Worth waiting for!
Morocco
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Sep 9 - Sep 20, 2022
First and foremost in making our 13-days encircling Morocco memorable was our driver Amine! While he demonstrated expert driving skills that made us feel completely safe, he was so much more than a driver. Upon meeting, he quickly ascertained our interests, particularly in the cultural diversity of Moroccan people, and set about fulfilling and exceeding our expectations. Each day was full of unexpected adventure: from our first authentic meal of grilled meats and vegetables en route to Chefchaouen, impromptu walks through local markets where the colors of Morocco are on full display, to spontaneous detours to gaze atop the spectacular Atlas Mountains or to search for specific pottery in Safi. Amine knows his country well especially the unknown places off the beaten track and personifies the personal warmth and hospitable nature of the Moroccan people.
While there are too many memorable moments, experiences, sights, and places to capture here, some of the highlights include:
Palais Faraj in Fez where we spent 2 glorious nights in the meticulously restored Bensouda Palace in the Arab-Andalusian architectural tradition. The tile work (zelliges) with complex geometric mosaics are museum-worthy!
The hour dromedary caravan ride through the sea of sand dunes of Erg Chebbi was a not-to-be missed postcard experience! The awe of complete silence when watching the sun set over the sand dunes was only matched by the awe of sunrise the following morning.
The winding climb to the granary atop the Ksar of Ait-Ben-Haddou provided a glimpse of how southern Moroccans lived since the 17th Century (and where a few families still reside).
No trip to Morocco would be complete without a relaxing visit to a hammam for a full body clay mask application followed by a medicinal Moroccan black soap scrub and shampoo. Total rejuvenation!
Our final meal shared with Amine in El Jadida on the gorgeous Atlantic coast was most remarkable! It first started with lentils and bread, followed by a mound of Moroccan salads garnished with fruit and herbs, and finished with an abundant platter of shrimp, calamari, sole, and marlin made-to-order for only 85 dirham (~$8.50).
Hotel Reviews
We upgraded our accommodation in Fez and Marrakech, but all of our accommodations were unique—well selected for comfort, generous meals, and specific location. Palais Faraj exceeded our expectations, however! It truly felt like sleeping in a museum.
Lovely, modern. The room had a unique design where the vanity divided the sleeping area from the huge shower and dressing area.
The location inside the Medina was ideal and the breakfast plentiful. The decor was less authentic. For example, our room was named “Love” and had decorative s plaques in English such as “Love is the best ingredient.”
Unbelievable beauty and serenity.
Unexpectedly boutique. You wouldn’t expect such tasteful African-inspired decor within the plain, adobe dwelling.
Tasteful blend of the authentic and the current design trends.
Just steps within the Medina, this riad is charming with its terracotta tile floors, tadelakt plaster walls, antique wooden furniture, adobe fireplace, and huge hammam-like bathtub with rose petals carefully throughout our room. You wouldn’t even know the beach of the Atlantic Ocean is just minutes outside the walled old city.
New, modern typical Hilton Garden Inn near the Casablanca airport.
Activity Reviews
Walking through the winding alleys of the Medina is a step back in time. Our visit to the tannery where men toil over scraping, cleaning, drying, and dying hides was remarkable. Each souk sells fine artisan crafts including glass, brass, fabric, leather, and ceramics. But, one can purchase all sorts of produce, fruit, grains, spices, and meat (including live chicken).
Our guide was quite knowledgeable about Morocco in general, and Marrakech in particular. The recently restored Madrasa and Palace Bahia were impressive for their beauty and traditional craftsmanship. Everything in the Medina is a sight to see!
Truly unforgettable! A must-do even if you think you can’t get on and off a camel (dromedary actually). While this is definitely something only tourists do, it is well worth experiencing the sand dunes. Dinner was a scrumptious 4-course affair, albeit late in the evening. The Berber staff played instruments and sang by the camp fire under the stars beckoning guests to participate until midnight. The amenities of electricity, hot shower and flushing toilet make the overnight stay comfortable. All I would recommend is the installation of ceiling fans, if generator power permits.
