Exploring the Cultural Richness of Fes with Friends

Wandering Through Time in Fes

Today was a day of wandering, a day of getting lost and found in the vibrant heart of Fes. It's funny how sometimes the best experiences are the ones you don't plan, the detours that lead to unexpected treasures. Fes has a way of pulling you in, whispering stories of its past while dazzling you with its present. I'm excited to share the adventures I had today with my friends in this amazing city.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Darori. The Moroccan sun streamed through the windows as we savored traditional dishes. I had a *tagine* that was particularly delicious. The flavors were rich and complex, a perfect start to a day of exploration. The restaurant's charming decor and cozy atmosphere made us feel right at home. Amina and Guilhem, the French owners, have truly created a unique and privileged place, perfect for discovering the flavors of Morocco. It was a delightful way to fuel up before diving into the medina's labyrinthine streets. I remembered my grandfather's stories of his own travels, and I felt a similar sense of excitement and anticipation for the day ahead. It was also great that Darori was accessible to people with reduced mobility.


Discover the exquisite blend of Moroccan tradition and haute French cuisine at Darori in Fes – an unmissable dining experience.

With our bellies full and spirits high, we ventured into the heart of the medina, our first stop being Talaa Kebira. This bustling thoroughfare is the lifeblood of Fes, a sensory explosion of sights, sounds, and smells. The street was teeming with vendors hawking their wares, from colorful spices and intricately crafted leather goods to traditional Berber jewelry. Donkeys laden with goods trod the bumpy lanes, adding to the chaotic charm. I couldn't resist buying a few small souvenirs, a reminder of the vibrant energy of this place. I bartered for a beautiful, hand-painted ceramic bowl, a skill I learned from my days navigating the markets of Huancavelica with my abuela. It was fascinating to see how the street transformed as we walked, from produce markets to shops catering to both locals and tourists.


Discover the vibrant Talaa Kebira market in Fes, where local culture, artisan crafts, and Moroccan cuisine come together in a bustling atmosphere.

To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries. - Aldous Huxley

As we strolled down Talaa Kebira, we stumbled upon the Palais Mnebhi, a stunning palace with a rich history. The palace was built in the early 20th century by Mehdi Mnebhi, and it served as the location for the signing of the Treaty of Fes in 1912, which established French colonial rule over Morocco. The architecture was simply breathtaking, with a vast reception hall featuring a high wooden dome-like ceiling and a large wall fountain adorned with intricate *zellij* mosaic tiles. It was amazing to think that such a significant historical event took place within these walls. The palace has also served as the residence of the French Resident-General and the headquarters of the Istiqlal (Independence) party. I could almost feel the weight of history as I walked through the ornately decorated rooms.

After soaking in the history of Palais Mnebhi, we decided to take a guided tour with Fes Day Tours. We had an amazing guide, Abdul, who was born and raised in the old city. His knowledge of the city's history and culture was truly impressive, and he shared many fascinating stories and insights that we wouldn't have discovered on our own. He was also very personable and patient, answering all our questions with enthusiasm. Touring the Medina with a guide is highly recommended, as it's easy to get lost in the labyrinthine streets. Abdul helped us navigate the maze and ensured we didn't miss any of the important landmarks.


Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Fes, Morocco with Fes Day Tours, your gateway to unforgettable adventures.

For lunch, Abdul took us to Restaurant Dar Alaoui, a hidden gem in the heart of the medina. The restaurant is known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and its friendly staff. We enjoyed a delicious meal of *tajine* and *couscous*, savoring the flavors of Fes. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, making us feel like we were dining in a traditional Moroccan home. The prices were also very reasonable, making it a great value for the quality of the food and service. It was a truly memorable dining experience. I made a mental note to try and recreate some of these dishes back in Montreal, perhaps with some quinoa for a Peruvian twist.


Discover the essence of Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Dar Alaoui in Fes—where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

After lunch, we continued our exploration of the medina, visiting various souks and workshops. Abdul showed us how leather is made at the Chouara Tannery, a fascinating but pungent process. We also visited a traditional pottery workshop, where we watched artisans create beautiful ceramics by hand. It was incredible to see the level of skill and craftsmanship that goes into these traditional crafts. I was reminded of my grandfather, who was a skilled carpenter. His dedication to his craft always inspired me.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to indulge in some retail therapy at Palais du Tresor. This shop is a treasure trove of Moroccan handicrafts, from carpets and textiles to jewelry and ceramics. The shopkeeper was very helpful, offering us mint tea as we browsed the selection. I ended up buying a beautiful Berber carpet, a perfect addition to my living room in Montreal. I'm sure Sophie will appreciate the splash of Moroccan color.


Explore the enchanting Palais du Tresor, a carpet store in Fes offering exquisite handmade Moroccan carpets that embody tradition and artistry.

Before dinner, we stopped by Progrès, a local bar, for a refreshing drink. The bar had a lively atmosphere, and we enjoyed chatting with locals and soaking in the Fassi vibe. It was a great way to unwind after a long day of exploring. The bar had outdoor seating, which was perfect for enjoying the cool evening air. While the bar has received mixed reviews online, we found it to be a pleasant and authentic experience. We enjoyed some traditional Moroccan mint tea, a refreshing and flavorful beverage. I even tried my hand at a few Arabic phrases, much to the amusement of my friends and the locals.


Discover Fes's vibrant nightlife at Progrès, a night club that promises unforgettable music and an exhilarating atmosphere.

For dinner, we chose La Breva, a restaurant known for its modern decor and quiet atmosphere. The restaurant offered a variety of Moroccan and international dishes. I opted for a traditional Moroccan *tagine*, while my friends tried some of the international options. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. The prices were also very reasonable, making it a great value for the quality of the food and service. The restaurant is located on the top floor of a building, offering panoramic views of the city. It was the perfect spot to end our day.


Experience authentic Moroccan breakfasts at La Breva in Fes – where tradition meets flavor in every bite.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder. Fes has a way of captivating your senses and leaving you wanting more. The city's rich history, vibrant culture, and friendly people have made this a truly unforgettable experience. I'm so glad I had the opportunity to explore this amazing place with my friends.

Tomorrow is our last day in Fes, and we plan to make the most of it. We'll be visiting Borj Sud, Nejjarine Fountain, and Mules of the Medina. I'm looking forward to discovering more of Fes's hidden gems and soaking in the city's unique atmosphere. I'm also planning to do some last-minute souvenir shopping at La Petite Maison Berbere. And of course, we'll be celebrating our final night in Fes with a delicious dinner at Restaurant Soultana and drinks at Eden chope bar.

Before I turn in for the night, I wanted to share a quote that perfectly captures the essence of today's experience:

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page. - Saint Augustine

I feel like I've read several chapters of the Fes book today, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Goodnight from Fes!

P.S. I almost forgot! Today, September 12th, is the date of the Imilchil Betrothal Festival in the Atlas Mountains. While we didn't make it there, it's fascinating to know that such a unique cultural event is happening nearby. Perhaps next time I'll plan my trip around it!