Magical Morocco - Round trip part II.

Who joins me for exploring the Northern part of Morocco? After a short stop in Rabat, I was traveling to the beautiful Fez, the city, I was so eager to visit, finally my dream came true.

Lunch in Rabat

Unfortunately I didn't have so much time, I only stopped for lunch in Rabat, but still I managed to soak up the atmosphere of the place a little bit. First I checked out the beach, although it's not a real beach there, so wild and natural, it had a good atmosphere though.

While walking on the waterfront,  I’ve just found this lovely restaurant, called Marina Bay, I chose seafood for lunch. The place was really peaceful, little boats were passing by. The food was excellent, the location was priceless.

Fascinating Fez

Here comes the best part of my tip, when I discovered Fez and experienced the authentic Morocco. Where else to look for accommodation, if not in a Riad? Riads are typical, traditional houses, that have been lovingly restored into special boutique hotels. The building always has a central element, it can be a garden, a pool, a courtyard -  very relaxing, cool atmosphere, it's like an oasis in the desert to me. Riad Ghita located in the outskirts of the Medina, still very close to the center, Bab Boujloud was a few minutes walk away. They welcomed me with mint tea and cookies, the courtyard was pretty impressive with all those original, fancy decorations.

They served traditional breakfast: pancakes, bread, olives, cheese and eggs. Excellent start of the day!

The rooms were big and clean with traditional charm and beauty, each room has a special design, very old building with history and cool atmosphere. Since it's not inside the Medina, it was quiet in the evening.

Wandering around...

Fez used to be the capital of Morocco, today it's an important cultural and spiritual center. I couldn't wait to explore the old city. I heard, it's the largest surviving Medina in the world (UNESCO World Heritage site), it's also easy to get lost, there is no map, that would show all the little, hidden streets in the area. Visiting a Medina is always a cultural experience, you can observe the locals' life, get involved in the mood and smells. I've found some amazing handcrafted gates, it was like stepping back in time.

The main entrance is Bab Boujloud. The original medieval gate was not so richly decorated, how it is nowadays, it also served for protection, today it's an emblematic sight of the city.

As soon as I arrived to Fez, young boys offered to show me around, we set up the price and the meeting point for the next day. Even if you might find this risky, don't be afraid, they know the city and they will take you to unique places. This is how I was exploring the old Jewish street, the ceramic factory, the tannery and a nice restaurant.

Life in the Medina

Old Jewish street

The art of pottery - Art Naji

You will see traditional ceramics everywhere in Fez, no matter where you go: mosaics, fountains, tagine pots etc.The ceramic facility shows porcelain how you've never seen it before: in the factory you can follow the work routine from scratch, guides will take you through the production from raw material to finished product, in the end you can also buy ceramic works or you can simply order them. Hand-crafted pieces, exceptional beauties, traditional items, I'm so fond of this stuff!

Leather Tannery visit

Tannery industry in Morocco looks today just how it used to be in the early centuries, it doesn't involve any modern machinery. it's interesting to watch the workers and follow their routine. You will get a bunch of mint in order to not to smell the unbearable stink. However I expected something worse, it stinks but it was ok for me. The leather shop behind the factory offered a wide selection of products, I fall in love with this blue jacket, that will always remind me my lovely Fez. 

Argan oil

The guide took me to a place, where an old lady was making argan oil in a traditional way. The shop also offered spices and it was hidden inside the Medina, I'm not sure I would find the place by myself again. Argan oil is made of the argan tree fruit and it's exclusively grown in Morocco. The acids inside are beneficial for hair and skin. It definitely ads some shine to my dry hair, so I gladly bought a small portion.

Restaurant

In the evening I was ready for a nice dinner. My guide took me to a place called Palais des Merinides in the old town, it didn't look anything special from outside, but it looked like a real palace inside with all these fabulous ceilings and arty decorations. Even though it looked like a touristic trap, I didn't mind, I loved the atmosphere and food was yummy, a bit pricey though, but you better get used to that in this country. Tourists always pay more than locals.

After dinner it was time for a last drink, so I went to this luxurious Riad Fes before saying Good-bye to the city.

That was Fez and my few days in this imperial city, I hope to return one day. I'm saying Good-bye to you with this fabulous night shot. For Fez inspired FASHION and INTERIOR DESIGN tips follow the links!