We had three days planned by Amal with a fant...

Morocco | May 16 - May 18, 2024

Kirwan Riad is located a short walk from where the cars park, through the medina. Our room was lovely but we could not find a switch for one light behind a door, and the cellphone given to us by the Riad rang at 1:30am. The patio was not private, as the dividing screen had fallen. The breakfast was excellent for our vegetarian, but limited to bread and fruit for our vegan. I wish there was some breakfast grain and plant-based milk available to provide protein.

Riad Lina is a charming place high on the hill. Expect to be climbing steps in Chefchouen, and at this Riad. We had a view of the city and sunset from the semi-private terrace. Our room was comfortable and we particularly enjoyed having a swim in the pool, which is room-temp. We are vegetarian/vegan, and the hotel prepared a lovely dinner and breakfast for us. I would prefer to have more vegan protein, aside from wheat. We did taste 5 kinds of local bread.! Highly recommend this Riad.

Our guide, Imad, had studied history and gave us a fuller understanding of the city’s growth in relationship to Spain. He took us on a 2 mile walk to see sites, and was always happy to answer our questions about the culture, city, and the religion. We highly recommend this tour!

Abderrazaq drove us on a side trip to Volubilis, where we met with a guide selected by the tour company. It was a fantastic walk through Volubilis, many mosaics remain, and reconstruction of some structures. Even without the reconstruction, it is possible to see how the large mansions were laid out, and to grasp a bit about life in this city 4,500 years ago. Our driver choose a charming restaurant for vegan/vegetarian lunch. Additionally, we were happy to see the fields and small towns along the drive, and understand more about the Morrocan way of life and economy.

Jamal took us on a five hour tour through the medina, and to the fort, and ceramic cooperative and suggested a wonderful restaurant for a vegetarian/vegan tastes. We enjoyed learning about Fez, the history, culture, religion, and traditions of the handicrafts. We did make large purchases of rugs and ceramics- after seeing the unique quality of the handiwork. There is extraordinary craftmanship to be seen in Fez! We enjoyed the tannery, yarn dying, watching artisans at work, and walking through the busy medina. Highly recommended!