Volubilis, Roman Ruins, Morocco ©travelmagnolia2016

Morocco | Great Day Trips from Fez

Whenever possible, I like to unpack and settle in for at least five nights in one place. That reduces the time spent on logistics and, conversely, increases time for fun! We spent five nights in Fez which gave us plenty of opportunity to explore the city and also make two day trips.

Chefchaouen

To visit Chefchaouen is to step back in time.The city is located in the Rif mountains and was developed as a fortress in the late 16th century and was a refuge for Moors and Jews fleeing the Spanish inquisition (it is only about 60 miles from the Mediterranean). Continue reading “Morocco | Great Day Trips from Fez”

travel magnoliaJune 21, 2016February 9, 20174 Comments

Food, Morocco

Morocco | Fabulous Foods of Fez

While I loved staying at the Riad Fès and eating at a variety of restaurants, wandering the alleys of the medina with their mouthwatering displays did make me wish I could buy some provisions and cook a few meals — maybe next time!

Since we were there in springtime, the stalls were overflowing with the freshest produce in addition to everything else one could possibly need. Continue reading “Morocco | Fabulous Foods of Fez”

travel magnoliaJune 3, 2016June 4, 201612 Comments

Fez, Morocco, Tourism, Dar el Makhzen gates

Morocco, Travel

Morocco | Visit Fez First

I first visited Morocco several years ago when I spent a few days in Marrakech, followed by the Atlas Mountains and ending in Essaouira. This was enough to whet my appetite to spend more time in this vibrant country. However, after my recent trip to Fez, I suggest that future travelers start there for a more immersive and even, perhaps, more authentic Moroccan experience. Continue reading “Morocco | Visit Fez First”

travel magnoliaJune 2, 2016February 9, 20176 Comments

Morocco, Travel

Morocco | More Amazing Artisans in Fez

It is no small comfort that even in this 21st century fast-paced immediate gratification world, there are still those who practice skills that require infinite patience and sometimes a life time of training. In addition to the artisans profiled in my previous post, we saw masters of other crafts producing exquisite works.

Zouaq

Ceilings, walls and doors are adorned with Zouaq, traditional Moroccan painting that uses geometric and biomorphic motifs.

Continue reading “Morocco | More Amazing Artisans in Fez”

travel magnoliaMay 25, 2016February 9, 20176 Comments

Fountain, Riad Fez, Fès, Morocco, ©travelmagnolia2016

Morocco, Travel, Video

Morocco | Fez’s Amazing Artisans Pt 1

Fez is a city of contradictory impressions: at once revealing the artistry that has characterized since its founding in the late 9th century, while also hiding much of its beauty behind the high walls and imposing doors. What is absolutely clear is that generations of talented artisans have handed down their skills and fortunately these are still being practiced today. This post focuses on the art of Zellige (geometric tile work for which Fez is renowned) and ceramics.

Continue reading “Morocco | Fez’s Amazing Artisans Pt 1”

travel magnoliaMay 23, 2016February 9, 20177 Comments

Morocco, Travel

Morocco | Friendly Faces of Fez

Just back from four days in Fez, a fascinating city that offers the chance to lose oneself (literally and figuratively) in its medina where life hasn’t changed much in twelve centuries. In fact, Fès el Bali (the official name of the medina) is believed to be the largest car free urban area in the world.

Continue reading “Morocco | Friendly Faces of Fez”