DAY 46 MARRAKESH- CASABLANCA

We had a later start today, on the bus at 9am for the trip to Casablanca which was only 4 hours or so. An easy trip which we all enjoyed as it is our last full day together.

Graemes tummy is feeling a little better although he isnt really eating much but at least the fever is gone. Pretty much everyone has had at least an upset stomach for much of the trip, but I think that is par for the course in Morocco and while it makes you very sanitary conscious, it isnt enough to put us off.

We went to the medina at 3pm when it all re-opened so we could get some of that much talked about shopping done. Had a good time haggling and feel like I got slightly ripped off once, but got a reallly great buy on an outfit that has the tradidional long embroided top and pants for § 20 nz: Graeme got several jallaba- the long Moroccan robes and wore one to dinner. We are going to hang them on the wall at home. Cannot imagine what these would cost at home but we paid §40 and §30 so very cheap here!

Then back to our hotel- the sheraton where lots of princely looking people are staying! for a rest before dinner. Had our farewell meal and said goodbye to Abdul and Razak our driver- they have both been so excellent, the best we have ever had on a tour. Then a group of us sat in the bar and talked, listening to 2 ladies sing abba and 70s country songs.
We have really enjoyed the people on this tour, a fairly quiet but very civilised group of people. We especially enjoyed the company of Rick amd Adrienne from Canada, who have really changed our experience of Canadians. They would do anything for you and we enjoyed a few laughs!

On a whole in Morocco-most people speak arab, french and english here so it hasnt been that hard to communicate which is great. Our impressions of this countrye is that it is one that is seeing huge growth at a time where there is worldwide economic recession. It is awash with smells and filth but also has an enchantment to it. Certainly wouldnt want a life with fruit and veges though where the risk of stomach upsets is an everyday thing to foreigners. But it also has the most mind blowing cultural sights and natural wonders like the Atlas mountains and the Sahara desert. Eight days but just about right for a visit too I think.

Tomorrow Abdul has arranged for us to keep our room until 1pm as we dont leave until 1.30pm, which is great. Rick and Adrienne dont leave until late either so we will go for a last walk around Casablanca together before heading to the airport.

Note the motorbike pics today- the one of the family, we have seen Mum, Dad and 2 kids on a bike also! I see that Dad is the only one wearing a helmet- guess whose life he values the most?

The other pic of the 2 men on the scooter- that is the police!! It is very rare to see any of the public wearing helmets and since the road rules are largely (and totally) ignored, it is amazing we only saw one accident in Morocco!