We have had some early starts and long days in our Mercedes van. There is a lot of “brown” earth but then anyplace there is enough water there are olive, date palms, fig and fruit trees. A large number of the fields have to be covered because the sun is so strong.
The temps in October and November are very comfortable.
There are two mountain ranges: Atlas and Rif. They even boast of two ski resorts. We drove through the Rif and stopped to see some wild Barbary Apes who live in the trees.
Our next city/town was Fes. It is a good size city but seems medieval than other cities of the same size.
The Fes Medina (walled section) has over nine thousand streets…..or rather small alleyways (no cars). This is “by far” the world’s largest living Medina. It is impossible to go into the Medina and not get lost. Our group had two guides to insure we didn’t leave anyone behind!
It wasn’t long before we were touring a pottery factory where the colorful tiles and earthenware you see everywhere you look are made.
We stopped for a Moroccan lunch of salads, vegetables and chicken tagine.
We finished the meal with a glass of the famous hot sweet mint tea. Pouring the tea onto the little glasses is an acquired talent.
There are soooo many sights in this country that can be enjoyed while having a cappuccino in the roadside cafe’s. Volubilis is one of them…Your choice: walk about these magnificent Romain ruins or sit in the shade of Olive trees and appreciate the wonders.
We settled in for a long drive to Merzouga in the Sahara Dessert and all things sand. We stayed two night in a “garrison” type hotel with colorful rooms and great views.
The entire complex including the walls inside and out are made of clay dirt and straw.
Sand dunes and camels right out our back door.
The camels have one hump.
We are back on the road tomorrow but we have to sample some of the local famous dates. About 100 date farmers who were here for The Date Festival ate at our hotel last night.
Dates are judged in many categories (who knew) and may the best man win.
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