CROSBY, STILLS and NASH

While seated in a café in Belgium, I discovered a one-way ticket to Marrakesh priced at just $60.00. One of the most enjoyable aspects of wandering through Europe without a set itinerary is the opportunity to find excellent train and airfare deals. Regional airlines such as Iberia, KLM, Air Europe, and others provide remarkable and affordable travel options throughout Europe.

Marrakesh sounded so familiar, where did I hear that name? Then it came to me “ Crosby, Stills and Nash- “Marrakesh Express”- 1969- “Don’t you know we’re riding on the Marrakesh express. All aboard the traaaain” I could not get the song out of my mind.  Nash actually made a trip on a train from Casa Blanca to Marrakesh and it changed his life.

Before I realized it, I found myself waddling off a plane in Marrakesh, feeling somewhat chubby and discombobulated, reminiscent of my experience in Japan. The surroundings were entirely in Arabic, and it was challenging to locate individuals who spoke English, as the predominant languages were Arabic and French. Most women were attired in hijabs and burkas, while many men wore long robes with hoods. The architecture predominantly featured square red clay structures with flat roofs. A stark difference from the architect in Europe. Very few French pastries and mostly tea, instead of coffee.

The streets were congested with an overwhelming array of motorbikes, mopeds, and bicycles, accompanied by a steady stream of cars and buses, resulting in a scene of complete chaos and  disorder whenever one stepped outside. Additionally, a few donkeys and horses could be spotted amidst the commotion.

My hotel was next to a large popular mosque and the bells rang and a voice sang out the prayers at sunrise, sunset and a few times in-betweens.  On the opposite side was the medina which is a densely packed, walled medieval city dating to the Berber Empire, with mazelike alleys where thriving souks (marketplaces) sell traditional textiles, pottery and jewelry and this is where my hotel was situated, in the heart of the medina.

My taxi driver dropped me off in front of the medina and pointed me towards an archway, as he could not maneuver his vehicle into the narrow passage. Upon entering through the arches, I found myself bewildered by the multitude of alleyways to go down. I approached two young men, showing them the name of my hotel and gesturing for directions. They promptly called over an older man, who looked somewhat unkempt. He took my bag and began walking quickly down one of the alleys, indicating that he would guide me to the hotel. As we navigated through several dimly lit, narrow corridors, I began to question his intentions.

However, he ultimately led me to the hotel, and I wanted to offer a few dollars of gratitude for his help. I only had a 100 dirham note, the local currency, which is roughly equivalent to 10 US dollars. I prefer to exchange a small amount of money at the airport, even though the rates are not the best, as it is convenient to have some local currency on hand. I requested change from the hotel clerk, but he regretfully informed me that he could not assist. I remarked that a 100 dirham was a bit too much to give as a tip. At that moment, the man snatched the 100 dirhams from my hand, insisting, “No, not much,” before hastily exiting the premises. I chalked it up as a charitable giving.

The following day, I wandered through the marketplace, which was vibrant with an array of beautiful, colorful rugs, baskets, clothing, teas, and brass items. The vendors were a bit aggressive in their sales tactics. Each time I took a moment to appreciate a product, they urged me to step into their stores for a more in-depth look. If I hesitated, their approach became increasingly forceful, as they were determined to not accept no for an answer.

 I had paused to examine a small dress intended for my granddaughter, but they did not have her size or the color I wanted. As I walked away saying no, the vendor lowered the price from $20.00 US dollars to $18.00, I shook my head no and he lowered it to $15.00 then $12.00 and finally $10.00 He followed me across several stalls even though I said no numerous times. Finally, he walked away, but shortly after, his associate returned, offering the dress for $9. When I again refused, he became upset and shouted something in Arabic. I had to wonder what he was saying.

I contemplated whether my status as a solo woman was the reason for the aggressive behavior directed at me. I noticed that the vendors were less confrontational with women accompanied by men. This led me to consider posting a message on Facebook: “Seeking a man for shopping in the marketplace in Morocco!”

On the third day He created dry land-and I decided to go to the dessert! The desert is encircled by the stunning Alter mountains, which are adorned with snow-capped peaks. Spectacular!!        I enjoyed a picturesque camel ride at sunset, leading me to the edge of a dome in the desert, and it was truly an unforgettable experience. In fact, the process of mounting and dismounting the camel was an adventure in itself. We ended the camel ride at a tent area where we were served a dinner of Tagine, a traditional Moroccan dish prepared in a small clay pot, conical shape, which is suppose to circulate the steam with very little water.  It can be beef, lamb or chicken with lots of vegetables and couscous.

And with that I “ Looked at the world through the sunset in my eyes, traveling the train through clear Moroccan skies, would you know I’m riding on the Marrakesh express, They’re taking me to Marrakesh, All aboard the traaaain!  Can’t get the song out of my head.

The city

Amazing colors in the market place

Market place

Camels are bigger than you imagine. We were dressed for the dust and sand.

Yes there were even snake charmers. I said no to a photo with this snake

Mosque near my hotel

PS – There are a few typos and errors which I was unable to fix- sorry!!