Great experience

Morocco | Sep 4 - Sep 11, 2022

We would have liked to have been asked about visiting all the souks before we went. Instead, we were told that we were going to this one and that one to meet someone the guide knew but were of course "under no obligation to buy anything but this work supports our people." Some of the locations were for products we had no interest in. And the shopkeeper's disappointment was very evident in any place where we did not purchase anything. The tannery, in particular, was disappointing, as the man giving us the tour spoke no English and could not explain the tanning process, for which we had many questions. After a quick climb to the roof for a picture, he took us immediately to a showroom and wanted us to try on some jackets.

We wish Hassan had asked us at the start what souks we were interested in visiting and given us the option of choosing where to go. Also, we were shown to a very touristy restaurant for lunch, with a fixed menu, and not asked about what type of meal we would like.

Our camel guide insisted on us climbing a dune to see the sunset despite the approaching storm. We quit before we reached the summit due to blowing, stinging sand and limited visability. I think he was intent on completing the task he was assigned to do, but we would have been happier skipping this part and proceeding on to the camp ahead of the storm. Sallam went out of his way to take us to find a bottle of wine that we could enjoy with our dinner.