Bahia Palace

A pretty good example of Islamic decorative architecture and Zellij mosaic tilework in Marrakesh.

    

      

Above: This is what a jewellery store in any souk looks like.  This is also what they make you do.  Then they try and trade for your mobile phone with something ridiculous like a dagger. We declined.

Below: Our fantastic Riad in Marrakech.  Riad Sabah was wonderful, and the managers Sabah and Hans were super kind and helpful despite our constant plan-changing.

 

Jardin Majorelle

This place was a great relief from the madness of Marrakesh.  While it was crowded, the garden spaces were really serene and the Islamic Art museum within was very effective and comprehensive.  The monument to Yves Saint Laurent was a bit weird.

   

Manic Marrakech

Back to bedlam after the calm of Essaouira.

 

Above: Saadian Tombs

Below: Getting Lost

Below: Pink Marrakech

Robyn really didn’t want the henna.

Below: The main square – Djemaa el Fna.

Killer ‘Gulls in Essaouira

They are simply massive. We think they are cross-bred with albatross.

(This gives no indication of scale)

Essaouira is a 7.5 hour bus journey south of Casablanca. A port town, it is renowned for fish-grills, Orson Welles and Jimi Hendrix. Everyone here is a stoner/surfer/fisherman or tourist. It’s a lovely place – especially if you become friends with the young carpet/jewellery vendors.

Tristan bought a guitar.

 

Training for next season.