By Natasha
Like Tim said in his previous blog, we finally found the campsite! We made some Mac and Cheese (from the supplies box) and then after some journaling got an early to bed night! It was so nice and mild that we had both side panels to the tent open with just the mesh sides closed! Loving it!
This morning we got ready quickly and made our way into the city of Fes. We (like I’m sure most tourists) were more interested in visiting the Old City or “medina” than the newer and more modern part of the city. The medina is the oldest standing medieval Islamic walled city. We started at the Kasbah and the markets there... but then the heavens opened up and the rain came pouring down.
So we decided to avoid the crowds and just get lost in the labyrinth of streets and corridors. Some of them were so narrow and small.. I couldn’t even try to fit through! But it was great to see the side of Fes that is hidden in a sense from the tourists. The stares continues... they are non-stop... and I’ve had quite a few marriage offers... even with Tim by my side. These guys are gutsy man!
We walked the Souk (street markets), passed the Mosque (not allowed to go in if your not muslim), visited the Tanneries and a leather factory, was given a special tour of a spice shop by a local, invited into the inside rooms of one shop owners pride sand joys, and then visited with some artisans who make the most amazing fabrics. It was an amazing experience... rain and all. We just have to return to Fes one day when we can spend a lot of time there.
After an amazing time in Fes - I can (and you know I will) write books about our time there - we headed for Meknes. As beautiful and as colourful as Morocco is... it is still African. And it became very evident when we drove in the country roads and saw dead dogs along the side of the road.. everywhere. We also saw so many Berbers in their traditional clothing! It was an amazing experience.
We continued onwards toward Meknes.. but the city and medina was not that interesting. It was more fun to see the sights of the small towns along the way off the beaten track. I will forever treasure those friendly waves and smiles as we drove on by.
We finally made our way to the city and capital of Rabat. We had the coordinates for the only campsite there, but once we arrived at the location we were welcomed by heaps of building rubble.. evidence of a massive development project. So we were left to find other accommodation. We headed into the city and you would not believe how many people were on the streets. We were seriously worried of hitting someone as they will just fearlessly run in front of moving cars. So instead we found a “safe” (its all relative here) spot to park the car and scoped out a few hotels. We found a room for a very reasonable price and had a delicious bite to eat at a locals’ spot across the street - we caught them 5 mins before closing, but they gave us so much food for such a low price.. love the local spots.
Tonight we can rest up.. but not gonna lie, don’t feel completely comfortable about sleeping on these sheets. Rolling myself in my travel blanket before getting in! Ha ha ha.
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