Enamoured

Having already been stuck in Morocco a further two weeks than we had planned, we’ve been trying to make the most of being in Tangier. Despite the stress and uncertainty around our departure, it’s hard to fall out of love with this beautiful city. And so, we’ve been exploring some much-loved favourites and new hidden gems!

With sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and the coast of Spain, Perdicaris Park is the perfect spot for a picnic with friends and a walk in the forest. The lush vegetation and surrounding cliffs that run down to the sea make it the perfect place to get some fresh air and recharge. And last week, a day in nature and out of the city was just what we needed.

One place that we’re very glad to have had the extra time to visit is Fondouk Cheira, the weavers’ market. Just outside of the medina and accessed through a literal hole-in-the-wall, this small souk has been churning out designer fabrics for over 100 years. It is a treasure trove of traditional handicraft; each small shop stacked to the rafters with colour and pattern. Above the beams, workers clunk away on the creaky wooden looms, filling orders for international boutiques. We picked up a pile of gorgeous towels and tablecloths, scarves and throws, for an absolute steal!

A few days ago we also took the opportunity to explore some more of the ancient medina, including a long lunch at the wonderful Café à l'Anglaise, where they plied us with delicious food, great conversation and books for the children to keep. We then wandered the maze-like streets of the old city and out along the coastal cliffs to the Phoenician tombs which overlook the Strait of Gibraltar. The necropolis has, without a doubt, the best ocean views in the city.

Throw in some wonderful lunches and dinners with friends amongst all of this, and I’d say that we’re definitely making lemonade out of lemons.