The Blue City: A Love Story, Part I
I had this idea while in Southern Spain with a friend of mine to take a ferry to this blue city in the hills of Northern Morocco. I didn’t really know anything about this place, but my intuition said go. My friend trusted me, so we did. As we arrived, our driver became the start of our adventure.
This place captivated me, welcomed me, and humbled me. It brought a wave of ancestral healing, even though I am not Moroccan. It reminded me of my uncles, brothers, sisters, the scent of henna, the warmth of tea, prayer calls in the distance, and the generous open hearts wanting to feed me until I was full.
Founded in 1471 as a refuge for Moorish and Jewish refugees, Chefchaouen is celebrated today for its serene blue streets, Andalusian-style architecture, and surrounded by the many friendly cats wandering the blue streets. It’s the sweetest and most charming town, painted entirely in shades of blue. Wandering the medina, soaking in the hamam (where I was scrubbed down by an aunty and left feeling reborn), sipping mint tea and fresh orange juice, savoring the most delicious tajine, and tasting amlou—it was all magic. The sweetness, the smiles, and the open-hearted nature of the people stayed with me.
Of course, there were many funny stories with Moroccan men—which I’ll just keep to myself. I will say, though, I’m not into 50/50 splitting, and somehow I found the one hidden bar in the city. It was mostly men inside, since drinking is prohibited in the culture, but it felt like stepping into an underground world a local showed me.
By chance, Tara booked our stay at Casa Blue Star. By kismet, we met our dear brother there…someone who turned out to be the biggest blessing of the trip. He took me to get my henna done, introduced us to the locals (everyone knew him in this small town), and quickly became family. He guided us to Akchour Waterfalls, which I highly recommend for a day trip, tucked away in the Rif Mountains, the journey takes you through the surrounding countryside, passing lush valleys, olive groves, and yes the famous hash fields that the region is known for. The drive itself is an experience, giving you a glimpse into the rural life and natural beauty of northern Morocco.
Every morning, a sweet uncle or aunty prepared us a nourishing breakfast. The medinas were always fun to explore, bargain in, and shop around picking up fresh oils, rose, jasmine, and kohl eyeliners. We even had an iconic moment and got matching carpets.
I also got to visit the grand mosque, Jamaa El Kabir. Its architecture reflects a beautiful blend of Spanish and Moroccan styles. While it is no longer a functioning place of worship, it has become a popular spot for sunset views and scenic vistas, adding yet another layer of enchantment to this extraordinary city. In that quiet moment, I felt a deep connection to the here and now, as if the city itself was breathing life into my soul. I looooove this place so much. A GEM
