Farewell Montreal...

The phone blares at 6:00am. In all of my brilliance decided I wanted to spend an early morning photo shooting. Well, that didn't happen. Instead, I lounged in bed until 7am when the sun started to rise. Sunrises and sunsets are my favorite times of the day. Yes, it may have something to do with orange being my favorite color, but more than that, each holds it's own 'promise of things to come'.


My last day to run around, and take photos of beautiful Montreal. They don't have Christmas windows like NY, but some of their decorations in their malls are lovely. Oh....I will say that the 5 block underground city is amazing. All you do is enter, and you really never have to come out for hours. There are tons of stores, every block section has it's own food court, and they range from the reasonably priced to the uber expensive mall. Last breakfast, bookstore visit - I had to check out their bridal magazine collection. Today, it's 14 degrees. While I will miss lots here, the weather is not among them.

With good-by said to the staff, the ride back to the airport has me filled with mixed feelings. I'm actually pretty proud of myself. This trip was a success and I was only sick once. I learned a lot, had fun, met some really cool people, wrote a letters to my friends and will walk away with the knowledge that I can do trips alone...no with myself, once again. I guess when you get so used to traveling with a road-dog, the first time solo...is like the first time once again. Not that I wouldn't mind a girls-trip again...I know that it will come again, in time.

Ah....There are lots of beautiful skylines. I'm always excited to see the cities from 25,000 feet in the air, but there are none more beautiful than NYC. It's great to come home no matter how much fun I had. I'm looking forward to 2010 and all the new adventures that will come and maybe - no I'll absolutely visit Montreal again (just when it's much warmer).

So much to do, le si petit temps (so little time)

What a great night's sleep. I feel totally like a new person!!

Breakfast is European style and expansive. Cheeses, fresh fruit (where do you get such sweet melon in the dead of winter?) coffee, tea, fresh breads, cereals and lots of juice and coffee. Greeted by one of the managers, frankly I'm surprised that she is back so early, looking so FRESH!

Camera - check, boots - check, warm hat (thanks mom!!) - check, gloves, sunshine I'm ready for day two.

Today is going to be fun. I'm going to actually meet up with some of the girls I've been tweeting with. I absolutely love twitter for that. I sent a note last week asking for women in the bridal industry who live in Montreal to reach out and boy did they ever. We're meeting for lunch at 2pm at Le Cartet in Old Montreal. This is a great coffee house with long tables, great groovy french music, amazing food and lots of good energy!! Since I only know Nadine, I wait for her to arrive which she does with Karina, Carrie, Kim, Nadine and Lynn. These are some of the wedding professionals in Montreal, but more than that, really cool girls.

While the food was tasty, I really loved the ease of conversation and flow between french and english. We laughed a lot and then went to Nadine's house to meet her new baby Tess. Very cute little girl...I may have a little boy or two here for her to meet (since they are all between 8month and 1yr old - hey, you never know!!). We ended the night with going to an event that was equivalent to etsy - where they had some new artists showcase their work. Some if it was really beautiful. I loved meeting them and know we'll be great friends.

I hated saying good night to the ladies but it was a long, cold day and I had dinner plans. When I walk the 4 blocks (and I mean super long up a hill in the snow kind of blocks) from the event to the hotel, I am greeted by thumping music, great smelling food and a red-rope that wasn't there last night. I guess the party has begun.

By now, I've made friends with the bar and restaurant staff. I will say honestly, there are NO ugly people in Montreal. I've walked around, been in/out of shops and truly have not seen anyone who was not attractive. HOWEVER...these folks, here...took it to an completely different level. I ask Bridget (aka Peanut) where is a good place to eat and she recommends 'Grande Manager' in Old Montreal. Seems her friend is a manager there. She warns that I may need reservations, but there is a bar with seats. Since I don't mind that, actually prefer that, I grab a cab and head over to find this place.

What I walk into is a very small, very dark, very french and charming restaurant. It's packed yet there are 4 seats at the bar. The manager makes her way past the waiters and TV crew (more later), and asks me if I have a reservation. I ask "Are you Jessica?" "Yes I am" "Well Bridget, uh Peanut recommended that I come for dinner." "Well, we are expecting another group, but you can sit at the bar, perhaps have a drink for a few moments to see if they show up?" That's fine. Well, actually I'm hoping they don't show up. The food smells amazing!

Lobster, rabbit, veil, beef and tons of puff-pastry-filled goodies. To make this night really special, the chef was creating new tastings that they were passing around for guests to sample. I hear the chef Chuck Hughes, is a TV star and actually they were filming him tonight. I had the lobster risotto which was so rich and filling, I could barely finish it all...but I did :-) Jessica said that I was more than welcome to stay as the restaurant usually had a good crowd of people that arrived around 10pm and danced until the early hours of the morning. I did stay for a while as the music changed I realized that I am getting old. Too loud music a bit much for me. But it was fun for a while.

After a wonderful meal, I was lucky to get a cab almost immediately and then head back to the hotel. Too tired to get pretty tonight I just dump the boots, put on my shoes (oh, the really cool ones from Morocco), fresh make-up and back down stairs. Hey it's my last night in Montreal and I can party if I want to (or can stay up is really more like it) The music is thumping....and more beautiful young and old(er) people. Some really handsome men - I mean to tell you!! The women, I mean beyond beautiful and all wearing barely any clothes. I hope they came in warm coats!

I did what I do best...grabbed a glass of Champagne (of course), and grabbed a seat to watch the fun. Lots of students from McGill college (which isn't that far from the hotel), business men, and locals all are here for a night of fun. The music is great, I met some new friends and at 1am, I head up stairs. The party is going on strong.

As I entered my hotel room for the last time, it was warm, turned down service and the only thing that made the night more perfect, was the hot bath (in the jumbo tub) and then the light of the moon falling gently through my window. I fell asleep in a happy, content, and mentally refreshed.

Montreal a combination of old and new

The streets begin to look familiar. I walk about 3 miles before I head back to the hotel to meet with the general manager. Jacques (and Katherine) who are both very sweet, very corporate, very professional and I can tell are used to a ‘hard-nose’ kind of industry professional. That's sooo not my way to interview.

I’m shown all over the hotel, restaurant and club. I’m also told that things really start to kick off around 10pm. Once I have a few moments with Jacques he begins to relax and his true personality begins to show. He is fun and knows his stuff. We make plans to meet up for dinner around 7pm and I’m left with more brochures to review.

Meeting done, back out in the cold and lights of Montreal.

“Lisa, we have a few friends her from Toronto, would you like to join or do you just want to have dinner with me?” Jacques asks
“No, I’d love to meet your friends.” With that, I’m told to drop my stuff in the room and meet them at the bar in about 10 min. Just enough time for me to splash my face with warm water (I’m totally frozen), and get out of the clunky boots.

This is the first time in 3 yrs that I actually put on a really pretty-girly top and black jeans. Frankly, I look totally hot!

What I didn’t realize is what I was getting into. Ian, Michelle, Jacques, Donald and I had a BLAST. We ordered about five appetizers and courses which was all served family style. The portions were huge and oh so good. Lots of great conversation, 4 bottles of wine and cognacs later, kisses on both cheeks and I bid bonne nuit (good night) to my new friends. As I leave, I can feel the energy of the restaurant change – the beautiful people are coming and the party is just about to begin. Well, maybe this 'beautiful person' will catch up with them tomorrow night.

Comfortably back in my room, I take a shower and settle into the king sized goose-down bed and sigh. Truly exhausted because I’ve been up for now almost 41 hrs, it was easy to finally fall into a blissful French sleep.

Canadian Security, the White House is on the phone…

I have my luggage (a small roller-bag and my camera equipment) and not knowing how long the ride from the airport to the hotel is, well...I make a pit stop. The bathrooms are extremely clean, no wait and the most stalls for woman that I've seen at any airport in my travels. After I 'refresh', there is the LONG corridor that you have to walk down - of course the rolling sidewalk isn't turned on yet...because we are the first flight in...so all I hear is the 'clomp-clomp' of my boots and the swish of the luggage wheels. Normally I don't get scared, but honestly being alone with no one in sight is a bit creepy.

"Welcome to Customs."

Why are customs people so grumpy – I mean honestly it’s 9AM…what pissed you off already? Because I’m just so ‘happy’ I try to coax a smile out of the agent. Not happening. Finally he asked me where I lived (one of the 7 questions he asked. I was waiting for him to ask my blood type!), and when I said “Brooklyn”, you could see a light go off. Seems he has family there and he was coming for a visit in a few months. I said, maybe I’ll see you. While we both know the probability is really slim, he did smile and wish me a good stay. WHEW!! Considering the recent crash of the white house, maybe our security could learn something - just a suggestion.

Only four more security checks before I can actually exit the airport, grab a taxi and take the ride to the Opus Montreal Hotel.

As I am driven down St. Catherine, I remember the last time I was in Montreal. It was with my BFF in Nov of 2003 (I think), and we were having a blast. We discovered that our favorite brand at the time “Lush” arrived from London and opened a new shop there. All the yummy soaps and bath bombs…we were delirious. When we heard they were going to open one in NY-well we were doing the happy dance. That meant we didn’t have to ‘import’ tons of this stuff anymore, we could just get it at home. I remember another friend of ours Kristin, that day was her birthday so we called her walking down Rue Sherborne singing “Happy Birthday” loudly to her on my phone and got the “crazy American” looks from the people around us. We didn’t care; we were having fun.

This time it’s just me…off on another adventure…new discoveries.

The Opus Montreal Hotel is a relatively new boutique hotel located at 70 Sherbrook Ouest. This is NOT your typical US boutique hotel. I arrived at 10:30am and immediately shown my room. Now did they do that just for me, or because I’m 'media'? The truth is I saw them welcome another party, so maybe they are prepared for early arrivals. Imagine that…prepared for your guests so they feel welcome and don’t have to wait.

Originally, I was in the Orange room and completely blown away. Large, colorful and beautifully arranged I felt as if I walked into an apt and not a hotel room. Obviously this isn’t a normal ‘boutique’. The shower (ok for you guys who read this. Girls check out closet space and bathrooms – that’s how we judge a good hotel) was all glass encased, very chic fixtures and amenities and a 42inch flat screen tv. Yes this room had it all.

Happy to settle in my phone rings.

“Madame, I just received word from my manager that we would like to upgrade your room to a suite”.

"What type of room is this?"

"Oh, that is a regular room. I didn’t realize and we want you to be comfortable. A suite just became available so I’ll have a valet come and move you."

Ok…is about all I could muster…THIS IS A REGULAR ROOM??

Five minutes later, I’m in my new suite, which is taupe colored, a room that is larger than some NY apts and again my mouth drops open. This time I have a shower AND a SUPER-SIZED TUB.

They will never get me to leave.

Since my first meeting with the manager isn’t for a few hours, I grab my camera and go looking for my first adventure.

Montreal, here I come!!

The song “Leaving on a jet plane” is playing in my ear. Maybe it’s because I’m leaving in a few hrs on my first solo trip in years, and I’m excited. It’s more likely because I’ve been up since yesterday 3:00am and am delirious.

So what’s so important about this trip and where am I going?

Destination: Montreal Canada

Airline: Continental Airlines

Location: Opus Montreal Hotel

Time: 3 Days

Temperature predictions: 14-31 – Brrrrr!!

Waiting at Newark airport before the crack of dawn has only one benefit – I’m here before the rush, so there is no wait at the security line.

“Any liquids, perishables, explosives?” – Nah, only perishable is my string cheese, which I’m going to eat as soon as I put my shoes back on. I hate wearing my snow boots because, well you know for security purposes, you have to nearly strip before they let you go through.

Ok, I know your next question is “why have I been up for over 28 hrs?” – I wasn’t feeling well yesterday and I woke up at 3AM. Well, once I’m up, I’m up. It’s a curse!! The bottom line, I really didn’t want to take the chance of sleeping through the alarm, so I stayed up and figured that I would sleep on the plane.

Once on the plane, I settled down for what was about a 20 second nap. Between the flight attendant bumping me in the shoulder with the cart (really small plane) as soon as our beverage and pretzels were served, the captain said “we have begun our decent into Montreal.”

As I look out the window, all I see is S-N-O-W. I was prepared for it, but reality (especially when I left NY, the high for the day was going to be 50) is something different. But I’m game for a challenge and as we land I’m as excited as a child at Christmas. I’m in Montreal, a place that holds so many great memories for me and I can officially say ‘it’s a business trip’. YEA!!!

Airlines are flying on a new drug...GREED!

This week I thought I knew what I was going to write about. It went along the lines of "heat and hot flashes…" Then I started hearing things that really got me all hot and bothered. So I ask you “What the Heck are airlines thinking???

Let me start off my saying after 9/11 (doesn’t it seem that the world ‘began anew’ after this date?), I was truly pissed off. I was (and still to a reasonable persons expectation) game for precautions up the ying/yang to keep me and people I love safe when they fly. Then they made me throw out my La Mer.

For the guys that are reading this and thinking ‘La Who?”. La Mer is the ultimate, must have, better than any cookie-dough or even you putting down the toilet seat, dream of most women. In other words…it’s a really expensive face cream. I was just returning from Greensboro, NC when the ban went into effect, and effectively said ‘if you are a woman and you have any cosmetics TRASH THEM’.

Surely I don’t look like a threat in Greensboro, NC with my .5oz of $190 face cream do I? Well in the eyes of security, “yes’um you have to throw this in this here trash.” So like any other red-blooded New Yorker I tried to reason with the female security attendant. Of course she didn’t get it. So the next best thing…I scooped it out of the container…ALL OF IT…and out it on every visible and available body part. My now super moisturized face hid the tears that were rolling down my cheek at the though of it. I quickly stopped when I realized I was then washing off my $190. I have yet to replace it – I’m not rich, it was a sample that I was hoping to last 3 lifetimes. I will never forgive USAir lines and the security in NC for that. Yes this could be another reason I’ve not been back there but I digress.

Once congress (a place full of men who obviously don’t use any facial products) came to it’s senses they lifted the ban on 'all things cosmetic, baby-food, or liquid - again within reason of 3oz. I thought maybe I can deal with this. Having to gulp a visibly closed bottle of water which I paid good money for INSIDE of and PAST Security at the food court is bad…having to wait on the god awful security line while they pat down someone’s 85 year old grandmother and having to use the bathroom is another story for another slow blog day.

OK, so it’s been a few years, and I’ve gotten over the water, having to purchase food on the flight (because no one can survive on peanuts alone), at least I had the pillow to help make the seat more comfortable. Are you reading this airlines? If you are in the cattle-car section (anything lower than business class which is the majority of people) the seats are not comfortable, there is no leg room (I’m only 5’5” and uncomfortable so imagine my 5’10 friend in the middle seat. I hear you’re now charging up to $20 for a few extra inches of leg room. What are tall people supposed to do, cut off their legs – and do you then consider this a ‘carry-on’ - and before you had to beg people to sit in the exit row, now it’s ‘preferred seating’?

JetBlue, once known as ‘the people’s airline’ has lost their ever-lovin’ mind!!! You want me to PAY MORE for a pillow and blanket set? WHAT THE ….???

I don’t want to hear about soaring gas prices (you already raised my ticket price, and considering it costs more to get to NC than London these days, I may not be visiting my family anytime soon). I don’t want to hear that the economy is forcing you to do anything. And please dear God, don’t say you’re being eco-conscious because you charging me for a comfort kit, is a load of recycled cow manure. You think by giving some $5 coupon for Bed Bath & Beyond that my simple mind will say…”well that means it’s only $2 and that’s still less than the cost of the dry sandwich or bland fruit and cheese plate so I’ll take pillow-&-blanket-for-$7-Alex? YOU HAVE LOST YOUR MIND!!!

Don’t you realize that people who travel have enough to carry w/o now having to re-fold/bundle and find a place to put their new on-air purchase? Or is that the plan?? Make people buy these things, re-package them as new and re-sell them again…making a small profit? Hmmm, maybe you’re not so stupid after all. Well you’re not getting me!! No Sir…I’ll use ‘War and Peace’ as my pillow and my $3 shawl I bought from the street vendor to keep me warm.

I agree with Councilman John Lio Councilman John Liu (D-Queens), who chairs the council Transportation Committee who asks the question “What's next? Five dollars to buy a barf bag?" PLEASE don’t give them any ideas!!!

"Replacing our old, recycled pillows and blankets with this state-of-the-art, high-quality take-home kit is an eco-conscious, health-conscious and customer-conscious decision," said Brett Muney, general manager of product development for JetBlue Airways. I bet he gets his for free.

You know what JetBlue, keep your stupid pillow and blanket set, keep your stupid “work out in your seat” kit, keep your blue chips and satellite TV (when are you going to start charging for that?) I will give you just one second of credit because at least you’re not as bad as US Airlines who is now charging $1 for tea/coffee and $2 for juice, soda, and bottled water. The bottom line is you very well may have just lost a VERY loyal customer. You have forgotten why you got into the airline-game in the first place. You wanted to be different, you wanted to be 'for the people' now you've become just like the others.

This is the time for consumers to ban together and tell the airlines stop the madness. Maybe we should start to charge you every time you break one of your promises to us. Where is the FRIENDLY STAFF who is there for MY COMFORT? Your flights can’t get me to my destination on time, you cancel them because some pilot overslept, you are charging up to $50 for my baggage…WHAT MORE DO YOU WANT FROM ME Blood???

Probably, but only if it’s in a container, less than 3oz and vacuumed sealed for freshness right?

Bye for now, but l shall return.

This seems so strange to write my last posting about Marrakech. There is still so much to say, so many pictures to post…but maybe less is more. I hope that this makes you interested in taking your own adventure. Maybe you can make your dream come true.

Oh…are you wondering about the band?? Well, they ROCKED!!! The artist ‘we’ were with was fabulous and such a joy to be around. It was cool to be there show night with the Queen of Morocco (she’s a big fan), and to watch her rock in the front row. I’m sure there was tons of security, but they just mixed in the crowd around her and the royal cousins. She is very nice and truly beautiful.

As we closed down this show, we gave Nejoua, our ever present and hardworking guide an autographed photo from our celebrity. She cried. It may have been because she realized that it was over and she could finally get some sleep or because she was truly moved by this small act of kindness. It made me think about the kids here.

The US is a country where it's “what can you do for me??” In Morocco, it was more “there is nothing nor problem that we won’t take care of for you.” It’s easy to get spoiled by people who actually like what they do, and a simple “thank you” is worth its weight in gold. It’s easy to get wrapped up in a culture that makes you feel welcome.

I loved my time in this magical country, and I will return. I will remain in touch with my new friends and hope to see them again. While I probably won’t stay at the Rabat Hilton (sorry…the bed was just too hard for this princess ☺), I will come back to Morocco. It is truly a country filled with sun, beauty, history, culture, people and of course, it’s mint tea.

Se’hha Morocco! (Thank you in Arabic)

Souks to the Left of me...continued...

We continued our adventure by calling Sied's friend Abdallah. Abdallah was very handsome, and spoke PERFECT English. It seems that Sied had been trying to call him several times during our trip so Abdallah could translate for us. When he finally picked up his messages, Sied and I were just entering Aguedal Gardens.

This approx 3 mile garden contains some of the most beautiful orchards that have lemon, orange, apricot and olive trees. What makes this space extra special are the pool and pavilion named Menara Imperial. On a very clear day, you can see the snow capped peaks of the High Atlas mountains. Our day was hazy and need I repeat…hot?! I don’t think these pictures do them justice, but I did try.

After our visit, we went into town because Abdallah was hungry after a late night so we went for pizza. Let me explain, Abdallah is a movie set producer (he helped design the sets on several movies including Gladiator, Troy, and a few others I forget now), so they were finishing up a shoot that went very late last night. That’s why he didn’t retrieve his phone messages until almost 15:00 (3:00pm). While I was getting better with Sied, I was glad to have him here. Having an easier way to communicate was...great and chatted up while he ate seafood pizza. Very thin crust, and not like anything I’ve ever had before. I had a cappuccino (needed the rush) and while the boys sat and talked, I walked around and took more photos. I told you, I like a good adventure and am rarely scared to wander off and often to my own beat.

The architecture is so beautiful, and I’m drawn to the windows/doors. What am I saying? Everything is so beautiful. I am really glad I came to Marrakesh…and know that as the sun is beginning to get lower, and the breeze cooler that it will soon be time to go. Sure enough, we drop Abdallah off at his apartment and Sied and I head back to Rabat. I know the moment we get on the interstate that I will come back. Have you ever dreamed of going somewhere only when you finally get there, you are disappointed? This is not this country. There is a pull from this magical place. I’ve dreamed of Marrakesh for 4 years, and it was beyond my every dream and imagination. Believe me, I have a pretty good imagination ☺

We are about 8 miles away from the hotel when Sied gets a phone call. It’s the hotel just checking in to make sure that everything is ok. How’s that for service?? Of course it’s almost 20:30 (9:30pm) and I’ve been gone since early this morning. The concierge knew how excited I was so he was just checking to make sure there were no problems. I give the Hilton Rabat an A+ for caring about their customers.

After showing my goodies to everyone, and basking in their jealousy that I was able to go while they were in rehearsals, I grabbed a quick night snack, some tea, and off to bed for me. Today was a perfect day.

Souks to the Left of me...Souks to the Right of me...

With so many things to look at, it takes your eyes several moments to take it all in.










Then you think....Where do I begin?

There is so much beauty everywhere yet the market is just as it was described. Stalls of dried figs, dates, apricots, nuts and grapes. There were the snake charmers (did you know that because of the extreme heat, that’s why the snakes seems to dance? It’s like they are coming out of their heat-coma.), and my friend the camels.

Now…those of you know I can probably carry a tune in a bag if I try. Sied and I happened upon some friends who had the most beautiful eyes, but I kept my distance because they have been known to spit. While that is considered good luck...something about Camel spit on my clothes in the hot sun for 7 hrs....NOT appealing. I did convince one of them that I was there for the concert and when I sang to my friend, and he sang back. WAY COOL!!!

The main route into the souks is…just as close as what catches your eye. For me, it was the Souk des Babouches. This is where I found the most amazing Camel skinned shoes, as well as a pair of pink and tan shoes that are amazing. Hmmmm how do I describe them…Slip-ons, and the pointy-toe that curls up. I feel just like a real Moroccan woman. Frankly, there are stalls after stalls of these shoes (babouches). Some are better quality, some are plastic, leather, or skin from an animal. You really just have to find a stall that catches your eye and bargain like crazy.

Let me say that the first stall I went into had the most amazing babouches in pony skin. They were fabulous. So you’re thinkin’…she purchased several pair right? WRONG! Why, because he wouldn’t bargain beyond 800 Dirham. Sied tried his best to get him to go lower, but he wouldn’t, so I said “Thank you”, and we left. About 100yards away was another stall that also had animal skin shoes. They weren’t pony, instead they were camel. “OK, these will do nicely.” I thought. He also had the pink and several in silk. I checked the quality of the shoes and after some bargaining (believe me it’s a ritual and Moroccan custom, so I wasn’t taking advantage – honest!!), I was happy with giving him 800 Dirham for both pair. It was my first time bargaining and I was pretty proud of myself.

With shoes in hand, we then went to Souk des Tapis. This was once an auction area for slaves but now there are colorful carpets, blankets and rugs. There is also a tons of furniture all well made, and some were dyed right in front of me. Personally, I loved the naked wood, but realize that the colors are what make it Moroccan. Here I found 2 silk blankets – big enough for a King sized bed. One in red/orange/sunset-yellow this one for me, and another that has varying shades of earth tones for my mom/dad.

As Sied and I often jumping to the side to avoid the random person on a scooter or bike that was riding through the narrow passageways. It was amazing because you were never really sure where you would end up. This is where Sied’s Arabic came in handy. He would ask directions and soon we would be off on a new adventure.

I will say that there is a “Souk” for everything: spices, pottery, brass lanterns, jewelry, leather, metalwork, and just about anything else you can imagine. 3.5hrs, 2 traditional kaftans, 2 blankets, 3 pair of shoes, several key chains later, Sied and I were ready for lunch. Actually I was just ready to sit. Poor Sied, as you see he was carrying my bag. Yes if you ever get a man to carry your purchases, let him.

We decided to forgo the ‘touristy’ places for lunch and go deep within the souks for ‘local’ food. Now that I think of it, I don’t remember the name of the restaurant; I can’t tell you how to get there. What I can tell you is that the Lemon Chicken with couscous and olives was the best I’ve ever had. It was cooked in a Tajines and that’s the way it was served. Since Sied was so kind in lugging my purchases, I bought him lunch. The two of us ate and drank coke until we were full for a grand total of, $8.00US.

Exhausted and battling the heat, we headed to the car because there was still a lot of Marrakesh to see. I do believe the highest compliment I received, I bargaining like a true Moroccan woman.

Rock the Kasbah….

I will confess something to you…don’t tell anyone!! I’ve been dealing with some pretty heavy-duty health issues the last 2 years. It’s been emotionally, physically, and mentally draining to say the least. (Believe me that’s another blog). In any case, this is my first time venturing so far away. Being with ‘the band’ is safe…we’re all together and it’s cool. Being safe - never something I cared to do. I like to be totally saturated in the culture and vibe of every country I visit. I want to eat where the 'local's' eat. That for me is a true visit to a country. So today while the band was in rehearsals, I decided to hire a driver and head to Marrakesh and Medina for the day. Little did I know what an adventure this would be.

Before the sun rose at 06:15, I was already awake and packing my day bag of goodies. Since this was going to be a 3 hr (yes it’s 3 hrs via car from Rabat – train with it’s constant delays longer and a flight, way too expensive), I wanted to make sure I had enough money and snacks. For me snacks came in the form of an energy bar and M&Ms. I went to breakfast fueled up on fruit and of course, mint tea. I watched the sun rise over the gardens and the flowers begin to open; welcoming the warmth and the beginning of yet another beautiful day. At 07:30 I went to the front desk where a breathless young man was asking the concierge to ring room 423. I said 'I’m room 423'. He apologized for being late (it was 07:31). I told him to rest a moment, I was going to get my things from the room and we could leave.

With day bag (stylishly matching my tunic – yes Sex and The City taught me to always match…then again so did mom ☺) and a bottle of water to prevent dehydration, we got into "My Mercedes" and sped toward the highway.

I will tell you, if this is how the other life lives…please sign me up!!

Having a driver who spoke very little English, and my French wasn’t beyond the very basics, Sied (pronounced Sigh-ed) and I got along fantastically. How? Pointing, pictures from the guidebook, and hand gestures. His first stop about 1.5 hr into our drive and just on the outskirts of Casablanca was to stop at a supermarket/mall for water.

It will surprise you that their idea of a mall is equivalent to…hmmm, Sams Club, IKEA, Wal-Mart (without the walls). LARGE, but sparse. It made me realize just how much stuff we have here in the US, and how much of it we really need. It was really like walking into a supermarket and then once you went past the checkout there were other shops ie shoe stores, a place for calling cards, and McDonalds. It’s true there are McDonalds everywhere. I did check, but didn’t find a Starbucks anywhere. Remember this is TEA country.

We drove for hours, but the time flew by. I enjoyed every moment of the desert and seeing the occasional mountain formation and/or village. Sied said that there are certain tribes that continue to live very much the old fashion way – living off the land, and never venturing into the nearest town. They are pretty self-contained, and have lived this way for generations. I was truly moved to tears at the simplicity and beauty of these people. Don’t get me wrong, I love the USA, but to realize that in a country that has so much, and still complains so much, I was humbled.

We finally arrive in Marrakesh and my mouth dropped open. How do I explain this. It’s a city contained in another city. The main thoroughfare can compete with Park Avenue, Rodeo Drive, or any major shopping street in the world; above is a picture of where we drove before we got to the main marketplace 'The Souks of Marrakesh' or better known as 'Place Jemma el-Fna' (pronounced “j maf na”). This walled royal domain stretches from the Ben Youssef Mosque in the north to the Souk Smarine in the south. It is huge approx 5 square miles (my best guess). Here there are several touristy things: snake charmers, trained monkeys, Fortune Tellers Orange Juice and Dried Fruit stall, and my favorite the Water Sellers (known as gerrab - see photo left). Because of the intense heat of the square these water sellers are easy to spot. They are colorfully dressed with tassel-fringed hats, ringing a copper bell. I learned that there are 2 cups – one brass is exclusively for Muslims, while the white-metal cups are for everyone else. I passed on the drink, but did snap the photo.

I was told that at night this market comes alive with entertainers of all kinds. Because it is 3 hrs back to the hotel in Rabat, and sunset won’t be until after 7:30pm (19:30) I know that I won’t be able to take part. I am a woman on a mission, a woman that won't be stopped!

So what does one do in Jemma El Fna? SHOP 'TIL YOU DROP…and I almost did, and took Sied with me. ☺

Rock First…Morocco Second…

This is our first ‘official’ full day in Morocco, and I still feel as if I’m dreaming. I wake up before the sunrises, and can tell you that the sky is a fuchsia pink with golden highlights. From our 5th floor balcony I can see the workers watering the flowers and notice that the fountain is in the shape of the Moroccan Star. How fitting.

I get dressed and head downstairs. As one of the first for breakfast, I see a few of my group of merry-men already eating and I join them. My thoughts were to have a traditional Moroccan breakfast, so I begin with fruit and of course fresh orange juice. The doors are open so a bird or 2 are flying around. Singing happy little song, searching for breadcrumbs. I will tell you, if you are on the Atkins diet, and swear off carbohydrates…this is NOT the country for you. Bread, beautiful loaves, sweet fragrant and honey tasting loaves are everywhere. It is a ‘sin’ almost not to accept them. Seeing that bread and Mint tea are a source of ‘family’ and welcoming, I happily accept them over and over again. Hey no diet’s here, at least not this week.

The entire group gathers and laughter quickly fills the dining area. Stories of their latest gigs’ (shows), and plans for shopping after rehearsal are the focal points of conversation. I’m thrilled that the guys are just as interested in shopping as the girls. What warms my heart more, is the guys are thinking of their wives/girlfriends/significant others and their children. “What would they like?” “How many (bags, shoes, outfits) should I bring back?” This is a good group, I love being with them.

I wish my BFF could share this with me.

After breakfast we get on two buses and motor to the venue for the first day of rehearsal. I volunteer to pick up one of the members of the group that was staying at another hotel. Frankly, I was being nosy. I wanted to see more of Morocco and since his hotel was in Casablanca, it was a perfect opportunity to see more of the country.

Again, I borrowed the bands driver Omar who was more than happy to point out areas of interest, and allow me to jump out of the car to take photos when ever something beautiful appeared. The problem is that there was beauty everywhere. I wonder if the people of Morocco see it – appreciate it – drink it in as I am? It’s like people come to NY and say, “There’s so much to see and do. How do you do it all?” I often shrug and simply say “I live here, so I see it all the time.” This trip has made me appreciate the city that I live in, and makes me want to do something cheesy and take a tour around Manhattan like a tourist. To see my city, the city I love through fresh eyes.


Not to drag out so much, Casablanca is beautiful yet different from Rabat. The agriculture is white, and reminds me of Greece. The highlight was seeing the (or at least 1 of) Royal residence of His Majesty Mohammed VI, King of Morocco, and Her Royal Highness Princess Lalla Meryem. IT IS MASSIVE, and no pictures were allowed. I think even if they were, I was so busy being floored by the majesty of it all; I would have missed the shot. It was equivalent to 2.5 miles in length and surrounded by fences, guards, flowers and trees. I can only imagine how deep the residence is. As we drove by my mouth was open almost the entire length of the property, and all I could say was “OH MY GOD, This is AMAZING!” Omar laughed.

After several run-through of songs the day was over, and fun began. Because the festival was on going for 9 days, some of the guys went to see some of the performances. The rest of the group went shopping, eating, and then in for the night.

Tomorrow after all, is another day.

The Rhythm is gonna get you!!!

There is so much to say about this trip, I'm going to try to keep it in some sort of order. I'll also ask you to forgive me if I don't.

We (the group of us) boarded the plane on Tuesday headed to Rabat Morocco which is the northern most tip of Morocco. Why there? They were (and I just tagged along) invited to participate at the International Music Festival of Rabat “MAWAZINE, World Rhythms”. This was a free (do you hear that America - FREE) concert that had some amazing performers. Over the 9 nights, Modern Arab musicians took part in the show, including Lebanese nationals Nancy Ajram and Diana Haddad, Egyptian Amr Diabe, and Tunisian Saber Rubai among others. [Please click the link above for "Mawazine, World Rhythms" to see the official program and all who attended]

This seventh edition of the festival that has the ambition of being a harmonious mixture of tradition and modernity has laid down a substantial and “heterogeneous” program where jazz and gypsy colors will be combined with a strong presence of salsa, Brazilian pop music, afro-beat, reggae, hip-hop and gnawa. There were also some amazing world artists over the 9 days: George Benson, Ziggy Marley, Gocco, Christina Bronco, Al deMeola, Dee Dee Bridgewater, and the show stopping Ms. Whitney Houston. More about that later.

So given 'life', it took me a bit to decide if I was going to make this trip. So much so, that the flight was Tues and I got my ticket 2 days before. Once I purchased it, I realized that there were some fears that I would quickly have to get over. You know the normal...'Can I afford this?' Will I be ok traveling to a country where my French is horrible and my Arabic non-existent beyond hello?" "What will I do while my friends are working and I'm left to fend for myself?" Well, in all honesty the last one didn't matter, because I'm a world traveler, and like Indiana Jones, I can both get myself in and out of trouble with ease. Besides, this is one of my dream trips. This is the county I have hanging on my wall as "Places I dream to visit one day". Well now that day is here!! I've done my on-line research. I've mapped my route. I know and respect the Islamic customs, and plan to be respectful in my dress. This is one of the places where all my tunics will come in handy. I have enough money because this seems to be the only place in the entire world where the dollar is 1:7. I'll be fine.

You know how I know I'll be fine...My parents (who I love dearly) didn't say "be careful". Instead they said "Have Fun". That's exactly what I did.

After an early AM job interview (yes I had an interview at 10am and had to be at the airport by 3pm) I rushed home, put on my traveling clothes and headed to the airport. There was a mix of excitement and nervousness as well. OH...let me take a step back. This is the first 'real' trip I've taken w/o my best sister-friend April. We usually go places together and have more fun than the law allows, and create more memories than most people have in 2 lifetimes. This time, she couldn't go. She had just spend 5 months sailing around the Caribbean, and had some personal work that the needed to attend to. Will I miss her - of course. She is my road-dog (my partner to have fun and as girls, we giggle a LOT when we're together, and also have those sacred moments where we share some of our deepest thoughts/feelings), but I'll bring her something nice. Maybe we can't go together now, but we will. :-) I'm sure April and I will have several different types of adventures in the very near future.

Because this trip is being sponsored by Royal Air Moroc, we have 'the good seats'. Business Class all the way!! Their Business class room at JFK was nice, the people were friendly and they were expecting us so that made things even easier. As the members of the group filtered we 'set up camp' on the upper level, and the round of Hello's and jokes began. I've traveled with this group before, and let me tell you. They are some of the nicest, sweetest, smartest, warm, caring and talented group of people on the planet. I love being with them, and love them more for allowing me to be a part of 'the group'. Some had just flown in from LA or Chicago, others were more local, but everyone was doing the last min email check, and some of the girls were doing the last minute mani/pedicures. Hey, we are girls after all.

Once we did the last guitar and computer check (making sure not equipment is left behind) we all headed to the gate. As we began to board the flight, it was becoming really-real for me. I'm going to Morocco, I'm going to see Casablanca and Marrakesh. I'm going to the Kasbah. They are all within my reach. This is CRAZY!!! Everything thing that had weighted me down, work, medical issues, and even my upcoming surgery 2 days after we return...vanished. Nothing mattered more than living this dream and being with these people.

We begin food service (which I should have taken a picture of - sorry), which was beautifully presented. I had the lamb and coucussus, wine (yes there is wine and beer in Morocco-mostly for the tourists I think. It's really not bad!!) dessert, and then began to settle myself for the 6 hrs flight. It's shorter in time than going to London, but still it's been a crazy exciting day, and tomorrow, I'll be on the mother continent. I want to remember every color, every texture, every shape and smell. I've always wanted to go to Morocco, and now it's almost here. The moon is so close I can touch it. It is welcoming us. It is singing to me. It is purely magical, and I'm ready to be on this carpet ride.

Good Night!!