Marrakesh

Arrived in Marrakesh on the overnight train from Tangiers on Sept 11. The journey was very comfortable - we had long discussions with a Lebanese living in Morocco and importing used cars from Germany; and a local 'tourism' student.

Not having pre-booked a hotel, we teamed up with 2 ladies from the US, and ended up at a Riad that they knew about. Riads are old Mansions with central courtyards, converted into guest houses.

Headed out to the main attraction of Morocco - Djemaa El-Fna - the main square in Marrakesh. It's vibrant and wonderful at night - snake charmers; astrologers; healers; belly dancers; story tellers; Berber musicians; pickpockets etc, etc - the action is non-stop until dawn. Also met a local guy named Mbarek, who invited us to his family home - unfortunately he lived in Agadir - 4 hrs by bus.

Yesterday, went to an upscale Hammam - black seeweed treatment; steam room; traditional Hammam; and massage.

Today, took 2 Bus Tours - one within the city and the other to the outskirts of the city.

Tonight, it's back to Djemaa El-Fna, and tomorrow we take the bus to Essouira.