I first went to Morocco In 1993 on a travel agent familiarization trip. I was still single and invited a female friend to join me. It was our first time in Africa and the visual impact it left us still influences our color and design choices. My friend went on to design and produce carpets out of Morocco. I swore to return one day with a loved one in tow.
It only took 30 years to come back
My photo in Majorelle Gardens from 1990’s in film and 2022 in digital.
Never did I imagine that it would take almost thirty years to return; this time as a travel advisor leading my own group of eight friends and family on an affordable luxury trip starting in the ancient city of Fez, through the Atlas Mountains to reach the Sahara desert, and recover in the Oasis to reach magical Marrakech.
This trip was our gift to our mother for her 80th birthday and was originally planned for April 2020. Well, we all know what happened then. After three postponements, we finally timed it to happen after my sister’s birthday celebration in Mallorca.
Let me VIP you
Our journey was seamless and well organized starting with a Fast Track airport service on arrival and departure. This VIP add-on service allows clients to skip the normal lines and breeze through immigration, customs and security.
Comfort and Safety is Key
Our Mercedes-Benz 14passenger van was very comfortable and well equipped with A/C, wifi , leather seats and water on board. We had a private driver and top expert guide with us throughout the trip.
a private sahara camp and a sunset camel ride
A highlight of our trip was our own private luxury camp in the Sahara where we rode camels at sunset, dined under the stars and danced around the fire to the beat of African drums.
bargain like a berber
Bargaining is part of the culture and is customary in the souks. I know I did well when the seller calls me a Berber. We bought jellabas, scarves for turbans, babouches and dressed like locals on our trip making for great photos. For me, “sense of place” also pertains to how one dresses when traveling.
WHERE WE STAYED
For this trip I chose boutique riads, hotels and lodges which was perfect for our group. I also visited other properties in Fes and Marrakech to see other options for my clients. Riads are converted houses /palaces located in the Medina. Often they are several buildings that have been connected as one. In cosmopolitan Marrakech, we had fun evenings with dinner and live entertainment (drummers, DJ, belly dancing).
Who is Morocco perfect for?
Couples, families, friends looking for culture, history and adventure.
What to expect in Morocco?
Pack your curiosity, open mindedness, and understanding. Moroccans are predominantly Muslim and the call to prayer 5x daily heard throughout the cities are a reminder of this peoples faith and devotion to Allah. I find Moroccans to be kind and gentle people. Best to greet everyone with “Salam Alekum” (May God be with you), and they will reply “Alekum Salam” (and God with you too).
Tips for traveling in Morocco
Beware the snake charmers in J’Ma El Fna in Marrakech. DO NOT even think of taking a picture or you will be chased down for payment. Unless this is what you want of course.
Walk behind your guide in the Medina so sellers know you are not alone and they won’t bother you. And if they do, say NO politely and walk away without engaging in conversation.
Drink only bottled water.
Know what you want to pay for items before you start bargaining.
Bargaining is acceptable and part of the culture. A hard bargain to me is 3 offers and counter offers, verbal or written.
Ask permission to photograph or film someone before doing so.
What kind of food can I have in Morocco?
Lamb or chicken Tagine, couscous, Moroccan mint tea (also referred to as Moroccan scotch) is green tea sweetened with sugar and infused with fresh mint leaves. A Moroccan salad are dishes of eggplant, tomatoes, cucumber, zucchini, olives.
