Simon and I travelled through the Sahara and many more areas in West Africa around 6 years ago.
We were always greeted with smiles and handshakes and always greeted others the same way. A few times we were asked for 'cadeux' or " money" but never gave. We never handed out gifts, pens, sweets etc etc - just a smile and respect and we received the same in return.
We found that you need to treat the land of the Sahara with the same attitude - its not a playground to ride/drive around with no care...it still takes lives for the unprepared or careless traveler.
TV is showing the peoples of north west Africa what they do not have and what it is the 'should' have....then they see a 'rich' tourist. We were told once " the colour of your skin is the proof that you have money"...how can you argue with that logic? as basically it is true. The cost of our clothes and motorbikes were more than most would earn in a lifetime. Try not to flaunt it - although we could never be inconspicuous!

We did ask locals for help/directions etc and were always helped - I dont think its got anything to do with the 70's 80's or other decade - its just a different decade were information and access to that information is more readily available to those who didint have it before- as mhoey said 'good people are still out there'.....and they are as we find out every single day of our 7 years on the road.

down-hearted - get out and travel and promote the good name of the 'real' overland travelers and see that the world and its peoples are not like
you see and hear on TV or read in newspapers- especially in the USA and UK!
dont think that I have truly got over what I'm on about here....
but hope you get the sentiment!

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Lisa
www.2ridetheworld.com