From Rabat

I am here in Rabat, the capital of Morocco. The trip to Casablanca was very exciting with layovers in Atlanta and Paris. We only stayed there one night, and came to the capital city the next day. All the luggage got here by the second day-- mine was here the first day.
Our group is interesting. There is such a vqriety of expertice that just visiting with members of the group is educational. And our speakers are truly the cream of the eduacated of the country. The US embassy did a presentation on programs for teaching English, exchange programs, and the peace corps. We have learned history from the head of the history department, visiten the center for Andalusian studies, which is the period when Morocco went from Senegal into what is now Spain. Linguistics, politics, womens role, family law, and so much more. I have good notes, but my brain is too full to write much here. We toured the parliment, and have been entertained by the most amazing musicians;visited parks, castles; the souk-- which is a crowded market that makes Mexico city look and smell clean and quiet-- are highlights; Spanish is not very helpful here; but people are patient, and my roommate speaks Frenchso I listen lots, and watch more. I have learned no Arabic, but I have talked to some people in the stores, etc, and I learn so much every time.The food is truly wonderful, and the hospitality is unbelievable. They treat us like dignitaries, and serve us mint tea with almond cookies every hour or so. The city looks a lot like Mexico, only older.
My roommate was here in the peace corps 20 years ago, so we may be able to visit some of her friends tomorrow.
I have not beenable to download-- or is it upload-- my pictures. Maybe tomorrow, after more lectures. Being here is an amazing wonderful experience.