Overnight train and first day in Marrakesh

Last night we took an overnight train from Tangier to Marrakesh after spending the day roaming around Tangier. The train left at 9:55pm and arrived in Marrakesh at 8:30am. The views of the night sky were incredible, as was the sunrise through the fog in the morning. I fell in love with Tangier, but I am more in love with Marrakesh. Marrakesh is a true assault on the senses. There is a new smell emanating from the air every 10 feet in the medina. Cats lurk around every corner, and bikes and mopeds scream around curves. Merchants beckon to tourists to buy their wares, but I found them to be very respectful when we replied "no." In fact, after much warning to the contrary, I thought the merchants in Marrakesh were much less pushy than those in Tangier.

After departing the train, we immediately traveled to our riad not far from the medina (Riad le Marocain.) We dropped off our bags and walked as a group to the main square, Djemaa al Fna. On the way we grabbed a breakfast of Moroccan pancakes with honey, cheese, coffee, and eggs.

Once we got a feel for the area, we returned to our riad to shower and relax. Four of us broke off from the rest of the group to attend a private cooking class at Riad Monceau near the medina. It was an amazing experience. It was a pastry class and we began by hanging out in the center common area sipping coffee in the fresh air while our chef set the kitchen up for us. We made three desserts from scratch and then retreated to a lounge to learn how to make Moroccan tea. We drank tea and ate our desserts, then went back to the main square to eat chicken, veggies, and lamb on skewers. The square is the place to be during the day, but it really comes to life at night. The air is thick with drums, smoke from the food merchants, and shouts welcoming travelers to sit for an evening meal. Tomorrow we will have the entire day to ourselves to explore Marrakesh.

We will likely visit the new part of town where high-rise hotels, a mall, and upscale restaurants reside. The new part of town is where the expats mostly live and play. I have a sneaking suspicion it will lack the charm I love so far.