Approximately 50 minutes ago, the last day of July started. And that means that tomorrow will be the first day of August.
My stay in Al Maghreb is almost up, a mere 9 days remaining. The entire experience has passed by really quickly- too fast even. But that seems expected if you're studying abroad for only 5 weeks. I can't really sum up the whole thing in one word except to say it was both interesting and very unique. I think I've delayed starting a travel blog for so long because I wasn't sure how to adequately describe my experiences here. But instead of delving in too deep, I will attempt to sum up what occurs day by day and at times, refer to past events. So, what happened yesterday (July 30th)? It was a national holiday in Morocco, Throne Day, commemorating Morocco's ruler and king, Mohammed the 6th's ascension to the throne. I have seen a lot more Moroccan flags as of late. Like President's Day in the U.S, we all got a day off, so I woke up pretty late (11:30). If I had had class, I would have woken up around 9 for my class at 10:30. It was actually an uneventful day until the arrival of a henna artist. I paid 80 dirhams (the equivalent of about 10 dollars) for henna on both sides of my hands up to my forearms and my feet (first time I've ever gotten henna there). The lady who came administered the henna from a proper syringe (if it wasn't henna I would have thought she was giving my a shot… haha) and proceeded to swiftly and precisely create her works of art. The designs are absolutely gorgeous- sloping, feathery flowers, curves that resemble treble clefs. I think if I ever get a part time job to make some extra cash, I'd wanna be a henna artist. The lady spent at least an hour and a half doing henna on four girls, but I think I love henna enough to have the patience. I have sometimes spent several hours drawing on myself with a henna cone. You could say I'm a "tad" obsessed.
Today we are going to Asilah, a town next to the beach in northern Morocco. This will be our longest and last excursion of the program. I am really looking forward to Asilah as it's apparently been the favorite excursion of many past ISA (International Studies Abroad) participants. Since classes resume today, we will leave right after, via the tour bus. It will take around four hours to get up there. I will try to keep y'all updated when I get back, since I won't be taking my laptop with me. Until then, over and out!
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