I’ve said it once. I’ve said it twice. I’ll say it again – I love Marrakech! Before I went on my trip a lot of friends and acquaintances expressed concern for me traveling to this developing nation with just one other female friend. Being this was my first time in Morocco or anywhere in Africa, … [Read more…]
If you’ve been following along on my blog lately, you’ll note one thing is obvious – I love Marrakech, Morocco! Known as the “red” city, the former Imperial City is swimming with a myriad of rich colors, warm people and culture. Here are my top ten must-sees for your next visit. Top 10 Things to … [Read more…]
Mohamad reaches for my hand and pulls me up over the large rock that blocks the path to the second waterfall on our grueling hike through the Atlas Mountains. This young man has guided us from the small town of Setti Fatma up the steep mountainside. Along the way we have crossed bridges straight out … [Read more…]
When planning my recent trip to Marrakech, Morocco, I knew I wanted to get out of the city and take a day trip to the nearby Atlas Mountains. To safely and efficiently explore this region a guided tour seemed to be the best option, but I didn’t quite know which company to choose until I … [Read more…]
With two soft knocks, the aged wooden door of Riad AnaYela creaks open. On this plain, dusty street in the heart of the Marrakech medina, it certainly doesn’t feel as if I’m about to enter one of the most luxurious Riads in Morocco. Under the cool cover of the African night sky, the building is … [Read more…]
Mohamed leads us through the winding streets of the Marrakech medina. We pass under a red archway and wander down a side street, stopping at a small wooden opening in one of the buildings. “This is Jack of All Trades,” Mohammed states in the same matter of fact tone one would use if leading to … [Read more…]
The modest door of Riad Joya pushes open and my feet glide across the cool marble floor to the open-air courtyard. Smooth tan walls are flanked by travertine columns that beckon up to a clear night sky flooded by the brilliance of a sea of stars. For a moment, the only sound that fills this … [Read more…]
Fatiha’s strong hands press into mine as we knead the dough for Khobz, a white bread, to go with the chicken tangine and salads we are preparing for our meal. Her touch is firm and soft. It’s a mother’s touch, and, after being away from my own for so long, it brings me a welcome … [Read more…]
While I am always thrilled to be hitting the road no matter what the destination, not all locations are created equal. Some fill my heart with such excitement that for weeks beforehand, my brain will be pumped with adrenaline as I go to bed, making it difficult to fall asleep. Destinations that … [Read more…]