Mar 2, 2024 - Travel to Fez

After we got up in the morning, we followed Wendy’s recommendation to wandering around the Old Medina by ourselves for more photos. Since it was in the early morning, we were able to take many nice photos with blue surrounding without other tourists.

Then, we have to walk downhill and out of the Old Medina to meet our driver at the parking lot. It was again a pleasant walk with fresh air in the morning and with blue color surroundings. Just nice!

On our way leaving Chefchaouen, we stoped just outside of the town at a high spot for photo opportunities.

Then, we were on our way to Fez which is primarily known for its Fez El Bali Walled Medina, vibrant bazaar and old-world atmosphere. The Medina is home to religious schools such as the 14th-century Bou Inania and Al Attarine, both decorated with elaborate cedar carvings and ornate tile work.

After we arrived Fez, we went to Jinding Chinese Restaurant first. We were surprised by such good tasting Chinese food. After lunch, we visited Great Mosque of Fes el-Jdid for photos in the square in front of it.

Then, we went to a hill top to view the whole Medina from the top.

Medina is an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wendy told us that even she can not lead us and walk through this ancient maze-like quarters of the Medina. The local guide took us wondering through narrow alleys and did not give us much time to visit the stores along the way. Until he led us to the leather tanneries, he gave us brief descriptions of the tanneries, then he tried to help the shop to sell their leather goods. I believe he was focused on making sell for kickback from the merchant. He also mis-guided us by letting us stay longer for more sells; and it got Wendy extremely mad.

Then, we quickly got out of the bazaar and checked into Hôtel Palais Medina & SPA Fès.

Our dinner was at Palais la Medina with traditional Moroccan food and dance. It was fun however, a little too tourist-like.