Moroccan Taster

As someone who loves to travel, there is always an added sense of anticipation before going somewhere that I’ve never been before, so I was really excited when the opportunity to go to Morocco presented itself. Having worked in travel for over ten years, I normally have a good idea about a country even if I’ve not been, but Morocco was different. With troubles in the Middle East over the last few years, it’s really dropped off the radar in terms of people asking for it . Well, I’m pleased to say that it is well and truly back on the map so to speak.

After just a short 3 hour flight from the UK, I found myself in what felt like a whole different world. My trip consisted of 3 nights in the bustling city of Marrakech, with a quick visit to the serene and stunning Atlas Mountains and 1 night out on the coast at Essaouira (pronounced either Es ‘weera’ or just ‘Swera). Even in such a short trip, I was able to experience so much and I’m aware I only scratched the surface of this fascinating country. Because it’s so close, you can pop over for a long weekend or if you did want to, there’d be plenty to occupy you on a more involved trip of 2 or 3 weeks.

Marrakech is a great mixture of the old and the new. Brand new hotels and wide roads give way to narrow rabbit warren souks, characterful riads and the iconic Jamaa El Fnaa Square which are located within the ancient city walls (the Medina). Walking around the Medina, I really felt like I was in an Indiana Jones film.

The souk was quite relaxed and there is genuine artisan quality to be had if you have room in your suitcase! I picked up some sandalwood and frankincense for a fraction of the UK price. Within hours of arriving, having experienced a guided tour through the souk, I found myself people watching under a glorious sunset over the square with a local mint tea. I knew then that I was somewhere special. Dinner was at Salama, a restaurant just off the main square, where we had a banquet of traditional meze accompanied by freshly baked warm bread (I wish I’d known this was just the starter) all followed by melt in the mouth slow cooked lamb and chicken. To top it off, the meal was complimented by an array of dancers. A veritable feast for all the senses and what an introduction!

In contrast to the hustle and bustle of Marrakech and only two hours away are the stunning Atlas Mountains. As the roads make their way away from the city and wind up through beautiful scenery, the people thin out and you can spend some quality time with nature. Whether you want to be active or just clear your head for a few days, the setting here is second to none and there are some world class places to stay in to enjoy it all.

Finally, a trip out to Essaouira on the coast revealed a pristine beach as far as the eye could see but this town is more than just a beach. With another ancient walled city, the medina has a more relaxed feel and again there is a fantastic souk and beautiful riads (including the first ever one in Morocco) within. Essaouira is popular with surfers and comes complete with a laid back vibe. Again this is all within an easy 2 hour drive of Marrakech so combinable even on a short trip. As I sipped a cold beer as the sun went down on the end of my 4 night trip, I couldn't help but think I’d be coming back some day to explore this fascinating country some more.

Overall, my impression of Morocco was that I felt safe. I felt welcome. I felt intrigued by the culture, food, people, souks all of which were amazing and so different to anywhere in Europe (after all, this is Africa). I also felt I should have come here a lot sooner than I did!

In short, with year round decent weather, this is definitely a country to put back on your list of places to visit or revisit. I know I shall be doing the latter.