It feels sometimes, like my own country has for the most part rejected the sacred - but it's a welcome reminder that there are still places in the world where the sacred has a real part in every day life.
What impresses me most about Morocco is that it is a country where moderation is considered important – even in religion. It's a constant theme that comes up in conversation.
After an incredibly filling Moroccan breakfast, I set of to explore. Feeling much more optimistic about venturing into the Medina, I decided to try and find some of the tourist sites.
My first stop was the Ali ben Youssef Mosque and Medersa, Koubba Ba'adiyn, and the Musee de Marrakesh. While the Mosque is closed to visitors I spent a significant portion of my time at the Medersa, amazed by the incredibly intricate decoration of the building.
Carving at the Medersa:
And the pool in the courtyard:
Carpets at the museum:
Traditional Moroccan seating area:
While I must admit to having got lost on the way, I felt more confident about navigating the city, and decided to do the walking tour from the guide book. It's a fun way to see everything, and a real challenge in navigating around the place.
Marrakesh is fun – packed with color, sounds, and smells. There's nowhere else quiet like it, and I fall in step with the slow but purposeful pace of the people around me – stopping for a splendid lunch at the Cafe Arabia, and a much needed caffeine hit.
That night I make my way back to the square. It's just too good not to go again – and while it was much quieter it was still fun. I decided on Fish and Chips, with tomato sauce – and grilled aubergine (the Moroccan version of mushy peas I'm guessing). It cost next to nothing – but was every bit as good as the food the night before.
And then more tea and cake – and home for an early night.
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