Reflections on Morocco

I’ve been home for over a week and yet the deep vibes of Morocco resonate through my mind. I believe Morocco is defined by more than geography; it’s a state-of-mind. Some of my strongest memories are captured here in photos …

• Afternoon tea–whether in the desert, at a riad or five-star hotel, or at a rooftop cafe as in this picture taken in Jamaa Lana Square in Marrakech. It’s just so civilized to slow down, breathe in atmosphere, and savor the precious moments of companionship with a loved one. The certain knowledge that there are snake charmers in the square below enhances the contrast and the calm. 
• Evenings of delicious Moroccan cuisine and exotic dancing. When the clay chimney tops were removed from the tangine cookers in front of us, we knew a delicious meal would follow. I’ve tried making some of these dishes with the spices we brought back but it’s going to take a lot more practice before I can come close to the delicate flavors we enjoyed daily all over the country. On our last night, Daniel opted for a watermelon-flavored hookah pipe.
• Cultural and intellectual exchange through countless conversations with locals and other travelers from all over the world. Granted, you get this regardless of where you travel but that makes it no less wonderful.
• The colors, especially the blues. I don’t recall ever hearing the expression “Majorelle blue” before but now it evokes images of mosaic tiles, buildings, fabrics, and leathers.
• And, the Sahara Desert. From silent sunrises casting shadows over sand dunes to the panoramic sky full of stars, the Sahara Desert is unquestionably a magical place. It’s always great going somewhere new but, yes, I will likely return to Morocco. In a world of globalization and homogenization, Morocco retains its character. It’s affordable, safe, and so beautifully unique.

“Toto, I’ve got a feeling we’re not in Kansas anymore.” Dorothy, Wizard of Oz

“If the stars should appear one night in a thousand years, how would men believe and adore; and preserve for many generations the remembrance of the city of God which had been shown! But every night come out these envoys of beauty, and light the universe with their admonishing smile.” Ralph Waldo Emerson, Nature and Selected Essays