Cultural Exploration in Fes with Friends

Flavors and Serenity in Fes

Today was a beautiful blend of cultural immersion and personal rejuvenation. I dove headfirst into the heart of Moroccan cuisine and then pampered myself with a traditional spa experience, all while soaking in the stunning views that Fes has to offer. It's days like these that remind me why I love traveling – the opportunity to learn, relax, and connect with a new culture on a deeper level.

My day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Clock. It's a quirky, multi-level cafe tucked away in one of the Medina's many winding alleyways. I opted for the Berber eggs, a local specialty, and a strong coffee to kickstart my morning. The cafe was buzzing with a mix of tourists and locals, all enjoying the laid-back atmosphere and the delicious food. It was the perfect spot to fuel up before a day of culinary adventures.

With a full stomach and a sense of excitement, I made my way to the Palais Amani for my cooking class. The Palais Amani itself is a stunning riad, a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling Medina. The Fez Cooking School at Palais Amani is located on the rooftop terrace, offering breathtaking views of the city. I was greeted with traditional Moroccan mint tea and pastries before joining the other participants, a diverse group of food enthusiasts from all over the world.


Discover the art of Moroccan cooking at the Fez Cooking School, where culinary tradition meets hands-on learning in the heart of Fes.

Our class began with a guided tour of the local souk, where we learned about the various spices, herbs, and fresh ingredients that are essential to Moroccan cuisine. The souk was a sensory overload – a vibrant tapestry of colors, smells, and sounds. We sampled olives, dates, and local bread, and I marveled at the skill of the vendors as they haggled with customers. Chef Houssam Laasiri, who runs the Fez Cooking School, emphasized that to truly understand a country's culture, you need to eat it. I couldn't agree more.

Back at the Palais Amani, we donned our aprons and began preparing our meal. We learned to make a traditional tagine with chicken and preserved lemons, as well as a flavorful Moroccan salad. The chef guided us through each step of the process, sharing tips and techniques that have been passed down through generations. I even surprised myself by mastering the art of folding a pastilla, a savory pie filled with pigeon, almonds, and spices.

Food is not rational. Food is culture, habit, craving and memory.

As someone who enjoys baking German Kuchen back in Berlin, I found the cooking class to be incredibly rewarding. It wasn't just about learning new recipes; it was about connecting with the local culture and understanding the history and traditions behind the food. And, of course, it was incredibly satisfying to sit down and enjoy the delicious meal that we had prepared ourselves, surrounded by the beautiful gardens of the Palais Amani.

After the cooking class, I decided to treat myself to a traditional Moroccan spa experience at Hammam Mernissi & Spa. Located near Bab Boujloud Square, this spa is known for its clean and welcoming atmosphere. After the hustle and bustle of the Medina, the hammam offered a welcome escape. I opted for the traditional hammam with a massage, a centuries-old ritual designed to cleanse and rejuvenate the body and mind.


Discover the traditional Moroccan wellness experience at Hammam Mernissi & Spa in Fes, where relaxation and rejuvenation await.

The hammam experience began in a steam room, where I relaxed and allowed the heat to open my pores. Next, a skilled therapist scrubbed my entire body with traditional black soap, removing layers of dead skin and leaving my skin feeling incredibly soft and smooth. The experience was both invigorating and relaxing, and I emerged feeling like a new woman.

Following the hammam, I enjoyed a soothing massage with fragrant argan oil. The therapist worked out all the knots and tension in my muscles, leaving me feeling completely relaxed and refreshed. As someone who spends a lot of time teaching English at the Volkshochschule in Berlin, I often find myself feeling stressed and overwhelmed. This hammam experience was exactly what I needed to unwind and recharge.

As the sun began to set, I made my way to Borj Sud, a historic fort overlooking the city. Built in the 16th century, the fort offers panoramic views of the Medina and the surrounding hills. The walk up to the fort was a bit of a climb, but the views were well worth the effort. From the top, I could see the entire city spread out before me, a maze of rooftops, minarets, and winding alleyways.


Explore Borj Sud in Fes, Morocco - a historical landmark that offers stunning views and a glimpse into the region's rich past.

The Borj Sud was originally built by the Saadian dynasty as a military outpost, designed to protect the city from invaders. Today, it houses a military museum, but I was more interested in the views. I spent a good hour wandering around the fort, taking photos and soaking in the atmosphere. The golden light of the setting sun cast a magical glow over the city, creating a truly unforgettable scene.

Before heading back to my guesthouse, I decided to grab a drink at Rooftop Nour Plazza. The bar boasts incredible views of Fes, and I enjoyed a refreshing drink as I watched the city lights twinkle to life. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Discover Rooftop Nour Plazza, a vibrant bar in Fes offering stunning views and a taste of Moroccan hospitality in the heart of the city.

For dinner, I chose Restaurant Darna fes. The restaurant is known for fulfilling every desire with its perfect location, offering access to nearby parking and panoramic views of the ancient city. I enjoyed a traditional Moroccan meal while reflecting on the day's adventures. The flavors, the sights, and the sounds of Fes had truly captivated me.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Restaurant Darna Fes - a family-friendly bistro offering delightful vegan options.

Tomorrow is sadly the last day of this trip with my friends. I am planning to visit Bab Mahrouk, Merinide Necropole, and Point de Vue Allal El Fassi, and intend to do some last-minute souvenir shopping at Cooperative Artisanal de Fes.

As I reflect on my time in Fes, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder. This city has a way of getting under your skin, of captivating your senses and leaving you wanting more. I can't wait to return someday and continue exploring its hidden corners and uncovering its many secrets. Perhaps I'll bring Hans and Sophie next time, so they can experience the magic of Fes for themselves.

I am so glad that I decided to come to Fes with my friends. It's been an incredible experience, and I've learned so much about Moroccan culture, cuisine, and history. I'm also grateful for the opportunity to relax and recharge, and to connect with my friends on a deeper level. This trip has been a reminder of the importance of travel, of stepping outside of your comfort zone and embracing new experiences. And as much as I miss Hans and Sophie, I know that this adventure has made me a better person, a more well-rounded and open-minded individual. And that's something that I can bring back with me to Berlin, to my family, and to my students.