Casablanca Let’s start with a history lesson. What country first recognized the USA? Hint: it was in 1777. Second question: What is the longest unbroken friendship treaty the USA has? Hint: it was signed in 1786. Answer to both is
Morocco.
When you think of Morocco what do you envision? Camels, the mysterious Tangier, Berber pirates, an exotic land, or maybe Rick’s Café in Casablanca. It is all of that and more — well, except for the pirates. As SoulMates slipped her lines in Aqua Dulce and headed south, we looked at each other, and Chuck said, “We got good wind, and if we turn now, we can be in Israel in four to five days.” We both looked longingly to the east but continued south, sad to leave the Mediterranean after seven great sailing seasons. But new ports of call awaited, so with full sails, SoulMates headed south for an overnight to Melilla, Morocco. First you need to know that Melilla is one of a few Spanish enclaves on the Moroccan coast. Why? Well, that we won’t go into. But it is very Spanish, and when we arrived on Sunday everything was closed. Leaving the marina, the first thing the crew saw was the landing platform for UFOs. The next day was spent exploring the city and encountered something we often found in various city squares — a fishing boat with boat names and dates on its base. Fishing is one of the most dangerous occupations around; we have seen tiny fishing boats heading out when we wouldn’t, and seen them on the water and admired their courage. As we walked around, we said a silent prayer for all fishermen. We wanted to go inland and visited several tourist offices only to be turned away. Finally one introduced us to a guide via telephone, and we made arrangements to meet a guide in Al Hoceima. Sailing up and around, we arrived in Al Hoceima just as the fishing fleet was headed out. Chuck proceeded to play dodge-a-boat in the narrow passage into the harbor. In contrast to what the cruising guide promised, we found a brand-new marina with great dockage and efficient officials who very quickly checked us in. Then it was time to explore the city — and guess what I found? My favorite: a fresh market! Soon SoulMates was stocked
138 Latitudes & Attitudes pg 138-143 Morrocco - MKC.indd 2
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7/27/21 4:36 PM
