RABAT TO MEKNES

This morning we were up early, packed and off to the train station (via of course the French patisserie for croissants) for our 9.17 am train to Meknès which took just under two and a half hours. A good time for us to catch up on our journal entries, relax, listen to the ipod and enjoy the passing scenery.

Upon arrival in Meknès we managed to hail another Petite Taxi (still blue in colour by the way) to take us up to the Medina where we hoped to find a bed in one of the traditional ryad’s. We were deposited in the centre of the Medina at Place el-Hadim from where we managed to navigate our way to the front door of Ryad Bahia. After being greeted by the English speaking owner, we told they had a room available due to a cancellation but only for one night.

This place is beautiful. You would never guess that such a well restored multi level house (complete with internal courtyard and fountain) existed behind the alley walls within the Medina itself. It was also upon our arrival that I had my first taste of traditional Moroccan mint tea - very yummy!

After settling in and a good conversation with the owners we were directed to a second Ryad (not as elaborate as Ryad Bahia but with as much charm and atmosphere) where we were able to secure a room for the second night here. After this we were left to wander around and explore the Medina part of which was being shown the difference in the different styles of Moroccan rugs. They were very helpful and I even started to haggle over a particular one that caught my eye - but they lost the sale about the same time the salesman (for want of a better term) lost his patience and threw a tantrum because I wanted to think about it for a little while and he wanted me to hand over the cash. Needless to say Cath and I departed the stall shortly afterward. It kept Cath and I amused for awhile though because it’s not that often you see a 40 year old-ish man throw a tantrum

That night we enjoyed a home cooked meal within the Ryad (however we are still coming to terms with the Mediterranean style of having dinner half way to midnight) and some accompanying music from some local boys although they were no match for our waiter in Rabat!