Medina of Fez, Fez

I just came back to the hotel from the Medina and it was a real experience. I would not be able to recommend this visit to anyone I know. The stench is overwhelming. Sick kittens and starving cats everywhere, undiapered mules and donkeys making things even worse.

I used to live in Fez and can say without a doubt that it is far and away a better "Moroccan" experience than the uber-touristy city of Marrakesh. The best attraction in Fez is, of course, the medina. The best view is from the Hotel les Merinides balcony. If you're looking for good restaurants, as you enter Bab Boujloud, you'll find the Kasbah restaurant. It's somewhat touristy, but you'll get a good meal. I suggest being adventerous and hanging a left before you get to the Kasbah and trying one of the restaurants to your immediate left. When Moroccans eat out (to the extent they do eat out) they don't do expensive. If you need a good guide, stick with the guides from the better hotels (Merinides, Zalagh, etc.). Also, you can check out a cafe in the Ville Nouvelle named Etuoille De Fes right across the street from Hotel Menzah Zalagh. Abdul, the owner can offer honest advice. Also, the Arabic Language institute (ALIF) is right around the corner and you can ask the American students who have been there awhile what they think about the place. Also, remember that you are on MT (Moroccan Time) and not on USA time. Not a whole lot gets accomplished and it's not supposed to be. You're supposed to sit back and enjoy the ride-- in sha allah.

A must see, between the old city, the olive oil & carpet makers...very artistic. Architecture, arts, and tea-pots....you will have fun. Visit the Hotel o the hill or El mouaheding. Great view of the old Medina