Morocco

Marrakesh /مراكش‎‎

Upon entering Morocco...

one of the first creatures you'll encounter, scattered among humans, are cats. There will be cats, cats... and, yes, more cats to greet you. They are countless. But, you'll make a friend for life. Provided you do not disturb his sleep, of course.

Man in the Medina.

I didn't have to open my mouth to ask him, or say one word. This dapper gentleman, stopped me while I was snapping shots, smiled and offered his services. Stating, simply and surely, "Ok, I am ready for my close-up."

The Lovers.

My Love Story.

I mean, I clearly have "a thing" for doorways and doors.

Old Town

I was told I couldn't come into this particular quarter safely without a man. Internally, I scoffed. Then, not wanting to miss a thing, I came with Khalid.

That Desert Feeling...

From cats to camels.

Note how I am gripping the camel's rein...

with feigned ease and controlled grace. In truth, camel riding can be exhilarating; yet, over an extended period, quite uncomfortable for the delicate sort. Though, in slight discomfort, I would not dare jeopardize an impromptu photo opp, especially when considering how in love I was with the fact that I was matching the desert sky...

The Road to Essaouira 

What's that up in the tree? Wait for it...

These are the famous Tree Goats located in Tamri, just miles outside of Essaouira.

The goats are said to climb up onto the branches to feast on the rich nuts and fruits in the Argania trees. Argan oil is a rare and profitable commodity in this area. Local women pound the seeds vigorously to produce as much of the desired oil as possible. The bizarre practice of allowing the goats to climb onto the branches to eat allows the farmers to protect their crops. Not to mention, the goats' nutrient-rich poop proves useful to the farmers in the cultivation their crops. Supposedly it's a win-win. It also creates quite the tourist attraction for those awe-inspired interlopers, like myself, who just happen to be roaming this part of Morocco during the goats' lunch break.

Essaouira 

Fun fact: Portions of the HBO series, Game of Thrones, were shot in this historic coastal town known for... you guessed it! It's castles.
The gorgeous Moorish-style architecture provided the perfect location for filming some of the first scenes set in Dragon Queen Daenerys Targaryen-ruled Slaver's Bay as well as several scenes set in King's Landing.

A creepy find on the steps of a castle. I guess a baby dragon didn't make it out...

So, ending on a cute note. Essa another cat!