Celebrating Cities

In the Medina in Tangier

From what I've written so far about Morocco, you might think that I’ve just been climbing mountains and wandering the desert with camels, but I’ve been visiting cities too. 

Along with some that I've just transited through, I've been to Tangier, Chefchaoeun, Fez, and Marrakesh. 

Even though I consider myself an outdoors girl, I love cities. Maybe it’s because I was born in a city that I have city in my blood. I love cities in the same way that I like gyms when they’re busy. There’s something about the collective energy of all of those people that fuels me and inspires me, that gives me energy.

In the Medina in Tangier

In the Medina of Chefchaouen

The doorway to a mosque in Chefchaeoun

Chefchaoeun's medina

Playing Games Place Djemaa el Fna, Marrakesh

One of many food stalls at Place Djemaa el Fna, Marrakesh

Selling desserts at Place Place Djemaa el Fna

The medinas of Morrocan cities are especially full of energy.  

Each city has a medina, an old town encircled by walls. 

Medinas are mazes of alleys where produce shops, butchers, tanneries, craftsmen, silversmith, souvenir shops, and weavers create and peddle their wares and people drink tea and live. 

It’s difficult not to get lost in these winding streets. I spent a whole day wandering the medina in Fez, which was my favorite medina of all.

Tanneries in Fez's Medina

Fez's Medina

Cities are funny though. So full of energy and people, but they’re the easiest place to feel lonely in. I often think that when I’m home in San Francisco.

I think cities are the most fun when they’re explored with other people. Otherwise, the energy seems to leave you behind.

I’m glad I met good people for my city exploring. Some I had a nice dinner and a stroll with whose names I don’t remember and whom I’ll never see again, and some whom I now call friends, both on Facebook and in real life.

Having lunch with Dustin, Christina, and Dave