I really need to get this post written, its been half written on my computer, phone, iPad for over a month. In the space between the holiday I've blogged other stories and have shot various events. Time to spend a little more time on this to finish it off;
This is the 3rd time I've re-written this post.
I'm trying not to sound negative. I haven't figured out a way yet to put a positive spin on everything.
So ill never work as a smiley travel agent; failing to mention that the place isn't built yet or even just that the 5 star hotel that your visiting is really everyone else's 3 star.
Marrakesh, Morocco; a city of colour and culture.
The 2 faced life in the desert, busy preying on tourists.
The elephant in the room.
The souk.
"Just look for the Mosque" they said.
"You'll be fine" they said.
Walking deeper into the souk, in the wrong direction, in the right direction?
All directions look the same; when you reach a dead end, you start again, in the opposite direction, which could be either right or wrong.
The Streets, the decay, the graffiti, the light, the shadows, they all look great shooting on the way in.
Not bothering on the way out as you might have already shot that wall, person, market store.
Who knows "they all look the same".
For anyone wanting to experience the famous souk, go for it.
It's vibrant, lively, a spectacle.
Unfortunately though, it's
a tourist trap; a dangerous place to be.
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| Not quite the graffiti you want to see |
People will want your money. People will step close to and hassle you.
People will bully you; trying to rip you off.
A fast buck, an easy target.
 |
| Counting his earnings? |
Speaking to one couple I heard that they had been led astray by a market trader with a promise that he would help them find their way out. The couple were actually taken further into the market and were then harassed for £20 for the priveledge of making the situation worse.
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| A moment of clarity. Its these little things that leave fond memories; the light, the shadows and spending time with the wife. |
I never returned to the souk, i never went anywhere afterwards as i caught Gastro-Enteritis.
Ill doesn't describe it.
The plan for the Marrakesh trip was to shoot as much street and travel photography as possible whilst also enjoying chilling out around the pool with Laura.
I spent 3 days being too ill to do anything and then it was pretty much time to come home.
Better luck next time i hope.
