As we journeyed from Istanbul to Canakkale, we stopped in the sleepy seaside town of Gelibolu (Gallipoli) for lunch. The waterfront town sits in the Southeastern region of Thrace on the European side of Turkey. We stopped just short of the ferryboat at a restaurant called Gelibolu Balik (Gallipoli Fish) Restaurant. It sounds much fancier in Turkish.
When we arrived at Gelibolu Balik restaurant, we were greeted by the manager, who showed us the fresh catch of the day, held within a cooler. Guests are able to pick directly from the catch of the day. While my wife opted for the fresh catch, I do not eat seafood. I was directed over to an ala carte menu that was displayed within a glass case to the left near the entrance. I opted for kebab and several other side dishes.
Because we were a large group, service was on the slow side. Our dishes arrived as they were ready, coming out sporadically to the table. This was fine, as it allowed us to nibble on salad and side dishes while we awaited our entrees. My wife ordered her fish grilled. It appeared that she enjoyed it. My kebab was okay, but nothing spectacular. I think it goes to the old adage about ordering beef at a seafood restaurant. It wasn’t bad, but it was definitely not the best meal I had in Turkey.
The ambience of the restaurant was nice. The interior was not fancy, but large windows provided an excellent backdrop of ocean breeze and choppy waves. It was cold the day we visited, so we enjoyed the churning waters from indoors. I would imagine the experience being greatly enhanced had it been a nice evening with a gentle breeze. Either way, even indoors, the seaside charm provided a great atmosphere for our meal.
While the service and atmosphere were excellent, the prices seemed to be a bit high for lunch. Understanding that it is fresh seafood, the prices seemed compatible with what one would pay in a small restaurant in the coastal Carolinas. Not expensive, but also not cheap. I would go back to this restaurant again. But I would consider another option as well, if given an opportunity to return to this charming seaside town.
San Francisco’s cable cars are more than just a mode of transportation; they are a moving piece of history and an iconic symbol of the city. Our recent trip to San Francisco gave us the perfect opportunity to explore this classic attraction, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our visit. As an added bonus, our trip was free. As part of our stay at the Adagio Hotel, we were provided complimentary tickets!
A Ride Through History
The San Francisco cable car system, the world’s last manually operated cable car system, dates back to the late 19th century. Invented by Andrew Smith Hallidie in 1873, the system was initially designed to help residents navigate the city’s steep hills. Today, the cable cars are a beloved tourist attraction, offering a unique way to see the city’s beautiful landscapes and historic neighborhoods.
In my title, I used the word “Trolley” because that is what I have always heard them called. It isn’t accurate, so don’t call it a trolley to SFMTA workers; they might correct you!
Starting Our Journey
We started our cable car journey at the Powell Street turntable, where the Powell-Hyde and Powell-Mason lines begin. The turntable itself is a fascinating piece of engineering, manually operated by cable car operators who turn the cars around by hand. We watched in awe as the operators spun the cable car on the wooden turntable, a sight that took us back in time.
The line wrapped around the turntable when we arrived. We joined the queue near the Sephora. One of the SFMTA workers advised us the wait would be approximately thirty minutes, which was fairly accurate. Boarding took a few minutes, with those in line in front of us quickly filling the “open” seats at the end of the car. These seats offer the best views. We were seated in the interior portion of the cable car, which was fine with us.
The Scenic Cable Cars
As the cable car began its ascent up Powell Street, we were immediately struck by the stunning views of the city. The climb was steep, and we could see the bustling streets below and the charming buildings that lined the road. The clanging of the bell and the rhythmic click-clack of the tracks added to the nostalgic ambiance.
Highlights Along the Way
Our ride on the Powell-Hyde line took us through some of San Francisco’s most famous sights. We passed by Union Square, a bustling shopping and dining district, and continued on to Nob Hill, known for its grand hotels and historic buildings. The views from Nob Hill were particularly breathtaking, with panoramic vistas of the Bay Area.
The descent toward Fisherman’s Wharf offered even more incredible views. We could see Alcatraz Island in the distance and the sparkling waters of the San Francisco Bay. As we approached the end of the line, we were treated to a fantastic view of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Tips for Riding the Cable Cars
Arrive Early: The cable cars are a popular attraction, and lines can get long, especially during peak tourist season. Arriving early in the day can help you avoid long waits. We waited approximately thirty minutes but were told that the lines can get two hours long.
Hang on Tight: If you’re adventurous, try standing on the running boards and hanging onto the poles. It’s a thrilling way to experience the ride, but be sure to hold on tight! We boarded later in the queue, so we had the option to wait for another cable car, or ride on the inside. We opted for the latter.
Plan Your Route: The cable car system includes three lines: Powell-Hyde, Powell-Mason, and California Street. Each offers different views and stops, so plan your route based on what you want to see.
Buy a Pass: If you plan on riding the cable cars multiple times, consider purchasing a day pass. It’s a cost-effective way to explore the city.
To board cable cars at Powell & Market, Bay & Taylor and Hyde & Beach Streets, you must purchase your fare in advance (applies 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily).
MuniMobile®: The SFMTA’s official ticketing app, MuniMobile lets you buy tickets instantly through a credit/debit card, PayPal account, Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Clipper® Card: Clipper is the all-in-one transit card for the Bay Area. Use your Clipper card on all major Bay Area transit systems, including Muni.
Cash: Exact change is required.
Please visit our Fares page for all cable car ticket details.
Final Thoughts on the Cable Cars
Our ride on the San Francisco cable cars was an unforgettable experience. The blend of history, scenic views, and the unique charm of the cable cars themselves made it a highlight of our trip. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, a ride on these iconic trolleys is a must-do. The cable cars of San Francisco not only offer a convenient way to get around but also provide a moving snapshot of the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
Next time you find yourself in San Francisco, be sure to hop on a cable car and let it take you on a journey through time and across the city’s picturesque hills. One-way tickets for a single pass run eight dollars. Not bad for an iconic piece of transportation history.
During a recent trip to San Francisco, my wife and I had the opportunity to revisit a delicacy from our trip to China a few years ago. Shanghai dumplings (also called Pan-Fried Juicy Pork Bao). Our destination? Dumpling Home.
We found Dumpling Home searching Yelp and Google for good Chinese food in San Francisco. The Michelin rating certainly didn’t hurt our decision to select Dumpling Home over a few others we were also considering.
When we arrived at the restaurant, there was a waiting list. The small establishment has outdoor seating. A crowd was gathered around the entrance and along the non-seating side of the building, waiting to be seated. The weather was nice, although a bit cool. We entered the restaurant where we joined the queue by entering our details on a smart pad.
Our wait time was close to forty minutes. Dumpling Home kept us apprised of our estimated seating time by text message We were also able to check our spot in line using the Yelp app. The estimated waiting time was surprisingly accurate. We were seated outside at a table for two along the side of the building. This was probably the coldest location, as there were outdoor heaters under the sheltered area. It was a tad bit cool to not have a heater even in July.
The servers were very busy, but attentive. The wait time allowed us to determine what we wanted to eat before we were seated. Our order was ready by the time our server arrived. We opted for the Juicy Pork Bao (I call them Shanghai Dumplings as this was the first and only place I have had them). We also ordered green beans, pork won-ton, red bean paste pockets and vegetable bao. Because of the chill in the air, we also ordered a pot of Jasmine tea. The order was printed and taped to our table. As items arrived, our servers scratched them off the list.
The tea arrived first. The ceramic cup doubled as a hand warmer. The Jasmine tea was light but tasty. The food came out a bit at a time. Beginning with the green beans and red bean paste pockets. The green beans were perfectly seasoned and easily my favorite thing on the menu. At least, among the five items we ordered. The red bean paste pockets were also delicious. The touch of sesame seed was just right. Toasty and sweet.
The pork won-tons came out next. Honestly, I was not a fan. The texture of the pork was a bit odd to me. If I return, I will order differently on my next visit. That goes for the vegetable bao, which came out next. I was not a fan. They weren’t bad. It’s just not something I would order again. I will choose some items differently from the menu if I have an opportunity to return.
The final arrival was the one that drew us Dumpling Home to begin with. The juicy pork bao. They were delicious. The bao were served like the Xiao Bao Long, with a nice sauce. The sauce really make the difference here. The tartness of vinegar, a bit of sweetness and hint of ginger offset the fatty pork. These dumplings more than made up for the disappointing wontons.
Overall, the dining experience at Dumpling Home was excellent. While the pork wonton was not great, the green beans, red bean pockets and juicy pork bao were phenomenal. I would probably opt for something other than vegetable bao if I return. I would definitely choose something other than the wonton. The prices were a bit on the high side, but seemed typical to what we paid in San Francisco. Overall, our bill totaled close to one hundred dollars including the tax and tip. I would definitely recommend this restaurant.
My wife and I recently completed a week-long trip to San Francisco. Our base of operations during our trip was the Hotel Adagio, a boutique Marriott hotel in their Autograph Collection. Having stayed at Autograph hotels in the past, I was familiar with the brand. This collection of hotels tend to be luxurious and unique.
When we arrived at the Hotel Adagio on a Sunday evening, we were greeted at the front desk by Cesar. Cesar briefed us on the hotel and provided us with a list of included amenities. As Marriott Platinum members, we were provided an option of points or daily free breakfasts (pro tip: choose the breakfast). We were also provided bottled water, advised of a daily $25 hotel credit in the bar or restaurant and complimentary champagne in the evening.
After checking into the hotel, we headed up to the sixteenth floor to our room. It appears our room, which was located adjacent to the elevators, is an accessible room. That is fine, as the room was spacious and comfortable. The room was adorned with a variety of photographs and comfortably appointed with a king bed, couch and typical hotel furniture. There were plenty of outlets for charging our electronics near the bed. We also wanted a refrigerator, which Cesar ensured was delivered to our room while we were at dinner.
The room at Hotel Adagio was comfortable. I have stayed in many large cities and have found that hotel rooms are often cramped, even when luxurious. In this case, the room provided plenty of space to stretch out. The small closet was enclosed behind a curtain and was probably the only thing small about the room. The bathroom was large and spacious and appeared capable of easily accommodating a wheelchair if needed. The bathtub/shower also had a seat for accessibility, which I didn’t love, as I didn’t require it. It was mostly out of the way, as it an fold up, but did take up a bit of space in the shower.
My only complaint about the hotel was the noise. I think the noise was mostly generated from the nearby elevator shaft. As long as the elevators were not running, it was relatively quiet at night. But the elevator did create some racket in the late evening and early mornings. (Pro tip: try to get a room farther from the elevator if you are a light sleeper).
The breakfasts were good. As a platinum member, we were given a selection of any two items on the menu plus coffee and juice. I enjoyed the breakfast sandwich and fruit each morning, while my wife opted to try different options on the menu. Everything we were served at breakfast was good. The breakfast would be a bit on the expensive side if it were not included, but was typical of a nicer hotel in a metropolitan area. The menu ranged between 15-30 dollars.
Hotel Adagio offered complimentary coffee (Starbucks) throughout the day. I noticed some folks bringing the free coffee into breakfast, which was a smart idea for those who were paying for their breakfast. It saved them a few dollars and the Starbucks coffee was actually a tad bit better than the coffee in the restaurant. We did not try the complimentary champagne, but we did take advantage of the complimentary tickets for the cable car (one way trip).
Overall, our experience at the Adagio Hotel, Autograph Collection, was an excellent one. It was a comfortable place to spend a week in San Francisco. There were plenty of restaurants nearby and nearly everything we needed to travel to was a 10-15 dollar Uber at the most. The elevator noise was a minor inconvenience. The bed was very comfortable, the rooms spacious, the staff incredibly outgoing and helpful, the location good and the food delicious. My price averaged out to under 300 per night, which I am guessing is a good price for San Francisco for a luxury hotel. Recommendation: I would definitely stay here again.
During our trip to Istanbul, my wife and I visited the historic Istanbul Hippodrome, an ancient arena filled with fascinating remnants of the past. This significant site, located in the Sultanahmet district, offers a glimpse into the rich history of Istanbul and the grandeur of the Byzantine Empire.
We started our tour early in the morning to avoid the crowds and fully immerse ourselves in the experience. The Hippodrome, originally built in the 3rd century AD by Emperor Septimius Severus and later expanded by Constantine the Great, once hosted chariot races, gladiatorial games, and other public events. Although much of the original structure is gone, several impressive monuments remain. The original track is indicated by pavers, with the original track “buried” six feet below.
The most notable landmark at the Istanbul Hippodrome is the Obelisk of Theodosius, a towering monument transported from Egypt in the 4th century AD. The obelisk is adorned with intricate carvings that depict scenes from ancient Egypt. Standing before this ancient stone, we marveled at its impressive state of preservation and the stories it tells of a bygone era.
Because the current plaza is elevated from the original Hippodrome level, the lower portion of the obelisk has been walled in so visitors can see the ornate base. There is also a marker, dating the erection of this obelisk in 390 AD. Looking at the size of this massive stone monument, I couldn’t help but wonder the effort that went into moving this stone from Egypt sixteen centuries ago.
As we walked through the Istanbul Hippodrome, we could almost hear the echoes of the chariots racing and the cheers of the crowds. The crowds are said to have numbered 100,000. The site, now a public square known as Sultanahmet Meydanı (square), still carries the energy and spirit of its vibrant past. We took our time, absorbing the historical significance and imagining the grand events that once took place here.
Our visit to the Istanbul Hippodrome was a captivating experience that enriched our understanding of Istanbul’s layered history. It doesn’t take very long to visit, so we started here early before stopping at the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia. This ancient arena, with its surviving monuments and storied past, is a must-see for anyone visiting the city. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a curious traveler, the Hippodrome offers a fascinating glimpse into the grandeur and cultural heritage of ancient Byzantium.
On my trip to Morocco, we stayed at six hotels during our two-week tour. Our hotel stays began in Rabat, Morocco’s capital city. The first hotel was the Belere Hotel, ranked #20 of 70 for Rabat on TripAdvisor. Our tour guide met us in the lobby, handed out our keys, and informed us of a meeting on the sixth floor later that evening.
Belere Hotel was somewhat basic but had friendly and accommodating staff. The room was a typical size for American travelers—compact but adequate for travel purposes. As expected in many parts of the world, the bed was firmer than those in North American hotels. The room had a small refrigerator, safe, television (which we never used), and a workstation. There were enough outlets for charging our electronics. The air conditioning was off, making the room a bit warm, and there seemed to be a leak as there was a wet spot in the carpet near the doorway.
The bathroom had some unique features. It included a bidet and a high step up to the tub/shower combination, which might be challenging for shorter or older travelers. Although it wasn’t an issue for us, it is worth noting. My biggest complaint about the hotel room was the poor Wi-Fi signal. It was barely adequate for checking email and was practically useless for anything else. The signal was better in the common areas and, thankfully, free if you could find it.
Breakfast was included with our stay, and we had it twice during our two nights there. The breakfast room was always crowded, making it hard to find a clean table. The food was fresh, with a decent selection of fruits, hot items, salads, and breads, but it frequently ran out and had to be replaced. The staff in the dining area worked hard to keep things clean and stocked. The coffee came from two Nespresso machines that constantly had lines. A carafe of ready-made coffee might be a good idea for large groups to keep things moving.
The hotel’s location is decent. Several restaurants are located two blocks down the street, and a couple of smaller places are within a block. The Medina is about a twenty-minute walk away, and taxi fares are cheap. The tram is also near the restaurants two blocks away and is fairly easy to navigate. My wife and I took a cab to the waterfront and the train back. Both were surprisingly inexpensive.
Belere Hotel is priced online under one hundred dollars per night. It is a nice hotel, and at under one hundred dollars is a fair price for what you receive. However, it’s important to manage expectations compared to US hotels. Belere Hotel has friendly staff, felt secure, the rooms were not as tiny as some I have stayed in, it is clean, the Wi-Fi is free if you can get a signal, and the breakfast is good. The location is convenient, with cheap transportation options nearby. I would consider staying at this hotel again but would likely check other options first.
The hotel also indicates that the rooms (89 rooms) have recently been renovated.
After crossing the desert, my wife and I arrived at one of our last hotels, the Le Meridien N’Fis in Marrakesh, Morocco. This hotel, part of the Starwood line now owned by Marriott, was among the nicest we stayed at in Morocco and had, by far, the best Wi-Fi in the hotel rooms. Conveniently located about one mile from the medina and across the street from a large mall, it offered both comfort and accessibility.
Welcoming Lobby and Friendly Service
The hotel opened into a large lobby area, featuring plenty of seating and a grand piano (which, unfortunately, I don’t recall anyone playing during our visit). Our keys were waiting for us upon arrival. I went up to the front desk to provide my Marriott Rewards number in hopes of gaining room stay credit and some points.
Although the clerk took my rewards number down, I never received the credits, likely because our rooms were booked by a travel agency. Despite this, the clerk was cordial and helpful. The spacious lobby also had a gift shop where guests could find a small variety of gifts and stamps. Sending a postcard home cost about two dollars, a rate consistent with other places we’ve traveled.
Lush Gardens and Relaxing Walkways
The hotel is spread out on a large property with a central garden and pool between the lobby and guest rooms. The gardens were lush and well-maintained, providing a sampling of the area’s indigenous flora. Meticulously trimmed bushes, ornate flowers, small pools, and a fountain created a serene atmosphere. There always seemed to be a bit of a breeze walking between the guest rooms and the lobby, adding to the relaxing ambiance. It was a short but pleasant walk from the lobby to the guest rooms.
Comfortable and Cool Rooms
Our room had working air conditioning, which was a significant plus as the weather was beginning to turn hot during our visit. Several of the hotels had not yet switched over to air conditioning, so the cool air was welcome. The tile flooring also helped keep the room cool. While the Wi-Fi in the room was not exceptional, it was better than non-existent connections in other Moroccan hotel rooms. The room was clean, attractively decorated, and functional. The bed was comfortable, a bit softer than others we had slept in. Additionally, the room had a small balcony with an exceptional view of the gardens below and the distant medina.
Delicious Breakfast Buffet
Le Meridien N’Fis had one of the best breakfast buffets of any hotel we stayed at in Morocco. Each morning, the hotel consistently put out a nice selection of fresh fruit, breads, soups, meats, and more. There was a juice bar with a couple of freshly squeezed juice selections each morning. The coffee came from Nescafe machines typical of all the hotels we visited. The service in the restaurant was efficient, making it a great way to start our day.
Excellent Value and Location
Le Meridien N’Fis is located at Avenue Mohammed VI, Marrakech, 40000, Morocco. The prices online currently range from 120 to 150 US dollars, a reasonable price for what you get. While not a five-star hotel, it is an upscale property with plenty of amenities. The rooms were large and clean, the staff friendly and accommodating, and the food was good. The Wi-Fi and air conditioning were icing on the cake. Overall, it was an excellent value and a comfortable, enjoyable stay.
For anyone visiting Marrakech, I highly recommend staying at Le Meridien N’Fis for a blend of comfort, convenience, and excellent service.
One of the focal points of Marrakesh is the Koutoubia Mosque. It is an architectural marvel that stands as the largest mosque in the city. Dominating the skyline, its iconic minaret, rising to 253 feet, serves as a reliable landmark visible from miles around. During my stay in Marrakesh, I could easily spot the minaret from my hotel room. Although located a mile away, it served as an excellent reference point for exploring the city.
Historical Significance of Koutoubia Mosque
The site of the Koutoubia Mosque has a fascinating history. It has been home to two mosques, both constructed in the 12th century. The first mosque built on this location was found to be misaligned with Mecca by five degrees. To rectify this, a second mosque was built alongside the original. However, this too ended up being misaligned by a slightly greater margin. Today, visitors can see the remnants of the original structure, marked by pillars in the plaza beside the minaret. This area also features a vast garden with walkways, lush vegetation, and a large fountain, providing a serene environment for reflection and relaxation.
The Minaret: An Architectural Marvel
At night, the Koutoubia minaret is beautifully illuminated, enhancing its status as a focal point of the plaza and the nearby medina. The design of the minaret is ornate and intricately detailed, featuring laced brickwork around arched windows. The reddish hue of the brickwork adds a muted, elegant charm to the structure. Near the top, mosaic tile work and three gilded copper spheres of descending size at the spire further accentuate its beauty.
Navigating the Plaza and Medina
While the area around the Koutoubia Mosque offers a peaceful respite, it’s essential to remain aware of your surroundings, especially when exploring the nearby medina. The merchants in Marrakech are notably more aggressive compared to those in other Moroccan cities. Making eye contact with the small vendors in the plaza can result in persistent sales pitches. The same goes for the medina market, where many merchants are eager to engage with potential customers. Despite this, the plaza remains a tranquil place to stroll, especially when the weather is pleasant.
Architectural Details to Admire
For those who appreciate architecture, the Koutoubia Mosque is a must-see. The minaret’s detailed brickwork, arched windows, and decorative elements showcase the skill and artistry of its builders. The mosque’s overall design reflects a blend of Islamic art and Moroccan cultural influences, making it a significant landmark not only in Marrakech but also in the broader context of Islamic architecture.
Visiting Koutoubia Mosque
If you’re planning a visit, take some time to sit in the plaza and admire the mosque’s architectural splendor. The area is particularly pleasant during the cooler months of spring, when the weather is ideal for leisurely walks. I was not able to explore the mosque itself, as the mosque itself is not open to non-Muslims. However, the surrounding gardens and plaza provide plenty of opportunities to appreciate its external beauty and historical significance.
The Koutoubia Mosque stands as a testament to the rich history and vibrant culture of Marrakesh. Whether you’re drawn by its architectural beauty, historical significance, or simply looking for a peaceful place to relax, the Koutoubia Mosque is a landmark that should not be missed on any visit to this enchanting city.
Marrakesh was one of the final cities my wife and I visited on our trip through Morocco. The Marrakesh medina was the last on our journey. Each medina we explored had its own unique charm and atmosphere. Near Erfoud, it felt like a rural farmer’s market. In Fez, the winding streets and alleys were a labyrinth. In Marrakesh, we were met with a circus-like atmosphere that was truly captivating. As an interesting side note, the Marrakesh Medina is also listed as a World Heritage Site.
Nighttime in Marrakech: A Festival of Sights, Smells, and Sounds
Our first visit to the medina was at night, heading in for dinner. The medina has a large square that seems deserted during the day but transforms into a festival of sights, smells, and sounds at night. One section of the square is set aside for dining. In the evening, this vacant area springs to life with wall-to-wall tents featuring a variety of food. We were amazed at the vast selection ranging from fresh seafood to traditional Moroccan favorites like tajine. The rest of the medina quickly filled up with snake charmers, merchants, and entertainers.
Dining in the Medina: A Culinary Adventure
On our first night, we didn’t venture into the alleyways as it was already late and we hadn’t eaten yet. We navigated the fair-like food tents before checking a few brick-and-mortar restaurants surrounding the square. Ultimately, we decided to immerse ourselves in the square’s bustling atmosphere and headed back to the food tents. Following my travel rule-of-thumb to choose the busiest place with the most locals, we found a tent and ordered dinner.
Even though we were in a tent, we were given the standard appetizers of olives and bread after being seated. I ordered tajine, but it was already sold out for the night. Instead, I opted for mixed skewers, which included beef, chicken, goat, vegetables, and possibly camel. The skewers were seasoned well and delivered quickly. The place was bustling with a mixture of tourists and locals. We were seated at the end of the table, offering an unobstructed view of the square, but our meal was constantly interrupted by beggars, merchants, and musicians. This is something to consider when choosing where you will to sit.
Exploring the Medina by Day: Shopping and Sightseeing
The following morning, we returned to the medina. The merchants in Marrakesh were a bit more aggressive than in other places we visited. Prices were reasonable, but a few merchants pushed us too far. When we were with our guide, we were treated more politely. He was able to diffuse the aggressiveness of the merchants who followed us.
The majority of people we met in Marrakesh, whether at the medina or elsewhere, were incredibly friendly. The aggressive merchants we encountered were a small minority, but they stood out. It was generally the merchants without shops who were the rudest or most aggressive. However, my wife and I did have one particularly shocking run-in with a shopkeeper as well. In the US, I would not have been as polite in the face of his incredibly rude approach. This is not indicative of the majority, but you are bound to encounter aggressive merchants if you visit.
Navigating the Medina: Tips and Tricks
The shops off the main square are along alleyways forming a rough grid. The alleys were not as confusing as Fez, but not entirely intuitive like Rabat. I wouldn’t expect anyone to get lost if they have a reasonable sense of direction. The sounds of the square provide an audible cue, and the market layout along the edge of the square helped us with orientation.
What to Buy: Souvenirs and Local Goods
There was plenty to be found in the medina. Near the end of our vacation, we could have easily found everything we purchased had we forgotten something. The shops carried leather goods, spices, argan oil, tajines, artwork, clothing, and even fresh olives. The olives in Morocco were delicious. I wish I had brought some back with me.
The Medina by Day vs. Night: A Stark Contrast
The photos of our evening dinner give a bit of insight into what the tents looked like at night. Imagine those tents covering half of a large square. During the daytime, the plaza is nearly a ghost town. It’s amazing how quickly they set up for dinner. The photo below shows what the plaza looks like during the day. The red area to the right is where the food tents will be set up later in the day.
I enjoyed the Marrakesh medina. Despite several aggressive merchants and aggressive panhandling, it was the most interesting of any we visited. Each medina is unique, but you really have to visit the one in Marrakesh to fully appreciate the chaos. Your senses will be bombarded from every direction. As you walk from the minaret towards the plaza, horse-drawn carriages line the route, waiting to take passengers on a city tour. Merchants selling toys and small items crowd this area, waiting to make eye contact with unsuspecting tourists.
Conclusion: The Unique Charm of Marrakesh’s Medina
As you enter the plaza, musicians fill the air with joyful sounds, creating a carnival-like environment. Snake charmers add to the din with their pipes, while the food tents fill the air with the smell of barbecued meat and fried fish. Ice cream, coffee, and fresh-squeezed juice are also popular stands forming an outer ring around the food tents. If you are looking for a meal or an evening snack, there is plenty to choose from. It is an experience you don’t want to miss.
As part of our tour in Marrakech, we had the delightful opportunity to attend a cooking demonstration at the renowned Restaurant Al Baraka. While I initially hoped it would be a hands-on cooking class, the demonstration turned out to be an engaging showcase of traditional Moroccan couscous preparation. Though it was not a hands-on experience, watching the demonstration and enjoying the delicious meal afterward made it a worthwhile experience.
The Setting: Restaurant Al Baraka
Our culinary adventure began as we walked through an outdoor patio area to a private room at the back of the restaurant. Although the room wasn’t set up for the demonstration initially, the staff quickly assembled the necessary ingredients for making couscous. Our instructor, a Moroccan grandmother, was ready to share her culinary expertise, with our guide serving as an interpreter to facilitate questions during the demonstration.
The Art of Making Couscous
The couscous preparation started with a base of semolina mixed with spices. Flour, water, and oil were added in portions, guided only by the instructor’s experience and intuition. She didn’t measure anything, instead rolling the couscous and adding ingredients until she achieved the perfect consistency. Using a large basket and a wire mesh container, she worked the couscous with deft hands, demonstrating the skill and artistry that come with years of practice.
Layering Flavors: Meat and Vegetables
Next, our instructor demonstrated the method for layering the flavors of meat and vegetables. She used a variety of root vegetables and goat, though she didn’t cook them during the demonstration due to time constraints. Instead, she used a pre-cooked stew to show us the ornate plating. Moroccan cuisine places a great emphasis on presentation, and she carefully stacked the root vegetables on a bed of couscous, creating an attractive pattern.
Dining on the Patio
After the demonstration, we moved to the patio area for lunch. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor seating, and on such a pleasant day, we chose to dine outside. The patio tables, shaded by umbrellas, provided a comfortable setting for our meal. The food was served family-style in generous proportions that were almost impossible to finish. And it was absolutely delicious.
A Feast of Moroccan Flavors
Our meal began with a selection of pastries, followed by a variety of Moroccan vegetable dishes including eggplant, potatoes, carrots, beans, and squash. These vegetable dishes alone were enough to satisfy, but the main course of freshly made couscous and vegetables was the highlight. Every bite was a testament to the rich flavors and culinary traditions of Morocco.
A Memorable Experience
The cooking demonstration at Restaurant Al Baraka was a fun and informative way to spend our lunch in Marrakesh. The class was engaging, the meal was delectable, and the setting was charming. Though the experience was touristy and cost fifty dollars per person, it was worth every penny. If you find yourself in Marrakesh, I highly recommend both the cooking demonstration and the restaurant itself for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Restaurant Al Baraka is located at 1, Place Jamâa El Fna, Marrakech, Maroc, 40000, Marrakesh 40000, Morocco. They are open daily:
From 12pm to 3 pm And from 7pm to 11pm
While we didn’t stay for the evening, they are known to have live entertainment at night. That would have been a great experience as well.
