Late night in Marrakech

Tonight, I had a series of strokes of good luck. It began with a chance introduction. The owner of the Riad, who I hadn't officially met, was entertaining her family over some food and drink. Her brother has not returned to Marrakech where he was born in almost 50 years. And now, he has arrived with his son, Nikos.

They invited me to join them in the courtyard for a cup of tea. I was hardly finished when they decided to go out for a drink. Haven't not ventured from the riad, I accepted their invitation, and off we went. The owner drove us far from the Medina. It was like something out of south beach, a chic restaurant out on the highway that was also very much like a club. One mojito turned into 5 or 7, I am not really sure. I listened to the french, and some was translated.

We discussed things like Obama and starting a recording business in Marakech. We sat at many tables, and had many drinks. It was my first real moroccan experience, away from the tourists and the souks.

Finally, around three we retired to the Riad where we opened another bottle of wine. I think at this point I was adopted into the family, invited to the major holidays, some birthdays, and inducted. We sat with our feet in the pool and swallowed in the wine, conversation and the wonderful ambiance.

At four, we broke rank. I turned to bed to write about my evening, while I listen to the continued chatter outside in french. I want nothing more at the moment than to command the french language. Perhaps, I can devote this year to learning languages. We shall see what opportunities present themselves.

I asked for a 9AM breakfast (I have no commitment until 5PM, when we are leaving for Rabat), though I can't imagine getting up in a a mere few hours. Perhaps if I will myself to awake, at the promise of good company to explore with, I will be able to rise from my pillow. If not, there is packing and other assorted things to take care of before I leave.

Marrakech has become better and better with the events of this evening. I was finally able to see a whole new side that had been previously hidden from my eyes and ears.