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I was excited to continue my exploration of nighttime movement, first in Barcelona (above) and then again in Marrakech (below).

This chicken was likely bound for the dinner table when he snuck away and hid between the cars in one of Fes’ busy parking lots. Brave little chicken. Those cars come from every direction!!

The old Medina of Marrakech is a maze of cobblestone streets, low overhangs, and the occasional donkey. This one seemed at peace as it waited for its next load.

The beaches in Okinawa are a quiet gray in January. But against this muted backdrop, the subtle flavors of new food experiences were able to pop. Tuna and sweet rice spiked with hidden wasabi. Crispy pork katsu covered in a creamy Japanese curry. Decadent avocado tempura. Warm ramen in a wonderful soy broth. Crunchy-yet-moist fried frog legs. A hearty Mongolian BBQ piled high over noodles. Shrimp tempura and salmon roe snapped from a parade of plates on a winding sushi conveyer belt. Chewy pig’s ear. Addictive crispy chicken pieces in a salty teriyaki sauce. All accompanied by engaging conversation with new friends and washed down with cold, refreshing Japanese beers.

From above, the old medina of Fes displays a calm uniformity. Layers of two and three story buildings gracefully cascade down the gently sloping hilside. Everything is so carefully packed together, that no streets or people are visible from above.


But as you get in a bit closer, the buildings begin to show their ruggedness. You can see how buildings were constructed…leaning on one another as they rose…like trees fighting for dominance (and sunlight) in a forest.

And then you get thrown right in. Street level exposes the frenetic pace of Fes during the day. As they have done since the middle ages, residents stream through narrow streets. Shops and make-shift stalls cram into every crevice. Its a scene that sets the heart racing.

And yet…hidden away from sight…stand calm mosques. Literal sanctuaries from the chaos just outside. Places that visitors can only peer into…and wish to explore…if just for a moment…to catch a breath…and reflect.