Marrakech, Morocco

Morocco was an incredible and rewarding experience. When my friends decided this trip and asked me to join, It wasn’t a straight yes because family permission was required for all of us.  Once we all cleared this stage, we booked our flights but my friends travelled a fews days before me because I had a fashion show for my brand to attend. Finally comes the day and I was all excited for this trip and my flight was early morning 5am!  Can you guys imagine what actually happened!? I ended up at the wrong airport!!! YES.  So I went into the airport with my luggage and as excited I was asked a lady at the information desk which side I had to go for my gate and she looks at my ticket and then at me and said you are at the wrong airport love! WHAT! NO!  You can imagine my face and reaction for being at the wrong airport at 3am! and no way I could have made it for my flight.  

So  after a bit of depression episode I called my friends and they were all sleeping and gave them this news. Then I rearranged the flight and this time I had to take a connection flight, which meant I had to stop over in Amsterdam for a few hours and then catch my flight to Marrakech. Marrakech is a modern mix of Moroccan and International culture. Tens of thousands of people at night eating, shopping, getting henna tattoos, listening to bands and storytellers, and watching magicians. It was one of the hectic cities I have been to. What you experience in one part of the country may be completely different from another destination.

Well one thing I could not find was the ‘my kind’ of green tea, so I was carrying my own green tea with me. People would look at me so weirdly when I ordered only hot water.  One of the friend was actually from morocco so this helped us a lot , we had a guide who took us around the city. We didn’t take pictures of the street performers (musicians, snake charmers, or the guys in traditional costume in the square, etc), because you will need to pay for the privilege.  I didn’t like the fact that they had monkeys on chain to earn money, they would let people take pictures and ask them to pay.  I did see a lot of people sharing their experiences and trying to guide people what to pack and what to do when in Marrakech but honestly we didn’t even feel that we were out of place or we had to take any precautions apart from avoiding the tap water.  However good walking shoes and some nice long dresses would be ideal to respect the culture.

Souvenirs on the Jamaa el Fna market in old Medina, Marrakesh, Morocco

It was hot weather and we walked for hours and hours. We visited the markets, you will find beautiful leather, lots of jewellery, carpets and Moroccan tableware. But also herbs, meat, fish and fruit are things you can buy here. Bargaining is a must, where walking away is sometimes part of the game and they will call you back and usually agree with your offer.  But you have to be careful they know you are a foreigner.  We enjoyed every day spent doing different activities each day.

Marrakech is known for amazing food, not only traditional Moroccan; you’ll also find French and Asian influences aplenty throughout the city. Moroccan Tagine, Couscous but what I did noticed was the food was totally different to what we eat here at moroccan restaurants — Obviously! Since I am not a shopping person or city lover I enjoyed the mountains, nature and country side. Squad biking was one of the activities which I loved, It was a HOT day!  I enjoyed our time in the mountains and walking through little water lakes/rivers. 

When you are travelling, it gives you a sense of freedom, and independence.