On the Move Through Marvelous Morocco

Rabat

We made it to Rabat, Morocco’s capital, late yesterday afternoon from Paris and decided to kick-back at the hotel and just enjoy a little down time before our Imprint Tour of “Marvelous Morocco” began this afternoon.

But that didn’t stop Alice, Tammy, Janet, Anita and myself from getting out and exploring on our own this morning before meeting our tour guides and tour group to explore more of Rabat and enjoy our first tour group dinner.

The main events in Rabat are the Medina, a mega outdoor shopping maze behind a wall; the residential area of the Kasbah Udayas; the Mausoleum of Mohammed V; an Andalusian garden; an old Moorish Cafe with beautiful views; colorful doors and more.

Here’s a snippet of Rabat, Morocco. Tomorrow we head to Chefchaouen with a stop in Asilah.

Back together again after four years with the Kasbah of the Udayas and the Bouregreg River behind us in Rabat, Morocco. We met during a Rick Steves Turkey tour and we’ve gotten the group back together again for another tour, this time through Morocco with Imprint Tours. From left: Janet, me, Alice and Tammy. (April 14, 2019)

The River Bouregreg River and the Kasbah of the Udayas in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

The Bouregreg River and the fishing and taxi boats in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

Our group selfie from this morning with the Kasbah of the Udayas and the Bouregreg River behind us in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

Main gate of the Kasbah of the Udayas in Rabat, Morocco. This Kasbah was built as a military fort to protect the residences and the Medina. (April 14, 2019)

The Laalou Muslim Cemetery in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

A close-up of the gravestones of the Laalou Muslim Cemetery in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

Inside one of the many alleyways of the Kasbah of the Udayas in Rabat, Morocco, where the buildings are painted in blue and white. The color blue is protection from the evil eye. (April 14, 2019)

Inside the Kasbah of the Udayas in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

Wall art inside the Kasbah of the Udayas in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

Colorful and decorative door inside the Kasbah of the Udayas in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

Decorative door inside the Kasbah of the Udayas in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

The maze-like Medina in Rabat, Morocco is where just about anything from tea pots to carpets to leather bags can be purchased. (April 14, 2019)

Merchants in the maze-like Medina in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

Catching my group, (Janet, Tammy, Alice and Anita) walking through the maze-like Medina in Rabat, Morocco. Alice is using the GPS on her phone to try to get us out of the maze…and did a great job of getting us back to the starting point to meet our taxi driver so we could get back to the hotel. (April 14, 2019)

The maze-like Medina in Rabat, Morocco, where thousands of people enter through the many entrance gates into this labyrinth of a cornucopia of goods. (April 14, 2019)

Another section of the maze-like Medina in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

Me at the Medina in Rabat, Morocco, by one of the colorful tiled fountains that were once in use. (April 14, 2019)

One of the many alleyways of the maze-like Medina in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

A merchant selling a variety of beans at the Medina in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

A merchant selling a variety of figs and nuts at the Medina in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

A merchant selling spices at the Medina in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

A merchant selling women’s attire at the Medina in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

A merchant selling men’s attire at the Medina in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

Circular flatbreads being sold at the Medina in Rabat, Morocco. Bread is a staple of Moroccan diets. (April 14, 2019)

The views from the Moorish Cafe inside Rabat’s Kasbah of the Udayas in Rabat, Morocco, where Moroccan mint tea and sweets are served. (April 14, 2019)

The Moorish Cafe inside Rabat’s Kasbah of the Udayas where great views and Moroccan mint tea are served. (April 14, 2019)

Mint tea in Morocco is a definite thing which is actually a Chinese green tea that includes fresh mint and sugar. (April 14, 2019)

Although we stopped at the Moorish Cafe inside Rabat’s Kasbah of the Udayas in the morning, we didn’t partake of its piping hot Moroccan mint tea until our afternoon Imprint group tour. I got mine with sugar but the remainder of our group opted for no sugar. It was hot and tasty. From left: Tammy, Anita, Janet, Alice and me. (April 14, 2019)

The Andalusian Garden inside the Kasbah of the Udayas in Rabat, Morocco. (March 14, 2019)

The Andalusian Garden inside the Kasbah of the Udayas in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

When entering and exiting the Yacoub al-Mansour esplanade. where the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and the Hassan Tower are located in Rabat, Morocco, a pair of royal Moroccan guards on horses are on posted. (April 14, 2019)

The Hassan Tower, located on the opposite end of the Mohammed V Mausoleum in Rabat, Morocco, is the minaret of an incomplete mosque that was destined to be the biggest religious monument of the world in the 12th century but was abandoned after the death of the sultan in 1199. (April 14, 2019)

The Mausoleum of Mohammed V, just opposite the Hassan Tower in Rabat, Morocco, is the king’s royal grave. It was built of Arab-Andalusian style between 1967 and 1971 and is covered in white Italian marble with a pyramid roof covered with green tiles. (April 14, 2019)

The royal guard at the entrance of the Mausoleum Mohammed V in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

Inside the Mausoleum of Mohammed V in Rabat, Morocco, where the walls are chiseled with Koranic calligraphy. Under the central dome is the sarcophagus, covered with Pakistani white onyx, of His Majesty the King Mohammed V (1909-1961). It contains the tombs of the Moroccan king and his two sons, late King Hassan II (1929-1999) and Prince Moulay Abdallah (1935-1983). (April 14, 2019)

The ceiling inside theMausoleum of Mohammed V in Rabat, Morocco. (April 14, 2019)

The main entrance to the Yacoub al-Mansour esplanade in Rabat, Morocco. The entrance way, to the Mausoleum of Muhammad V and the Hassan Tower, are watched over by royal guards on horses. (April 14, 2019)

The ruins of the unfinished mosque, along with the Hassan Tower, still stand today in Rabat, Morocco’s Yacoub al-Mansour esplanade. (April 14, 2019)

Asilah

We were only in Asilah, Morocco, for a couple of hours but walking through the Medina, or old town, enclosed in its well-preserved 15th-century Portuguese built ramparts and gates, was a warm and colorful journey. Warm because of the sun and colorful because the Asilah Medina is known as Morocco’s art hub.

Asilah was a lovely stop on our way to our ultimate destination, at least for the next two days, the city of Chefchaouen known for its blue-washed buildings in the Rif Mountains of Morocco.

Enjoy Asilah and a smidget of Chefchaouen’s blueness…with more to come.

It can be difficult to get five women in one group selfie photo, but here we are in front of one of the many gorgeous doors and art inside the 15th century walled city of Asilah, Morocco. From left Tammy, Janet, me, Alice and Anita. (April 15, 2019)

The 15th century fortress encasing the city of Asilah, Morocco, were built by the Portuguese, who conquered the town in 1471. The Portuguese maintained control of Asilah until 1589, when it briefly returned to Moroccan rule before being taken over by the Spanish. (April 15, 2019)

The interior fortress of Asilah, Morocco’s Median or old town wall built by the conquering Portuguese in 1471. (April 15, 2019)

Inside the Asilah, Morocco, Medina or old town are the small colorful shops. (April 15, 2019)

Inside the Asilah, Morocco, Medina or old town are the small colorful shops, including this shoe shop. (April 15, 2019)

A merchant alleyway in the walled city of Asilah, Morocco. (April 15, 2019)

A walkway in the walled city of Asilah, Morocco. (April 15, 2019)

A flowered corner courtyard inside the walled city of Asilah, Morocco. (April 15, 2019)

Asilah, Morocco, is known for its white-washed walls and murals inside of its 15th century fortress. (April 15, 2019)

The colorful murals along the white washed walls of Asilah’s Median or old town inside its 15th century fortress. (April 15, 2019)

A small art shop inside the Medina or old town of Asilah, Morocco. (April 15, 2019)

An entryway toward the ramparts and views of the ocean in the 15th century walled city of Asilah, Morocco. (April 15, 2019)

The ramparts encasing the Medina or old town of Asilah, Morocco. (April 15, 2019)

The ramparts encasing the Medina or old town of Asilah, Morocco overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. (April 15, 2019)

Another section of the fortress of Asilah, Morocco’s Medina or old town wall built by the conquering Portuguese in 1471. (April 15, 2019)

Me standing by one of the many colorful and beautiful doors in the walled Medina or old town of Asilah, Morocco. (April 15, 2019)

A courtyard in Asilah, Morocco. (April 15, 2019)

The colorful and decorative doors of Asilah, Morocco. (April 15, 2019)

The beautiful doors of Asilah, Morocco. (April 15, 2019)

The carved doors of Asilah, Morocco. (April 15, 2019)

The blue doors of Asilah, Morocco. (April 15, 2019)

Chefchaouen

If living in the sky were possible then Chefchaouen, Morocco, would qualify. It’s calming white and shades of blue washed buildings along with it’s colorful market vendors, stoned walkways and stairs to spectacular views makes this the epitome of living in the white of the clouds and the blue of the sky.

Founded in 1471 as a small kasbah or fortress to fight the Portuguese invasions of Morocco, Chefchaouen, pronounced Chef-showen, was seized by the Spanish in 1920 to form part of Spanish Morocco and was returned in 1956 during the restoration of Morocco’s independence.

Surrounded by the stunning Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is known as Morocco’s “blue pearl” or “blue city.” The distinctive color blue was introduced by the Jewish people escaping the Spanish Inquisition in the 1490s. They brought the tradition of painting buildings blue to symbolize the sky and heaven, plus to serve as a reminder of God by leading a spiritual life.

Here’s Chefchaouen and its sky-like living, heavenly and spiritual blueness as seen through through its labyrinth of narrow blue alleyways. Next, we venture to Fes.

Arriving in the colorful city of Chefchaouen, Morocco, noted for its buildings in shades of blue. (April 15, 2019)

We arrived in Chefchaouen, the Blue Pearl city of Morocco, with enough time to do a brief introductory walk and scatter on our own for dinner. This is the sun setting over the main square in Chefchaouen from the rooftop of the Aladdin Restaurant. (April 15, 2019)

The sun setting on Chefchaouen, the Blue Pearl city of Morocco. More about Chechaouen tomorrow. (April 15, 2019)

Me standing in one of the many blue alleyways of Chefchaouen, Morocco, during our group walking tour of this enchantingly shades of blue and white city. (April 16, 2019)

A hilltop view of the “blue city” of Chefchaouen, Morocco where the Jewish tradition of painting their homes in the Medina blue continues. By repainting them regularly, even though very few Jews, still live in the town continues out of civic pride. (April 16, 2019)

We began our morning walking tour of Chefchaouen, Morocco, at one of the few blue and white buildings, the Alcazaba or Kasbah. It’s the walled fortress built ing by Moulay Ali Ben Musa, the founder of Chefchaouen, in 1471. There’s a children’s playground between a gate and the fortress. (April 16, 2019)

Entering the Chefchaouen, Morocco, Kasbah or walled fortress from its back entrance into the Medina. (April 16, 2019)

And, so begins the varying shades of blue after entering the Kasbah or walled fortress into Chefchaouen, Morocco’s Medina. This 17th century building was home to an Islamic religious school or monastery. (April 16, 2019)

This gorgeous building within the walled fortress and entrance into the Medina in Chefchaouen, Morocco. It is the Sidi Ben Lehcen Oven and it was built in the nucleus of the Medina during the period of Moulay Ali Ben Rashid (1471-1511). (April 16, 2019)

One of the many labyrinth of shades of blue and white alleyways inside the Medina of Chefchaouen, Morocco. (April 16, 2019)

The decorative blue doors throughout the Medina in Chefchaouen, Morocco. (April 16, 2019)

The decorative doors in Chefchaouen, Morocco. (April 16, 2019)

A painted entryway and residential stairway in Chefchaouen, Morocco. (April 16, 2019)

The medina blue paint adorning the residents of Chefchaouen, Morocco. (April 16, 2019)

Walking through the “blue city” streets of Chefchaouen, Morocco. (April 16, 2019)

Exploring the “blue city” of Chefchaouen, Morocco. (April 16, 2019)

The shades of blue and white that give Chefchaouen many nicknames including the “blue pearl” of Morocco with the majestic Rif Mountains overlooking the colorful town. (April 16, 2019)

Walking through the “blue city” streets of Chefchaouen, Morocco, with its bevy of cats. (April 16, 2019)

Blueness abounds in the “blue pearl” town of Chefchaouen, Morocco. (April 16, 2019)

The “blue city” of Chefchaouen, Morocco. (April 16, 2019)

The local baker whose oven dates back to the 17th century provides bread and other baked goods for Medina resident in Chefchaouen, Morocco. (April 16, 2019)

One of several commercial alleyways with restaurants, shops or small street vendors selling their wares in Chefchaouen, Morocco’s Medina. (April 16, 2019)

The colorful, yet still blue, vendor alleyways of the Medina in Chefchaouen, Morocco. (April 16, 2019)

Powdered fabric dye used by Moroccan rug and textile makers for sale along an alleyway in Chefchaouen, Morocco’s Medina. (April 16, 2019)

Catching a local wood merchant at work both making and selling his carved goods at the Medina in Chefchaouen, Morocco. (April 16, 2019)

The central gathering place, the Plaza Uta Hammam in Chefchaouen, Morocco. (April 16, 2019)

Enjoying a late lunch at the Plaza Uta Hammam in Chefchaouen. From left: me, Alice, Janet, Tammy and Anita. (April 16, 2019)

Meknes

Although Morocco is a country in the continent of Africa, its cultural and ethnic roots are Berber, Arabian and European mainly from France and Spain. Morocco’s predominant religion is Islam, and its official languages are Arabic and Berber. Even the Romans had a presence in Morrocco in the 1st century AD when they landed in Volubilis.

We left Chechaouen for Fes on Wednesday but on the way, we stopped at the Roman ruin of Volubilis, once a provincial Roman capital and now a UNESCO World Heritage site.

From there, we went to the nearby city of Meknes where we were treated to a camel burger, a unique Moroccan speciality, at the home of a family.

After our late afternoon lunch, we continued on to Fes where most of our tour group stayed at one Riad and myself and three others stayed at another Riad just a five minute walk away. A Riad is a Moroccan home, and in our case, a historic one that was converted into a guesthouse.

So, let’s get on the road to Fes, Morocco, and then on Thursday, let’s enjoy a tour of Fes.

Me at the Roman ancient ruin and archeological site of the Basilica at Volubilis just outside the city of Meknes. (April 17, 2019)

The Arch of Caracalla or Triumphal Arch at Volubilis, an ancient Roman site just outside of Meknes, Morocco. (April 17, 2019)

The Capitoline Temple at Volubilis, an ancient Roman site just outside of Meknes, Morocco. The ruins remained substantially intact until they were devastated by the Lisbon earthquake in 1755 and then looted by Moroccan rulers seeking stone for building Meknes. (April 17, 2019)

The remains of the ancient Roman city of Volubilis, just outside of Meknes, Morocco, had fine town-houses with large mosaic floors. (April 17, 2019)

The exterior remains of the Basilica at Volubilis, an ancient Roman site just outside of Meknes, Morocco. a number of 2nd century public buildings including a basilica, temple and triumphal arch. Its prosperity, which was derived principally from olive growing, prompted the construction of many fine town-houses with large mosaic floors. (April 17, 2019)

The exterior remains of the Basilica at Volubilis, an ancient Roman site just outside of Meknes, Morocco. (April 17, 2019)

The remains of a bath once fed by an aqueduct at Volubilis, an ancient Roman site just outside of Meknes, Morocco. (April 17, 2019)

This is the Four Seasons mosaic at Volubilis, an ancient Roman site just outside of Meknes, Morocco. (April 17, 2019)

A close-up of one section of the Four Seasons mosaic at Volubilis, an ancient Roman site just outside of Meknes, Morocco. (April 17, 2019)

The Decumanus Maximus, the biggest and most prestigious thoroughfare at Volubilis, an ancient Roman site just outside of Meknes, Morocco. in the city. (April 17, 2019)

Inside the home of Hassan and his wife, Zahira, during our Imprint tour group’s home-cooked camel burger lunch stop in Meknes, Morocco. From left, Paul, Lynda, Vicki, me, Stephanie and Wanda. (April 17, 2019)

Hassan serving our Imprint tour group Moroccan cooked vegetables of eggplant and potatoes with olives to come at his home in Meknes, Morocco, just before serving us the main course of camel burgers. (April 17, 2019)

A close-up of the treats that could be eaten on their own or with the camel burger to come..olives, potatoes and eggplant at the home of Hassan and his wife Zahira in Meknes, Morocco. (April 17, 2019)

Our tour group digging into the vegetables and came burgers being served at the home of Hassan and Zahira in Meknes, Morocco. (April 17, 2019)

Alice and I partaking of our camel burger at the home of Hassan and his wife Zahira in Meknes, Morocco. Although the camel meat tasted bland and had the consistency of ground beef, I could only take a couple of bites before visions of camels danced in my head. Plus, I’m not a heavy bread eater and the breads, which are an important part of the Moroccan diet, is more coarse and grainy. I don’t believe camel burgers are in my future. (April 17, 2019)

After our camel burger lunch our tour group took a short stroll through the Meknes Medina in Morocco. Although most of the Medina dates between 1672 to 1727, there are other parts that date back to the 11th century. (April 17, 2019)

Strolling through the Meknes Medina in Morocco. (April 17, 2019)

The doors of an old riad, or home, in the Meknes Médina in Morocco. (April 17, 2019)

Artisan doors in the Meknes Medina in Morocco. (April 17, 2019)

A mural in the Meknes Medina in Morocco depicting the importance equestrian performance and the celebration of traditional folklore. (April 17, 2019)

A close-up of a mural in the Meknes Medina in Morocco depicting the importance equestrian performance and the celebration of traditional folklore. (April 17, 2019)

Meknes, Morrocco is known for its gates and this main gate, the Bab Mansour Gate, finished in 1732, was designed with Almohad patterns and some of the columns from the ancient Roman ruins of Volubilis. (April 17, 2019)

The busy El Hedim Square in Meknes, Morocco. (April 17, 2019)

The large decorated Bab El Khemis Gate, built in 1673, in Meknes, Morocco. (April 17, 2019)

While driving to Meknes, Morocco, I got to admire the farmlands of the countryside that is full of olive trees, grape vines, watermelon, chickpeas, green beans and beets. Meknes is considered to be the capital of agriculture in Morocco. (April 17, 2019)

Fes

The gorgeous front door to our riad Dar Al Andalous in Fes, Morocco. Just a few of the tour members, Stephanie, Larry, Paul and myself stayed here while the other members of our group stayed in a larger riad just a five minute walk away. (April 18, 2019)

The dining room of the Dar Al Andalous riad in Fes, Morocco, was traditionally the open garden or central courtyard of the riad. (April 17, 2019)

The living room/greeting room/common room of the Dar Al Andalous riad in Fes, Morocco. (April 18, 2019)

A few members of our Imprint tour group, myself and three others, stayed at the Dar Al Andalous in Fes, Morocco, while the remainder of our group stayed at another riad. Here we are having a traditional Moroccan dinner at our riad starting with very hot Moroccan soup. That’s Stephanie waiting to be served. (April 17, 2019)

Our first course for dinner was the Harira, a traditional Moroccan soup of lentils, chickpeas and seasonings at our Dar Al Andalous riad in Fes, Morocco. (April 17, 2019)

Our second course was the Pastilla, similar to a meat pie, at our Dar Al Andalous riad in Fes, Morocco. A pastilla shredded meat along with almonds, cinnamon and sugar providing a sweet and salty taste in a crisp crepe-like dough that actually tastes rather wonderful. (April 17, 2019)

And, the main course for dinner at the Dar Al Andalous riad in Fes, Morocco, was the Chicken Tajine with lemmon plus olives and onions served in a ceramic earthenware pot. Although we had chicken, Tajine dishes are available with a variety of meats or a vegetable version all of which comes in this ceramic bowl covered in a cone-like top. (April 17, 2019)

A fruit cup of bananas, strawberries and apples topped with a piece of mint for dessert at our Dar Andalous riad in Fes, Morocco. (April 17, 2019)

My room, no numbers just a name, She’hrazade, at the Dar Al Andalous riad in Fes, Morocco. The three sets of gated doors with clear stained glass look down into the garden/courtyard, now the enclosed dining room area. (April 17, 2019)

It was supposed to rain all day and be cold in Fes, Morocco, on Thursday. There were a few drops and the morning was cool but as the day progressed, it got both warmer and brighter.

Fes is the second largest city in Morocco with a population of about two million inhabitants and it’s separated into three districts largely consisting of two old medina quarters, Fes el Bali (the oldest walled part of Fes founded between 789 and 808), Fes Jdid (founded in 1276 as an extension of Fes el Bali) and the modern urban area of Ville Nouvelle (constructed during the French colonial era between 1912 and 1956).

We spent the entire day in Fes checking out the ornate doors of the king’s palace, the abundant and colorful art scene of the leather tanners, ceramic pottery and tile makers and the weavers while walking through its historical Jewish Quarter and its labyrinth of a Medina.

Friday was an all day on the bus travel day to the Sahara desert, where we saw quite a change in Morocco’s geography. We arrived at our riad in Merzouga tired of sitting and just in time for dinner. But for now, here’s the colorful Fes.

Me standing by one of the seven highly decorative bronze doors and surrounded by delicate tiled door frames at the Dar al-Makhzen or Royal Palace in the Fes Jdid quarter of the city of Fes, Morocco. The palace is not open to the public. (April 18, 2019)

Unfortunately this photo doesn’t show how beautiful the seven brass doors of the Dar al-Makhzen or Royal Palace are in the Fes Jdid quarter in the city of Fes, Morocco but you can tell how large this entryway is that gets used on special occasions. (April 18, 2019)

A close-up of the intricate patterned door knockers on the brass doors of the Dar al-Makhzen or Royal Palace in the Fes Jdid quarter of the city of Fes, Morocco. (April 18, 2019)

A close-up of the intricate tile work surrounding the brass doors of the Dar al-Makhzen or Royal Palace in the Fes Jdid quarter of the city of Fes, Morocco. (April 18, 2019)

The Bab Semmarine gate at the entrance of the Jewish Quarter known as the Mellah in Fes, Morocco. The Mellahs came into existence as Jews migrated to Morocco after being expelled from the Iberian Peninsula during the Spanish Inquisition. (April 18, 2019)

The former Jewish Quarter known as the Mellah in Fes, Morocco. While typical Muslim riads or homes have large indoor courtyards with a limited view to the outdoors, Jewish homes have large windows and balconies open to the outdoors. (April 18, 2019)

The Jewish Quarter in Fes, Morocco, known as Mellahs where the windows and balconies of their upstairs homes were open to the outdoors and their businesses were downstairs. (April 18, 2019)

The former Jewish Quarter known as the Mellah in Fes, Morocco, where the Jewish homes have large windows and balconies open to the outdoors. (April 18, 2019)

Our Fes city tour guide, Kadesha showing us the henna plant leaves used to dye skin, hair and fingernails and fabrics in the old Jewish Quarter or Mellah. (April 18, 2019)

Me with the panoramic view of the two old Medina’s of Fes, Morocco. (April 18, 2019)

Our Thursday walking tour of Fes, Morocco, was as much about its historical significance y it was about its art. At the Mosaique et Poterie, we got to see this young man molding clay into the Tajine pots used for cooking traditional Morocco meals. The pottery shops which were once located inside the Medina but are now located outside of the Medina for fire safety reasons. (April 18, 2019)

This young man at the Mosaique et Poterie in Fest, Morocco, is actually making ceramic sheets for the mosaic tiles starting with making these clay molds for firing.(April 18, 2019)

And, this young man, at the Mosaique et Poterie in Fes, Morocco, is demonstrating how he uses silver to add an additional design to a small ceramic bowl. (April 18, 2019)

This large plate at the Mosaique et Poterie in Fes, Morocco, caught my eye. I love the colors, the motifs and the added bonus of the silver design. (April 18, 2019)

These men are chiseling pieces of ceramic tile to make beautiful pieces of art at the Mosaique et Poterie in Fes, Morocco. This is intensely laborious work and Islamic ceramic tile art pieces don’t use people or animals in their designs instead geometric, vegetative and calligraphy motifs are used. (April 18, 2019)

Young women painting various bowls and vases to be fired at the Mosaique et Poterie in Fes, Morocco. (April 18, 2019)

And, this is where the finished hand work of the artisans at the Mosaique et Poterie in Fes, Morocco, comes…a large sales floor of gorgeous pottery for purchase. (April 18, 2019)

And, this is where the finished hand work of the artisans at Mosaique et Poterie in Fes ends with a sales floor of gorgeous pottery for purchase. (April 18, 2019)

I was most excited to see the tanneries in Fes packed with stone vessels filled with dye or white liquids to soften and color the hides of cows, sheep, goats, and camels. (April 18, 2019)

A close-up of the workers on the stone vessels filled with dye, along with the animal skins, at the tannery in Fes, Morocco. The manual labor production process involves no modern machinery and has basically retained methods used during medieval times. (April 18, 2019)

An overview of the tanneries in Fes with stone vessels filled with dye or white liquids to soften and color the hides of cows, sheep, goats, and camels (April 18, 2019)

The leather goods resulting from the tanning available at the Fes Cuir in Fes, Morocco, include jackets, coats, bags, shoes and even slippers. (April 18, 2019)

There’s really nothing quite like walking through the Medinas and the Fes, Morocco, Medina, with its seemingly endless labyrinth of alleyways is truly an ancient allure that I found to be intense and mesmerizing. We began our walk in the oldest walled in Medina, Fes el Bali which was founded between 789 and 808. (April 18, 2019)

Although the alleyways of the old Fes el Bali in Fes, Morocco, are narrow and congested, there’s still room for a little store tucked into the alleyway. Some 350,000 people live in the car free Medina. (April 18, 2019)

The narrow alleyways in the el Bali Medina in Fes, Morocco. (April 18, 2019)

The shops inside the Fes, Morocco Medina. (April 18, 2019)

A meat shop inside the Fes, Morocco Medina. (April 18, 2019)

Another meat shop inside the Fes, Morocco Medina. (April 18, 2019)

An olive shop inside the Fes, Morocco Medina. (April 18, 2019)

Make way for the donkeys and the carriages transporting goods throughout the sprawling Fes El Bali Medina in Fes, Morocco. The Medina is considered to be the largest Medina with some 10,000 alleyways. (April 18, 2019)

A spice vendor inside the Fes, Morocco Medina. (April 18, 2019)

The Fes El Bali Medina in Fes, Morocco. (April 18, 2019)

A man transporting various animal hides inside the Fes El Bali Medina in Fes, Morocco. (April 18, 2019)

Inside the Fes El Bali Medina in Fes, Morocco is this ancient madrassas, or Koranic school with gorgeous Islamic architectural details such as carved and filigreed plaster. (April 18, 2019)

A close-up of the Islamic carved and filigreed plaster at the Koranic school inside the Fes El Bali Medina in Fes, Morocco. (April 18, 2019)

The original wood carved ceiling at the Koranic school inside the Fest El Bali Medina in Fes, Morocco. (April 18, 2019)

Following our Fes city guide through the labyrinth of the Fes El Bali Medina in Fes, Morocco, we came to a colorful weaver’s shop filled with scarves, purses, table clothes and an assundry of beautiful items. This man on the loom was weaving a large colorful throw by hand. (April 18, 2019)

The Sahara Desert

I’m usually never wowed but this year I’ve been wowed twice. Once earlier this year at the Voodoo Festival in Ouidah, Benin, and Saturday in the Sahara desert of Morocco. Years ago while I was traveling through Europe, I barely considered the beautiful African continent. Yes, there was a sense of fear. But two things changed my mind, my DNA results that showed my Benin, Togo and Ghana ancestry and the 6-part “African Civilization” series by Henry Louis Gates. Both made me curious and whatever fear I had went to planning my African travels.

The Sahara desert and the people who call it home are truly magical. As beautiful as the dunes and wind-swept sands are to look at, it would certainly be a difficult and challenging way of life yet the sand is life for many Moroccans.

I’ll let the photos and captions tell the story of my Sahara desert adventure in Morocco.

It’s the only scarf I brought with me. I bought it four years ago when I was in Turkey but its seen Paris and it became my desert turban at the hands of our Berber desert driver, Mustafa in the Sahara desert of Morocco. (April 20, 2019)

Mustafa, our Berber desert driver, creating my desert turban from my red scarf in the Sahara desert of Morocco. (April 20, 2019)

We were picked up in the morning by a caravan of 4-wheel drive vehicles to be transported through the Sahara desert in Morocco to our various activities. Mustafa, our driver, has obviously learned to maneuver and become acquainted with the dunes and sand of the Sahara. (April 20, 2019)

Our 4-wheel drive group during our day-long Moroccan Sahara desert adventure. From left, Sarah, our Imprint Tours guide, me, Mustafa our exuberant driver, Alice, Janet and Rainer. (April 20, 2019)

The entrance to the Dar Gnaoua in the town of Khamlia of the Sahara desert in Morocco. This is where the Gnaoua, the ancestors of slaves brought from central and west Africa along with the Berbers, Morocco’s original inhabitants, make their home. (April 20, 2019)

One of the first stops of our day-long Sahara desert adventures in Morocco, was in the town of Khamlia where the Gnaoua, the ancestors of slaves brought from central and west Africa along with the Berbers, Morocco’s original inhabitants make their home. We were welcomed with a cup of tea and the rich music of the Gnaoua tribe ancestors. (April 20, 2019)

Our tour group stopped in the Sahara desert of Morocco to experience the music of the Gnaoua people, originally brought from central and west Africa as slaves. I didn’t understand the words but I definitely felt the spirit of the ancient African Islamic religious songs and rhythms of our singer as he played and sang to us. (April 20, 2019)

A group of young Gnaoua men singing and playing their instruments at the Dar Gnaoua in the Sahara desert of Morocco as our tour group enjoyed our day in the sand. (April 20, 2019)

The camels and, their mahout or leader in the Moroccan Sahara desert. (April 20, 2019)

Our tour group stopped to visit a family of Nomads living in the Sahara desert of Morocco. (April 20, 2019)

Inside the kitchen of the Nomadic family we visited in the Sahara desert of Morocco.(April 20, 2019)

The kitchen and the stove where the hot water is boiled for a Moroccan staple, tea, for the Nomadic family we visited in the Sahara desert of Morocco. (April 20, 2019)

Our wonderful Peeks Tour guide, Tarik, a Moroccan native who has been our local voice and guide of his country, standing by the tent of the Nomad Sahara desert family in Morocco and explained how they make the gorgeous rugs seen on top of the tent. Inside of the tent was a loom with a rug project in progress. (April 20, 2019)

The Sahara desert of Morocco. (April 20, 2019)

Our Imprint Tours group guide, Sarah, along with my travel mates Anita and Tammy enjoying tea under the tent of our Nomad family in the Sahara desert of Morocco. (April 20, 2019)

The camels resting and ready for our group camel ride in the Sahara desert in Morocco. Our tour group rode in different packs of five or so. (April 20, 2019)

That’s me up front struggling a little to get on the camel for our group camel ride to our overnight tent in the Sahara desert of Morocco. The last person mounts the first camel because if the first camel is mounted first and stands than the rest of the pack or group of camels will also stand. And, once you’re on the camel hold on tight because when they get up off the ground, they move quickly, rear first. (April 20, 2019)

Made it up onto the camel and holding on for dear life. (April 20, 2019)

My selfie while sitting on my camel at the beginning of our camel ride to our overnight tents in the Sahara desert of Morocco. That’s Anita behind me and Tammy pulling up the rear. (April 20, 2019)

Yes, that’s me leading our pack of five camels and riders along with our experienced camel mahout leading the way through the Sahara desert of Morocco to our overnight camping tents. There were times I could relax my legs but not my hands. Plus I was also adjusting myself on the saddle because half the time I felt like I was leaning too far to the right. The hour-long distance ride to our overnight tents was long enough and the crests and valleys of the dunes was just a stunning experience. Although it turned out to be a warm day, the morning was rather chilly, but the sun, blue skies, clouds and glorious dunes made this trek rather epic for me. (April 20, 2019)

Crossing just a small portion of the Sahara desert in Morocco as our tour group makes our way to our overnight tents. (April 20, 2019)

Janet, with Meg snapping photos behind her, on their camels in the Sahara desert in Morocco. (April 20, 2019)

Alice and behind her is Stephanie on their camels in the Sahara desert in Morocco. (April 20, 2019)

A welcome tea at the main camp site after our group camel ride in the Sahara desert in Morocco. Tea is a way of life in Morocco. (April 20, 2019)

My overnight tent, to the right, in the Sahara desert in Morocco. Six of our Imprint tour group stayed at this desert camp site Alice, Tammy, Anita, Janet and myself including another tour member Debbie. (April 20, 2019)

Inside my tent in the Sahara desert in Morocco. Once the sun goes down, so does the temperature. There was no heat but there definitely was a stack of wool blankets which came in very handy. (April 20, 2019)

Inside my tent in the Sahara desert in Morocco. Now I know what glamping feels like. On my South Africa trip when we had to pitch and take down our own tents plus use the facilities in a separate location, this kind of camping is so much more glamorous. Had my own facilities right in my tent. (April 20, 2019)

Inside my tent in the Sahara desert in Morocco with my own bathroom facilities, toilet, sink and a shower which came in very handy after spending the day in the desert collecting sand. (April 20, 2019)

The outdoor common area of our tent site in the Sahara desert in Morocco. (April 20, 2019)

The sun going down at our camp site in the Sahara desert in Morocco. (April 20, 2019)

Our group showered and rested after our camel ride getting ready to enjoy dinner at the main camp’s dining room tent in the Sahara desert in Morocco. From left: Alice, Anita, Tammy, me and Janet. (April 20, 2019)

Our group being served the main course of chicken and French fries…however in Morocco they’re known to be called fresh fries or chips. This was after having a bowl of Moroccan soup and a plate of olives. I’m not much for olives but since I’ve been in Morocco, I just can’t stop eating them. That’s our delightful server with Alice and Anita. (April 20, 2019)

Ait Benhaddou

Traveling through Morocco by bus, a very comfortable bus, has really allowed me to see Morocco and even though a long bus driving day, which we’ve had on this trip, can be very tiring, I still enjoy getting to see how the people live and how diverse the country is. We don’t do too many one night stops but we did in Ait Benhaddou. Centuries ago, it was an important stop for caravans carrying salt across the Sahara. Today, its grand kasbah is Morocco’s premier example of clay architecture and has been listed as a World Heritage site.

A selfie of Janet and me at the hilltop of of Ait Benhaddou the earthen clay architecture and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Morocco. (April 23, 2019)

Ait-Ben-Haddou, in Ouarzazate province, is a striking example of the traditional earthen pre-Saharan habitats of southern Morocco. The ksar are a group of earthen buildings surrounded by high walls. The houses crowd together within the defensive walls, which are reinforced by corner towers. (April 23, 2019)

Shops inside of Ait-Ben-Haddou in the Ouarzazate province of southern Morocco. (April 23, 2019)

The Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou illustrates the traditional earthen habitat, representing the culture of southern Morocco. (April 23, 2019)

One of the highlights of this trip to Ait-Ben-Haddou, Morocco, was this visit to the Cooperative Akhnif Lglawi where hand-made traditional rugs are sold. (April 23, 2019)

Inside the the Cooperative Akhnif Lglawi in Ait-Ben-Haddou in Morocco, where the women are looming rugs. (April 23, 2019)

Inside the the Cooperative Akhnif Lglawi in Ait-Ben-Haddou in Morocco, where our group got to look at some incredible hand-made rugs. (April 23, 2019)

I was taken by this patchwork rug at the Cooperative Akhnif Lglawi in Ait-Ben-Haddou in Morocco. It’s a compilation piece of different blocks, a sampler of a woman’s work, and final rug. (April 23, 2019)

A close-up of the gorgeous sampler rug at the Cooperative Akhnif Lglawi in Ait-Ben-Haddou in Morocco. (April 23, 2019)

Instead, I bought this gorgeous runner at the Cooperative Akhnif Lglawi in Ait-Ben-Haddou in Morocco, for my kitchen. It’s red and has these wonderful quilt blocks scattered throughout. I paid 3000 Moroccan dirhams, about 300 U.S. dollars. Worth every penny and was shipped home. (April 23, 2019)

Marrakesh

The cornucopia of sounds, sights and smells is constant, and even more so at night, along with the coming and going of people, bikes, men pulling carts, donkeys pulling carts and the motorbikes all trying to make their way through the labyrinth of Marrakesh’s ancient Medina alleyways while vendors wares spill out onto the alleys as they shout “come in,” “good price,” “where are you from,” “have good deal for you,” and beggars coming up to you wanting money to eat.

The old fortified city of Marrakesh, founded in 1062, has the largest traditional Berber market in Morocco and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The day was spent exploring the alleyways of the medina along with its zillion shops and the evening was spent having dinner at the home of a local family with an evening walk to what is considered the largest open-air square inside a medina. Let me introduce you to just a small part of the eclectic, amazing and in your face Marrakesh medina with its 11th and 12th century walls and gates.

The labyrinth and magical ancient Medina of Marrakesh is definitely made for wandering, just watch out for the bikes, carts, motorbikes, donkeys, people and merchants. (April 25, 2019)

Deliveries through the medina in Marrakesh are made on everything it seems except a car. (April 25, 2019)

The Marrakesh medina in Morocco. (April 25, 2019)

The Marrakesh medina in Morocco’s spice section. (April 25, 2019)

The spices and dyes at the medina in Marrakesh, Morocco. (April 25, 2019)

A colorful and gorgeous street in the medina in Marrakesh, Morocco. Marrakesh is called the “red city” but the color is more of a salmon pink than red but the lapis or blues of all shades seems to be a color that radiates through the cities we’ve seen in Morocco. (April 24, 2019)

Getting through the narrow alleyways of the Marrakesh medina in Morocco takes a certain amount of skill because you have to look out for the motorbikes, men pulling carts, donkeys pulling carts and of course the people that pack the maze of alleyways. (April 24, 2019)

Get your fresh fruit in the medina in Marrakesh, Morocco. (April 24, 2019)

The Bab Agnaou, built in the 12th century, is one of several gates along the walled ancient fortress of Marrakesh, Morocco, that once protected the medina and kasbah. (April 24, 2019)

A close-up of the Bab Agnaou gate, built in the 12th century. It is one of several gates along the walled ancient fortress of Marrakesh, Morocco, that once protected the medina and kasbah. (April 24, 2019)

A gate into the 12th century wall fortress of Marrakesh, Morocco, with a view of the Moulay El yazid Mosque. (April 25, 2019)

The 12th century defensive walls of Marrakesh, Morocco’s medina. (April 25, 2019)

The 11th century kasbah inside of the 12th century walls of Marrakesh, Morocco, as our group made our way to the home of a local family for dinner. (April 25, 2019)

One of these doors open into the home of a family in the Marrakesh medina where some of our tour group members enjoyed a home cooked meal and a demonstration on how to make a traditional tagine dish. (April 25, 2019)

Here’s some of our Imprint Tour group inside the home of Fatima and her family in the Marrakesh, Morocco, medina. (April 25, 2019)

That’s Fatima in the doorway of her kitchen in the Marrakech medina and Tarik, our guide, explaining to us how the chicken in the bowl on the floor is cooked in a tagine. The tagine is a cone shaped ceramic dish that’s placed atop coals and used to slow cook various meat and/or vegetable dishes. (April 25, 2019)

And, here are two bowls of chicken with olives that were slow cooked in a tagine. The meal also included salad and bread at the home of Fatima and her family who live inside the medina in Marrakech, Morocco. The chicken was delicious and tender. (April 25, 2019)

That’s Fatima and Alice, my gourmet cooking traveling friend, absorbing all the information she can on how to use the tagine, standing at the doorway to Fatima’s kitchen in Marrakech’s medina. (April 25, 2019)

My selfie of the day as our group walked along a crowded street towards the Jemaa el-Fnaa open-air market in Marrakech, Morocco. (April 25, 2019)

Walking to the Jemaa el-Fnaa open-air market in Marrakech, Morocco. (April 25, 2019)

For our last night in Marrakech, Morocco, we were treated to a rooftop view of the amazing Jemaa el-Fnaa, the open-air main square or market place, in Marrakesh’s medina. (April 25, 2019)

The Jemaa el-Fnaa, the open-air main square or market place in Marrakesh’s medina quarter. The steam is coming from the various food stalls. (April 25, 2019)

A rooftop view of the amazing Jemaa el-Fnaa, the open-air main square or market place, in Marrakesh’s medina. (April 25, 2019)

Tammy and I, along with several from our tour group, hopping in a tuk tuk at Jemaa el-Fnaa square in Marrakech, Morocco, for a ride closer to our riad. (April 25, 2019)

This tunnel, which required ducking so as not to hit your head from the low beamed ceilings, led to the Riad Al Jazira where most of our tour group stayed in Marrakech, Morocco. (April 24, 2019)

My room doors opening to a private balcony at the Riad Al Jazira where most of our tour group stayed in Marrakech, Morocco. (April 24, 2019)

My room at the Riad Al Jazira where most of our tour group stayed in Marrakech, Morocco. (April 24, 2019)

On our tour groups way out of Marrakech to Casablanca, we stopped for a few minutes to admire the Majorelle Garden a botanical garden designed and landscaped by French artist Jacques Majorelle who began the garden in 1923 and took almost forty years to complete it. Left abandoned in the 1950s, it was purchased in the 1980s by fashion designers, Yves Saint-Laurent and Pierre Bergé who restored it. (April 26, 2019)

The Majorelle Garden a botanical garden designed and landscaped by French artist Jacques Majorelle who began the garden in 1923 and took almost forty years to complete it. Left abandoned in the 1950s, it was purchased in the 1980s by fashion designers, Yves Saint-Laurent and Pierre Bergé who restored it. (April 26, 2019)

The Yves Saint Laurent Memorial at the Majorelle Garden in Marrakech, Morocco. In the 1980s fashion designers Yves Saint-Laurent and Pierre Bergé restored it after it had been abandoned in the 1950s. (April 26, 2019)

Casablanca

Casablanca is the final stop and today is the last day of our “Marvelous Morocco,” tour with Imprint Tours. But this is not my last day in Morocco because our small band of travelers will leave Casablanca in the morning and head north by train for a few days to Tetouan, just outside of Tangier.

I’ve truly enjoyed my tour of Morocco and look forward to Tetouan and Tangier. For now, our little group will say good-by to Janet, who goes on to France, and hello to John, Alice’s husband, who will be traveling with four women through the remainder of Morocco and our adventure through the Andalusian portion of Spain.

Just a little about Casablanca…it is not the Casablanca of the American actor Humphrey Bogart romantic drama movie, of the same name, released in 1942…this Casablanca is a big time city, the largest population-wise in Morocco.

For now, here’s a brief good-bye post to our tour group, with thanks to Sarah, our Imprint Tour group leader, and Tarik, our Peeks Cruises & Tours local tour guide.

The only and major event for our last tour group day together was a visit to this enormous Hassan II Mosque, completed in 1993, in Casablanca, Morocco. It is considered to be the largest mosques in Africa, and the 5th largest in the world. Its minaret is the world’s tallest minaret at 689 feet. (April 26, 2019)

The interior of the extraordinarily enormous Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Morocco. (April 26, 2019)

The interior of the extraordinarily enormous Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Morocco. A majority of the tiles and carvings in the mosque were crafted by Moroccan artisans, however the chandeliers are from Murano, Italy, where renowned for its long tradition of glass-making. (April 26, 2019)

A close-up of the intricate ceramic tile seen throughout the interior of the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, Morocco. The tile work or Zellige is mosaic tilework made from individually chiseled geometric tiles set into a plaster base. (April 26, 2019)

The original name for Casablanca was Anfa, in Berber language. Bordering the Atlantic Ocean, it is the largest city in Morocco. (April 26, 2019)

The original name of the city of Casablanca was Anfa, in Berber language. Bordering the Atlantic Ocean, Casablanca is the largest city and Morocco’s financial center. (April 26, 2019)

Our Imprint Tour group farewell dinner in Casablanca, Morocco. (April 26, 2019)

After our last dinner tonight in Casablanca, Morocco, our group, actually my travel buddies, posed with Tarik, our local Morocco guide who shared his knowledge and kindness with all of us, on this wonderful Moroccan journey. Our Imprint Tour guide Sarah kindly took the photo. From left: me, Anita, Tarik, Alice, Janet and Tammy. (April 26, 2019)

Tétouan and Tangier

I believe we were the only tourists in Tétouan, Morocco, and that was fine with us. We took the high speed train at 11 on Saturday morning and arrived on time at the very modern and very new Tangier-Ville railway station, considered to be the first high-speed rail line in Africa.

We were picked up at the train station by Omar who got us to the rendezvous point with Abdul our Airbnb riad caretaker in Tétouan. After getting settled and enjoying a cup of tea, Abdul, who was born and raised in Tétouan, took us for an amazing walk through the medina.

Tétouan is gritty and real. Nothing is staged for the tourists like the snake charmers in Marrakech. The markets cater to the locals and filled by the locals and not by us tourists, and I just loved it because no one was harassing us to buy things. It’s a small city in northern Morocco with a unique heritage of Spanish Andalusian and Arab cultures making this green and whitewashed city a Moroccan gem. the small shops and market stalls cater more to Tetouan’s inhabitants than tourists.

It is also about a hour’s drive from Tangier, a few miles away from the Mediterranean and the medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Here’s the very authentic, non-touristy city of Tétouan and a peek into our riad-life.

The fresh meat, in this case, chicken stall inside the medina of Tétouan where locals shop. (April 27, 2019)

The fresh fruit stall inside the medina of Tétouan, Morocco, is lively and where locals shop. (April 27, 2019)

The spice shop in the medina where the locals buy their spices, and Alice too, in Tétouan, Morocco. (April 27, 2019)

The spices and beans of the local spice shop in the medina where the locals buy their spices, and Alice too, in Tétouan, Morocco. (April 27, 2019)

The shops inside the medina in Tétouan, Morocco. (April 27, 2019)

A fresh fruits and vegetable shop inside the medina in Tétouan, Morocco. (April 27, 2019)

The UNESCO World Heritage medina in Tétouan, Morocco. The medina is Tetouan’s historic heart. Although the city was destroyed around 1400 by the Spanish, it was later re-built by the Islamic Moors who fled there after the 15th-century Reconquista. Their architectural influence can be seen in the white Andalusian houses, most of which have been left untouched since the 17th century. April 27, 2019)

The active and locally attended medina in Tétouan, Morocco. (April 27, 2019)

The grittier Tétouan, Morocco, medina isn’t a showplace for the tourists. It’s made for the locals. And, even though it was grittier, it wasn’t as hectic or in your face like the other major city medinas. You could actually stop and look without being hassled to buy. (April 27, 2019)

After the call to worship, a man is seen walking into The Great Mosque in the Tétouan, Morocco, medina. The five times daily call to prayer is live and traditionally done from the minaret, summoning Muslims for the call to worship. This mosque was built in 1808 by Sultan Mulay Suliman over a 16th century mosque. (April 27, 2019)

The Tétouan, Morocco, Medina. (April 27, 2019)

The Tétouan, Morocco, medina is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. (April 27, 2019)

The bags of charcoal lined up inside the Tétouan, Morocco, medina for locals to purchase and use to cook their meals in their ceramic tajine or tagine pots. (April 27, 2019)

A stairway inside of the Tétouan, Morocco, medina leading to the kasbah on the hillside. The kasbah overlooks Tétouan. (April 27, 2019)

Alice caught me doing my thing, taking photos, while still checking things out around me, inside the Tétouan, Morocco, Medina. (April 27, 2019)

My rag tag travel team by the Dar Dbagh tannery section of Tétouan, Morocco, along with our Airbnb riad caretaker and guide, Abdul. From left: John, Alice’s husband who has joined us for this portion of our Morocco adventures and our upcoming Spain adventures, Tammy, Anita, Alice and Abdul. (April 27, 2019)

The Dar Dbagh or Tanning House, is the first of its kind in Tétouan, Morocco, and dates back to the late 15th and early 16th centuries. It’s also a very real workaday place where animal parts and skins, not shown, can be seen piled to the sides…and it most definitely smelled. (April 27, 2019)

The Dar Dbagh Tanneries in Tétouan, Morocco, within the medina walls and the lambs wool strewn on the roof tops. (April 27, 2019)

My traveling mates stopped at the Tétouan, Morocco, fruit stall in the medina to get some fresh bananas and oranges. That’s Abdul, our Airbnb caretaker, cook, guide and all around kind man, standing next to Anita, Tammy and Alice. (April 27, 2019)

The Bab Tout 16th century gate in Tétouan, Morocco. (April 27, 2019)

The Medina City Wall or fortress in Tétouan, Morocco. (April 27, 2019)

The picturesque ancient white houses of the medina Tétouan, Morocco, from the Novelle Feddan or new park. (April 27, 2019)

It’s called the new park or Novelle Feddan in the medina of Tétouan, Morocco. It’s only two years old but the views of the white housed medina are just spectacular. (April 27, 2019)

That’s Abdul, our Airbnb caretaker, guide, cook and all around extraordinaire, standing at the doorway of our 15th century Tétouan, Morocco, Airbnb riad. (April 27, 2019)

The first floor gathering area of our three floor Riad in Tétouan, Morocco. Also on this floor is a bedroom, bathroom and kitchen. (April 27, 2019)

The seating area of our Riad’s first floor open gathering area in Tétouan, Morocco. (April 27, 2019)

The second floor seating area of our three floor Riad with incredible rooftop views in Tétouan, Morocco. (April 27, 2019)

The third floor open area of our Riad in Tétouan has four bedrooms with their own bathrooms and a small corner lounging area. (April 27, 2019)

My bedroom, with its own bathroom, on the third floor of our Riad in Tétouan. (April 27, 2019)

And, this is the rooftop terrace of our Riad in Tétouan, Morocco, with its incredible views. (April 27, 2019)

The incredible views from our Riad’s rooftop terrace in Tétouan, Morocco. (April 27, 2019)

More incredible rooftop terrace views from our Riad in Tétouan, Morocco. (April 27, 2019)

We spent Sunday in Tangier and even though I was here in 2010, I don’t remember it being as lively or as gritty but I do remember it be touristy.

Abu, pronounced ah-boo, our driver and guide for the day, picked us up close to our Tetouan riad and guided us through the maze of Tangier’s kasbah and medina. We also had a very satisfying lunch at the La Terrazas de la Medina before doing some more sightseeing and heading back to our riad.

And, today, was all about Tétouan’s art culture and keeping the traditions alive, checking on the new town and having our big meal at a very elegant restaurant, with good food, for lunch.

Tomorrow morning, we get a very early start as we leave the African Continent and make our way to the European Continent where we’ll settle in Granada, Spain, for a few days. But for now, here’s looking at you kid and saying good-by to Tangier and Tétouan, Morocco.

Heading inside the kasbah, the residential section of the old town, in Tangier, Morocco. (April 28, 2019)

The decorated door of a home in the Tangier, Morocco, kasbah. (April 28, 2019)

The kasbah in Tangier, Morocco. (April 28, 2019)

Me at a gorgeously decorated door inside of the kasbah in Tangier, Morocco. (April 28, 2019)

The Cafe Baba in the Tangier, Morocco, kasbah is known as a celebrity hangout. (April 28, 2019)

Strolling through the kasbah in Tangier, Morocco. (April 28, 2019)

The medina in Tangier, Morocco. (April 28, 2019)

We enjoyed a delicious lunch at La Terrazas de la Medina in Tangier, Morocco. From left: me, Tammy, Anita, Alice and John. (April 28, 2019)

Ordered this delicious and fresh Moroccan salad at La Terrazas de la Medina in Tangier, Morocco. From the bottom left: cut cucumbers with tomatoes; red and green peppers; carrots and eggplant with a black olive on top. (April 28, 2019)

I meant to take the photo before I started eating, but I was hungry and the marinated chicken skewers or kebabs at La Terrazas de la Medina in Tangier, Morocco, were delicious. (April 28, 2019)

The gate way and wall into the medina in Tangier, Morocco. (April 28, 2019)

The art work along the corridors in the Tangier, Morocco, Medina. (April 28, 2019)

A sewing shop inside the medina in Tangier, Morocco. (April 28, 2019)

The colorful medina in Tangier, Morocco. (April 28, 2019)

A selection of olives inside the medina in Tangier, Morocco. (April 28, 2019)

Strolling through the medina in Tangier, Morocco. (April 28, 2019)

There was even a men’s clothing store inside the medina in Tangier, Morocco. (April 28, 2019)

Enjoying Spain’s Andalusian influences in the architecture, especially the balconies, in Tangier, Morocco. (April 28, 2019)

The Grand Socco, the main market square, in Tangier, Morocco. (April 28, 2019)

Enjoying dinner at our Airbnb riad in Tétouan, Morocco, with a home cooked meal of couscous, vegetables and chicken. From left: John, Tammy, Alice, Anita and me. Cheers! (April 28, 2019)

A close-up of our traditional Moroccan dinner of couscous, vegetables and chicken at our Airbnb riad in Tétouan, Morocco. (April 28, 2019)

We spent our last full day in Tangier staying close to our home base in Tétouan with a visit to a local arts and trades school in the morning, a delicious lunch at a Riad turned restaurant and then a visit around Tétouan with a local guide. Morocco truly is marvelous and ending our stay in Tétouan has made it even more tremendous.