We spent our first full day in Morocco in a whirlwind of activity. In the morning we had a cultural orientation from Meriam our local contact. She is an English teacher from Casablanca who had spent 6 months in America. I like her because she is very smart and passionate about teaching us about Morocco while being very personable.
Also, we went to the Moroccan American Commission for Educational and Cultural Exchange. The organization coordinates Moroccans coming to America on cultural and educational exchanges especially Fulbright's. I learned a great deal about the programs available and more about the culture.
In the afternoon, we went to the U.S. Embassy to meet the Regional English Language Officer. It has been awhile since I have been to a U.S. Embassy and I was struck by the security. Beyond that it was interesting to hear about the programs the Department of State is running to promote the teaching of English. The soft side of diplomacy such has funding after school programs to help underprivileged students receive English language lessons are my kind of social change.
After the Embassy we stopped at the Hassan II Mausoleum. The site is where two of the former kings are buried. The symmetry of the unfinished columns and how the light was striking the whole are at twilight was gorgeous. Also, in side the crypt the tile and mosaic work was beyond amazing. I was struck dumb and overwhelmed when I walked in and just explored the details and intricacies for a long time.
That evening as a group we went for a traditional meal. The Tajine dishes are amazing but I think my favorite so Moroccan dish is the Pastilla which is a sweet/savory dish with chicken and spices mixed into a patty then confection sugar and cinnamon sprinkled on top.