Day 7... Tangier, Morrocco, North Africa

First an update on last nights fiesta... it got going after midnight and really got loud when the drummers and local singing groups took the stage for a contest in front of cheering, screaming people. We heard it all as it was on the street just below us. Once the music ended around 4a.m. then the street cleaners came with their hoses, blowers and metal trash bins to collect bottles in. This racket kept up until sunrise. We now know why our hotel was only $35/night.

Now for Africa: it is a 35 minute ferry ride across the straights of Gilbralter to arrive in Tangier. Tangeir is a typical city in a developing country with all the ailments and character that make the visit worth while. We spent the a.m. dodging beggers and generally being harrassed in the "old town." It was another world- narrow alleys, tiny store fronts, children running around. We had lunch, went to a few stores, etc. Then we took the bus up into the hills that overlook the sea- we passed mansions owned by various middle eastern royalty and new homes being built for the growing upper class. There was new construction everywhere and at the same time sheep grazed on undeveloped land in the city. Very intersting experience overall and we made it out with only a few spices, a lamp, a carved camel and our purses.

Tues a.m. we travel to Granada to stay in our fancy hotel and take a vacation from our vacation. Adios!