Exploring the Blue Streets of Chefchaouen with Liam

Gates, Gifts, and Gastronomy: Tuesday in the Blue City

Today was a day of wandering through Chefchaouen, soaking in its unique atmosphere and discovering hidden gems. Liam and I embraced the spontaneity of travel, letting the winding streets guide us. We started with a hearty breakfast, explored historical gates, indulged in some local shopping, and savored the flavors of Moroccan cuisine. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, immersing myself in new cultures and creating lasting memories.

The September sun cast a warm glow over the blue-washed streets as Liam and I set out for the day. The weather was mild and pleasant, with the temperature hovering around 28°C. I was glad I packed a light jacket, remembering my tendency to underestimate the evenings' chill. We started our day with breakfast at MIDO'S. It was a delightful little spot, the kind where the locals gather, and the air buzzed with friendly chatter. I ordered a traditional Moroccan breakfast of bread, olives, and mint tea, while Liam opted for something heartier – a chicken pasta dish, if you can believe it! The food was simple but delicious, and the atmosphere was perfect for starting our day.


Experience fast food like never before at Mido's in Chefchaouen – where Moroccan flavors meet quick service for an unforgettable meal.

As a marketing assistant at a sustainable packaging company, I always appreciate the simple things in life, and this breakfast was a perfect example. It reminded me of our little eco-friendly kitchen back in Dublin, where we try to minimize waste and enjoy every meal to the fullest. I am glad Liam enjoys these experiences with me, even if he sometimes misses the convenience of our Dublin life.

With our appetites satisfied, we decided to explore some of Chefchaouen's historical landmarks. Our first stop was Bab Chaouen. This gate, like many others in the city, is a testament to Chefchaouen's rich history. I was fascinated by the intricate details of the architecture, a blend of Moroccan and Andalusian styles. We took some photos, trying to capture the essence of this ancient gateway. I imagined all the people who had passed through this gate over the centuries, each with their own stories and dreams.


Experience the enchanting blue city of Chefchaouen at Bab Chaouen, where vibrant culture meets breathtaking views in the heart of Morocco.

Travel is about the gorgeous feeling of teetering in the unknown.

Next, we made our way to Bab el Mahrouk. As we approached, I noticed that this gate seemed to be a bit more bustling than the previous one. It appeared to be a convenient parking spot for tourists eager to explore the blue city. The gate itself was impressive, and I learned that it historically served as the main western entrance to Fes el Bali. It's amazing how these gates, once vital for defense and trade, now serve as landmarks and meeting points.


Explore Chefchaouen effortlessly with Bab el Mahrouk, your convenient parking spot in the heart of Morocco's blue city.

After our brief historical tour, it was time for some shopping. We wandered into CHAOUEN GIFTS, a store recommended by a local we met earlier in the day. The shop was filled with an array of colorful ceramics, intricate metalwork, and vibrant textiles. I was immediately drawn to a beautiful hand-painted bowl, perfect for holding fruit in our Dublin kitchen. Liam, on the other hand, was eyeing a leather satchel, ideal for carrying his laptop and other gadgets.


Explore the heart of Moroccan craftsmanship at Chaouen Gifts, where every item is a unique reflection of Chefchaouen's rich culture and artistry.

We spent a good hour browsing through the shop, chatting with the friendly owner, and learning about the local craftsmanship. I ended up buying the bowl, and Liam decided to hold off on the satchel for now, knowing we still had several days of shopping ahead of us. Supporting local artisans is important to me, aligning with my passion for ethical and sustainable practices. I always try to find unique souvenirs that reflect the culture and traditions of the places we visit.

By this time, our stomachs were starting to rumble again, so we decided to find a place for lunch. Based on a recommendation, we chose Tissemlal. The restaurant was beautifully decorated with traditional Moroccan lanterns and antiques. We sat on a cozy terrace, enjoying the view of the bustling streets below. I ordered a tagine with chicken and preserved lemons, while Liam opted for the couscous with vegetables. Both dishes were bursting with flavor, and we savored every bite.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Tissemlal in Chefchaouen - a culinary gem nestled amidst stunning landscapes.

The tagine was especially delicious, the chicken tender and infused with the tangy flavor of the lemons. It reminded me of a cooking class I took in Marrakech a few years ago, where I learned the art of preparing traditional Moroccan dishes. I love how food can transport you to another place and time, evoking memories and emotions.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Chez Hicham. The restaurant had a lovely terrace with panoramic views, perfect for a relaxing evening meal. I decided to try the Moroccan salad, while Liam went for grilled meat. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. We lingered over our meal, enjoying the cool evening breeze and reflecting on the day's adventures.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine and hospitality at Chez Hicham in Chefchaouen - your gateway to cultural immersion.

Chez Hicham seemed like a popular spot, and I noticed several families and couples enjoying their meals. It reminded me of our favorite local pub back in Dublin, where we often gather with friends for a pint and a chat. I miss our friends and the familiar comforts of home, but I also cherish these moments of discovery and connection in new places.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Plaza Mohammed V and Casa Familia [no citations]. I'm excited to see more of Chefchaouen's cultural landmarks and learn about its history. I'm also looking forward to trying some new restaurants and perhaps finding a few more unique souvenirs. For dinner, we are thinking of Restaurant Terrasse Djebli [no citations], but we shall see what the day brings!

As I sit here writing this blog post, I feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences of the day. Chefchaouen has a way of captivating your senses and inspiring your soul. It's a place where you can lose yourself in the beauty of the blue streets, the flavors of the local cuisine, and the warmth of the Moroccan people. I am so glad Liam and I decided to come here, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Good night from the Blue Pearl!

I am particularly happy that Liam is enjoying this trip as much as I am. It's not always easy to balance our different interests and preferences, but we always find a way to make it work. After all, travel is about compromise and understanding, and it's about creating memories together that will last a lifetime.

“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” I think this quote sums up my feelings about travel perfectly. Every journey is an opportunity to learn, grow, and connect with the world around us. And I am grateful for every page I get to read.

The September weather in Chefchaouen has been so good to us, but I have been sure to bring my sunscreen, as I know how easily my fair complexion can burn. I am glad I did not forget my sunglasses either, and I am making good use of my comfortable walking shoes and reusable water bottle. However, I continue to regret forgetting my power adapter and light jacket for cooler evenings, but I can always buy these here if I need to.

As much as I am enjoying this trip, I am also aware of the challenges facing the world today. From climate change to social inequality, there are so many issues that need our attention. That's why I am committed to traveling in a responsible and sustainable way, supporting local communities, and minimizing my impact on the environment. I believe that travel can be a force for good, and I hope that my blog inspires others to travel with intention and purpose.