goal was to help dig water wells, build clinics and schools, and bring lasting hope to struggling communities.
At first, we weren’t sure what he wanted from us—but eventually, he asked for advice on how to move forward with his mission. His original route was ambitious: starting from the UAE, passing through Oman and Saudi Arabia, and ending in Yemen. But as journeys often go, plans changed along the way.
The Journey Begins
On the morning of January 1, 2025, “The Hope Voyage” was officially launched in the Khatim area, halfway between Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. Around 50 volunteers gathered—families, even kids—ready to walk together for a cause. I was disappointed I couldn’t attend the inauguration due to work commitments, but my mentor and his friend were there and kept me updated. Thankfully, I still had a chance to join later—during the Oman leg of the journey.
Mike opened the event with a heartfelt speech about the mission: to support the underprivileged people of Yemen by helping build essential infrastructure. It wasn’t just about walking across the desert; it was about walking with purpose.
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T-shirt given to the volunteers I got one of it. |
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At the back of the shirt a photo of two camel imprinted Nesma and Sindbad were part and help Mike in his many mission. |
Crossing into Oman – A Desert Experience
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A view from the camp |
On January 29, we crossed the border into Oman. As a UAE resident, I had to apply for a visa in advance—which I managed easily, having visited Oman before. (By the way, if you’re curious about how to cross the UAE-Oman border, check out my previous blog post for tips!)
Mike shared his location with us as he stayed with a Bedouin friend in the desert. Guided only by GPS—no roads, no signs—we took a chance and somehow found our way to him.
Our original plan was to catch the desert sunset, but the Bedouin family insisted we first rest and enjoy some coffee. That simple gesture of hospitality reminded me of the warmth and kindness you find in unexpected places. While resting, we met the children—sweet, friendly, full of life. We each gave them a small token, one Omani Riyal, just to make them smile.
Then something happened that touched me deeply.
Mike asked for a few minutes with the children’s father. Moments later, they brought out a young man in a wheelchair. He was only in his 20s, and seeing him struggle broke my heart. I could feel the pain in his father’s voice as he spoke about his son’s condition. I immediately turned to my boss and said, “Can we help him somehow?” My boss, having had a similar experience with his own son after a car accident, agreed without hesitation. He promised to help connect the family with doctors in Abu Dhabi or elsewhere.
It reminded me that sometimes, helping one person is as powerful as helping a hundred.
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Road to Ibri Mountain view |
Campfire Moments & Camel Fears
That night, we camped near a military barracks outside Ibri, Oman. It felt safe and peaceful. We built a fire, brewed coffee in a traditional dallah, and shared Afghani bread with cheese under the stars. The air was fresh, the mood light, and the conversations deep—history, politics, friendship. It felt like one of those rare nights where time slows down.
There was also a camel named Sheba (or Sheva—I’m still not sure which!). I was afraid to ride her at first, imagining her suddenly jumping and me falling off! But she was calm, gentle, and made me laugh at my own fear.
The next morning, we shared a delicious breakfast—fried eggs, fresh naan baked over fire, and karak tea. Mike even asked me to try baking naan, which was a first for me and surprisingly fun! After breakfast, we said our goodbyes to Mike and continued our way to Bahla.
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Me feeding Sheba The Hope Voyage Camel |
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Mike the man behind The Hope Voyage and I with Sheba |
The Mission Continues Without Us
Though our part of The Hope Voyage ended there, Mike continued on—eventually reaching Yemen, where he plans to stay for a year. He invited us to visit when he arrives, and I hope one day we’ll be able to go. His real journey, the mission to uplift others, was just beginning.
A Side Trip to Bahla – And a Business Idea
In Bahla, we stayed at my boss’s friend’s place—a large farm-turned-tourist-spot called The Heritage Village. It was like stepping into a living museum of Omani culture. Artifacts, palm trees, a working falaj system, and animals all around. Being there sparked something in me—a vision for our family property in the Philippines, Orilla De Eugene. But that’s a story for another blog post.
After all the carbs in Ibri, we craved protein. We went to a supermarket, bought lean meat, vegetables, and marshmallows for a barbecue. At the gas station, we had a surprise: the banknotes we’d used earlier weren’t accepted anymore! A new Sultan meant new currency—and we’d unknowingly given the Bedouin children outdated money.
We were embarrassed and felt terrible. So at the end of our trip, we made a point to return to them and give the proper currency. The father hesitated at first, but we insisted. The children’s smiles made it worth the extra effort.
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Market Checking Artifacts Display on the Shop |
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The Farm Resort Mini Museum |
A Sweet Ending
In Nizwa, we treated ourselves to a seafood lunch near the fort. We’d planned to go to Matrah the next day to explore the antique markets—but life had other plans. I received an email notifying us that the financial grant for publishing the book we are working had been approved in full. I was overjoyed and immediately shared the news with my boss. That moment of joy was the perfect way to end an already unforgettable journey.
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A Friday live market in Nizwa we came late thats why the market is empty. |
Staying Connected Beyond the Journey
After the trip, we stayed in touch with the Bedouin family. We helped them arrange a medical checkup for the young man who had been in the accident. They were genuinely grateful. Thankfully, after visiting a major hospital, the doctors confirmed he didn’t need surgery—just continued therapy. With proper care, his condition could gradually improve. That news brought so much relief and hope to all of us.
As for Mike, we’ve continued to stay connected as well. We support him whenever he needs help for his ongoing journey. What started as a meeting turned into something much deeper—a real friendship built on shared purpose and compassion.
Final Thoughts
The Hope Voyage reminded me that kindness doesn’t need borders. Whether it was a young man in a wheelchair, a camel named Sheba, or a simple cup of karak tea under the stars—every moment meant something. This trip wasn’t just about reaching Yemen. It was about touching lives along the way, including our own.
If you’re ever given the chance to join a humanitarian mission—go. It may not change the world overnight, but it will change you.
If you want to know about the mission click the link it will lead you to there website The Hope Voyage Website . Interested? follow Hope Voyage Instagram and find out the activities and its mission ongoing.
Thank you for Staying!
Love Joanna
If you enjoyed this post:
Dont Forget to check out Finding Beauty in the Boarders: A Personal Journey Through UAE and Oman.
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