Author Archives: Björn

Cologne

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A visit of Cologne had been on my list for quiet some time now, however I never actually made it there – despite of Cologne being home to one of the most impressive buildings in all Germany (if not the most impressive one) – the Cologne Cathedral.

A special offer by the German rail company now made me consider and I ended up buying a ticket and headed for a trip to Cologne. During my visit I – obviously – spent some time in and on top of the Cathedral; beside that I also did a city tour and spent some time getting lost (i.e. exploring) on myself. Below some photographic evidence.

Dinner at Djemma El-Fna

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On this last evening we decided to have dinner at one of the many stalls at Djemma El-Fna square. We had the usual mix of salads, bread and grilled meat skewers.

After dinner some of us went for another mint tea (or coffee) to one of the balcony cafes – with a nice view over the square.

Essaouira – final Impressions

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We were heading back to Marrakesh today – however with the bus only leaving in the afternoon, we still had a full morning in Essaouira.

I took it easy, walked down to the port (this time with a view from one of the towers) and then made it into the medina to explore some of the smaller side alleys. Most of the others used this morning for some final shopping.

We met again around lunch time for yet another fish souq based seafood and fish feast – before heading to the bus station and embarking for the three hours bus drive to Marrakesh.

Essaouira – continued …

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After the tour finished, some of us made it back to the fish souq. Here we bought fresh fish (or squid in my case) and had it grilled to perfection at the grill stands at the Southern end of the market – simple and delicious.

In the afternoon I continued exploring town on myself – this time also leaving the medina and making it to the beach. Around sunset I met again with the others for another good dinner.

Heading for Essaouira

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We had another long driving day ahead of us to finally get to the coast.

After a 45 minute drive we already had our first stop in Taroudant. Here we had the opportunity to visit the tanneries and to get an introduction into the process from raw animal skins to intricate leather products (e.g. bags, purses, shoes, hats).

After an option for some extensive shopping, we made it back to the center of town for some more free time – spent around the main plaza and in the nearby souk.

From here we continued towards Agadir and the coast. On the way we spotted a number of goats in the argan trees. At one point we stopped to take some pictures. The fact that we had to tip the herdsman somehow gave it the feeling of a tourist trap (I wouldn’t even be surprised, if they had put the goats into the trees – though later on in the trip, we have seen more goats in trees … without there herders nearby – so it might have been the real thing).

We proceeded to Agadir, where we bought lunch (it was pizza time for me) and continued to a beach further North to actually eat – and take a foot bath in the Atlantic (at an estimated 12 degrees Celsius, there was no way for more than a barefoot stroll).

After lunch we had a further two hours to go – until we made it to this day’s destination – Essaouira.

Back into Civilization

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The night anyhow turned out quiet cold; tea at breakfast was highly appreciated – before we made it back into the 4WD cars – for another three hours drive back into civilization.