Morocco Day 2: Rabat

Checked into Riad Kalaa last night. They had our room set up for our Honeymoon:

This first full day in Rabat has been a learning experience.  Petit (blue) taxis, as in most places, you should always demand they use the meter.  The tram is quite convenient: one fare regardless of distance. Clean and modern trains.

It's hard to trust people here, as we never know if they are being helpful or trying to get money out of us (or both).  So far, our only experience has been a faux guide in Sale.  He supposedly helped us out with directions, then  when we followed his directions, he whistled at us saying we were going the wrong way and then led us where we were going, saying he was going that way anyway. After he started telling us a bunch of trivia, I got suspicious.  Cut him off a little late, but at least we smartened up after our morning hustle that we insisted on only giving him 15 Dirham rather than the 100 dh he was asking (keep in mind, the train from Casablanca to Rabat cost us 125 dh each).

Visited the Medersa (Koranic school). Intricate tile, wood, and ceramic work. The study rooms look like prison cells in Cambodia.  Before heading back across the river to Rabat, we ate Tajine at a touristy looking place which was actually pretty good.  In Rabat's Central Market, we strolled past the various meat and produce stalls. The most interesting was a couple of animal carcasses hanging. We couldn't tell what they were, but now think they were camel.

Dinner was at Le Petit Beau, a Lonely Planet 2011 top pick. I thought it was ok. Not much better than the little touristy place in Sale. We were not able to try the couscous, as they were sold out. Which brings me to another thought: we keep coming across things that are closed, like the mausoleum: we went during prayer time, so we would've had to wait until after to see it.

Oh, Senna at Riad Kalaa referred us to a great website:
http://www.espace-morocco.co.uk/

We are finding it has many of the same riads you'd find on Trip Advisor or Booking.com for less. We just booked a place in Marrakech for half off!