hard work

Chefchaouen, Morocco

The next time I even think about complaining, I'll think twice and remember this picture.

hiding behind her hat

Chefchaouen, Morocco

Many of the people living in the rural areas of the Rif mountains avoid cameras at all costs, just as this woman does when she sees a foreigner with a camera.

friendship

Chefchaouen, Morocco

Two children enjoy a simple moment together above the clouds overlooking the Rif mountains.

twisted beauty

Chefchaouen, Morocco

If I could, I would decorate my home with so much of this!

handicrafts full of color

Chefchaouen, Morocco

Morocco is a great place for colorful handicrafts, from hand-painted earthenware, hand-woven rugs and linens to wrought iron items to just name a few.

playtime

Chefchaouen, Morocco

Casa Perleta

Chefchaouen, Morocco

Casa Perleta is one of many beautiful places to stay while you're in Chefchaouen.  This roof-top terrace is a wonderful place to contemplate the views of the mountains and the rest of the town as well as enjoy a nice typical Moroccan breakfast or an afternoon mint tea.

clusters of homes

Chefchaouen, Morocco

Chefchaouen is a cluster of homes built on a hill in the heart of the Rif Mountains.  As you can see, satellite TV is just as important here as anywhere.

pick-up games

Chefchaouen, Morocco

Kids around the world enjoy a pick-up game of soccer no matter where they are.

tajines

Chefchaouen, Morocco

These curiously shaped objects are called "tajines" and they are used to cook a dish of the same name typically made in Morocco.  It consists of a slowly-cooked meat, chicken or fish combined with vegetables and/or fruit.  The narrow cone-shaped lid is key for trapping the steam inside making for a delicious meal.  Be sure to try it when you're in Morocco!  You'll be glad you did!

home sweet home

Chefchaouen, Morocco

It's always special to have someone eagerly waiting to see you...

all in a day's work

Chefchaouen, Morocco

Another of the many sights seen in Chefchaouen...  all in a day's work.

solitude

Chefchaouen, Morocco

colorful details

Chefchaouen, Morocco

No matter where you turn, Chefchaouen is filled with all kinds of colorful details.

more fountains

Chefchaouen, Morocco

Here's another of the many ornate fountains to be found in Chefchaouen.  The colorful hat worn by the woman is seen over and over here.

water

Chefchaouen, Morocco

Many of the homes in Chefchaouen lack running water, so this is a common sight.  Public water fountains can be found throughout the town.

number 30

Chefchaouen, Morocco

I can't resist taking pictures of cool doors... and if it's blue... even more!

I wonder what lies behind this door?  What I wouldn't give to find out!

open doors

Chefchaouen, Morocco

Always be open to new experiences.  You'll almost always be glad you did.

the heart of the Medina

Chefchaouen, Morocco

The main square, Uta el-Hammam, full of restaurants and outdoor cafes, is the heart of the medina.  It is an ideal place to come to pass the time, relax, enjoy a mint tea and observe everything happening around you.

coat after coat

Chefchaouen, Morocco

It is common to see people with a big brush painting the exterior walls of their homes year after year to maintain the numerous shades of blue that can be found throughout Chefchaouen.  There are so many different shades because the people add a blue pigment to a whitewash liquid.  Depending upon how much they use, they create a ligher or darker effect.  Some say that this blue color started with the large number of Jewish people who settled here fleeing from Spain during the Spanish Inquisition and others say that it merely keeps the mosquitos away!  Who knows?!  Whatever the reason, it is absolutely a treat for the senses to experience it in person!