Off to the fourth imperial city

A little later start this morning -- nice to be able to have a slower start to the day. The late nights certainly take there toll on us.
However the casbah was an experience not to be missed - delicious food - lamb, couscous, vegetables followed by a delightful pastry dish and fruit. And of course mint tea The entertainment was certainly very different to Fes. Horses,camels,donkey,and lots of people entertaining us on our way into the venue , during our meal and after. The music and wailing was full on. Fireworks were also part of this magnificent show. We commented that it was a bit like the Moroccan Disneyland. :-). We had fun though. We ate in tents with mats and salubrious lounges - mixing with everyone is fun.
Once we got underway for today though we headed off to Rabat via the famous Casablanca. Long journey on the bus arrived at the most magnificent mosque. Built over the sea it was really beautiful. Predominantly green in the tiling ( green is sacred colour) it just was breathtaking. The minute (sp? sorry) was tall and very ornate. Hassan our guide told us that he had mixed feelings about this mosque. He recognized it as a beautiful monument and centerpiece of Casablanca - but he was thinking that mosques should really be modest in nature. This one certainly is not modest - it is beautiful and it knows it!

Back onto the bus after some snaps and then to down town Casablanca where we were but stunned really. Construction everywhere just walk through and around buses on the main road - over massive pot holes ( now this is the city centre remember!). We arrived at the government sanctioned store ( no bartering ). As usual the tripsters had a little spend - but readers beware we have not bought too much - the suitcases and our 20kg limit is hampering us big time!
It is really warm and by mid afternoon we are all pretty steamy and sweat is a happening thing!
We arrived at Rabat. Pauline and pCarolyn wandered out for 15 minutes ( enough for cd) For once our tour were all staying at the same hotel. This meant we could have dinner together. It didn't take long for the tiredness to set in so off to our room we went. A couple of g&t's and we were all ready to sleep. Tomorrow is really our last day of as Hassan says 'this kingdom of Morocco' .
Unfortunately for Annie and Carolyn the food is taking its toll - but luckily on this trip there are pharmacists, a doctor and a nurse. We have scored some drugs and hope the symptoms abate soon. Pauline - we have decided IS part mountain goat - she can walk anywhere and eat anything! We are impressed.