Wonderful intense 13 Day Morocco Trip over Xmas and New Year

Morocco | Dec 24 - Jan 4, 2020

My overall experience was great, and what an adventure it was in Morocco! Hakim organized my trip efficiently as I booked rather last minute in mid Nov for a Xmas holiday. Unfortunately he could not book many of the riads I initially wanted to stay in as they were full, but it all worked out fine. 13 days allowed me enough time to get a good sense of the country as I went from Casblanca to Rabat, Chefchaouen, Fez, Merzouga desert, Ouarzazate, the Dades and Draa Valleys, Marrakesh, and Essaouira. The one thing I did not count on was how many hours we would be on the road. There were 3 days during which we had to travel in the car for 9 hours each day (with breaks included) which is tiring if you are not used to that. However, it was well worth it seeing the amazing and varied landscape. Redouane my driver was outstanding. He was warm, kind and very genuine and helpful, always making sure I was ok. Since I need to eat a lot of fresh vegetables, he even bought some to make a fresh salad for me during the long drives!

I loved the call to prayer everyday rising above the din of the medina. Absolutely love the culture, the history, the people, the food and the fashion. The highlight for me was staying in a tent in the Sahara desert. Nothing like watching the stars and the sunrise from the desert. Since I was traveling alone as a woman I relied on my guides to make sure I could find my way in the winding medinas. I felt safe generally although I did get harrassed slightly by men a few times. In all cases, I simply say 'la shukran' and moved on.

Morocco is a very special place and I would definitely go back again.