Study abroad memories

I studied abroad in Morocco in the Fall of 2003. I remember the semester generally as: English language classes during the week (except for Arabic) and travel on the weekend. The travel led to stress but also to great memories.

I'm holding onto two memories of trying unofficial diplomacy, botching attempts at friendship, and generally memorable interactions. I'll start with one and blog later the second.

At the Fes train station, a group of friends and I were looking for a ride back to Ifrane, where the university is. Keep in mind that cities are connected by grand taxis, old mercedes four doors that seem to last forever. On this particular night, about five of us walk off the train and out into the station vestibule.

A driver in front of the train station, unsolicited, tries to get us to jump in his car. Wanting to stick to the plan, and the grand taxi system, which requires a short walk away from the station, I decline and forge ahead. Likely, his prices would have been exorbitant. So as I refuse the offer and keep walking, the driver persists. After a couple tries and my encouraging the group to walk away, the driver calls me "a racism" (meaning racist). Speechless and far enough away to make a clean break, that's the end of it.