Rick Steves' Europe: Share your thoughts

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Jackie Steves' Morocco Journal

Jackie would be interested to hear your thoughts about her journal. Please post your comments below.

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Jackie, You are a very mature young lady. I am impressed with your ability to verbalize your experience in a country much different from the USA. Also I am impressed that you have an open heart to people of a different religion than your own. In my travel experiences I have interacted with Muslim in the Middle East, Canada, South America and here. As in Christianity there are Muslims true to their religion and there are Muslims who are Muslim in name only. Your attitude is one I wish were shared by the majority of our country. Keep that purity and you will go far in furthering the consciousness of those surrounding you.

Linda
USA

Jackie, I thoroughly enjoyed your journal. You are a wonderful writer and very wise for your age. You have had an experience that will forever be in your mind. As you grow older and wiser, the experience will become even more important to you. Thanks for sharing and wishing you the best in your education.

Audrey
Oregon

Jackie, I am so impressed with you. I am so thankful that someone like you was able to go to an Islamic country and be an ambassador for America. What a wonderful learning experience, not only for you, but for all the people whose lives you touched while you were there. You are lucky enough to have learned a valuable lesson at a young age - that our way is not necessarily the correct way and that other cultures have so much to teach us. Please keep traveling - you do us proud!

Barbara
New Jersey

Your writing brought me right to where you visited and I felt I got an inside look at young people hanging out together.Your descriptions of the household persons and goods again gave me so many pictures in my mind. Your dealings with extreme discomfort were so real..vomiting,sickness, and how you were taken care of...wow! and the bugs and flies..again I could see them and the drums..oh yuk. The cuddling, the closeness, the cousins. the parting tears, wanting to go and wanting to stay....you certainly described how people live day to day. Keep writing. Thanks so much for sharing your story. I'm lucky to have found it on the internet.

Carol Kinsman
Bellevue

>I wish I had wire to shoot all my thoughts from my brain to this journal because there are so many things I want to write about. As I take time to write one thought down I think of five others, but by the time I have finished writing the first I have forgotten the others.

I've thought exactly the same thing. If only we could download from our brains!

Debbie
Midwest

Jackie—You did such a wonderful job capturing the highs and lows, respect for the culture and homesickness that a foreign exchange experience brings. I lived with a rural Brazillian family the summer after my junior year in high school (and remember the double standard with my Brazillian brothers and sister even in S. America! What's with those string bikinis but the tight curfew?) and then a year in France in college. Now at 43, I can't wait to print this out to share with my 15 year old daughter. What a wonderful choice to experience Islam first-hand and contrast it with what most Americans think. Much like an educated Moroccan "mom" will educate her children, I believe you will do much to help shape more centrist views in America. Congratulations!

Chris Roman
San Diego

Jackie, thank you so much for sharing your journal. How impressive!! Wow! You are proof of what your dad preaches--Americans who travel abroad help US understand others and help THEM understand us.

David Shargel
Port Angeles, WA

I am so proud of you - you are a perfect example to represent Americans. You were aware, loving and caring and did a great job of learning to be "human" without bring preconceived ideas with you. No wonder they loved you so much - so do I. Good Job!!

Colleen K. Cristel
Kent, WA

Hi Jackie, I am a teacher at Redmond High School. I appreciate the time you took to share your experience in Morocco. I plan to share your journal with students. Your opportunity to be in the "family culture" will forever impact your adult life. I lived with a French family in 1977, for 12 months. I have maintained a direct connection with them for 30 years. They influenced me in so many positive ways and I would like to think that I have helped them avoid "stereotypes" of Americans.

Vickie Dull
Redmond, OR

Jackie, I read every word of your journey. What an experience! Not only did you tell us of your trip, you helped us to see Morocco and feel another culture. And more than that, you prompted others (me, for one) to think about OUR place in the world, and what we take for granted. Thanks for sharing your journey.

PS - Have you ever considered a career in journalism? You seem to have that instinct for how to report your experiences, plus an open mind to other people and places.

Kristin
Pennsylvania

The Steves can certainly be proud of their daughter. What a warm, thoughtful and articulate young woman. What a pleasure it was to read about her adventures.

Cheryl Huff
Germany

Wow, Jackie. Just Wow. As you grow older, it will be more and more apparent what a rare opportunity your trip was. These things are usually life-changing, particularly if you are given the chance to live in a rural place. Our daughter at 16 lived for a year in a small town in Japan where no Caucasian woman had lived before. It totally changed the way she saw the news, the world, and her place in it. I wish the same for you.

Candace
Bellingham

I am so impressed by you Jackie. You sound much more mature than most high schoolers, and you write very well. I wish everyone in America took part in an experience like the one you have used to benefit you in amazing ways. I believe if more young people had a mind like yours, the world would be a much better place. Keep on spreading the word of tolerance and understanding! I can't wait to read more from you!

Abby
Florida

Hi Jackie, what a wonderful trip you had and you have such on-the-mark insights. I've visited Morocco several times and have lived the last 5 years in Senegal which is also Muslim. Thank you for seeing and speaking the truth -- that Islam and Muslims do not equate with terrorism. And to see that the solution to poverty is education and empowerment, especially of women. You are a very wise young woman, and have learned well from your parents, teachers and the world. You will make a difference in this world!

Nancy
Dakar Senegal

Wow! What a wonderful experience you are having and how well you write about it all. You might consider following this up, after you finish college, with a two-year stint in the Peace Corps. My daughter, whom you sound so much like, is finishing up two years of Peace Corps service in Ukraine this month. While her family has missed her for the past two years, she has gained so much--and so has Ukraine--by serving in this way.

Julie
Midwest US

Hi Jackie, Thank you for sharing all of your thoughts during your trip. Honestly while reading your journal, tears ran down my face. Travel will open your eyes to the world but actually living abroad and experiencing the lifestyle will change you forever.

I moved to Germany 10 months ago and have visited 16 countries, mostly Eastern Europe, with my first visit to the Arabic world (Dubai). Initially I was afraid being an American in the Arab world. While it is important to use good judgment and not put yourself at unnecessary risk, it was a wonderful experience for me. I am quite thankful that I had the opportunity to experience this part of the world first hand...rather than rely on the American "unbiased" propaganda.

Keep up the traveling and I look forward to reading more. Your Dad inspired me years ago when I first started traveling abroad (1996). It seems that this trait runs in the family.

Warm wishes from Deutschland! Doug

Doug M
Frankfurt Germany

Jackie,

I wouldn't feel guilt regarding your material blessings in America. I do have feelings of sorrow for poor people, but the Christian God does not bless those whose religion are faulty like Islam. It is considered idolatry in our religion to worship a false God. The Islamic God is not a basis for coherency in our experience of reality. This is explained in the previous article I sent to you. Remember, our God is a Trinitarian God and the Islamic god is purely abstract and absolute; no personal nature or essence. This cannot be a basis for absolute laws of logic, abstracts, ethics or explain why nature is uniform and anthropocentric.

P.S. I forgot to mention this in the previous post.

Cheers!

Charles

Charles Gillihan
Bartlett, TN USA

Jackie, your honesty and open-ness was a delightful part of your journal. What an eye-opening experience you've had! I lived in Cairo as an expat 15 years ago, but never experienced the "up close and personal" that you have.

If you want some further reading on insights into America's role in the world and aspects of Islamic fundamentalism I would recommend Thomas Friedman - especially "From Beirut to Jerusalem" and "Longitudes and Attitudes."

All in all, you'll never be the same after such a journey.

Ellen
Nottingham, UK

Jackie, While your experience seems worthwhile in that I believe every american should be exposed to foreign countries in order to more appreciate what we take for granted here in the US, I am shocked that your father allowed you into a dangerous (medical) environment. I'm a retired military officer and have been to Morrocco and Lived for two years in turkey. the only way to avoid permanent life altering illness via parasite or other vector is to balance the needs of hygiene and health related precautions with the need to not offend. It's difficult, but sometimes you just have to say no thank you to an offer of a food or drink that is questionable. Having said that, your writing is excellent and I enjoyed your perspectives. You may not want to follow in your father's footsteps, but you seem like a highly intelligent young woman and with your ability to bring a unique perspective to a mundane situation, you'd make an excellent replacment for him when he retires.

Len Marino
San Antonio, Tx

What a wonderful and articulate article Thank you so much for sharing this experience

Bobbie Schrader
Diamond Springs, CA

I have kept a journal of every trip dating back to our honeymoon - camping with our five children, wonderful biking and hiking trips with my husband. We have traveled all over the world. Now at the age of 81 I enjoy reliving all my experiences. Your trip to Morocco is one you won't want to forget! Thanks for sharing it.

Anne Abbott
La Porte, IN, USA

Thank you for sharing in such a personal way, Jackie. What a beautiful thing to relate in such a lovely way to your families in Morocco. Blessings to you as you continue to process and use what you have experienced.

Janice Gerber
Harrisonburg, VA

Jackie, I am very impressed with your journal and the impetus for your trip to Morocco! I think you can give your dad a run for his money in terms of promoting travel that is so sensitive to context. I loved reading your honest criticisms with U.S. consumer culture--I felt the same way after I came back from living in West Africa a few years ago--and it's especially moving to me to hear such a young person talk so eloquently and openly about wanting to do life differently than everyone else. I ended up publishing a book on my experience--maybe you should think about it too. I'd love to see other people your age and mine (I'm 42) read your experience. Thank you for keeping a journal and sharing your pictures. Best wishes to you! Laurie Charles lauriecharles@hotmail.com

Laurie L. Charles
Boston

Thank you for sharing your journal with us, your father's fan club!! I am a school board member in our town and my daughter is a teacher at an American school abroad. I found your observations to be wonderfully open and honest and hope you will continue to spread your wings and experience the WORLD!!

Susan
Massachusetts

Jackie - you are an articulate young woman! I'm glad you had the opportunity to have such an experience and chose to share it with others through your writing. I enjoyed reading your journal and look forward to future entries!

Karen
Westminster, CO

Jackie, I enjoyed your journal alot. You are already learning how to travel and not be judgemental. I love your insight. My husband and I went to Morocco this year too. We loved it and learned alot. Americans are well loved and talking politics was interesting. Food and culture interesting. I thought I would not like Morocco, I loved it and dream of returning some day. Our tour guide was so informative and sincere. I love the honesty in Morocco. (I can't understand how some Americans are so Islam feared!) I felt very accepted and I saw a lot of Moroccan women really independent thinkers and hard workers and they dressed nicely. The men were so nice and not like what people rumor them to be, always leering at women. All around, I would recommend Morocco to everyone and just be yourself without any sterotypes and you will do just fine!! On a side note...I do have a question, has Rick ever been to any African country or just Europe?

Thanks for sharing.

Cindi California

Cindi W
Eureka, California

Having followed your Dad's books TV shows, and web site for years, I am so impressed by your journal! You will have a great life with your understanding and insight into cultures of the world. You would make a great Peace Corp member, as my 75 yr. old sister-in-law is now doing in Thailand! You evidently have had a great background education, and your family's travel has made you open and receptive to the differences, yet similarities in human existance. I'll be looking for more of your writings in the future! (By the way, these old eyes had a hard time trying to read the code to copy.

Barbara Mitchell, (a grandmother)
Ohio

Jackie, if we had more young people like you we could quit worrying about the future of the world.

Tom
Illinois

Wow! Jackie sounds like a very mature and poised young lady. If only all teenagers could get outside their 'comfort zone' and experience the real world, the next generation would have a much more global concept of life. I enjoyed Jackie's journal very much. Thanks for sharing! I hope she does keep in touch with the families she stayed with. I still exchange letters with the families I lived with (25 years ago) in Switzerland and Paris and have been able to watch their children grow. Laurel McLaughlin

Laurel McLaughlin
Colorado Springs

I enjoyed so much reading your journal entry. I am the mother of two teenage daughters and really appreciated you sharing your journal with all of us. I am going to forward it to my two daughters to enjoy. We visited morroco last summer with our girls and came away with much of the same opinion as yourself. It was a joy to learn about a new culture and people. What a privilege it is to be able to travel and expand our view of the world. I always had in interest in travel.I was afraid to travel to these places until I discovered your dads books and dvds. Its been wonderful exploring Europe and Africa. Your parents must be very proud of you. You sound like a sensible girl with a good head on her shoulders. I wish you all the best with your goals and future.

Ivette Winder
California

the world might be a better place if more teenagers had the opportunity that you just had! i spent Christmas in the Philippines last year (2 weeks total) - and even though i was far from home, i think it was one of the best that i have ever had - things were so simple there. i'm just glad that they had western toilets :) cheers to you!!

leigh
Charlotte NC

I was mesmerized by your journal.I give you extra credit for being able to perceive your adventure as such a positive experience. You are a very special woman.I know you will create a fruitful life. Thanks for sharing your thoughts in such an inspiring manner. Sincerely, Ellen

ellen levy
san diego,92117

What a wonderful journal. I was mesmerized. Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences. My daughter is only two years old, but I hope to be able to facilitate travel experiences for her, just as your father and school have helped facilitate yours. The growth opportunities are truly unmeasurable.

Much Love and a "virtual" cuddle from your unseen Sister/Mother/Friend in Northern California, Jennifer H.

Jennifer H.
Sacramento, CA

Jackie, what insight and experience! I'm sure your father, your teachers, and your school are proud of you. Thank you for representing a different side--The Beautiful American--to fellow human beings in another country. That makes this American proud of you as well.

Oody
Milwaukee, WI

Wow! I sometimes think the best way to combat hatred and ignorance would be to send everyone to live in another culture. My husband and I have always thought that travel is one of the most liberating, educational things that you can give to your children. You have used the gift your parents gave you very well. Keep on truckin'

Debbie Owen
Belleville, IL

Dear Jackie, Thank you so much for sharing your insightful and beautifully written travel journal. Your openness to new experiences and your willingness to share their impact on you are truly inspiring. I am a US citizen living in Switzerland, a place where one rarely sees poverty (although some exists). I just came back from a ten-day trip to Bulgaria, where poverty and decay are everywhere. Like you, I felt the power of that cultural contrast, and I wondered if people there were happy with what they have given their own standards for happiness, not ours. Sadly, I did not get to meet enough people to find out the way you did in Morocco. Thanks again for sharing your words. I wish you a lifetime of meaningful journeys!

Ellen
Zurich, Switzerland

What great journal entries; thanks for sharing your experiences! I'm forwarding this to my husband!

JP
Washington State

Jackie! Thank you so much for sharing your journal - your descriptions were so real that I was mesmerized, right to the end where my own tears flowed at your leaving your host family. I won't be surprised to see your books in stores one day soon. You are one fantastic writer. Big Hug from Canada!

Wendy
Vancouver, Canada

I so enjoyed your travelog of your experience. It was so moving but also informative. I especially enjoyed reading what you came away with as you returned home to America. The lessons learned, the friendships made. That is the best part of traveling I have found. Thanks for sharing your experience.

Connie Pollner
Big Canoe, GA

Hi Jackie,

Your comments seem very real. Our daughter, when 14 years old went on a school journey like yours to Nepal. The values and beliefs that she held before the journey were quickly revised upon visiting that area of the world. When she graduated from High School she attended university for one year and then departed on a Canada World Youth exchange program to Benin, Africa. Her experiences seemed congruent with yours. She too, had led what many would have considered a somewhat privleged life and to then be thrust into these new surroundings and a culture so different from the Western world, was life altering to say the least. She too, found herself having to be part of culture that enjoys life to the fullest with a minimum of extras. Their reference point in life is their extended family and friends. They remain thankful for hugs, support and food.

Your journey will provide you with the strategies to always make the best of less than perfect situation.

Cheers!

Shel
Victoria

Bravo, truly enjoyed your journal writing. You are one of those special people that can make a difference in the world. I look forward to hearing more about you in the future.

Mimi
California

What a blessing to read your journal. The lessons learned from your Morocco trip are surely priceless and life-long. Continue to stay humble and keep your feet on the ground. You're a good writer and journalist, be the person God wants you to be...Godspeed!

Jun
California

Dear Jackie- I enjoyed your impressions very much until I came to the following words you wrote: " People in Arabic countries are anti-Semitic, but only because of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. They are on the side of the Palestinians. At the same time, Jews live among them and Muslims like them fine, get along with them and treat them like they would a fellow Muslim. It is only Israelis who they are racist against." Once you go down the slippery slope of allowing for racism because it's "only Israelis" who your Moroccan family is racist toward, then you have condoned it as understandable racism. But racism is not understandable and should not be condoned toward anyone, be they Arab or Jew. To say they are "only Israelis" makes it seem as though your family's racism was completely understandable and allowable. But it is not. If you are talking about politics, that is something else. But whether it's racism, antisemitism, or prejudice against Arabs, it's all wrong.

Wendy Blutstein
Glenside, PA

Thanks for your excellent journal! I wish my own young adult children had done this when they were teenagers. The consumerism I see in them is distressing, because they've never known anything else. You're lucky to have had this experience.

Linda Myers
Brier, WA

I wish I had had an opportunity like yours when I was a young woman. Your parents must be very proud of you. You are an intelligent, sensitive person. I hope you do remember what you learned and experienced on this trip; and, that you are able to incorporate those lessons and experiences into your life. If more of us would open ourselves up to other cultures, religions, etc. as you did, this would be a much better world. I was interested to learn that Moroccans like Americans, it's just W they don't like. I've found similar attitudes in Western Europe. Makes me less self concious about being an American. Well done, keep up the good work.

Elizabeth Jones
Fairfax, Virginia

Jackie, What a marvelous journal you kept! And what an articulate, bright, and thoughtful writer you are. I enjoyed every word you shared with me. Thanks for taking the time to write this all down. Our world is a complex planet. You have asked yourself difficult questions, as I have as well, as I have traveled the world. There are no answers. But we must continue to learn and respect others' cultures and beliefs. God bless you throughout your life as you pursue worthy causes. Continue to help others have love and compassion for all of God's children. Yours, Charlotte

charlotte Pratt
SLC, Utah

Rick, you and your wife have done an excellent job of raising Jackie. What a sensitive and insightful young lady, and good writer, she is.

Victoria
California

Jackie's mother must be very pretty!!

The illness is a major reason I will not travel in such areas. So glad Jackie survived.

Donald Tyler, MD
Ontario, OR 9914

"I want to immerse myself in poverty in such a way..." was a quote from Jackie. Eikes! So that is poverty? -- acording to US standards. Typical attitude. After knowing many Moroccan's and understanding their culture I found some of Jackie's comments immature and typical "AMERICAN." Just because we as Americans think if they don't have an Ipod or a nice toilet that means they are living in sheer poverty. It is a way of life and they shouldn't be made to be ashamed of it. As they obviously are not. Yes there are bad and poverty stricken areas, just as US, but this was a taste of their culture -- minus the Ipod's, etc. I just spent some time with some close relatives and the kids AND the adults could not even take their eyes off their Nintendo's to talk. So sad. The Morrocan's I visit engage in wonderful conversations and food. When I leave it is always a good memory. As a world traveler (many times guided by her dad's books too)I love America and there is NO place like it in the world.

Lynne Hayes
Cape Cod, MA

Jackie, Your writing was so descriptive and enlightening. I was able to taste your feelings as you described your foreign families and how they lived. Thanks for sharing with us.

Gloria
Florida

Jackie, What a wonderful journal. You are the perfect ambassador from America! Thanks for sharing your experiences with us.

Paula
Seattle

very enlightening

Andrena
Minneapolis

Hello Jackie-

Nice job. You write very well. I enjoyed every word of your journal. It reminded me of my visit to Morocco 18 years ago. Wish I had more time to chat, but I have to go do some work now. Happy Travels!

--Ray

Ray Magee
Denver, Colorado

Jackie, It's great that you had this experience in Morocco. Please don't forget, however, that you don't have to travel across the ocean to see deplorable poverty conditions. They exist right here in the U.S., too, but all too often our citizens find it easier to explore poverty in other nations than to accept the gross poverty that exists here. Americorps might have programs that would interest you.

Catherine
NYC

Jackie, I enjoyed reading your journal as it brought back many memories for me. We visited Morocco in 1996 when our daughter was sationed there in the Peace Corps. We too, returned cuturally enriched! I especially related to your descriptions of the amazing hospitality of the people there. Gifting is such an art form! We took 3 live chickens to the village where our daughter was living. Within two hours - those chickens were butchered and in wonderful tagines, fresh bread was baked, and we shared in a wonderful evening of singing, drumming and dancing. In this village where people had so little; they shared everything they had with us. One of the most significant lessons I learned while there, is that when people have very little, relationships are everything. This experience forever changed us, and I can see that it has changed you too. You write well, and have returned with cultural riches you can't acquire any other way. Thank you for sharing your experience.

Dorothy
Redmond

Thanks, Jackie for sharing your experiences in such a way that I could almost see and touch and smell and hear what you did. Thank you also for your insights into the Muslim world at an intimate level. We all need to know more but this was a great start.

Anita
Utah

Jackie, you have grown into such a wonderful, articulate and compassionate young woman. Watching your Dad's shows over the last decade plus, we've seen you and Andy grow up. Though we've never met (met your Dad), it feels like we know you. Reading your thoughts and views in this journal has provided additional insight into the extraordinary person you've become. Continue to keep yourself grounded and you will always do well.

Holly Campbell
Salem, Oregon

Hi Jackie. I have enjoyed watching your father's exploits on TV for so many years that they even preceed your appearing in any of his shows. I have also loved watching you and your brother grow--not only up--but reaching outward towards life and all it has to offer.

As a father I can assure you that your parents are extreemly proud of you--not only for getting outside your comfort zone, but for being such a well educated and insightful young adult.

Hopefully your journal is just a precursor to your following in those huge footprints of your esteemed father.

ciao,

Randall Robinson

randall robinson
Colorado

Jackie. Thank you for sharing your visit to Morocco. Travel is a life-changing experience, but living with another family must reveal so much more. Your adventure, thoughts and reactions took me there with you.

Paddy Eger
Edmonds, Washington

Jackie, You are a very special young woman. Your comments show that you took all the best things from your trip and learned all the right lessons. You are correct in not pitying your hosts but also in not glorifying their poverty. The most important lesson you have learned is that happiness comes from within and form one personal relationships. Thanks for sharing your experiences.

george archer
montreal

Jackie....thank you for sharing your experiences. I was very moved by your writing and almost felt like I was there with you.....a sign of an excellent writer. Please be proud of all the life lessons learned!

Moira Podgurski
San Diego

I really enjoyed reading your journal. What an amazing experience! I think it speaks well for you that you were able to put aside your American life and live with and enjoy this Moroccan experience.

Many years ago, I visited a Turkish family and also had an unforgettable encounter with a Turkish toilet.

As a retired English teacher, I'm also very impressed with how well you write.

Peggy Coffey
Spokane

Jackie- I am very impressed with your perspective. It clearly is more mature than the average high school students. Travel gives such a wonderful view of the lives of others, but especially helps us view our own lives more completely. Good luck with your senior year.

Josh
Kansas

What a wonderful journal! Jackie, you write extremely well -- everything vivid, truthful and very interesting. You may possibly have a future as a journalist, or even as an author. Have you ever considered that?

Thank you for sharing your wonderful journal! Sincerely, Barbara Epplett

Barbara Epplett
Eugene, Oregon

I really was facinated by your journal, Jackie. It brought alot back for me. In 1953, when I was about your age and also going to prep school, I spent a summer on the coast of France with a French family who had a daughter near my age. Although the cultural differences were not as great, much of the learning process and emotional stuff was so similar! You will treasure your journal.I still have mine. Hafez (Sufi name) Susan Ward

Susan Ward
Tucson, Arizona

Jackie...what interesting and informative writing. You are very mature for your age and how fortunate to be able to travel all over the world. You have a good head on your shoulders. I so love your father's program on TV and hope to join one of his travel groups next year. Thank you!

Laurel
Seattle

I really liked your journal and think you had a great expereince in Morocco. I do want to correct the idea that they didn't have great highways 15 years ago as I was in Morocco in 1962-63 and traveled from Rabat to Kenitra and to Casablanca and other cities and the roads were great. They didn't pay any tolls however. I next drove through Spain to France and the roads in Spain were less satisfactory.

sharon cann
Bluffton, SC

Jackie, rarely have I been so impressed with another's insight! You have obviously been raised to assess the world from a perspective much different than many American gals... and I hope for you that this carries you into an adulthood that continues to persuasively influence others that there is room in this world for all cultures to flourish in their own light. Thank you for the time and energy it took to make this journal a reality! You are a very impressive young lady! Blessings.

Lori Taylor
Lopez Island, WA

Jackie, What a great read! You write extremely well. You were a great ambassador for the US--what a mature, young lady! We all need to learn more about cultures to understand different peoples and their religions, especially the Muslim and Arab cultures. Thanks for the enlightening journal. You will never forget this experience and it will be a highight of your secondary education, and most likely of your whole life. Do keep in contact with your host families and try to keep your promise to visit again. Merci encore! K. Nolan

K. Nolan
WA

Wow, an American teenager with such a mature and global outlook! How refreshing. I am an American myself (from Chicago), here in Germany for 4 months, taking a breather from our country (armed of course with about 7 of your father's books). When I say "how refreshing," I really mean it. I had been feeling some sense of despair over the trajectory on which we Americans seem to be, but you've left me with a lot of hope. I hope you will never lose your ideals because your generation needs it. Our whole country needs it. Morocco is the tip of the ice-berg unfortunately. I hope some day you will be able to make it to India where I grew up. It's a place that western visitors either love or hate, but I already know you will absolutely love it because you'll learn from it. The next time you want to give your system a little shake (!) I hope you'll consider India. All the best to you and your family (all your families)!

Mona
Bonn, Germany

Jackie, I thought your article was wonderful. It was inciteful, descriptive, personally challenging, and very informative. Thank you for writing it. It is good to know that some young people have the desire to learn about others and other ways of life that are so different from ours and which require sensitivity and understanding. Thank you again.

Katie Whitmer
Albany, California

I had intended to only "scan" this journal out of curiosity, but ended up reading every word with appreciation for the incredibly mature and insightful descriptions of time spent in a very different place. Sounds like this trip was a life-changing experience!

Jane Perry
Conover, North Carolina

Jackie ... what an awesome experience! And even though you have a background in travel and your dad has spent his life doing the same, I think you should be very proud of yourself for stepping forward and going some place that many girls your age would be terrified to do. I know you learned an incredible amount. From my mission trips to Mexico, I, too, learned that humble people who have relatively little, compared to Americans, seem to possess a happiness and contentment that many of us do not. Yes, how dare we suppose that we should somehow change this for them? I know that you will desire to have more interactions with various cultures of the world. If only more Americans did this, we would have a clearer understanding of life on this planet. I loved reading about your experience and you also have a talent for writing and expressing yourself. I hope you do get to return to Morocco some day with your babies! Happy travels!

Nanci Irwin
central Florida

Like the previous comments, I was very impressed with your journal. I felt I was there with you. It was like one of your dad's TV programs but better- mostly Because you stayed longer with one family. You got to know them in a way that a normal traveler can't. I too think it is important to learn of others cultures. I think each culture has a right to be left to believe what they want as long as they do not try to keep others from their freedom of belief. I think having educated Mothers is very important. Mothers are the heart of the home. I think home life is very important. We could learn a lot about having ALL our meals together as a family. The island people are also very free to give of their substance. If you complement a painting or item they too will give it to you. We Americans have a lot to learn. Thank you for your insight. I hope you will continue to go on trips like this one and continue to share your insights and feelings. We have all been blessed by reading them. Thanks

Sarah J
Roseville, California USA

Mr. and Mrs. Steves - what a marvelous young lady you have given the world! What a refreshing change from the Britneys, Lindsays and Paris's.

Jackie - you are the future and the future looks very bright! Thank you.

Carol
Vancouver, Canada

Excellent article. I wish all kids her age could take the trip but more than that I wish all kids were as compassionate and savvy as she is at her young age.

Dick Foss
Miami, Fl.

Wow Jackie, you are a brave girl. I hope you always keep your courage and your open heart.

Mary Anne
Syracuse NY

Dear Jackie --

No, that doesn't make you a communist; it makes you human. Now, if you insisted on forcing other people to think as you do and to support your favorite cause, then you would be a communist, but if you use your wealth to ease the burden on others and merely encourage others to do the same -- that's not communism, that's love.

Frank Clarke
Florida

Jackie, I loved reading your journal and was so impressed with your insights and your instincts. They were right on and I felt that I was right there. I can see that this was a stretch for you but you handled the challenges with flying colors. It is evident that your vast travel experiences, and the values and attitudes of your parents have contributed in creating the wise and loving young woman you have become.

Jeanne Jusaitis
Petaluma, CA

Jackie, What a wonderful experience!Thank you for sharing it with us. I wish that every young American would have the opportunity to do exactly as you have done...totally immerse themselves in a culture OTHER than Euro-American. You have learned so much that will enrich your life and perhaps guide you not only in your choice of career but in all your adult decisions. You, in turn, have given your host family and country another way to look at things especially their attitudes towards females and just perhaps, seeing young woman such as yourselves,so capable and confident, will be remembered positively by the next generation of Moroccan males! Again, Thanks ,Eleonore Miller, Santa Rosa California

Eleonore Miller
Santa Rosa California

Shookran Jackie. I'm so happy you took this journey now rather than later and shared it with us. I believe we may all grow in understanding ourselves as members of this diverse human family were it for more ambassadors like you.

Paul
San Francisco

Hi Jackie, I loved your journal. You're so much like my 19-year old daughter who even also went to Morocco this summer, that this could have been written by her. I sent her the link to it. Also I just wanted to say that you mentioned that "Some people have the time to sit around and decide to be depressed", talking about the difference in American and Moroccan cultures. Do you think it could be that some things in American culture, ie high divorce rate, isolation, etc. could cause this depression, rather than people "deciding" on it. Also I think many people in the US grow up in unhappy families, making depression easier for them. This is simplistic, but I just wanted to point out that the happy families in Morocco and many other cultures could be a stave to depression and that Americans don't as much decide to be depressed but just are, as an outcome of the problems in our society.

Ellen
US

Jackie: I was deeply touched by your comments. My wife & I, too, have spent time in Peru with people so poor they literally didn't have "a pot to pee in", but returned with the same general feeling you have. Understanding, forgiveness, and compassion are critical. Education is paramount if we are to gain collective insight into "getting along". Trying to spread democracy is ridiculous, but spreading the concepts of equality and understanding are not. As education does its job, equality in thinking and acceptance will cause significant shifts in a society. What you experienced will begin to have profound impacts on your evolving maturity, & I hope you will embrace these impacts. All people are basically needful of the same things - shelter, food, love, and respect by their fellows. That is how all societies rise and fall. To loose sight of those elements is to cast oneself onto the dungheap of the world. Richard King, Age 72, Grandfather to 15

King35@aol.com
Billings, MT

Thanks Jackie for posting your journal. Real people interacting with real people provides the understanding that makes this world a better place.

Darrelyn
Wisconsin

I read with great interest Jackies blog. She follows in her fathers footsteps as far as mastering travel writing. I found it very insiteful. She is very mature for her 17 years.

I also found it hard to believe this little girl that her dad had taken on a trip to England 14 years ago(and shared with the world on a CD) was now traveling by herself to remote corners of the world.

Way to go , Jackie !

C L Olofson
Oakdale MN

Jackie, Wonderfully written and thank you so much for sharing your experiences of your trip! I've been a traveler for many years like your parents and I feel there is an understanding of other cultures and their importance you gain by actually going to locations that you can not get any other way! Americans need these insights more then ever with the times we are in today and I thank you for your contribution! Keep up the good work!

Sharon Cooley
Hemet, California

Jackie, thank you so much for sharing your journal with all of us. I am impressed not only with your great writing but also with your observations and shifting emotions during your month in Morocco. It was a pleasure, albiet a sometimes teary one, to read your entries. It will be wonderful if we have the opportunity to follow your further great adventures!

Sharyn
Berkeley

Very interesting, insightful and well-written! Dad must be very proud!

Sandee
Kirkland

Thanks for sharing your journal Jackie. Very impressive and very well written. I did wonder if your parents knew about your health issues. As a Mom I thought to myself, "Best to know about it later!!!" I too feel it is important to empower the women of the world. Maybe we would have fewer wars? I'm looking forward to hearing about your next travels. Raleigh Nowers (Mrs)

Raleigh Nowers
Mercer Island, WA

Jackie, what a wonderful description of the varied experiences in Morocco. You show perceptions far above what most teens would understand. Thank you for being a wonderful example of what an American teen can be. And thanks to Rick and Anne who obviously did an outstanding job of raising a very level headed young woman, even though her father is important in much of the world. I will look forward to hearing more about you in the future.

Darleen R. Johnson
Redmond, WA,, USA

I'm sure your parents are very proud of you and what you have learned in this experience. Travel is wonderful, as you Dad knows. I sent my 20yr daughter to Europe, backpacking for 4 months and she used your Dad's guidebooks to teach her the ropes. It was an experience of a lifetime and she grew in self confidence and knowledge.

Going to an underdeveloped country is very special.

You are an excellent writer. You should consider that as a career.

Debby Miller
Pacific Grove, CA

Jackie, Thankyou for sharing your journal. I throughly enjoyed reading about your experiences and your observations were enlightening. I especially found your views on"happiness" very thought provoking. It sounded like a wonderful experience that all of us could benefit from. Thanks again, Janice

Janice
Raymond, Wa.

I have to share that I was very moved reading this journal. I sat down to just look at the pictures but was very intrigued with your experience, from the daily activities of living to how the Morrocan lifestyle differs so much from ours. Your observations on consumerism and happiness are very insightful. Thank you for sharing your trip with us.

Pam Pert
San Clemente CA

I think it is important to appreciate everything we as Americans are entitled to . But we shouldnt feel guilty because our parents came here, worked hard, achieved the dream and were able to proved us with a bright future. What we need to do is pursue our freedoms and help others to achieve their dreams. I really enjoyed reading this journal, and as always I feel even more proud to be part of a society that considers all to be equal, and where we can determine our own future! It is important to educate ourselves and not be told what to think or believe by the media, it is through educating ourselves that we become empowered. Americans are not ignorant, but the media would like you to belive that you are. Like Rick says, through travel and immersing ourselves in other cultures we learn more about ourselves!!!!! Happy Travels!!!!

Gina
New York

This is a beautifully written and detailed account of an intelligent, thoughtful young woman's immersion in a very different culture, one that very few Westerners will ever have the opportunity to experience so fully. I am just so pleased that you have the opportunity to share this wonderful journal with such a wide audience.

Shelly
Anchorage, AK

Jackie, Thanks for sharing your journal. I'm impressed by your maturity and honesty. This is an experience you'll never forget.

Eunice
Boston

First of all thank you for taking the time, energy and thought to produce your journal. To have done so while experiencing so much plus being ill is a real accomplishment. Second I would like to say that reading it really was fascinating and thought volitionprovoking. I believe that for Westerners, the Muslim issue will be the dominant theme for the next 50 years and that western Europe will especially be involved and affected by it. I wish you much happiness and hope that you do go back to those places one day. I went to university in Spain in the 1960s and went back recently after 38 years and was totally amazed by the changes and the lack of changes living side by side.

Karen Cliby
Grants Pass OR USA

Having lived for seven years in North Africa, I can't believe that didn't have cell phones. It seems like it was a great experience for you. Of course you can taste a culture in a few weeks, but it takes years to really understand it.

Patrick Dennis
Tunis, Tunisia

i am glad your travels went well. it sounds like your host families were great! yes , we consume alot..but our economy is based upon our consumption! a definate draw back. definetly keep in touch with your friends. good friends are treasure beyond price.

laura sierra
des moines , washington

How very interesting were your comments.It was great to read a young persons views on the country of Morocco. Today I am 67 but years ago I lived for two years in Germany in 1962. I was a new bride, all of the new experiences have stayed with me for a lifetime as we lived above a German family. I cried and cried when I left that country, but did return 25 years later on my anniversary. We have traveled around the world and followed many of your Dad's suggestions. In fact we are going to see him on Friday night. Travel when you are young is such a gift. It opens your eyes to the world. Thank you

Donna Brinkman
Hutchinson,Mn

What a wonderful journal. How fortunate you are to be able to have this experience at your young age! Understanding is the biggest step to acceptance and there's no better way to understand someone than to live as they live.

Jenice
Pittsburgh, PA

Jackie,

Just finished reading your short version of Morocco Journal and can't wait to read the full one. Have say that I'm pretty much like you and trying my best to live a much more simplier lifestyle that you and your friends experienced while you were in Morocco for the month. At the same time still trying to stay commerical.

Think thats it for now.

Good luck with you senior yr of high school and college.

Thank you.

Jessica A
New York City USA

Your journal was wonderful-so refreshing and thoughtful. What a great experience you had. I am so glad to see you open to understanding and living in another culture, and then reflecting on your own life of abundance. I am hoping you will continue to work toward bringing understanding of other ways of life to more teenagers.

Vicki
San Diego, USA

Hi Jackie, Thank you for being so honest about your thoughts and reactions and informative in describing your experiences. I found your openness to and curiosity about new people and unfamiliar situations refreshing and reassuring. You were clear about where you started and how you were changed. Your willingness to examine your own values and expand your notions of what really makes for a well lived life reflects well the maturity and confidence of your own parents and teachers. Thank you for expanding my own world with your generous sharing. I look forward to more.

Carolyne
Timber Cove, CA

Wonderful journal entries! Fascinating reading! Thanks for sharing it! I wish you the best in your future travels, and in your continued learning of other peoples and cultures. I grew up overseas, and can identify with many of your experiences.

Rebecca Whitmore
Yakima, WA

Excellent journal Jackie! You have a wonderful unselfish attitude toward life, the fact that you volunteered to be part of the cultural program says a lot about your character. There are a few teenagers I know who would benefit from the same visit you made, unfortunately they would have to be dragged kicking and screaming to Morocco. It is sad that quite a few kids these days just don't realise how good they've got it and take life so much for granted. Reading your journal was a delight, the way you express yourself so eloquently, it wasn't hard to visualise the people and the village as I read your descriptions. I think your dad had better watch out, he has serious competition! :-)

Paula
Canada

Your journal was fascinating. I'd like to know more about the summer camp and its curriculum before supporting it; the madrasas that teach hate along with the Koran have made me wary.

Rita
California

Jackie, your journal from Morocco was wonderfully insightful and your comment about the responsibility derived from the inequalities of the world touches the heart. I wonder if you would enjoy learning more about the former president of Ireland, Mary Robinson, whom I recently heard speak here in Omaha. She has spent a lifetime devoted to the support of women's rights and, as a speaker, presents a reasonable global vision. Good job, Mr. and Mrs. Steves.

Mary Lou Sherrerd
Omaha, NE

I was very impressed with the quality of your observations re Islam and Morrocan culture.Hope you someday help to shape your Governmen's policies.

Stephen Steeves
Newfoundland Canada

I commend you for what you did & the experience you had. It was really eye-opening experience for me reading your journal. Trying to understand a different culture. Knowing they are happy where they live & what they do. Family means everything to them. That is great. With we had more of that here. We shouldn't think our way is the best. Thank you again for sharing your experience.

Char H.
Auburn CA

I always use your father's guide books on my trips to Europe and I really enjoyed reading your journal until I got to this sentence: "Some people have the time to sit around and decide to be depressed." You learned alot on your trip, but you obviously know nothing about depression. It is not a "choice." It can be crippling and it something that many people - Americans and others - must fight every day. Please do not dismiss it. I'm sure there are people in Morocco who suffer from depression - just because all you saw was "happiness" does not mean that it isn't there.

Josephine
USA

Seems to be that Jackie is a bit of a snob and spoiled child with her comments. Such as of "wealthy family, wealthy prep school and $200. jeans, who would let their teenager waste their money on such things and then at the same time advertise "in the back door" travel. A bit of hyprocricy if you ask me!

Andrea Alexander
Anchorage

I enjoyed your adventure so much. I should be going to bed now, but I had to finish your journal. I too experience life in a small village when I'm in Russia. There is no running water in the house which also means no bathroom(just the outhouse). These people have very little and seem to be happy, friendly and hospitable. We are a very spoiled country. We have so much yet there are so many unhappy people here. I was glad to see that someone your age wanted to experience that sort of living and you came away so much richer for it.

Jean
Tierra Verde, Florida

I am very impressed at the attitude and maturity of Jackie for the courage, experience and sharing in the culture of a family in a foreign country. I'm sure she will cherish and learn from this experience many years to come.

Janice
New Jersey

Congratulations, Jackie, for having the fortitude to travel and live amongst the people who are your hosts. This is what your Dad preaches; but you have taken it to a whole new level. You are a very sensitive,heartfelt and articulate writer. Your journal has allowed us, in a small way, to share your adventures. Thankyou. Keep up the good work.

Jim Gordon
Kamloops,B.C.

Jackie, I enjoyed your journal and want to compliment you on your sensitivity, intelligence, and honesty. We have a two week old grandaughter, and I will be delighted if she grows into the beautiful and heartwarming 17 year old that you are.

Kathy
California

Jackie, I am in 10th grade (fourth year in Ireland)and I though that your journal was excellent. I keep a journal myself that I prided myself on being very in-depth, but now I am ashamed! Your journal was very interesting and I thought your take on the Muslim culture was very impressive; it was very insightful and descriptive, like a good book. This journal was a great achievement (I definitely couldn't write that much!) and you should be proud. Now I'm basically repeating what almost everyone else has written, but obviously because this is a great piece of work. Hopefully someday more Americans will become less close-minded and more open-hearted like you. laurenort at gmail.com 5 November, 2007 P.S.- I lived in Redmond, WA for a year once.

John Ortiz
Dublin, Ireland; formerly Corvallis, OR

Jackie, Your parents have EVERY reason in the world to be proud of you! You are a beautiful, smart, articulate, spiritual, wise and caring lady. Thanks for sharing your experiences and your heart for the world with us. May God continue to bless you in all your future endeavors.

Sara
Michigan

Jackie: Thank you so much for sharing such a heartfelt experience. I have been fortunate to live with a family two different times in Guatemala while learning Spanish and your descriptions of being out of one's comfort zone are right on. Even though I was in my 30's when I was in Guatemala studying, I had great empathy for what you went through.

I hope to introduce my 11 year old daughter to living overseas, and it may well be in Croatia or Bosnian. I have experienced the double standard you speak of with Muslim's and Islam as is practiced in Bosnia, much as your experiences.

You are wise beyond your years. Empowerment of women is critical, regardless of religious beliefs. Knowledge is power.

Best wishes as you continue your growth and journeys.

Marti
Idaho

Jackie, I thought I was dreaming. I returned from Morocco, Tuesday, 10/30 and read ur article on Thurs. What a coincidence. I cried as I read your journal and nodded with understanding. Although the tour I was on left much to be desired, I have many wonderful memories and your article helped 2 keep me aware. The Moroccans are one of the nicest group of people I ever met. I do not speak French, but did my best w/Arabic/French & sign language. I also got sick, My 1st experience w/turkish toilets was last year in Turkey on Rick Steves tour w/Lale I applaud you. I have made copies of ur article & encouraged my friends to read. I became somewhat spiritually attached to our bus driver and wil be sending school supplies to him, as well as anything else I can think of that is hard for them to get and afford. on my tour he stopped along the road to share all he had, food, drink which I had begun to give him in the beginning of my trip). Now I feel I must continue w/generosity.Inshallah

Barbara Harris
USA

Thank you Jackie for that wonderful window into your journey, and quite a journey it was. I just returned home from 5 weeks in Italy 2 of which I spent with "cousins" I hardly knew. Although your trip was much more raw, I had some similar experiences and it was great to remember the after dinner conversation, political understandings, daily routines, ect... Thanks again

Jenna
Ohio

Wonderful! So thoughtful and considered. And you write so well. What you have done and been through is so valuable and every American should have to do the same thing. If that happened this would be a much more understanding and appreciative world. So many Americans are Amer-centric thinking that our way is the only way and trying to shove it down everyone else's throat. Why is it so difficult for our politicians to simply leave others alone? Let them live their lives the way they choose (barring of course, violence and cruelty). As you found out first-hand, they know what is important and what isn't and they don't need all of the artificiality that Americans seem to see as neccessity. Anyway, a really good job!

Rick
Windsor, CT

I really enjoyed reading your journal and hearing about your Morroccan experience. I'm a baby boomer who still likes to think that the world is a good place with good people. I wish all Americans could come to know even a little about other cultures. It's very reassuring to see that you're doing so! And I think your writing is great!! Best of luck to you in the future!!

Jan Wagner
Allison Park, PA

Jackie your experience will forever change your views of the cultural differences in our world The love and acceptance that you expienced will always be with you reminding you that despite the vast differences in the Muslim beliefs they are people that can love and accept you Marlene

marlene moe
Dublin ohio

Jackie, This was great. Once I started reading your journal, just couldnt stop. Your family must be extremely proud of you. Hope to hear from you in the future.

Mick
South Dakota

Jackie, Thank you for your insights on your Moroccain experience. You painted such a percise picture of their raw, natural and loving cultural. I have lived in Saudi in the past and have traveled to many other muslim countries and always felt it was my duty to represent Americans as nonjudgmental, with good morals and caring. I see that you represented us in the same way and I appreciate that so much. When you travel abroad you are the only American many of the people you meet will ever encounter. That is a huge responsibility. I agree that encouraging the education of woman is of upmost importance, your insight is great and I can see you making a difference for these woman someday in the future. Keep up the good work. Your parents must be proud!

Dita
Portland, Or.

Dear Jackie, you have really left me speechless, in a most positive way. Whjat a blessing you are to your parents, family, school, nation and to yourself. I sincerely doubt you will lose any of these gifts. The ones you gained in Morocco, and the ones you went with. I've only read about 15 of the other comments, and I do wonder how you feel when you read them. Overwhelmed I'm sure. I agree with all of them. You need to realize people are not just being polite, or fantastic in their praise. What they say is true. I wanted it to not end. You need to keep writing , in some form at least. Your messages are so important, honest, and provoking, that they need to be heard. Your obvious first reaction to new is to learn. Your obvious 2nd reaction to new is to be open and inherent in that is to find what you can love and not be intolerant. Exactly what I hope I'm teaching my children. If you stay on this very path you're on we all will only benefit and so will you. God Bless you, Jackie

Kathy
Chappaqua, NY

Jackie I so enjoyed reading the highlights from your journal. Thank you for sharing. What a remarkable trip you had! Good luck your senior year and in your future travels.

Chere Weiss
Kelso, WA

Jackie, What a great journal. You did a wonderful job putting your experiences and feelings into words. I've watched you grow up on your dad's travel shows. I hope you will join the business! You have real writing talent, and good observational abilities. Thanks for sharing. Hope you are having a great senior year!

Debby Jones
Georgetown, Texas

Jackie, I really enjoyed reading your journal! You have a lot of potential as a writer. I am really impressed with your insight and some of the issues you found yourself pondering. I am the mother of a 25, 23 and 13 year old who all live a fairly priveledged lifestyle. You are so wise to have taken the opportunity to do this trip, immersing yourself in a truly foreign culture! Clearly you learned things that will be with you always.

Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us!

Jill
Hawaii

Extremelly well written. I think I sense some influence from your father and mother. Keep it up. I appreciated your insights into affluence, happpiness, etc. Good for you.

Robert Wolf
Raymore, Missouri

This was a wonderful read. I was in the Peace Corps in Uzbekistan and saw many of the same observations about the women and poor in this Muslim Country. My life has been enriched by your comments. You are a great writer and I look forward to you working for your father at his company. Thank you. I will try to contribute to the summer camp. Take Care. Mimi DeMore demoremarie@yahoo.com

Mimi DeMore
Indianapolis, IN

Jackie's very candid journal proved most interesting. I am encouraged by her overall thoughts of adjusting her life style to be more aware. She not only shared part of herself with her host families, she gathered lasting impressions that will guide her individual philosophy. What a trmendous opportunity to discover the world. I'm impressed.

Mary E Hayes
Phoenix Arizona

Jackie - so many of us have been inspired and led by your father, but often those kind of lessons are lost on or ignored by the children or immediate relatives of such a teacher, who choose to strike out in their own direction. It speaks so highly of both you and him that you seem to have adopted his open "student-of-the-world" philosophy while infusing it with your own perspectives as a younger person, a woman, and a different human being. Thanks to you both, and may you both keep sharing your experiences so eloquently with those of us who try to follow in your footsteps, while also making our own...

Julian
Dallas, TX

Perhaps you could go to a public school and use the savings to help fund a school in Morocco.

Joe
USA

Jackie, I watch your dad's program every chance I get. I ,too, am a Christian and have served as a missionary for the past 22 years. I was extremely impressed not only with your writing skills and ability to articulate your experience, but with your values as well. You have perspective, values, and a world vision that few adults have attained. Although we've never met, I am proud of you and know your parents are too. Keep up the good work.

gkennyj
Charlotte, NC

Hi Jackie, I'm back to make another comment. I have to tell you, I sent your blog to my daughter who also went to Morocco this past summer, she read the whole thing and said I was right, you two ARE exactly alike!! She really enjoyed reading it also, and we agreed you're a really good writer! I've been watching your Dad's shows for years, thinking of the amazing experiences you and Andy were having, and sort of fascinated to see how it all would affect you, your career choices, etc. I liked what you said about ...I really like the cheek-cheek kiss because it is intimate yet less awkward than a hug can potentially be. That was cute, and I agree! Thanks again for publishing your journal, it was so interesting!

Ellen
USA

Well done, sounds like a great learning experience. We have watched your dad for years and am not surprised at your wanting to learn about the world.

Sondra Wagener
Seattle

Jackie, your insight is amazing. It wasn't until my 30s that I showed that much maturity and global understanding.

I urge you to take that trip to India at some point. For me -- even as an Indian -- it is more difficult than traveling through Morocco, but it is well worth it for someone as bright and mature as you.

Meena
Illinois

How wonderful to read a journal by a young person who is grateful to be able to travel and appreciated the experience. I went to Morocco when I was even younger (10), and I chronicled my trip. It really changes your view of Africa. It's definitely not the Africa you see on TV. Reading this brought back some memories.

Malecia
Dallas, TX

Jackie, what an amazing journey! Thank you for sharing your thoughts and experiences. Your travel writing is excellent and you seem to have a natural talent for observing people as they are without interjecting your own expectations and ideals. There could be no better ambassador for the United States than yourself.

Kimbra
Iowa

Through watching The Rick Steve's travels on PBS, I have followed the family grow up. How very proud Rick & Ann must be of their daughter and son. Jackie's observations of her Muslum family and their life style in the Village was most interesting and very enlightening. It behooves us all to learn more about the Muslum world and become more tolerant of others beliefs. Thank you so much Jackie for renewing my trust that our younger generation will strive to make our world more peaceful by stepping out of their comfortable consumerism zone and seeking out real happiness. May peace be with you. Betty Holman A fan of the Rick Steve's family.

BETTY HOLMAN
Seattle, WA

Jackie, while I agree with you that Americans have problems related to consumerism and from watching too much TV, I was bothered by your comment "It is my interpretation, however, that they are simply not influenced nearly as easily as most ignorant Americans." While I respect your honesty for speaking your mind, I think this attitude may be misguided. Ignorance knows no national or cultural boundaries. Perhaps a trip outside of your comfort zone in the USA to a more impoverished part of the country would help you understand why other Americans believe what they believe. Instead of being so quick to criticize you might be more empathetic to their situation. And you could be an ambassador of good will right here at home.

Rob
Oregon

I was cleaning out my "inbox", and was anxious to get it done ... began reading Rick's notes on Morrocco ... and then Jackies. I couldn't stop, had to finish it ... I'm so impressed ... very interesting observations which were "right on". She is an excellent writer ... expresses herself well ... "has it all together". If she contributes to the Steve's Journals, it will be considered a "must read".

James Perry
Raleigh, NC

Has anyone ever told you your writing skills are very good? I enjoyed your article, especially your honesty about the Turkish bathrooms. We subscribe to Budget Travel and watch travel shows, but I have never read or heard someone describe a country like you have.

Robert
Drexil Hill, Pa

Jackie it seems that by opening your mind and your wonderful sense of belonging you were able to see the world around you as the Peace and Life we all want to enjoy. Travels always are another key to life no matter where you go. Keep up the fantastic literary sense you have.

thanks

Marion Borchardt
Kansas, Oklahoma

Jackie...Your journal was excellent. You have such an understanding of our world and all of it's differences and contradictions.

Fritz
Philadelphia

What an absolute delight to read such an insightful, thoughtful, and beautifully written journal. Jackie does what all great writer do, she transports you to another world. She is an intelligent and compassionate young lady. Rick, the apple hasn't fallen far from the tree!

Diane Leslie
Santa Monica, CA

Jackie, Thanks so much for sharing your insights. You write honestly, without bias or agenda. I felt every detail in your descriptions. Your perspective reveals deeper questions that we can all benefit from looking at on a personal level. I especially enjoyed reading the responses to your "interview" questions with your foreign family members. Perhaps you can have your own column, allowing for Q & A with the connections you make in each country you visit. It's interesting to note the abundance of affection and displays of warmth you experienced, despite the lack in materialistic lifestyle. No matter the conflicts or issues, you prove once again the Universal language and bond is Love.

Thank you, Jackie.

Marjorie
Colorado Springs, CO

I really enjoyed reading your stories and the insight you brought back on how we can lead different life styles, from affluence to rudimentary needs, yet happiness is not necessarily affected by either. Simply put, "things gained" do not equate happiness. Thank you for sharing your experience with us.

Barbara
Sacramento

Hi Jackie,

My husband and I have traveled for many years using your father's travel books and his philosophy for travel. We had enjoyed many trips to Europe. In watching his PBS shows we have watched you grow up so to speak on these shows. You were so young on some trips he carried you in his arms. So it was so enjoyabe to read of your travels and how you've grown into a lovely young lady. From reading your journal you are a beautiful person inside and out. Thank you for posting your journal. It was interesting reading.

A fan of your family

Anne Mayville
Central New Youk

Jackie, Thank you for sharing your experience as well as your heart. I could not stop reading your journal once I began. How I wish that I had this depth of understanding about the world as a teenager. I hope that you will continue to experience and to write so that more people can be inspired and motivated by your words. I now have one more reason to be your father's fan!

Amy
CA

Jackie, it is obvious that your parents have done a marvelous job in raising you. Your journal indicates that you are an intelligent, caring, and simply a good person. If you and your friends are the future of the United States, we will be in good shape.

Mike Lee
Wheeling, Illinois

thank you. Your writing and vision was both informative and educational. You are very wise for such a young person. Your parents must be very proud of you.

pierre
cleveland, oh

Wow! I am totally impressed with your values as a teenager growing up in America. Your writing is free flowing, thoughtful and interesting. I printed it and sent it to my 12 year old granddaughter...I think the message you were sending is much more meaningful coming from a contemporary. Thank you for sharing your journey and keep on traveling and writing!!! Your parents have every right to be VERY proud of you!

Shirley Knight
Bremerton, WA

Jackie, please consider publishing your journal in book form. I just finished reading the highlights version online and was moved to tears several times by your evocative writing, and most of all, by your intelligence and open heart. With parents such as yours, I was not surprised. I hope you're feeling as good as new now, and that you will continue to explore this wonderful world of ours.

Linda
Sammamish, WA USA

Thanks for sharing your experiences. I just returned from traveling in Morocco so it was very timely to read your observations. Understanding more about other individuals, communities and cultures allows real people --not movies, politicians or extremists-- to shape our perceptions and views of the world.

Ardis
Winthrop

Jackie...There is a consistent underlying theme to your journal that is profound, yet unfortunately not one that many people in the world understand; that isolation breeds misinformation and hatred. You decided to broaden the scope through which you see the world by venturing out into something unfamiliar, somewhere many within our country deem to be hostile, perhaps frightening. Too often we are frightened by things that are unfamiliar; someone with a different color of skin, different religion, different language, etc...and rather than reaching out and bridging the divide, we are content to uniformly demonize the unfamiliar and therefore create enemies. If more people-especially leaders *ahem*-took the step to go out into the world with the mindset that you did, in an attempt to better understand it, then we wouldn't have the chaos and many unnecessary divisions we see now.

As a fellow "young person", I thought your journal was wonderful. Keep writing. You're good at it.

Ryan
California

Jackie, I truly enjoyed your journal. My own daughter is off for a family stay in Morocco in two weeks and I enjoyed getting a preview of what may await her.

Marilyn
Texas

Jackie, I enjoyed your journal very much. I've been a fan of your father's for years, since our daughter went to his travel talks in Seattle long ago. I loved your insights and discoveries about yourself and others. We need more citizens of the world like you. Your parents must be very proud. Carry on! Dorothy Burns

Dorothy Burns
Vestal, NY

I'm glad you had a great time in Morrocco. Thank you for sharing your experience. I would like to travel to that country someday; your journal definately encourages me to work hard so that I could make it happen.

Many blessings to you

Edward
California

I have watched you grow up via your dad's travel programs! And now you are this articulate, charming, thought-ful traveler in your own right. You represent America well. I thoroughly enjoyed your journal.

Donna
Woodinville

Really enjoyed reading your journal. Please correspond with your "mom, dad, sisters & brothers". Send them pictures - ocean, mountains & the ferries. Good luck to you.

Margaret Forthun
Seattle

I have a fairly good journal from our trip to Morocco in December 2005. It was an OAT Trip. We didn't live with a family but visited several families and schools and learned about and met a nomad family in the Sahara. I loved reading about your experience Jackie, and hope you've come away as I did loving the people and their way of life which they accept as normal. Only by visiting other countries can we become "open" Americans. Maybe in the future you can help others of your generation become more cosmopolitan. Do not overlook the fact that the Moroccans' opinions are not as open and as accepting as we would like to think. Thanks for sharing. I will forward my journal to you if you'd like to read it. jayekeis@tampabay.rr.com Jeanette Keisling

Jeanette Keisling
Florida

great pics.....what an amzing expierence.....thanks for sharing your travels...i look forward to seeing more of your travel journals in the future

Pammy
Norfolk, VA USA

We just this week returned from a 10 day trip to Morocco to visit our son who has lived in Fes, learning Arabic, for the last 3 months. It was a great trip -- I loved Fes (much more than Marrakech), and we had an amazing time. I really enjoyed reading your journal as it was fun reliving some of the experiences we had. Trust me -- I'm too old to use a squatty potty (unless they put steel disabled bars on them), but my son has one in the house (a riad) where he lives.

Anyway, thank you for sharing. It was a great read!

Jan
Wheaton IL

Thank you Jackie, for a pleasurable read. It's nice to hear your tales about living over there on a day-to-day basis....as opposed to most travelers who rush through a place in just a matter of days. You did something I would love to do, and I'm glad you found it rewarding. Morocco is definitely high on my must-visit radar!

Arthur
Queens, NY

As a young person like you Jackie (a little older - I'm a twenty-something who recently graduated from college), I could relate to your comments and loved your journal. Some older adults are quick to write off our generation (and I can even sense that in a few of the other comments written to you). Continue to use your voice and talents to show how our generation is trying to make a difference in our country and the world. We've grown up in a global economy and as a generation we think more about our impact on the world IMHO.

Sarah
Chicago

After reading the part about sharing the wealth it is clear that you don't understand economics. First, it is not a zero sum game. You are a great example in building your own business. Second, the reason these third world countries lag so far behind is because of a lack of freedom to create and develop. Feel guilt if you wish but you can a lot of good by advocating freedom, especially economic when you visit foreign countries.

I know that during my first visit to Albania they have failed to grasp the value of freedom and how it effects economic development. Sadly, Sali Barisi, could only emulate the bad characteristics of American politicians. There will be mired in failure for years and no amount of welfare will end it.

Jim Reid
San Diego, Ca

Jackie,

With my husband who was in the Navy, we were in Kenitra,formerly Port Lyautey, in the early 60s. Although none of us had the in-depth experience you did, I saw and learned quite a bit during the six months we lived in the city before moving to base housing. We lived first in a hotel that was clean but not at all elegant, and there was no private bath. And when we moved into a villa we had contact with quite a few Moroccan people. I loved going downtown and watching the daily life there, and as you mentioned driving is an interesting sport there. The first thing that impressed me was in driving on the highway from Kenitra to Rabat, we didn't see one piece of trash! It was unbelievable, and I assume it was because they don't throw away anything. They use whatever is available -- the day our household goods were unpacked, we had men waiting for the boxes. Your report is a great read, and I hope your dad will leave it on. Or will he publish it?

Emily

Emily Scheipers
Memphis

This was a wonderful journal, which tottaly captured my interest in the people and the culture. Jackie, your father must be very proud of you for taking on this trip and wonderful adventure into another culture. Your reporting was spectacular, even the part about your bieng ill. Great job. Thank you.

Bonnie Lennon
Roswell, GA.

Hi, Jackie! Your dad graduated with my kids, David, Margaret, and Jon Sampson there in Edmonds, so I am surprised to read that you were born in Redmond and not Edmonds as I had thought. I am a circumnavigator, spent 20 yrs. of my life (since widowhood) substituting at Christian mission stations around the world and treasure every experience EXCEPT the one you had of OLD men in India saying disrespectful things to me in the bazaars. I had been warned, and wore a sari all the time, thinking that would be protection, but it wasn't. I have decided they have been brain-washed with mothers' milk that any woman is a prostitute who goes alone to the bazaars. Good wishes for your future, Martha

martha sampson
Redmond WA

It's great that you can share your experiences in such an honest and forthright way. I have just come back from China, which has serious over-population and pollution problems, but I experienced two common threads of your experience in Morocco----everywhere I went, the people were friendly, curious (they don't see many "white-skinned, long-nosed" Caucasians, apparently quite happy with what they have, and incredibly generous, even those in tiny, obviously not very prosperous villages. So it struck me, as it struck you, that it does not take material wealth, as we have in Canada and the U.S. to create happiness. And for us North Americans, who for some reason try to equate wealth with happiness, it is a bit of a mystery how they are so happy with so little. Anyway, you have a gift for observing and writing about what you experience, so "keep on writing!"

Brian Case
Victoria, B.C.

What a wonderful journal to read, from such a mature young lady! I wish I could have read such journal entries about a teenager's traveling experiences before I traveled abroad in high school. Now that I am older and actually a high school teacher, I will share your insightful entries with my students. Excellent work and I look forward to seeing more of your travel writing!

Kristy Kraushar
Sacramento, CA

I was very moved by reading your journal. I am a Canadian currently teaching in the second poorest province in China (which, by the way, is drastically different from the China your dad experienced when he visited Shanghai a few years ago). I could relate to many of your experiences and feelings - some things are just so different when you get outside of the *Western* world. Like you, I hope that when I return to North America I won't forget what I've learned here.

Marilyn Laplante
China

Jackie, I enjoyed your journal but wondered about your statement that to feel that it is not fair for one person to have more than they need while others do not have enough would make you a communist. The Christian way is to share freely with those in need, the Communist way is to take by force from those who have and give to the those with less.

Carol

Carol
Washington

Outstanding journal with very impressive insights. I know your parents must be VERY proud of you, as a young woman of great determination and empathy. Thanks to your Dad's books and tapes, I have begun traveling the world, myself.

An interesting question to ask is how the increasingly rapid "globalization" of world economies affects a culture like Morroco. If the culture continues to surpress women (and men to some degree to by the religious values) and devalue education for all, how will this country and its people compete? Or will their inability to compete create frustration and anger? You note that you still do not understand why terrorism can arise from such a peaceful people and religion. Could such frustration and anger be the reason, and will it be the reason even more in the next one or two decades?

Good reason to continue your experiences and research into Arab culture and religion. If we learn more about each other, maybe we can help each other more.

Take care!

Jerome King
Tucson, Arizona

Jackie what a intense expression of your stay in Morocco. My husband and were there some years ago with our 3 children ages 7,10 and 13 on sabattical from our teaching jobs. We had a vw camper and camped and stayed in homes. Your comments reflected so much of what we experienced. My children now all adults felt as you did about realizing how much materialism ruled

harriet schultz
fullerton,Califrnia

continued] and how it changed the course of their lives. I'm sure it will do the same for you!

harriet schultz
fullerton,Califrnia

Dear Jackie, You are a genius and a chip off your Dad's shoulder. I was so impressed with your journal that it's incredible to believe you are so young. Thank you for sharing all the vivid and realistic details. I hope you can continue to travel and have such wonderful adventures, and of course, share them with us. Your attitude is super. Elayn Bigelow ebigelow@cox.net

Elayn Bigelow
Tempe, AZ

Jackie, I am facinated by your journal and the experiences you described. Your sensitive observations ,comments and ideas you shared with your "family" are so important today when our world is becomming both smaller and so much more dangerous.

As a mother and grandmother of teens I am proud and encouraged that the future is in your hands.

I have watched your family travel for many years. In fact I have risen at 5AM to watch 'Europe through the Back Door" over and over.

Our trip to Italy this fall was a great success thanks to all the information from your father's books.

Yes, the statue in Venice does look like Paul Newman!

Thank you so very mmuch for sharing.

Happy Trails.

Jean Grewe
Creve Coeur,MO.

Many countries in the world make military service compulsory. I was thinking that it would be a great idea to make travel compulsory..then we wouldn't need militaries at all

Jackie, this is a great blog...I'm eagerly awaiting your next trip..Please go to a Latin American country...I would love to visit through your blog :) Tell Rick that we readers would love to see that happen :)

Kumar Anbalagan
Redmond, WA

Curious to see how Jackie was able to do in the "Association Amal Sale" (also important to place Web page links to the Morocco page on the front Home page; as it is difficult to navigate back to Original article unless you spell Morocco exactly, and correctly in the "Search" window.)

How many kids went to Summer Camp?

Good job Jackie! :)

Chuck
Seattle

I'm almost without words with this experience you have brought to us, I'm impressed, amazed with so many things; from the detailed and well written journal of your trip, of how real it all feels when reading it, to the sensible topics it touches between two different cultures, religions and countries. I'm about your same age and I can't believe you went through this mission and I'm glad you did and brought to us all this insight, these thoughts and really good information, that it has to be shared. It reaches the heart, it puts you to think; what's really important in life, how all humans share an essential core to all their relations, how we are all very similar inside the pure heart and soul. There are many things written in this journal that many people fail to even come close to understand, because they simply prefer to ignore it. I admire you to go deeper, to care, think about and experience our true human soul, and later share the knowledge. That for me it's really beautiful. Tnx

Sarai
Puerto Rico

I thought the journal and the perspective presented in where articulate and showed much sensitivity to a different culture and religion.

I'm impressed with your innate ability to observe and verbalise your views and enjoyed reading your journal very much. I'm sure that you would go far in life, in view of your maturity and sensible nature. Warmest Regards

Shamun G.M
Singapore

What a beautiful and descriptive account by Jackie of her experiences in Morocco! She is wise beyond her years. The Steves have done a wonderful job of parenting and modeling for her.

Jim Cooney
Fresno, CA

Jackie, I have been an avid follower of your Dad's advice in traveling for more than 20-years now and knowing that you and your brother and mom have accompanied him on pleasure, and not working trips, has given you a sense of connectedness with people of all cultures. That's certainly why I travel!...I'm very impressed with the wisdom that you shared about the journey of life that all people in all cultures really and truly just want to be accepted and live a happy and peaceful existence. One thing that you said that I've found in my travels is that some Americans in their travels have a very microscopic perception that we are the only great country in the world. I've always found that very arrogant of most people in American to suggest that all other countries are lesser advanced, less cultured and respected in many ways, and not conscious that all people in all parts of the globe are connected with each other on my levels. Best wishes!

Philip Chirco
USA, Sacramento, California

Jackie, For someone so young (IMHO, you are a role model for young women and men. Well done. I look forward to seeing and hearing more from you in the future. BTW, the check is in the mail. Am anxious to see how many kids go to camp!

Maureen
Chicago

I FELT LIKE I WAS THERE WITH YOU, I also TRAVELED TO A FOREIGN CULTURE WHEN I WAS YOUNG TO GO TO SCHOOL. I RELIVED THE STRANGE AND THE EXCITING WITH YOUR STORY. I LOOK FORWARD TO YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE. YOU ARE AN EXCELLENT WRITER. VERY VISUAL

VICTORIA
GRAHAM, WA

I have admired Jackie and Andy since I first saw videos of them as small children. I would rather have their parents than Bill Gates or Donald Trump. They have had the DREAM childhood and are now very good-hearted respectful young adults. They didn't get that way by accident. I hope they thank God daily for the family they have....I am sure they do.

Chris
Indy

This is a wonderful journal. You are an inspiration for my family.

Rebecca Hatton
Ann Arbor, MI

You're a very bright kid, it's hard to imagine you're only seventeen... you show a thoughtfullness and maturity far beyond that of anyone your age I've ever met... You have painted a very vivid picutre of a place that I may never have the opportunity to visit... et c'est pas mal que tu as appris une autre langue... quelque chose que n'interesse pas à beaucoup des américains... quand je rentre chez moi ce soir, je vais montrer ton blog à ma femme aussi.

Best wishes for your future endeavours.

Mike B
Ohio

Absolutely brilliant! Fabulous writing! Congratulations on such an incredibly insightful piece. I couldn't stop reading...

Claire
Vancouver, BC

I have been a huge fan of your father's travel journals for many years now, and my husband and I have appreciated and travelled the world through his eyes.

Your expressive writing and articulate manner are impressive. Your open heart and ability to live "in the moment" is such a gift!

I hope my daughter is one day able to venture out and see how others live. She is only a toddler now, but we have already taken her on two Rick Steves-inspired holidays abroad!

I will keep the words from your journal in a safe place till then so she is able to read them and aspire to seek out a foreign adventure when she is ready.

Best of luck to you! You are a gifted and inspirational young adult with a very bright future.

Best, Tori

Tori
California

Thank you for sharing your extraordinary experiences from your summer 2007 in Morocco. It is wonderful to know the next Steves generation will continue the humanistic work of promoting understanding across cultures.

LuMarie
Tallahassee

Jackie, I was very impressed by your journal. I am Indian myself and think that many Americans do not understand that everybody around the world doesn't want to live by American standards. More youngsters need to have a broadening experience like yours but I applaud you for allowing your experience to teach you so much. Not everyone is this open minded.

Shruti
USA

As a US ex-pat living and travelling abroad I am sensitive to the issues you explored in your journal. You articulated so much of what my family are experiencing in our travels. Your sensitive and thoughtful observations will give you a lifelong reference of this formative experience. I am passing it along to my kids and other young friends to encourage and inspire them to keep such an important record.

Molly
London, UK

A very thoughtful & mature young lady. You seem to recognize & respect differences in people unlike your goverment. Loved reading your journel

Jim & Anne Farr
Mississauga Canada

You were young when you travelled(17) but you show a wisdom that many adults lack. Congratulations!

gerri
Florida

Thank you for sharing your experiences. You are eloquent and impressive, and have left me hopeful about the future of America.

Thanks for being a great ambassador to our country, and for being so open in your journal.

Krystin
Utah

Thanks for God who gave you the chance to find out the real feeling which muslim people have toward American or other people, and how we love all human. and the most important thing the difference between muslim and terorist. please tell people there who are us, thank you again.

Nacer
Algeria

I cannot tell you how impressed I am by the maturity and depth of introspection expressed in your journal. You simply reinforce my belief that only through travel do we get the opportunity to learn that while our society is blessed and a wonderful one in which to live, it in no way has the exclusive rights to happiness or the right to dictate to the rest of the world how to live. Our family will be traveling to Europe for the first time in 2009 (hopefully on one of your dad's tours), and I can only hope that my kids (who will be 16 and 11) will get at least a taste of what you have obviously learned through this trip and the others you have been able to experience with your parents. Thank you so much for sharing your experiences!

Alan
Mississippi

I was very interested in the article until the 2nd time I saw the reference to "ignorant Americans". Does this refer to those Americans who are less affluent than you or do you consider Americans to be generally lacking in intelligence? I tried to read on but lost the enthusiasm and respect for you. I do not believe in stereotypes no matter what the nationality and I deeply resent being referred to or having any others in my community, my state or my country referred to as ignorant. Perhaps it is those you live amongst who are ignorant and this is your frame of reference. Travel in Europe is great but perhaps you should travel in the United States to find out for yourself that all Americans, even Americans of limited means are not ignorant. Your dad's show has been one of my favorite for many years and his books fill my shelves. I sincerely hope he does not share this narrow minded view and that you did not get it from your parents.

Lynn Clark
Tampa

Having lived for many years in Marueco i find it interesting that you do not comment on the many people of differant races and religions that live in the cities.I have many friends some of whom are from other countries such as France, Spain, Holland and Portugal.Some are christian or Jewish.perhaps you were not aware.

Rinaldo
Ceuta

Jackie, you have a real talent for writing (and are so more mature at your age than I was!). I spent some time in an orphanage in Haiti last year and know how quickly you become attached to these people, especially when completely submerged in their culture. I cried right along with you and your "family" when you had to say goodbye, because I was taken back to my own experience through your wonderful articulation. With your open and positive attitude, I would definitely suggest the Peace Corps after college. I hope that you realize your experiences are fulfilling not only to you, but to all the lives you touch along the way. God bless you!

Bethany
Chicago

hi jackie..i read your moroccan blog with great interest. you are an eloquent writer and i felt like i had experienced the trip with you! congratulations on creating such an expressive, informative and well-written piece. thanks for sharing.

theresa palmer
moncton,new brunswick, canada

What a wonderful, honest reflection of your experience in Morocco, Jackie! I'm an English teacher who has chaperoned many school trips to Europe. I wish all young people would have the opportunity to experience another culture in aas much depth as you have. We're leaving for our first trip to Morocco very soon....I'll be able to take your stories with me! Aloha

Marnie Masuda
Maui

Jackie - I applaud you going to Morocco but I especially applaud your parents for allowing you to go......what a wonderful upbringing you must have had and it has prepared you for a lifetime of travel adventures. Enjoy!

Martha
Oregon

Hello Jackie,

We are very glad to see that the traveler's gene is indeed genetically transmitted. You have definitely picked up some trick of your own though, and we found your writing to be sensitive and thought provoking.

My wife and I run a vacation rental business in Paris and we have been exploring our options for travel throughout Europe and nearby.

Your experiences and thoughtful reflections have put Morocco on our list.

Thanks for sharing your observations and eloquence.

Merci

Ryan & Jennifer Miller Cobblestone Vacations Paris. http://cobblestonevacations.shutterfly.com/

Ryan & Jennifer Miller
Paris

Jackie, I could not stop reading your journal experiences. You write from your heart, think from your heart, and live from your heart. I felt as if I was there traveling in Morraco with you. You are a very talented writer, whether you realize it or not, by such discriptive words you use. You communicate your thoughts and feelings very well. Good Luck to you in the future and Thank You for sharing and caring with all those you come in contact with. GOD BLESS!

DAVE
OHIO