Exploring the Blue Pearl of Morocco with Friends

Chasing the Blues Away

Today was a vibrant tapestry of experiences, woven with the rich threads of Chefchaouen's culture, art, and cuisine. It was a day of exploration and discovery, where every corner turned revealed a new facet of this captivating blue city. From ancient gates to bustling artisan workshops and delightful meals, Chefchaouen truly embraced us with its unique charm.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Casa Arina. I opted for a traditional Moroccan breakfast –beghrir (pancakes) with honey and a steaming glass of mint tea. Fatima and the kids enjoyed some tasty couscous. The warm hospitality and delicious food set the perfect tone for our day of exploration. I must admit, starting the day with a good meal is essential, especially when you know you'll be doing a lot of walking. Omar was particularly excited, practically bouncing in his seat, eager to explore more of the blue city. It reminded me of our early days in Bielefeld, discovering the local markets and parks – that same sense of wonder and excitement.

Fueled up, our first stop was the iconic Chefchaouen Gate. As we approached, the gate stood majestically against the backdrop of the Rif Mountains. The Chefchaouen Gate, also known as Bab Souk, is the largest and most imposing of the city gates. I learned that in the past, it served as a division between the souks (markets) inside and outside the medina. Passing through the gate felt like stepping back in time, a portal into the heart of Chefchaouen's rich history. The kids were fascinated by the sheer size of the gate and the intricate details carved into the stone. Fatima, ever the history enthusiast, shared stories about the gate's significance, adding another layer of appreciation to our visit.


Experience the magic of Chefchaouen Gate, an iconic entryway into the stunning blue city of Chefchaouen, Morocco, rich in history and vibrant culture.

Wandering through Chefchaouen is like stepping into a dream, where the vibrant blue hues and the warm smiles of the locals create an unforgettable experience.

Next on our itinerary was the Ensemble d'artisanat complexe. This artisan complex is a hub of local craftsmanship, where artisans showcase their skills and create beautiful, handmade goods. As we entered, we were immediately immersed in a world of vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and the sounds of artisans at work. We watched weavers creating colorful textiles, potters shaping clay into beautiful forms, and woodworkers carving intricate designs. I was particularly drawn to the leather goods, reminiscent of the traditional crafts back in Libya. Fatima admired the intricate jewelry, while Omar was captivated by a craftsman demonstrating how to make a small leather camel.


Explore the Ensemble d'artisanat complexe in Chefchaouen, where local craftsmanship meets vibrant culture in a stunning marketplace of handmade treasures.

I was able to find a beautiful, hand-woven rug for our living room back in Bielefeld. It was a bit more than I intended to spend, but I know it will be a cherished reminder of our time here. Omar, of course, pleaded for a toy camel, and after a bit of haggling, I managed to get a good price. It's moments like these, interacting with local artisans and finding unique treasures, that make traveling so rewarding. I am always amazed by the talent and passion of the local artisans. It's a beautiful thing to see traditions being passed down through generations.

After our immersive experience in the artisan complex, it was time for lunch. We decided to try BILMOS, a charming restaurant in Place Outa el Hammam. The restaurant has a diverse menu, offering both traditional Moroccan dishes and international favorites. We sat on the outdoor terrace, soaking in the lively atmosphere of the square. I opted for a classic tagine, while Fatima chose a fresh salad. Omar, predictably, went for the grilled chicken. The food was delicious, and the service was excellent. The tagine was flavorful and aromatic, and Fatima raved about the freshness of her salad. Even Omar, usually a picky eater, devoured his chicken. BILMOS is known for its vegan options, such as vegan tagine, avocado toast, and vegan couscous.


Discover delightful culinary experiences at Bilmos in Chefchaouen—where Moroccan flavors meet international cuisine amidst stunning surroundings.

I found myself reflecting on how much I appreciate the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Moving to Germany was about creating a better future for them, but it also meant leaving behind a part of our culture. Traveling together allows us to reconnect with our roots and create new memories that we will cherish forever. I also appreciate that BILMOS accepts credit cards. I find it very convenient to pay with credit card, since I do not have to worry about having the right amount of cash.

With our bellies full and our spirits high, we decided to explore more of Chefchaouen's hidden gems. We stumbled upon Boutique EL-ASRI, a men's fashion store. Although I wasn't particularly looking for clothes, the shop's vibrant display and the promise of unique Moroccan designs drew me in. I ended up finding a stylish, comfortable shirt that I know I'll wear often back in Bielefeld. The shop assistant was very helpful and gave me some tips on what to wear during my stay.


Explore the vibrant world of men's fashion at Boutique EL-ASRI in Chefchaouen, where style meets Moroccan culture.

As we wandered through the streets, I couldn't help but notice Callejon El Asri, one of the most photographed streets in the world. The blue-washed walls, adorned with colorful flower pots and traditional doors, created a picture-perfect scene. It's easy to see why this street is so popular with tourists and photographers alike. We took some photos, trying to capture the magic of the moment. I have to admit, even as someone who appreciates technology and modern advancements, there's something incredibly appealing about these timeless, picturesque scenes.

For dinner, we chose Restaurant Triana, drawn in by its reputation for Italian and Mediterranean cuisine. The restaurant also offers vegan dishes. We were looking for something a little different from the traditional Moroccan fare we had been enjoying. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the staff were friendly and attentive. I ordered the seafood pasta, while Fatima opted for grilled vegetables. Omar, surprisingly, chose the mushroom casserole. The food was delicious, a perfect blend of flavors and textures. The seafood pasta was cooked to perfection, and Fatima raved about the freshness of her vegetables. Even Omar, who usually shies away from vegetables, enjoyed the mushroom casserole.


Experience the flavors of Morocco at Restaurant Triana in Chefchaouen - where culinary tradition meets modern taste.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves reflecting on all that we had experienced. Chefchaouen had captivated us with its beauty, its culture, and its warm hospitality. From the ancient gates to the bustling artisan workshops and the delightful meals, every moment had been a treasure. I am so glad that we decided to include Chefchaouen in our Moroccan adventure. It's a place that will stay with us long after we leave. I am already looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, where we plan to visit Plaza Mohammed V and Bab El Hammar. And perhaps end the day with a drink at The Magic Lamp House of Aladin.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Plaza Mohammed V and Bab El Hammar. Perhaps we'll even find time for a relaxing evening at The Magic Lamp House of Aladin. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of adventure in this enchanting blue city.

I'm grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with you, my readers. It's through sharing our stories that we connect with others and inspire them to explore the world. And who knows, maybe one day you'll find yourself wandering through the blue streets of Chefchaouen, creating your own unforgettable memories.