a day in . . .Fes

{with Valerie, owner of Riad Anata.}

Its been a while since I was in Fes, so I thought I would prevail upon Valerie to point us in the direction of a few good places to go for lifes little essentials - a good cup of coffee, a carpet perhaps and, a cocktail or two at the end of the day.

Valerie Janczewski: owner of Riad Anata in the medina of Fes

starting the day . . .

"The Barcelona is an ideal place to eat a pastry in a trendy setting with soft lighting and cosy atmosphere.

 The place is amazing as all the decor is for sale! You can find it atTalaa Kgbira, above the carpark,

 at Ain El Zlitten."

shopping and a spot of mint tea . . .

 "The talaa Kgbira (the big talaa) is where you will find some of the most authentic

stalls, food stalls, rose petals, spices, fruits and vegetables and crafts from Fassi.

 It is in this part of the Medina that you will find the Clock Café. Ideal for a mint tea break!"

" The Clock Café is a real institution for both locals, expats and intrepid travellers, this place is perfect for a

drink in a really friendly atmosphere! Snacks are available (I suggest you try 'The Burger').

Check out the program of the week: calligraphy classes, themed cinema shows, retro-projection,etc."

lunch break . . .

 "For lunch you could go to The Ruined Garden -  its a fabulous place located in the remains of a beautiful mansion, next to the Idrissy Riad. The perfect place to relax and enjoy lunch or tea. Robert hails from London and opened the doors to this atmospheric place fairly recently . Simple, tasty salads, teas and Moroccan cuisine "

cocktails at sunset . . .

" The Merinides Hotel boasts a large panoramic terrace overlooking the Medina of Fez. An ideal
location for an aperitif and admiring the sunset. Taxi reference: Merinides Hotel which everyone knows"

head for the hills . . .

"Finally, if you have time to spend a day in the countryside I would always recommend a visit to Aziz - Aziz lives in a very beautiful and authentic cottage, which is full of carpets, bouchrouite or Handira. This is really a beautiful trip and in my opinion, if you take only one trip it should be this one. Aziz's mother will cook a delicious lunch for 100dhs/person."

"and of course - please come and visit us at Riad Anata!"

if you have the time and the inclination . . .

please pop across to facebook and LIKE us there x