The Athens of Morocco....

So, as I am writing this I am sitting in a little internet cafe owned by the host family of some friends from my program. It is located in the center of a courtyard on the outskirts of the medina, which is the oldest part of the city. The medina in Fez is apparently the largest medina in the world. It is also one of the most confusing places to be, acting as a maze to outsiders. So of course we are going to explore.

Just to preface this day tour, I have to admit to being a little lost last night coming back from the American Arabic School. While we (I mean me and my roommate) took a petit taxi to the school somewhat successfully, we desperately wanted to walk more then drive on the way home. So, along with four other girls, my roommate and I embarked upon the return trip. Evidently my roommate, our neighbors, and I all forgot what the house looked like where we were staying, We therefor passed it and continued to wander for an hour until we decided to ask for help... This proved even more funny because we asked for a ride from a taxi, who wouldn't bring us back since we were evidently, "already there" A hotel receptionist told us the same thing, pointing to the next building over. Oops, crises averted.

Today, we thankfully had a guide, and our whole group was taken all through the medina. Aside from exploring the winding, donkey-filled streets, and passing the markets of everything possible, we visited several key spots. We saw scarves and blankets being woven from silk... I, of course was ecstatic and might have bought a scarf.. or two... They are beautiful. We also visited the tannery and saw every stage of leather-making. Evidently this is one of the hardest jobs in the world. The smell was a bit atrocious, but it was countered by mint leaves that we could smell instead. Fez is apparently known for its leather goods. Since none of us are muslims, we were unable to enter any mosques, but did enter an old one which isn't in use anymore. This one was ridiculously ornate. Aside from this, I had a date and a couple of figs from a stand. They were delicious. I will definitely have more in the weeks to come.

Well, aside from this, I have explored a bit and sat in the sun, I'm sorry to report to all you snow-surrounded friends. I am a bit pink from the weather, and pleased. :)

I love you all!