Nov. 25, 2024
The good news is that we made it to Marrakesh, and are having a wonderful time thus far. The bad news is that we haven’t avoided any of the scams locals run on the tourists.
It started as soon as we walked out of the airport to the taxi stand. Someone grabbed our bags to “help” walk us to a taxi (for a tip). It happened again when we got out of the taxi. A porter grabbed our bags to walk us to where we were staying (for a tip). Then there was a very insistent bicyclist on our way to dinner, who said he was from the hotel (he wasn’t) and decided to walk us to the restaurant because “it was on his way home” (it wasn’t). We said “No, thank you” repeatedly, but he still got upset when he didn’t get a tip.
Today things got a little exciting when Brad decided to follow the music to a snake charmer. Well, we found the snakes:
And, before we knew it – the snake charmers had plopped snakes on Brad and Steve (for a cash donation):
There’s a video of Steve’s experience, but here’s a taste of his discomfort:
And, next thing I know – I’m getting suckered in, too:
It was an entertaining couple of minutes. Complete with a snake blessing for good wishes and good luck for mothers, children, etc. But, it happened fast…
Speaking of the locals, one thing I can say is that I haven’t given into my desire to pet all the city’s cats:
And, some of these little guys are making it really hard not to pet them:
Luckily, there’s plenty going on to distract me from my would be fur friends. For example, today we had a tour of a local souk (market):
And, a cooking class:
We made several things, including a tajine (with eggs and meatballs), spiced chicken, and a dessert (made from grated cucumber, freshly squeezed orange juice, and a little cinnamon and sugar):
Yesterday, we had a delicious dinner at Dar Yacout (the oldest house in Marrakesh that is now an amazing restaurant). Shout out to Steve for these photos:
There will probably be more tomorrow. Until then…
All our love,
Tara (Steve, Sarah and Brad)
Tara’s Adventures 