Full Circle - back In Casablanca

A five hour drive from Essaouria took us back to Casablanca in time for our farewell dinner. 

A stop on our travels and time for a group shot with our leader and driver - both would leave us behind at the end of the evening.

 As a surprise, Abdellah managed to get us a reservation back at Dar Dada, the fantastic location of our welcome dinner. I think he has some great connections. Once again the food was plentiful and tasty, the service excellent and the place just as charming as the first visit.

Decked out in our Moroccan clothes

Air Canada is not flying daily flights this year so we have an extra day in Casablanca before making a 5 am transfer to the airport - yuck!  It was nice to just wonder around the city, see the parks, architecture and have a relaxing few hours before tackling the suitcases.  I have been pleasantly surprised how well I have remembered where things.  For the record, everything is fitting into the bags I brought - well except for my hat!

I believe this is a theatre.  It was under construction 4 years ago and still not finished

Love the birds of paradise

Unfortunately the church is closed

I think this is like a court house

I am hiding there

Great architecture 

Clock tower at the Medina

And then the end of another tour is here.  Four weeks ago when we heard the devastating news of the earthquake from Morocco, there was so much soul searching and personal concern that needed to be considered.  In the end, I am so happy that we came.  We were thanked many times for coming and certainly welcomed throughout the country.  We saw very little evidence of earthquake damage in the areas we travelled but also marvelled at what we heard and saw of repairs and support for the people.

As in past trips, I have loved the variety of the scenery and the beauty and hospitality of the people.  All senses have been stimulated from the sounds of the call, to pray to the brilliant colors of everything, to the smells of the spices, to tasting those spices in delicious food and the feel of the leather and the baskets and the weaving and the rugs and of course the Sahara sand!

I started this trip believing it was my last adventure to Morocco but true confession, this country just keeps calling me back so don’t be surprised if you see an announcement for number 4 in the future.  Intrepid has come through again with a great trip and outstanding leadership of of Abdellah and driving from Mohammed-  MANY MANY THANKS!