Sunday, June 1, 2014

Marrakech: Ready or Not Here We Come !!


A full day's travel to Marrakech wasn't half bad because of the stops throughout the journey.  We arrived in the evening and checked into our hotel.  A secluded, luxurious resort about 3/4 of a mile from the Jaama El Fna Square.

After a night's rest, we headed to the Koutubia Minaret near the Jaama El Fna Square. 


 


 












On we went to the Saadian Tombs which date back to the 16th century.  Very beautiful. 




On we went to the pharmacie - not your typical pharmacy.  This pharmacie sells herbs, spices and perfumes.  One particular item in demand - Argan Oil.  Several of the items I purchased are guaranteed to make me look years younger - yea right.  Yes, I'm a sucker!! 
 
 
Our group walked from the tombs to the Jaama El Fna Square, where several went for the afternoon tour and others took free time.   I was in the free time category - after all I must find the two items high on my list - kilims and a lamp.   I found both!!!  No pictures of the kilims just yet, but I do have one of the lamp I bought.  Just love it.
 

Can't wait to get it hung.  After my bargaining and hauling everything back to the hotel, it was time for relaxation because tonight is the carriage ride and dinner.

The carriage ride through the streets of Marrakech and the Square was fantastic.  Seeing and hearing all the activities in the Square - snake charmers, shoppers, musicians, monkey handlers and portable dining carts.


Our carriage ride took us to dinner at a hidden gem at the edge of the Medina - down the alley way of a partially destroyed building was the Riad Lotus Privilege.  The atmosphere was amazing; the food and entertainment fabulous.  We thought where in the world is our guide taking us because there were no visible food establishments.  Needless to say we were quite surprised.
 



 
Here is the last few minutes of the Whirling Dervish.  We were eating in a low light setting,  We also had some musicians and a superb belly dancer. 
 
 

No comments:

Post a Comment