This is Claire writing...
It was another busy day in Morocco for us! We started with a very rare opportunity: we got to meet the United States Ambassador to Morocco, Sam Kaplan. As a University of Minnesota alumnus, he was generous enough to give us at least a twenty minute audience while he explained a bit of the political and diplomatic situation here in Morocco. We also heard from a political officer about Moroccan history and politics, as well as about careers in the foreign service. We weren't allowed to bring our cameras into the embassy, but don't worry, we got an official picture with the ambassador!
Next, our AMAZING guide Omar brought us to the mausoleum of three Moroccan nobles: Hassan II (the previous king), his brother, and the national hero: Mohammed V. It was gorgeous beyond words. Full dress guards sat on Appaloosas outside the complex, and the inside was very ornate in the symmetrical style that is so popular here. The domed ceiling was breathtaking, made of cedar painted in egg yolk and saffron, and gold.
After the tomb, we went again to the medina (old city) for lunch. We ate in a restaurant that Omar knew well, and we got HUGE, delicious servings of couscous for a few dollars. The couscous here is handmade and so wonderfully light.
We went from the medina to the Casbah (fort) Oudiah, which was beautifully painted in white and blue (symbolizing purity and water). We enjoyed mint tea and little cakes next to a lush garden for a break.
After class today, we had the opportunity to hear from a Morris student (Sarah Ranney) who is just finishing a year of study here in Rabat, before we meet our host families...ON SUNDAY! We are all very excited - and a tad nervous - about this week-long stay. It will be amazing to be immersed in family life in the medina of this historic city.
We're off to Meknes tomorrow - can't wait to let you all know how wonderful that is!
Note to my family and Mike: love you all, and sorry I can't be in touch more! I will try to get you guys whenever possible ;)
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