Brigitte Goes To…MARRAKECH !

OCT 21 - 31, 2010

For Information, call David at 508/790-3829, CCAA at 508/362-2909 or Brigitte in France at 011-33-6-74-32-68-81

Bonjour Fellow Voyageurs,

Brigitte Cheyrou, your artist-guide and the Cape Cod Art Association (CCAA), are looking for a minimum of four adventurous travellers to join her on this marvellous Ten Day trip to exotic Marrakech, of the 'Thousand-and-One Nights', in southern Morocco coming up in August. You will leave the USA on October 20 to arrive in the morning of the 21st, and then indulge your senses for 10 full days, leaving, doubtless with regret, on the morning of the 31st.

Although not a workshop this time, this trip follows Brigitte's passion for visiting exotic places full of facinating experiences and, of course, bright, strong colours. It is a great opportunity for painters, photographers, travellers looking for an 'off the beaten path' experience, friends and family Also, many of you have been asking about the details ... so here they are!

Far from the US, Morocco is a friendly country full of hospitable people, contrasting images, exotic sights, strange smells and the unique experience of living in the heart of the medina (ancient walled city).

What is Morocco Like?

Morocco is and remains the most "Western" Arabic country. The population is made up of Berbers, Arabs and Bedouins as well as lots of tourists! The life, architecture and culture is a veritable mosiac of all of these, from the centuries old to more modern. There are lots of contrasts and surprises to discover.

Since Delacroix and Matisse, European artists have been attracted to Marrakech and its surroundings for the intensity of light and colours, the ancient architectures of several civilisations, the spring flowers in bloom in spectacular gardens, valleys and oasis.

Where will we be staying?

In the deluxe riad equipped with all modern facilities, including 'ensuite bathrooms'. A riad is a large residential house specific to south Morocco, surrounded with high walls and a inner courtyard with a garden and fountain. All the rooms open on to the patio. You will often find sitting and dining areas on the roof with a spectacular view on the snow capped High Atlas Mountains. Brigitte has some wonderful photos

Our riad is located inside the walled medina, a few minutes walk in the twisting alleys (no cars) to the open square Jaama-El-Fna, "the greatest open air spectacle in the world...overlooking the jumble of people, food stalls, tourists hustlers, and snake charmers." (Lonely Planet). . Also, the riad provides the services of its staff from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., so we eat well but neither cook nor do the dishes!

What about security?

Do not be worried about being in a differnt land and a different culture, this is one reason you travel! Crime is not a problem and is no higher, and probably lower, than in American urban centres. Tourism is one of the main resources of the country, and Marrakech has become a destination of choice for many Europeans on holiday. Dress is often Western, the city is a popular tourist destination and tourists are made welcome. When I was there before, I had absolutely no problems at all.

How much will it cost?

Only $2,495, plus airfare. This includes lodging (double occupancy) in the riad and breakfast (no cooking, no dishwashing); your local transportation to and from the airport of Marrakech; and the services of two full-time staff members of the Riad from 8 am to 6 pm.

To sign-up, a non-refundable deposit of $300 is required as soon as possible, as the riad has to be reserved well in advance. The balance is due by May 18^th. If you have to cancel, a full reimbursement is not possible unless we or you find a replacement or are replaced by someone on a waiting list, so we recommend that you buy trip insurance.

What about insurance?

Purchase of trip insurance, through a travel agent, or on the Internet, is advised to cover any emergencies should they arise. You can buy cancellation insurance for both your air ticket and the land portion of the trip. In addition, supplemental health coverage during your stay abroad is also recommended. Call David at 508/790-3829 for more information.

Flight Information - Can we Travel Together?

For those of you who would like to travel together in a group from Boston to Marrakesh, let me know & we will do that, leaving Logan on August 15^th and probably connecting with our flight to Marrakesh in France. I will be staying in France on the way back, so you will be on your own after that!

What to bring?

Appropriate clothing for sunny dry weather in August, varying from the daytime average of 84 to the night-time average of 73. Also for cultural reasons, it is suggested to wear summer clothing (eg. long, loose, lightweight skirts or trousers rather than shorts); an effort to respect tradition will bring greater rewards. Sturdy walking shoes are a good idea as well as a hat, a sun screen and perhaps sunglasses. Don't forget the essentials like your passport, air ticket, ATM and credit cards, and, of course, your artist's supplies, if you are coming to paint (and there will be plenty of subjects!) But most of all, the best advice is: Pack the minimum - then reduce it by half!

Who is Coming?

Probably someone you know! Give me a call and I'll let you know who's signed-up There will also be our usual get-together before we go so that all of the travellers can meet each other.

Are Your Ready for the Wonderful Trip with Me?

This will be my sixth visit there and I've always found it to be a wonderful destination and very inexpensive once there. So give me a call for more info, or just send in your deposit if you are ready to go; we are looking forward to a great trip with great people! So call me or David or Cape Cod Art Association (CCAA)!

Brigitte Cheyrou (508) 790-3829
David Adler (508) 790-3829
Cape Cod Art Association (508) 362-2909
bcheyrou@vlgames.com dadler@vlgames.com curator@capecodartassoc.org

65 Horseshoe Lane
Centerville, MA
02632