The Colors of Fez, Morocco

Believe it or not, I wasn't just chasing cats in Fez, Morocco. Fez is a cacophony of color that hits you in surprising places.

The buildings of Fez are very plain on the outside. I was told that this is partly because people's private lives are considered just that - private. And so the outside is plain and every home looks the same. But inside the mosaic tiling and intricate paint jobs bring gorgeous bursts of color. Riad Saada, where we stayed, is just like that. Beautiful tiling and painted furniture and carved woodwork totally surround you.

Interior, Riad Saada

Interior, Riad Saada

Interior, Riad Saada

Interior, Riad Saada

Dar Bartha Museum

Dar Bartha Museum

Despite the plain exteriors, walking the maze-like streets of the medina isn't at all drab or boring. You can find beautifully tiled fountains (some operational, some not), colorful signs, and some beautifully decorated doors.

The markets and souks are the best place to find blasts of color. Walking along you can find wonderfully woven rugs and fabrics, colorful leather goods, artfully painted ceramics. We stopped to see the tanneries and were amazed by all the pits of dye used to make all the shoes, bags, and coats. Displays of lanterns and metal products would flash in the light and catch your eye. And passing the grocers with a variety of veggies and spices is a feast for the eyes as much as the stomach.

Tanneries of Fez

One of my favorite parts of this trip was just walking around the medina and observing. You can see more of the colors of Fez and pictures from my trip with friends on Instagram using the #momsinmorocco hashtag and you can get a glimpse into some of the unexpected adventure of our trip on my friend Farrah's blog.