Morocco: Tour of the Medina (Fez), part 1
Day 5 was a full day in Fez. It was a free day; although there was an optional full day tour of Fes. And guess what, the entire tour group signed up for this optional tour. It was the best decision. You have seen how packed the medina was when I posted the overview of the city in earlier post. If I did not sign up for this tour, I would not know how to begin. Too many circuitous narrow alleys that would spell trouble for a first-timer. I don't suggest a DIY tour of medina to anyone; just get a guide. The place is too big, too cramped, too many ins and outs and alleys that will make your head spin.
We began the tour early in the morning after breakfast. Upon boarding the bus, we were introduced to our local guide, whose name I can't remember, but was such a wonderful guide. He was full of knowledge, and he doled out tidbits with a side of sense of humor. Unfortunately for me, my brain was unable to retain everything, and you will see why.
Just like yesterday's arrival to Fez, local guide also took us to the bluff for an overview of the medina that we were about to explore.
The medina has several gates.
We did not enter the medina through any of the gates I showed above. We were dropped off in what looked like the back where we did not enter any arched gate, but entered through a narrow alley like this one.
Then we crossed a canal, lovingly called the Venice of Fez. The guide must be joking.
This nonagenarian is a local celebrity. Apparently he's featured in a website or the pamphlet. I cannot find that feature, but I know that he's one of the most photographed in medina.
We did a lot of photography; every which way you look there's something interesting and photo worthy.
We stopped at many spots where artisans and local artists practice their art. Some of us were engrossed in this store that sells brass lamps. The lamps are big/large that it was impossible to carry these back home.
**to be continued**
OUR WORLD TUESDAY
We began the tour early in the morning after breakfast. Upon boarding the bus, we were introduced to our local guide, whose name I can't remember, but was such a wonderful guide. He was full of knowledge, and he doled out tidbits with a side of sense of humor. Unfortunately for me, my brain was unable to retain everything, and you will see why.
Just like yesterday's arrival to Fez, local guide also took us to the bluff for an overview of the medina that we were about to explore.
The medina has several gates.
We did not enter the medina through any of the gates I showed above. We were dropped off in what looked like the back where we did not enter any arched gate, but entered through a narrow alley like this one.
Then we crossed a canal, lovingly called the Venice of Fez. The guide must be joking.
This nonagenarian is a local celebrity. Apparently he's featured in a website or the pamphlet. I cannot find that feature, but I know that he's one of the most photographed in medina.
We did a lot of photography; every which way you look there's something interesting and photo worthy.
We stopped at many spots where artisans and local artists practice their art. Some of us were engrossed in this store that sells brass lamps. The lamps are big/large that it was impossible to carry these back home.
**to be continued**
OUR WORLD TUESDAY
You had such an adventure - very interesting post
ReplyDeleteGreat to read. Amazing photos.
ReplyDeleteBeautiful and magical place!
ReplyDeletelol, your Morocco tour is way different then the one I took. But I was on a birding trip :)
ReplyDeleteBeautiful and nice!
ReplyDeleteThose lamps are beautiful, but you're right I can't figure how to bring those home if I'd buy one of them. Do the sellers at least offer an option of shipping them home?
ReplyDeleteAn impressive series on this interestng place. Items to big to take home are the ones we always wamt!
ReplyDeleteMy word! I'm in awe.
ReplyDeleteFascinating country and your photos are delightful ~ My favorite too is the Donkey with the Elder ~ ^_^
ReplyDeleteAwesome - such a deep history there.
ReplyDeleteThanks for your recommendations! I have read it is very easy to get lost in the medina. I would not want that to happen since I can get a bit impatient. So, a guide sounds like a good idea.
ReplyDeleteMorocco sounds like and looks like a wonderful place to visit. Maybe one day I'll get to travel there… Until then, thanks for letting me live vicariously through your blog. :)
ReplyDeleteWith Love,
Mandy