Scott : Off to Essaouira, a seaside town, famous for a 6km beach that attract thousands of tourists of Europe in search of sun and sound, and a fortified town that was the setting for Olson wells movie Othello. The lonely planet however describes it as ‘ definitely Moroccan; narrow alleys ways, the wind that reputedly drives people crazy, and the smells of fish guts and damp seas’.
Our place we stayed in was really amazing, (apart from the small room), a converted raid or communal house. We loved the security system. When in doubt if the lock will hold you can always take the handle out of the door and bring it with you. Equally when we woke up the next morning our door was wide open despite being locked from the inside.
We had a morning tour by a local guide, who explained the history in great detail. Fortified against the french and pirates, the port and ramparts were amazing. Yes, the fish guts where pretty potent, but the dockyard and fishing area was an amazing array of sights and colours. It’s was sad however the small fish, sharks and eels that were on display – a massive drain on the surrounding resources.
An amazing collection of cats at every corner, topped of by the cat kindergarten, with 14 kittens sitting in the sun on a chair.
A quiet afternoon was great, first time in a long time that we had some free time to ourselves. A local strong coffee, a crepe and a good book was what we ordered.
I make note however of the beggars that frequented the cafes on the main strip – truly some heart breaking images. We hadn’t seen this in other places around morocco. Does tourism breed begging or does this part of morocco suffer from different social factors that others don’t.
That night We decided to hit the night club, a interesting place with stacks of guys sitting in the dark, and intereting mix of French, English, Spanish, Arabic and Berber music. The only ones on the dance floor we had a few quiets and retired for a great sleep. ( yes I had the door knob in my pocket )