Views from Morocco

N. B. Andrews

December 09, 2016

Folks,

The early to mid afternoon winter sun has quite a few pluses. It is often low in the western sky and casts a shadow on everything.

This leads to much lower temperatures in the shade. The bright sunshine where it is available gives just the right amount of warmth without perspiration.

Colors become enhanced- not too bright; only a simple subtle presence. The evergreens have a lustre; the reds, yellows and browns develop a depth.

On our terrace various colorful birds come to pick at the shrubs then soar away navigating in between the date palms, olive trees and heavily laden orange trees.

No one cuts down trees here.

Who born dog?

To the south end of the picturesque Mohammed VI Avenue with its water fountains and pergolas, the snow capped Atlas peaks maintain a brooding presence.

Three huge bus loads of tourists emptied out in front of the Imperial Holiday Hotel. They quietly formed a meandering line to go through the metal detectors.

Burly Berber men watched them discreetly at a short distance. A trio of armed uniformed soldiers stood at rapt attention towards the end of the block.

We are reminded that it is still a very dangerous world.

There are people who want to hurt other people and do not care about hurting themselves.

A park bench provides a welcome brief rest spot; we had been strolling for an hour past the film festival venues- simply soaking in the spirit of the Red City.

We then head to one of our favorite haunts - a famous sidewalk no holds barred, real deal, seafood eatery. It is standing room only and remains so 24/7.

The waiters recognize us and surge forward with fist bumps- Salaam! Le bez? Kunchie Ziem! Alhamdullah!

The tourists stare!

Arm accessory - vintage brown tweed jacket with burgundy and grey over check, Black knee high leather boots, denim pants. No head covering; no hair extensions.

Teshie Too Known/BBB; mustard twill pants, denim botton down shirt, vintage green doeskin waist coat, SB navy blue blazer, snuff suede brogue tasselled loafers, Black watch muffler. Head covering- vintage olive green fedora with grosgrain band.

We take away a plate of Gambas grilled with salt, olive oil and cilantro.

Simple, hot and wicked.

Please don't ask me what gambas is and no, we did not need shito.

NBA

December 09, 2016

Views from Morocco

Social, Dec 10, Ghanadot - A park bench provides a welcome brief rest spot; we had been strolling for an hour past the film festival venues- simply soaking in the spirit of the Red City. We then head to one of our favorite haunts - a famous sidewalk no holds barred, real deal, seafood eatery. It is standing room only and remains so 24/7. ...More