Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco with Friends

A Fond Farewell to the Blue City

As my final day in Chefchaouen drew to a close, I couldn't help but feel a bittersweet mix of gratitude and melancholy. This trip to the 'Blue Pearl' of Morocco with my friends has been nothing short of magical, a vibrant tapestry woven with the colors of its iconic streets, the warmth of its people, and the rich flavors of its cuisine. Today was all about soaking in the last moments, capturing the essence of Chefchaouen one last time before heading back to Berlin.

We started our day with a delightful breakfast at Nous Nous Cafe. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the sweet scent of Moroccan pastries, creating a cozy atmosphere that made it hard to leave. But, knowing we had a few more sights to explore, we eventually ventured out, ready to embrace the day. I savored every bite, knowing it would be one of my last tastes of authentic Moroccan cuisine for a while. As I sipped my coffee, I couldn't help but reflect on how much this trip had meant to me. Leaving Berlin, even temporarily, always feels like a huge weight being lifted off my shoulders. I feel like I can truly breathe again, and Morocco has certainly helped me do that.


Experience the essence of Moroccan coffee culture at Nous Nous Cafe, a charming coffee shop in the picturesque streets of Chefchaouen.

Our first stop was the Vue panoramique de la plage. While I was initially puzzled, since Chefchaouen is nestled in the mountains and not exactly known for its beaches, I discovered that the name is a bit misleading. It's more of a scenic viewpoint that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The vista was incredible, stretching across the Rif Mountains and the blue-washed buildings of Chefchaouen. I spent a good while there, camera in hand, trying to capture the beauty of the scene. The panoramic view was stunning.


Experience the breathtaking natural beauty and panoramic views at Vue Panoramique de la Plage, a must-visit hiking area along the stunning Moroccan coastline.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are found when you least expect them.

Next, we wandered through Derb Zaghdoud, a charming street known for its local shops and artisan workshops. I was on the hunt for some last-minute souvenirs, something unique to remind me of this incredible journey. The shops were filled with colorful textiles, handmade ceramics, and intricate metalwork. I found a beautiful, hand-painted bowl that I knew Greta would adore. I also picked up a small, intricately carved wooden box for myself, a little memento of my time in Chefchaouen. The atmosphere in Derb Zaghdoud was vibrant and lively, with locals chatting and bargaining, and the scent of spices filling the air. It was the perfect place to soak in the last bit of Chefchaouen's unique charm.


Explore the vibrant alleys of Derb Zaghdoud in Chefchaouen, where blue hues, local art, and delicious Moroccan cuisine await every visitor.

Of course, no trip to Chefchaouen would be complete without a visit to La Vida Colorada. This shop, recommended by a local we met earlier in the week, was a treasure trove of unique and colorful items. I found some beautiful hand-woven scarves and a few small trinkets that I knew my friends back in Berlin would appreciate. The shop owner was incredibly friendly and shared some fascinating stories about the local artisans and their craft. It was a lovely way to connect with the community and support their work.


Discover La Vida Colorada in Chefchaouen for unique home goods and local handicrafts that embody the vibrant spirit of Morocco's blue city.

For lunch, we decided to try Patisserie Pain Chaouen, a local bakery known for its delicious pastries and sandwiches. I opted for a traditional Moroccan sandwich filled with spiced chicken and vegetables, and it was absolutely divine. The bread was fresh and fluffy, and the filling was bursting with flavor. We sat at a small table outside the bakery, watching the world go by as we savored our meal. It was a simple yet perfect moment, a true taste of Chefchaouen.


Experience the sweet taste of Chefchaouen at Patisserie Pain Chaouen, where delightful pastries and Moroccan treats await every visitor.

As the day wore on, we took some time to simply wander through the blue-washed streets of the medina. I wanted to imprint every detail on my memory: the vibrant blue hues, the intricate doorways, the sound of children playing in the squares. I found myself drawn to the quieter corners of the city, the hidden alleyways where the locals lived their daily lives. It was in these moments that I felt a true connection to Chefchaouen, a sense of belonging that transcended my role as a tourist. Even though I've been teaching ESL in Berlin for years now, sometimes I still feel like an outsider. But here, in this blue city, I felt like I could just be myself.

Before dinner, we decided to revisit Ras El Ma, the local waterfall just outside the medina. It was a popular spot, with families picnicking and children playing in the cool water. I sat by the edge of the stream, listening to the gentle sound of the water cascading over the rocks. It was a peaceful and serene setting, a perfect way to reflect on the incredible journey we had shared. Thinking back to Micoud, Saint Lucia, where I grew up surrounded by nature, I felt a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such diverse landscapes and cultures.

For our final dinner in Chefchaouen, we chose Restaurant Lalla Messaouda, known for its traditional Moroccan cuisine and cozy atmosphere. We indulged in a feast of tagines, couscous, and grilled meats, savoring every bite and reminiscing about our favorite moments from the trip. The restaurant was filled with laughter and conversation, a testament to the bonds we had strengthened during our time together. As the evening drew to a close, we raised a toast to Chefchaouen, to our friendship, and to the adventures that lay ahead.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine in the heart of Chefchaouen at Restaurant Lalla Messaouda, where every dish tells a story.

Leaving Chefchaouen feels like saying goodbye to an old friend. I’ll miss the vibrant colors, the friendly faces, and the sense of peace that permeated every corner of this blue city. As I prepare to return to Berlin, I carry with me a treasure trove of memories and experiences that will undoubtedly shape my perspective on life and travel. I know that I will never forget my time in Chefchaouen, and I hope to return someday to rediscover its magic once again.

There are no specific plans for tomorrow, as it marks the end of our trip. We will be heading back to Tangier to catch our flight back to Berlin. While I'm looking forward to seeing Greta again, a part of me wishes I could stay in Chefchaouen forever. But alas, duty calls, and I have a classroom full of eager students waiting for me back in Germany. Until next time, Chefchaouen!