Morocco (and Spain) continued
Hope you all have time to spare, as this post covers about a week of travel. Enjoy.
April 26th. I left you all after my first day in Casablanca. I did hear from Neyl, who turned out to be a great help (and an all around nice guy). Taxi driver pointed out tourist spots (in broken English); souq, cinema, mosque, Atlantic, New York. First stop of the day was Hassan II Mosque, which was pretty amazing (despite the early morning cold wind blowing off the Atlantic). The detail in woodwork, carvings, marble…. is amazing. The hamman has an ethereal aspect that I found interesting. For some reason, it was my favorite part of the mosque. After several missed meeting plans, finally met up with Neyl (with help of a concientious pedestrian – who spoke to Neyl for me to clarify meeting spot). He (Neyl, not the pedestrian) drove me around. Stopped for a great seafood lunch at Porte du Peche. During lunch, we had an informative discussion about the Israel – Palestine situation. It’s good to hear the other side of the situation, as most of my sources tend to be pro-Israel. There’s a lot of underlying history that I need to study. Next to the medina to replace my suitcase (torn). Started to look through pirated cd’s and Neyl said he didn’t feel comfortable helping me with that - didn’t consider it would be awkward for him as a Muslim – again, my apologies Neyl. Quickly abandoned that endevour. Got a bit lost driving back to the hotel, but Neyl was incredibly patient – much more than I think I would have been.
April 27th. First stop for the day was the Jewish museum – labeled the only museum in Casablanca! Gave an interesting overview of the history, customs, clothing, artefacts, etc. of the Jews here. Unfortunately, only about 3 of the myriad of signs were in English. Photos of some of the synagogues in Morocco – some of which look quite beautiful, will have to try and visit some.
April 28th. Uneventful bus ride to Rabat. People here continue to impress me with the warmth and generosity. Had to check suitcase on bus, but didn’t have chance for a 20 (price was 5) so the next customer paid for me!! Tell me that would happen in the U.S.! Only stop of the day was the medina – an intersting place to stroll, with interesting laneways and architecture.
April 29th. Took the train in to Sale. Wandered the medina here, which I found to be much more intersting. Inadvertantly picked up a guide who spent a few hours showing me around. First, to see the Medersa (old Koran school). Inlay work here is amazing, as is the wood work – intricate detail. Lunch (overpriced) at one of the riads. Then to mosque (had to wait for prayer time to end. There are 7 doors leading into the mosque – a different one is open depending on the day of the week. Guide quickly pointed out the cemetary where all the graves face Mecca. Overall, an intersting several hours. Train back to Rabat – for some reason, it was three stops to Sale, but only one back to Rabat!? Nice dinner that night. Man at next table had obviously been there for a while – he was contentedly humming the same tune regardless of the music playing (and even when there was no music). Can you picture the empty wine bottle in front of him?
April 30th. Train to Asilah was about an hour late. Struck up a conversation with guy next to me (was staying at same hotel). He spoke pretty good English. He’s from a town in southern France where he works as a nurse. Is on holiday with his wife (who teaches English) and his two kids – on break from school. Interesting detail noticed from train. Passed one of the slums. All (and I mean all) the dwellings, regardless of condition – many barely had walls and/or roofs – had setelite dishes. How’s that for priorities? On arrival at hotel, first room I was shown on the ground floor and very dark. Asked for one upstairs and got one – was very happy to have done so. Nice, bright room with lots of character. Quick stroll through the medina – a very attractive town. Whitewashed walls painted in pastel colors. Instantly charming.
