Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco with Friends

A Fond Farewell to Chefchaouen

As the sun sets on my final day in Chefchaouen, I find myself reflecting on the incredible experiences I’ve had in this mesmerizing blue city. It's hard to believe that almost two weeks have flown by since Jean-Pierre and I, along with our friends, arrived in this Moroccan gem. From the labyrinthine streets to the stunning mountain views, every corner has been a feast for the senses. I’m already anticipating sharing these memories with my translation clients back in Lyon; perhaps I can even weave some of the local stories into my work.



Our last day began with a hearty breakfast at Café & restaurant Meftah.
The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Moroccan coffee filled the air, setting the perfect tone for our final explorations. I opted for the traditional Moroccan pancakes, while Jean-Pierre enjoyed a tagine – a fitting start to our last day immersed in local flavors.
We reminisced about our favorite moments of the trip as we ate, from haggling in the souks to the breathtaking views from the Spanish Mosque.
It's funny, I almost forgot my adapter for the Moroccan outlets, but luckily, one of our friends had an extra. I definitely made a mental note to add it to my packing checklist for future trips!

“The journey, not the destination, matters.”

After breakfast, we decided to visit Lavadero de la Ciudad, also known as the City Washhouse.
It was a short walk from Bab El Onsar, one of the city gates, and offered a glimpse into the daily life of the locals. The sight of women washing clothes in the flowing water, surrounded by the blue tiles and intricate designs, was truly captivating. The gentle sound of the water and the vibrant colors created a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for a leisurely visit. I snapped a few photos, trying to capture the essence of this traditional spot. Jean-Pierre, ever the observer, was fascinated by the communal aspect of the washhouse, noting how it served as a social hub for the community. I was reminded of the communal bread ovens in Lyon, and how they similarly foster a sense of community.


Experience the historic Lavadero de la Ciudad in Chefchaouen, a serene washhouse that embodies the vibrant culture and beauty of Morocco.

Next on our list was Tuiles colorées, a spot known for its colorful tiles and Instagram-worthy scenes.
Located just around the corner from Kaiklana, it was easy to reach. The vibrant hues of the tiles against the blue backdrop of the city were stunning. I couldn’t resist taking a few more photos, trying to capture the perfect shot. The area was bustling with tourists and locals alike, all eager to capture the beauty of this unique spot. As a freelance translator, I’m always looking for ways to infuse my work with creativity, and the vibrant colors of Tuiles colorées certainly provided plenty of inspiration.


Explore the vibrant Tuiles colorées in Chefchaouen, a stunning showcase of Moroccan artistry amidst breathtaking landscapes.

For lunch, we headed to Restaurant Hajji, a beloved dining spot known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine.
The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere and traditional decor made it the perfect place to savor our final meal in Chefchaouen. We ordered a variety of dishes, including tagines, couscous, and freshly baked bread. Every bite was a burst of flavor, a testament to the rich culinary traditions of Morocco. The mint tea, of course, was a must-have, and we savored every sip as we soaked in the local ambiance. Jean-Pierre particularly enjoyed the kefta burger, which he declared a surprisingly delicious must-try.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Restaurant Hajji in Chefchaouen – where every dish tells a story of local tradition.

In the late afternoon, we decided to unwind at BILMOS, a popular bar in the heart of Chefchaouen.
We ordered some drinks and relaxed, reflecting on our incredible journey. The bar had a lively atmosphere, with music and laughter filling the air. It was the perfect way to say goodbye to this enchanting city. As I sipped my drink, I couldn’t help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such a unique and vibrant culture. I made a mental note to bring Jean-Pierre back to Morocco someday, perhaps to explore the Sahara Desert or the bustling city of Marrakech.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at BILMOS in Chefchaouen, where traditional flavors meet a vibrant atmosphere.

For our final dinner, we chose Mandala, a restaurant known for its unique pizza flavors and cozy atmosphere.
We wanted something different from the traditional Moroccan cuisine we had been enjoying, and Mandala did not disappoint. The pizzas were delicious, and the ambiance was perfect for a relaxed and intimate meal. We shared stories and laughter, savoring our last moments together in Chefchaouen. As we finished our meal, we raised a toast to our friendship and to the unforgettable memories we had created.


Experience unique pizza flavors in Chefchaouen's enchanting atmosphere at Mandala – where Moroccan tradition meets culinary creativity.

As I pack my bags, I can’t help but feel a sense of sadness. Chefchaouen has captured my heart, and I know I will never forget my time here. The blue-washed streets, the vibrant culture, and the stunning mountain views have left an indelible mark on my soul. I am grateful for the opportunity to have shared this experience with Jean-Pierre and our friends, and I know that these memories will last a lifetime.
Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Lyon, filled with stories and photographs to share. Although I’m looking forward to returning to my cozy apartment and my translation work, a part of me will always remain in the Blue Pearl of Morocco.
Perhaps I’ll even start incorporating some Moroccan phrases into my French, just to keep the memories alive!



Until next time, Chefchaouen. Thank you for the memories.