Nestled amidst the scenic peaks of the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen is undoubtedly one of Morocco's most picturesque towns. The locals simply call it Chaouen, but to foreigners, it's known as "the Blue City," as the streets and most of the buildings in the old part of town are painted sky blue. The color of the houses against the mountain backdrop makes the entire city feel dream-like, and whether you're a photographer or not, you'll want to bring a camera along and get lost in the labyrinth of the blue-tinted streets.
The blue buildings are what attract travelers to this colorful city, but it's the laidback lifestyle and mountain backdrops that make them fall in love with it. Chefchaouen is a dream to shop in, especially if you're on a budget. You can always find stalls to browse, but the souk—open on Mondays and Thursdays—is especially worth visiting. The Rif Mountains that surround Chefchaouen are ideal for setting out on a day hike when the weather is nice, and you can book a guided hike or just set out on your own right from the city. When you need a break from all your wandering, the Plaza Uta el-Hammam, located in the heart of the medina, is a great place to drink some mint tea and watch the world go by.
Your Packing List
Morocco is a Muslim country and tourists should dress modestly to avoid causing offense. This is especially true for women, who should keep a shawl or scarf in their purse to wear over their hair when entering mosques and other religious sites.
September in Chefchaouen is mild and dry, but the frequency of rainy days begins to increase in October, peaking in December. Pack your rain gear if you're planning a trip this time of year.
For hiking in the Rif Mountains, pack sunscreen, moisture-wicking layers, and a sturdy pair of hiking shoes.
Located in Surat Thani Province south of Phuket, Khao Sok National Park consists of a 64-square-mile artificial reservoir (Cheow Lan Lake) surrounded by karst cliffs and old-growth jungle. Prior to Khao Sok's gazetting as a national park, the area was overrun by Communist rebels, who were able to prevent loggers and miners from stripping the countryside bare. The jungle today is unspoiled and spectacular—with waterfalls, caves, and rare animals that might occasionally cross your path!
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