Cultural Exploration in Fes with Friends

First Impressions of Fes

After a smooth flight from Berlin, I've finally arrived in Fes, Morocco! The air is thick with the scent of spices and the sounds of a city buzzing with life. It's a world away from my quiet life in Berlin, and I couldn't be more excited to dive into this adventure with my friends. Today was all about getting lost in the Fes El Bali, the oldest part of the city, and soaking up as much of the local culture as possible.


Explore the historic Fes El Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage site brimming with ancient architecture, vibrant souks, and rich Moroccan culture.
The weather was pleasant, with a mostly cloudy sky and a temperature hovering around 17°C – perfect for exploring. I was glad I packed layers, as the temperature can fluctuate throughout the day. I started my day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Clock. Hans always tells me to try the local cuisine, so I had to try it. I opted for the traditional Moroccan pancakes with honey and a strong mint tea, the perfect fuel for a day of exploring. The cafe itself was a vibrant mix of tourists and locals, a great spot to people-watch and get a feel for the city's rhythm. I was so excited to start exploring with my friends.


Experience authentic Moroccan flavors at Cafe Clock in Fes - where tradition meets contemporary dining in a vibrant atmosphere.
We started our exploration in the heart of the Fes El Bali. The medina is a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, each turn revealing a new sensory experience. Donkeys laden with goods jostled past us, while vendors called out from their stalls overflowing with colorful textiles, spices, and ceramics. I felt like I had stepped back in time, a world away from the orderly streets of Berlin. It was easy to get disoriented, but that was part of the fun. I made sure to keep my wits about me, remembering to haggle respectfully and keep a close eye on my belongings.

Traveling is not about escaping reality; it's about experiencing it in a different context.

Our first official stop was the Bou Inania Madrasa, a stunning example of Marinid architecture. The intricate tilework, carved stucco, and cedarwood details were breathtaking. As an English teacher, I was particularly fascinated by the history of the madrasa as a center of learning. I learned that it was built in the 14th century and is considered one of the most beautiful religious buildings in Morocco. It also uniquely functioned as both a madrasa and a congregational mosque. I could easily see why it is acknowledged as a high point of Marinid architecture and of historic Moroccan architecture generally.


Explore the architectural beauty and cultural significance of Bou Inania Madrasa, an essential stop in the historic city of Fes, Morocco.
Next, we ventured to the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts, housed in a beautifully restored 18th-century fondouk. It was fascinating to see the intricate woodworking that is so integral to Moroccan culture. From ancient tools to ornate musical instruments, the museum showcased the skill and artistry of Moroccan artisans. I was particularly impressed by the collection of carved cedarwood, which filled the air with a fragrant aroma. The museum also had a rooftop cafe, so we stopped for a refreshing mint tea and enjoyed the panoramic views of the medina.


Discover the rich heritage of Moroccan craftsmanship at the Nejjarine Museum of Wooden Arts & Crafts in historic Fes.
For lunch, we found ourselves at Nagham Cafe, drawn in by its cozy atmosphere and the promise of traditional Moroccan cuisine. I ordered a tagine with chicken and olives, which was flavorful and satisfying. My friends tried the couscous and a vegetarian orange salad, which they enjoyed. The cafe had a relaxed vibe, and we lingered over our meal, soaking up the atmosphere and planning our next adventures.


Savor authentic Moroccan cuisine and fast food delights at Nagham Cafe in Fès – where every bite tells a story.
After lunch, we stumbled upon Medin Art, a shop filled with beautiful Berber rugs and Moroccan crafts. I was immediately drawn to the colorful textiles and intricate designs. I spent a good hour browsing the selection, admiring the craftsmanship and learning about the different styles and techniques. I ended up buying a small rug as a souvenir, a reminder of my time in Fes. I was happy to support the local artisans and bring a piece of Moroccan culture back to Berlin.


Discover authentic Moroccan handicrafts at Medin Art in Fes, where tradition meets creativity in a beautiful collection of unique treasures.
As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Restaurant Dar Hatim for dinner. This family-run restaurant is known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and warm hospitality. We were greeted by Karima, the owner, who welcomed us into her home as if we were old friends. The restaurant itself was beautifully decorated, with intricate tilework and carved wooden details. We opted for the set menu, which included a variety of Moroccan salads, a flavorful tagine, and sweet pastries. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was intimate and inviting. It was the perfect way to end our first day in Fes.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Dar Hatim in Fès - where every meal tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Reflecting on the day, I am struck by the sensory overload of Fes El Bali. The sights, sounds, and smells are intense, but in the best possible way. It's a city that challenges and stimulates, a place where you can easily lose yourself in the moment. I'm grateful for the opportunity to experience this vibrant culture with my friends, and I'm excited to see what tomorrow brings.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Chouara Tannery, Al Attarine Madrasa, and the Mausoleum of Moulay Idriss II. I'm a little nervous about the tanneries, as I've heard the smell can be quite intense, but I'm also curious to see the traditional process of leather making. In the evening, we're planning to unwind at Mezzanine, a local bar known for its relaxed atmosphere and good drinks. I'm looking forward to another day of exploration and discovery in this fascinating city.

I'm so glad I decided to come to Fes. It's a world away from my quiet life in Berlin, but it's exactly what I needed to shake things up and experience something new. I feel grateful for the opportunity to travel and explore different cultures, and I'm excited to share my experiences with you all.

As Hans always says, "The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page." And I'm determined to read as many pages as I can.

Until tomorrow!