Mad Money - Literally!

The last several weeks have been crazy - long hours at work but earning that spending money - mad money!  No really, the Moroccan currency is the dirham or MAD.  Ha!   The exchange rate is one dirham (MAD) is .12 US cents or one dollar is 8.18 dirham.   That's even more buying power.  

Checked Baggage

I learned today that Royal Air Maroc allows 2 checked bags at 50 lbs. each.  You know what that means!  Yes - more support of the Moroccan economy!

The Shopping List is Made - I'm Going to Need More Luggage!

The shopping opportunities are going to be fantastic and might, just might, need to purchase another suitcase to bring home the haul. 

The first must have is a kilim (pronounced kee-leem).  I'm not the fancy carpet type person, and the kilims come in all shapes, sizes, and color combinations.  I've read that they can fold these up so small that you can pack them in your luggage (best way to go I'm told so that you have what you actually purchased).

 

Second are a few Handira blankets (wedding blanket).  These are woven and sometimes ornately decorated rugs used by brides in the Atlas Mountains to protect them from the snow and rain.  They can be used as rugs, throws, or wall hangings.  

Next is a Moroccan lantern.  Most are handmade in the medina and can have a light or candle inserted to give off a wonderful image.   Many of them have glass and colored stones to add interest.

Lastly are scarves and some silver jewelry.  I always try to bring home at least one unusual piece of jewelry from wherever I travel. 


 

Hurry Up And Get Here!!

The trip seems forever away but I know it will be here in no time.  The more information I read, the more excited I become.  It seems like such an exotic place, and I just know the photograph opportunities are going to be awesome, especially in the medinas (old cities).