A narrow road looms ahead while shadows playfully shade the walkway. Strange smells fill the street. On the right, a woman kneads some fresh dough that she will soon throw in a small kiln lit by a warm orange fire. On the left, thick slabs of meat line the counter including a large cow head with its tongue sticking out. The rest of the body had already been dissected to sell. Further down the road lines of shops fill the streets full of pottery, leather purses, shoes, and clothing. The streets are packed with a diverse range of people. Children run through the streets playing. Women pass by in long, flowing dresses with hoods. The men wear these outfits as well, but in different styles. The shop keepers try to entice the visitors to come into their shops, yelling phrases like, hey sweetie. You are an angel sent down from heaven come into my shop. At times one may even get marriage proposals and offered camels. This proves a fun part of the experience. Besides the hustle and bustle of the people animals surprise the visitors. While walking one suddenly hears someone yell, “BALACH, BALACH!” As they lead a donkey up the road carrying either carpets or rugs. Cats scamper up and down the alleyways. In the distance, the call of prayer starts as the chants of praise to Allah rise like incense to the skies. A mosque lies ahead decently decorated with the most ornate detail. Men are standing on their prayer rugs, pouring out their hearts before God. One could observe the surrounding area for hours. A shop full of dresses lies ahead. They are brightly colored with ornate design. One dress catches your eye so you go into the shop. Salam-A-Lecham you greet the shop keeper and asked about the dress. He says it costs 400 duram. You laugh and say no are you joking. This is to much I am a student. You go back and forth trying to get the price cheaper. You compliment him saying you are a good man. I know God will bless you if you give me a good price. In the end, after going back in forth on prices. You walk out with a dress for 150 duram. Shopping is a fun game in this city. Other shops offer you tea even before the bargaining begins and make conversation.

I’ve been in Morocco for almost a week now and have loved every minute. The beauty of our surroundings is breathtaking. At night you can sit on the rooftop and see a sea of stars while overlooking the city. We even got to go to the Orica Valley which had the prettiest mountains and views. The food is an experience in itself also. A huge plate of Chicken couscous is brought out for a table of five to share. It’s fun, because plates aren’t even needed. Everyone has their section they eat. The mansaf is one of the funniest experiences. You just use your hands. It is this huge platter of rice and either lamb or chicken with a yogurt sauce poured on the top. You take the rice and chicken, roll it into a ball in your hand, and pop it into your mouth. Truly an unforgettable experience. I really love Morocco and learning about the people and the culture. I am excited to come home and tell stories of all my experiences for now I just wanted to give you a glimpse into what I’ve been experiencing. Sending my love from Africa