Fes, Morocco’s maze-like medina offers a fascinating glimpse into old-world features like street vendors, mosques, fruit and spice stalls, and leather tanneries. Originally built as a defense against enemies in the 9th century, the medina walls are detached in certain sections and fastened back with intricately designed doors. Grains, fresh produce, and supplies are brought into the medina from the outlying farms by motorcycle carts and, for the heavier loads, by donkey. Though difficult to navigate, the streets inside these captivating walls are ideal for tourists seeking a genuinely preserved culture. No tie-dye T-shirt stands or fast-food emporiums here—souvenirs are of a different variety, think unique spices or brightly dyed fabric runners, usually served alongside piping-hot tajines.