Henna anyone?

I left the Taste and headed for Chicago Arabesque at Daley Center. The crowd was smaller but still it was well attended. I wish I had saved room and time for the food there. The falafel looked so much better than the one I got from Zam Zam's booth.

Yes, I did get a henna tattoo. Unfortunately, it wore off before I got home. I also got a card with my name written in Arabic calligraphy. I wasn't able to get my belly dancing lessons. I guess I will have to wait for my daughter to give in to my pleas for lessons.

The atmosphere was one of a market place slightly removed from America. There was a definite feel of Muslim community. People dressed in beautiful caftans and women garbed in traditional scarves greeted each other. Arabic music from the booth selling CD's added to the exotic aura. They did brisk business.

It was a very enjoyable experience. I wish I had allotted more time for it. Probably should have gone there first instead of to the Taste. Every year I complain about the crowds and the long lines at the Taste and I still go back. I will definitely revisit the Chicago Arabesque next year.