Home » Morocco » Tangier, first stop in the 'farthest land of the setting sun'

I was a bit apprehensive when I got to Algeciras. It was around 1pm. The sun was merciless. On pondering whether to go to Ceuta or Tangier, I imbued myself with the utmost courage - that is, I learned that the ticket to Tangier was half the price of the one to Ceuta -, got my bags and, off to the port.

Tangier, first stop in the 'farthest land of the setting sun'

M_falci
2005-12-23 21:33:06

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wondered where all those people got their living from.

That was definitely not the point!

Buying and selling in this part of world is not about making money but seeing friends, chatting with foreigners, sipping mint tea... Or, as brilliantly put by our great multilingual receptionist: 'In Europe, life's just WORK, WORK, WORK.'

How could we possibly argue with him? Isn't it fantastic to have the dear ones always around? Even when they don't give a shit about efficiency?

On the rooftop of dirty-cheap-friendly Pension Mauritania, listening to the out of tune muezzins calling to prayer, I only had thoughts for that ideal way of life!

Sunday morning woke up warm and bright. That was the African light! Blinding and effusive. Out in the Medina, Tangier rocked at the loud sound of arabic pop music. Crowds strolled up and down the quarters of the old town. Some selling, some eating, a few buying.

We made it to the Foundation Lorin, where the so coveted 'International Zone' (Tangier) shinned glamourously in mid 20th century pictures. Then, with an unwanted and expensive 'help' (faux guide), we made our way to the Kasbah (fort). Thanks to our generous guide (the girls have photos with the bugger), we hadn't quite enjoyed the amazing views. Never mind! We learned our lesson...

Venturing into the new town, we peeped into a mosque - the girls managed to tackle the doorman -, saw camels on the beach and berbers heading back home . Every Thursday and Sunday, these berber women, from the Riff mountains, wrap themselves in their stripped shawls and come to Tangier to sell their fresh vegetables.

Monday came. It was farewell time. The girls went back to Spain and I was, well, just about to unfold my African dreams.

This is getting a bit too long... I'll leave the trip to Chefchauoen for the next blog, alright?

P.S(1): Yes, I AM reading 'On the road'. Let's see where it'll get me!

P.S(2):My dear English native speakers, please, do feel free to correct my mistakes!