Some notable events

Our host father, Sidi Rahim, Ali, myself, Erin, Rachel (who are staying with Rahim’s sister-in-law) went into the medina kawdeema (old medina) and shopped around. With our father being an actual Moroccan, we were sure that we would get a decent deal. Ali and I mentioned to Rahim that we were interested in getting leather jackets (Fez is renown for its leather). Ali did a strong job haggling with the shop keeper with Rahim helping him. Ali and I then got two jackets (which were approved by Rachel and Erin). Ali’s jacket is a camel leather jacket, complete with hood. His cost 700 Dirham ($87.50) and my jacket, which is black cow leather cost 750 Dirham ($93.75). I am fairly certain that Rahim made sure the leather was strong and that we were not being ripped off. Additionally, we bought traditional tea pots at a local metal workers’ place. We sat down with the shop keeper for a while and actually spent some time learning daraja with him. Finally, we four American students arrived on a price for the billrid (tea pots). At 180 Dh a piece, we did not get the best price but it was not too expensive. If you’re counting, that is $25 or so dollars for a hand made pot. It’s pretty sweet!

Another experience happened yesterday. I got my haircut at a local barbershop. I walked in with Ali and Rachel and they planned to stay with me. Up until now, my homestay family had been giving me a difficult time with the length and appearance of my hair. So, finally I was going to get my haircut. As there was only one person in front of me, I expected to be out of the barber’s quickly. However, as 5 minutes stretched into 20, Ali and Rachel went back home for lunch. I continued to wait to get my haircut because I knew how much my family was looking forward to it. So, there is definitely something to be said for a haircut in Morocco. Sure, I don’t speak much Daraja or French, but I got my point across for the amount of hair to cut off. I have never seen such a meticulous job of cutting hair. The barber went over my hair 3 times to make sure that everything was cut. Finally, he motioned me to the sink and washed my hair for me while giving me a head massage. ANDDDD!! That was the first shower like thing that I have had for my hair in a week. It was great! I asked him Bshhal? (How much) and he said 25 drahem. (Which might have been elevated because I was a Westerner). The cut took 35 minutes, but I gave him a hefty tip because of his very thorough job that puts the best American barbers to shame. I want to bring this guy back with me. I gave the man a 25 drahem tip because of this outstanding experience. I imagine I will go back again before I leaveJ. 6 dollars for a haircut is outstanding!