Hello…. Morocco you are kind of French

Morocco, a country I always wanted to visit. A place with lots of history and culture. I couldn’t wait to explore this French and Arabic speaking country. I heard there were parts of Morocco that had tons of green grass. I wanted to see that in person. I’m sure like most people, when they think about North Africa sand, and endless deserts comes to mind.

Marrakesh airport photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

I arrived at the Marrakesh airport. I was somewhat in a hurry because my accommodation was in Casablanca. Didn’t really get to explore Marrakesh like most tourists. Plus, I wanted to go across country in a short time. Only had a few days, no time to explore like usual. Which means, I will most likely visit morocco again!

Outside of the Marrakesh train station photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

I just wandered around the city’s train station. Just from going around, you noticed the difference between Egypt and Morocco. Egypt felt like an African country mixed with the Middle East. Morocco is very different. In Egypt, the Arab culture is a lot more integrated in the culture and buildings. People were more conservative. However, Morocco is different. There were a lot of women without hijabs here. In Egypt, they had this too. But, in Egypt those without hijabs were mainly Christians or women from a high class family.

Sitting at the table waiting for my ice cream photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Morocco felt more like I was in a tropical part of Paris. Maybe it was the French street signs that threw me off. You can even see the roads having a European look. It’s a reminder that Morocco was once a French colony. Egypt was not like this. The roads in Egypt, were more middle eastern looking. Although Morocco is a Muslim majority country, it’s very liberal compared to most countries in the Arab world. Also, there is a movement going on in North Africa to get rid of being called Arab. Some even letting go of the Muslim faith. Morocco is actually at the center of that movement. However, that’s a story for another post.

classic Marrakesh art photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

Found an awesome restaurant to eat chocolate ice cream. From what the waiter told me, the chocolate was French style. The dessert had such an interesting taste. It wasn’t overly sugared like American or Swizz chocolate. You can taste the cocoa more than the sugar. Never had chocolate like this. It remind me of Mexican hot chocolate without the spicy kick. Next time when I’m in France, I will make sure to snack on their chocolate.

My chocolate ice cream photo courtesy of Hugo Morel

After eating, I head back into the train station. Going to get on my train with any problems or issues. Of course, Murphy’s law had played into this. Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong. Let’s just say, nothing went my way. Yet, I still had a great time. My time in Morocco was exciting and a wake up call to be more prepared for the unexpected. Regardless, I still love this country. I truly suggest you all to visit. It will change your mind about North Africa.

Much love and safe travels! Please keep clean everyone!! Wash your hands!!

Check out our eBook “How to Travel for Dirt Cheap” by Hugo Morel for ways to make your dreams of traveling come true without breaking the bank. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07M848M47?ref_=pe_3052080_276849420&fbclid=IwAR0_mRF-eE9tODIshljVr7CQ8h6vKT6hHn_8gZfJ94DySY1ylPO2Itu2Qe

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April 8, 2020 15

How to use the Paris subway

Now, Paris is a very expensive city. Taking a taxi from the international airports will cost an arm and a leg. The most affordable way to get around Paris is through it’s metro system.

I took the train from the Charles De Gaulle airport shuttle. It left me infornt of a subway entrance. Watch out for gypsies that claim to want to help you when you are trying to buy metro tickets. They claim to want to help; however, most of the time it’s just a way to get money out of you or to pickpocket you.

Paris metro map brought to you by google

The Paris subway has stops near almost all the main tourist attractions. It doesn’t make sense to spend money on a taxi or to rent a car. The Paris metro is very reliant.

Machine where you buy metro tickets brought to you by google

A one-way ticket will cost you about 2 euros. A daily pass will cost about 7 euros. Weekly, will cost about 20 euros and monthly, will cost about 65 euros. These prices are very affordable. Also, the price of a weekly metro pass will cost less than most taxis in Paris going one-way.

A picture of a subway station in Paris brought to you by google

Careful when buying the tickets at the station, a lot of the ticket machines are in french only. A gypsy appeared out of nowhere, when she found out I was having trouble with the ticket machine. Luckily, a local saw me and showed me how to order a weekly pass. There are metro workers in booths in some stations that can help you out, as well.

When taking the actual trains, you have to keep a few things in mind. One, the train doors do not automatically open. Unless, you press a button on the middle of the door. Just keep a watch on how people exist the train carts. It will save you from missing your stop. Also, keep a high alert on Line 9. Line 9 is a train line within the Paris metro notorious for pickpocketing. Lastly, pickpocketing is another factor to keep in mind.

A sign warning about pickpocketing brought to you by google

Pickpocketing in the Paris metro is common. Here’s a few tips to remember. Make sure to be fully awake on the train carts. Any signs of sleepiness makes you a target. Another tip to keep in mind is the sound of when the doors are about to close. That’s when pickpocketers go on the hunt. Always be on alert, when you hear that noise. They would steal and run out of the door before you have time to react. Lastly, watch out for beggars. The moment you take out your money, another person runs to steal your wallet.

Now this post isn’t here to make you fearful of the Paris metro. Just wanted you to be aware. That way, your time in the beautiful French capital isn’t ruined due to some thieves.

Thank you for reading! Safe travels and much love!

Check out our latest e-book “How to Travel for Dirt Cheap” by Hugo Morel for ways to make your dreams of traveling come without breaking the bank: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07M848M47?ref_=pe_3052080_276849420&fbclid=IwAR0_mRF-eE9tODIshljVr7CQ8h6vKT6hHn_8gZfJ94DySY1ylPO2Itu2Qe0

April 20, 2019 17

The Gypsies of Paris

Now, something that is truly synonymous with Paris is begging. Unfortunately, when you go to France’s capital there will be a lot of gypsies begging. Sometimes, they come to you asking for your information. Other times, they will go out their way to help you in the subway for a few euros or to pickpocket you.

A homeless gypsy family in Paris brought to you by google

A tip for travelers, it’s best to avoid contact with gypsies. It truly pains me to write that; however, they do target tourists for pickpocketing and scams. I was almost pickpocketed, if it wasn’t for a fellow American warning me. One tried to distract me with asking me questions, while another would had walked by to go in my pockets.

Picture of a shanty town in Paris brought to you by google

Most gypsies live in shanty towns within the city of Paris. A lot of the shanty towns are built on abandoned train lines. As seen in the photo above, it’s hard to believe this is Paris, France. The fashion capital of the world, has it’s ugly side too.

French Police evicting gypsies brought to you by google

Sadly, majority of these shanty towns are illegal. The Gypsies living in these shanty towns can be evicted at any time. There are have recently been many police raids in these communities. Kicking 100s of families out of their temporary homes.

Gypsies enjoying themselves brought to you by Google

As nomads, gypsies tend to not want to settle down. That creates problems for the French officials. The French goverment have been pressuring gypsies to settle down. Of course, all that causes are more problems and tension. France’s solution to the gypsy “problem” is to send the gypsies back to Romania and Bulgaria. In my personal opinion, this wasn’t handled correctly. Let people live their lives!

I wrote this post to bring awareness to the struggles of the gypsy community in Paris. Being a frequent traveler, I have been told “I have the heart of a gypsy.” On a regular basis, I’m constantly having the narrative of people wanting me to stop traveling and “settle down.” I can understand what they go through, even if it’s on a smaller scale.

Thank you for reading! Much love and safe travels!!

April 13, 2019 9

Exploring Paris at Night

After seeing that famous tower , I wanted to explore the city as much as possible. I was told by a few local friends, France’s capital really shines at night. When I heard that, there was no turning back.

Paris becomes a jewel at night. Every turn takes your breath away. The more I explored, the more I could see why this place is called “the city of love.”

Another shot of the Canal taken by Hugo Morel

Unfortunately, I couldn’t shake off that feeling of being alone. Here I was, in the most romantic city in the world; while being single. It wasn’t the most pleasant moment of this trip. Kept thinking of all the broken promises of going to Paris, I made with a former lover. Maybe if I was nicer to her or richer, she might had stayed with me. This wasn’t a pity party, just the first time loneliness really hit me in this manner. Even with these negative feelings, I wasn’t going to let it ruin my time in Paris!!

A picture of the Eiffel Tower at night taken by Hugo Morel

The Eiffel tower is so beautiful at night. It’s hard not to take a good picture. Paris was slowly becoming one of my favorite cities in Europe. The French capital’s beauty is second to none in Europe.

Passed by Norte Dame where that one Disney movie was staged at. Seeing it in real life, brings a different vibe to it. Kind of expected to see talking gargoyles. I was a little disappointed. Really did not live up to the Disney movie. Also, hunchback of Notre Dame is my least favorite movie by Disney. Still feel bad for the guy. Forgive my bias views, the Notre Dame was beautiful at night; yet, I wasn’t impressed. Also, I hope you understand sarcasm.

Building with the french colors taken by Hugo Morel

Paris is something incredible at night. Beats Prague and any other European city. I could see why this city is called the city of love. You fall in love with the city and it’s astounding beauty.

Thank you for reading. Much love and safe travels!

To start your own adventures, check out the link below.

April 6, 2019 35

Off to the city of Love(wine), Paris

I just came back from a trip to Jamaica. I was somewhat feeling down and lonely. It’s been a while since I been in a relationship and ironically, the chance to go to paris came knocking my way. Also, Im guilty of buying wine on the plane ride to Paris. No regrets!!

When I finally arrived to Paris, I took the Paris subway to my hotel. I found a deal near the center of this beautiful city. It was about a five minute walk to the Eiffel tower from my room. Of course, you all should know that was the first thing I did.

After walking without a real purpose, I found that tower everybody goes crazy for. It was truly beautiful. Didn’t bother to go to the top because time was too valuable. Waiting in line, would waste precious sunlight.

Another shot of the Eiffel tower taken by Hugo Morel

Just decided to explore around the Eiffel tower. It’s was very interesting to see all the parks that are surrounding this landmark. You see people playing basketball and soccer.

An important looking building taken by Hugo Morel

Started walking around more and I found this building. It looked important, so I took a picture. Keep in mind, I wanted to follow the flow with this trip. The most important task, to me, was to see the Eiffel tower. That was done. So everything after, was just living in the moment. Sometimes it’s best to just enjoy your time in another country and relax. Going to point A to point B, just causes more unnecessary stress. What’s the point of living a life full of stress? It will only make you live shorter.

Taken by hugo morel

Eventually, stumbled onto this restaurant. I saw people drinking wine and that’s what attracted me. When in Paris, one must drink wine. Also, French steak is otherworldly!

It’s funny, a lot of people go to Paris to look for love. Me, I just wanted wine and to see the Eiffel Tower.

Thank you so much for reading! Much love and safe travels!

To start your own adventures, check out the link below.

March 30, 2019 31