Today marks eighteen days since the journey began and it has exceeded my fairly lofty expectations in so many ways. The Moroccan people, most importantly, are absolutely wonderful. Super friendly, kind, open and chill. The environment is also beyond totally safe. I’ve not felt for a moment that I needed to watch my back anywhere I’ve been. In fact, I’ve been totally comfortable going in and out of my trunk after parking, knowing that others could see that there are bags and valuables inside, to get gear without even thinking whether someone was watching / ready to pounce once I left. Try that in New York, Los Angeles or other large cities….

The view from our AirBnB in Tangier. Weather throughout the trip has been spectacular. The spring rains greened everywhere up and blue skies have prevailed. I think I’ve had ten minutes of rain the entire trip.

The drive east from Tangier, along the Meditteranean coast, is sublimely beautiful, Mountains on one side, the sea on the other and Spain and Gibraltar beckoning across the Med. Just a delight.

We stopped in the middle of nowhere for a picnic and amazing views. Small towns with huge uninterrupted stretches of beach predominate here. It’s really interesting, because the guide books I read don’t talk up this part of Morocco. I was really curious, as I love mountains and water, and I’m so happy that I’ve come to explore it. It definitely blows away the Atlantic coast, not to deride that stretch at all.

We holed up at the St. Regis in Tamuda Bay for R & R and a deep chill. Amazing brand new resort with the perfect location.

Sea shells were everywhere on the beach here. I’ve not seen this abundance and number of gorgeous shells anywhere other than on stretches along the gulf coast of Florida.

A visual of the drive from Tangier. It was approximately two hours at a mellow pace. I highly recommend it if you’re in this neck of the woods.

Back in Chefchaouen, one of my absolute favorite places in Morocco. It’s so beautiful and unique. Good to be back.

Guembris at rest in a cafe. The sound they make is really cool. Hey Adam – grab one for your upcoming jams….

Well, we’re off to shop and and then drive to Mecknes, which Scott and I passed over in favor of Fes last week. Mecknes is a UNESCO site and the former capital of Morocco. Ancient casbahs (forts) and encampments abound. Will be fun. Cio for now. More to come after Mecknes and Marrakech.