Marrakech to Taddert

I left Marrakech and headed for the hamlet, Taddert. The ride out of the city was pleasant and cool in the morning. I left just after 6h30 to give the heavy traffic a big miss. This was a wise decision because, as the day progressed, it became very hot and after about two hours into my journey the gentle incline started. Great I thought ,not so bad after all. This continued for about an hour before the next level made its vicious appearance. Imagine what that felt like! I kept hearing Sandy's voice ringing in my ears, " I don't think he is fit enough". I ploughed on with my journey fighting all the way. I must admit the views are very stark but beautiful. I arrived in Taddert just after two in the afternoon and stopped at a little inn where the guys were braaing outside. The owner, Chez Ahmed, attended to me and explained in broken English which was fine. I decided to go for the cutlet, small salad, bread and mint tea which was very refreshing. The other guests were mainly French. I ate with my fingers with gusto just to be uncivilised with my audience looking on in silence. I enjoyed that. My feelings towards the French have not changed. After a good meal I asked Ahmed if he new of a place where I could sleep for the night. He suggested the youth centre which doubles as a hostel. The money that is collected goes towards the upkeep. After my doss, I took a walk around. The hamlet is linear strung along the N9, the gateway to the Atlas mountains. I met Ahmed again in the street and he kindly invited me for supper. I felt really honoured. The meal consisted of two kinds of soup, a lamb tangine which was really kwaai, mint tea and bread. There were four others sitting around the table. We chatted for a short while afterwards. When Ahmed took leave to pray, I returned to my room to sleep. What a good sleep it was!