Drinking From The Ganges

Fes, Morocco

Morocco is the first Islamic country I visited. I had researched and read prior to visiting Morocco that I may be harassed (verbally, not physically) a bit by the opposite sex or feel uncomfortable in restaurants or traditional coffee houses; because one I am a women and two I am a women traveling alone.  As a result, I mentally and physically (dressed in long sleeve shirts and long pants-didn’t cover my head) prepared myself for my first visit.  However, upon arriving in Marrakesh, I was never harassed or felt uncomfortable…..however, all this changed once I reached Fes, Morocco. [read on]

Sahara Desert Excursion-

I booked a 3 day/2 night Sahara Desert excursion through my Riad ( a Riad is a traditional house that has a courtyard with a garden).  The excursion consisted of  ’Ait Ben Haddou Kasbah,’Dades Gorge,’ Todgha Valley,’ Merzouga Dunes,’ a camel ride through the Sahara Desert (Mezouga Dunes) and one overnight stay in the desert. 

I woke up the following morning and boarded the mini-van with Omar our chain smoking driver (nickname-’speedracer’) and Yousself our ‘B-rated houmourous’ guide- he was always saying ‘lovely jubbly,’ ‘yallah, yallah,’ (hurry in Arabic) ’see you later alligator’.  Next to board the mini-van was a Canadian couple from the same Riad as mine and the final people to complete the circle were two ladies from NYC.  Usually, the excursion consists of eight people, however three had to cancel, due to a missed flight….which ultimately worked out better for us in the end! [read on]

Click Link- http://s271.photobucket.com/albums/jj159/Rbalthazar/?action=view&current=0c82d7d4.pbr

Click Link  http://s271.photobucket.com/albums/jj159/Rbalthazar/?action=view¤t=fe5d0251.pbr

On my first sightseeing day in Marrakesh, I ventured into the 'abyss', a.k.a 'The Souks' (souks are open air markets).  A person must be mentally prepared to 'dive' into the souks...a person should leave any and all planned routes on ... [Continue reading this entry]

Marrakesh, Morocco - Link to Photos>  http://s271.photobucket.com/albums/jj159/Rbalthazar/?action=view¤t=c129725d.pbrThe smell of freshly squeezed oranges and mint tea permeated the air interspersed with sounds of snake charmers, mopeds and Arabic.......these are the smells and sounds that greeted me upon ... [Continue reading this entry]