Destination Morocco Podcast: Recent Episodes
Azdean Elmoustaquim
Join host Azdean Elmoustaquim as he takes you on an exploration of his country's distinct culture, vibrant history and stunning attractions. Azdean prepares you for the real Morocco, showing how to travel there, how to get around, what to expect and how to make the most of your time. We meet locals and guides, learn about costs and prices, safety, especially for female travellers, the kinds of scams to look out for in the bazaars, what languages to expect, and so much more. Destination Morocco plans customized travel itineraries to Morocco, including "FIT" and private tours, escorted tours and group tours. The goal is to help you enjoy Morocco like a native.Our podcast unpacks the mystery, opening up discovery of an amazing land. We invite you along for the journey.
You've done the research, asked around, made some calls and booked the trip. It's happening! You're going to Morocco!
Okay - what happens next?
Today our focus is on the steps to complete after you've reserved the trip, and can shift into preparation mode. What to expect, what to plan, who to talk to and important things to prepare.
Azdean and podcast producer Ted cover topics such as travel documentation, safety measures, special accommodation considerations like access and mobility, health and medication, understanding tour inclusions, dietary restrictions, insurance essentials, and how to make changes to bookings.
We want to emphasize the importance of thorough preparation to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience, especially when it's still a few months out from your trip (having booked well ahead of time, of course!) Don't be caught out by last-minute tasks that could have become more expensive, or worse, may no longer be possible.
Booking the trip is the main thing, but like any substantial vacation, there are particular tasks related to that destination. The good news is that Morocco is modern, accessible and accommodating, with a fast-growing tourism industry. This means that a lot of the regular concerns and requirements of travellers are becoming much more familiar.
But Destination Morocco is your best partner to ensure everything goes smoothly, that you have support before and during your trip, and that you can focus on enjoying this amazing experience. Whether an independent traveller or a travel agent, we're here to guide you from purchase to departure and beyond!
**You can also watch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:
"*What to Prepare After you Book Your Trip"*
Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today! Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
It can be hard to get a clear picture, so our episode today is here to help: "How much do things cost in Morocco?"
As much as there's the standard answer, "It depends," we go a little deeper than that and try to frame costs around certain standards and levels of service. Whether that means different types of accommodation, the cost of meals at sit-down restaurants, do desert camps vary greatly in price, how much are activities such as a Hot Air Balloon ride, and lots more.
There are a couple of possible yet unrelated preconceptions about Morocco that we should address. For one, folks might think that Morocco is a budget travel destination akin to Thailand or El Salvador, where your dollar goes very far, decent accommodation is well under $100/night, and an amazing meal costs $5.
Well, that's not the case in Morocco, our costs aren't quite that low!
Secondly, costs in Morocco might simply seem unknown, with no real frame of reference. Maybe it's expensive, maybe it's not, how can you know, and what can you relate it to? And when you see the cost of something, are you getting the appropriate value for that cost?
Morocco generally speaking fits in somewhere between the costs of Western Europe and Eastern Europe. Not quite as expensive as France or the UK, but not as inexpensive as maybe Albania or Poland. Similar prices to what we often see in North America, but also very good, and certainly unique value, whether it's in our distinct accommodation (riads) or our one-of-a-kind cuisine.
So our goal here today is to help give you a frame of reference and ease the sticker shock that might come otherwise. And to therefore help you plan better, know what questions to ask and make an educated decision on budgeting for your trip!
**You can also watch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:
"*Typical Travel Costs in Morocco"*
Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today! Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Nestled in the High Atlas mountains northeast of Marrakech is the Bin el-Ouidane reservoir, one of the largest lakes in Morocco.
Surrounded by foothills, ravines and gorges, waterfalls and snowy peaks, this is one of the most visually stunning yet accessible areas in the country, with easy hiking trails and water activities.
You might think therefore that it's a prominent stop on Morocco's tourist path, but it's not. Yet.
Although well-located between Marrakech and Casablanca, it does represent a three hour detour. As highways and infrastructure continue to be upgraded, that will change. In the meantime, if you want luxury and comfort combined with a nature escape that combines lakes and mountains, before the crowds arrive, this is the place to go.
Azdean and family stayed for one night at the Widiane Luxury Hotel and Spa. Built on a hillside overlooking the lake, with access to the water, the resort is one of the most impressive places to stay, not just at the lake but in all of Morocco.
A combination of relaxing getaway and multitude of adventure activities, when you're ready to get out of the busy cities and discover amazing hiking, watersports, spas and hammams, 5 star food and accommodation, and most of all tremendous service, this is the place.
Azdean sat down with hotel manager Mr. Nabil to talk about this stunning part of the country, and how the resort fits in to the environment. Widiane places a particular emphasis on local: local cuisine, local ingredients (often reinterpretations of international cuisine), local artisans and local staff. This is not a member of a chain of resorts and hotels, it is Moroccan-owned and supported, and a great way to give back to the local economy.
Perhaps because of the distance, and the fact that it is not on the main tourist routes, it is still largely known only to locals and the occasional informed tourist.
You are about to become one of those in-the-know travellers.
You can add a stop here to your tour itinerary, which gives you transport and guided stops along the way. Visit our website to learn more: www.destinationsmorocco.com
**You can also watch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:
"*The Luxury Resort in the High Atlas Mountains"*
Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today! Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Discover the versatile and distinctly Moroccan product of Argan Oil in this episode of Destination Morocco podcast, recorded live at the Zin Cooperative, just outside of Essaouira.
Argan oil can be pressed into both edible or cosmetic use, and our guest Chiadma explains the different methods of production, and how they know which is which.
But we also talk about how to find authentic argan oil, because there are a lot of fake rip offs. Chiadma shares a story of how, before she started working at the co-op, even she succumbed to a too-good-to-be-true sale. Suffice to say, the oil didn't last very long. Good, quality Argan products need a high percentage of oil, and Chiadma explains what to look for.
Discarded shells of the nuts are given to the famous tree-climbing goats, whom you might otherwise see along the highway from Marrakech to Essaouira, climbing trees in search of their own supply!
Argan trees particularly thrive in the dry, Mediterranean-style climate of Essaouira, Agadir and Taroudant (which we described in Episode 86). Which means sourcing your product from that region is a good start, but you still can't assume that it's the real deal.
The Zin Cooperative, like the rug cooperative we featured in Episode 79, provides much needed employment and community for local women, in a positive and supportive environment. Discover not only quality products, but an enterprise that had a meaningful impact on this rural area.
**You can also watch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:
"*How to Find Authentic Argan Oil in Morocco"*
Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today! Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
**You can also watch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:
"*Get the Best of Independent* and Group Travel**"
Come to Morocco this year, with our small group tour in November, and experience the best of Morocco in safety, comfort and convenience, while sharing a wonderful experience with new friends!
November 8-15, 2026: we want to bring you to Morocco!
This is no 50-person coach tour that is hustled along from stop to stop, with constant waiting and delays, forced to stay at big hotels instead of intimate riads, and only getting a surface-level experience.
We want to make it as easy as possible for you to experience Morocco for the first time, combining the best of independent and group travel.
For the independent traveller who typically steers clear of group tours, yet is wary of navigating Morocco for the first time, our tour is capped at just 12 people. It won't feel like herding cattle! And you'll have flexibility to still add some activities or free time, as you normally would.
For the traveller who takes group tours and cruises, because of the convenience and price, but wants a more intimate, authentic experience in Morocco, this is a tour that lets you feel like an independent traveller without a corresponding exorbitant cost.
If you want the pace and flexibility of independent travel, with the safety and companionship of fellow travelers, this tour is your sweet spot.
The maximum size is limited to 12 participants, and the cost is $1995 USD per person, at double occupancy.
No other tour of this size will approach the level of value, comfort and personal attention, for such a low price.
Build friendships and memories that last a lifetime, have quality time in Morocco while seeing all the famous sights, and even help craft the schedule and activities. Azdean himself, along with a national guide, will be with you throughout the tour to share stories and context for what you're seeing.
Be part of this select group: book a free discovery call with Azdean today, bring your questions, and join us in November for this fantastic tour!
Visit:
https://destinationsmorocco.com/
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
to learn more!
---
Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today! Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
You can also watch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:
"Booking Travel to Morocco? What You Need to Know"
Whether you're a travel agent fielding questions from your clients, or an independent traveller fielding concerns from family and friends, Morocco's a destination that is still overcoming stereotypes and misconceptions, some of which have been around for decades.
The recent exposure to the country, in particular thanks to big soccer results and events, not to mention hit movies and filming locations, means more people than ever are paying attention. In fact, Morocco for the 2nd year in a row is Africa's most-visited destination: 18 million travellers, or nearly a quarter of all tourists to Africa as a whole, visited Morocco. It took a while, but we finally pulled ahead of Egypt!
So you might think that stereotypes have all but faded away. But ask any travel agent and they'll tell you, they're still getting inquiries like, "Is Morocco still a hippie paradise?" "Do people speak English there?" "Is it legal to drink alcohol?" and, "Are there direct flights, or is it a really hard place to get to?"
Today we go over these and more questions, to help you get prepared and confident in booking your trip. As busy as we've become, it's going to get even busier, with the World Cup itself coming in 4 years, and even more flights and infrastructure on the way. So come and explore the fantastic sights, welcoming culture and distinct cuisine, make Morocco your priority in 2026!
Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today! Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
Azdean visits Kristy Burns' Small Town Travels podcast to talk about how travellers can have a unique, and authentic, local experience in Morocco, on private and small group tours, like the ones offered by Destinations Morocco.
Travel Small Towns takes the hook of travelling to small towns and integrates it with themes of things to see and do off the beaten path, away from big touristy sites, while exploring the lifestyle of small towns, and more accessible living. The notion of having more time, having more space, outdoor activities, and the feeling of walking down the street, bumping into people you know.
She approached Azdean with the question of whether this exists in Morocco too, and they had an interesting discussion on local travel and travelling with strangers who become friends, and tour operators with local connections that the other big guys don't have.
It's the notion of feeling like a local while you're there, which is exactly what Destination Morocco has promoted since they first started organizing tours with customized itineraries to Morocco.
From riads to cultural experiences, supporting local artisans to having a smaller footprint when you travel, today's episode is catered to those looking for authenticity and genuine connection.
You can find Travel Small Towns podcast on their website:
- https://travelsmalltownspodcast.com/
on Instagram:
- https://www.instagram.com/travelsmalltowns/?hl=en
and listen on Spotify, Apple or wherever you listen to podcasts:
- https://open.spotify.com/show/6fPSa7p2f32VnQwAY67Ekp
- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/travel-small-towns/id1641806563
Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today! Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
**You can also watch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:
"*Staying Warm, Staying Comfortable in Morocco"*
A destination like Morocco is instantly one that inspires adventure, excitement and discovery. Pushing your comfort zone and experiencing something new and different.
But it's one thing to try some new food or sleep in a luxury tent in the desert, it's another to have not known to bring warm enough clothes, or to be stuck climbing multiple flights of stairs in your riad, because you didn't know they don't have elevators...
Our conversation today addresses lots of practical tips for travellers, with questions like clothing and accessibility in mind.
A lot of it comes down to the type of trip you are on: a solo or independent adventure, a private or small group tour, or a large group tour. Large being more than about 25 people. You don't want to go on a large tour.
Azdean is joined by producer Ted to look at the unique challenges of winter travel, including accommodation heating issues, cultural differences, and mobility considerations.
We always recommend staying in riads if at all possible, but the reality is, 99% are not designed with accessibility in mind. Most are at least 4 or 5 floors, with stairs the only access. You can research and request a room on the ground floor, if one exists, but you might ultimately need to consider a hotel or a more modern accommodation, depending on your needs.
However, riads are still open for visits and meals, so make every effort to check out at least a couple. And in turn, don't forget that your hotel needs to be in a suitable location as well, easy to access, and in a quiet neighborhood, not next to the clubs!
We encourage you to try new things and be open to new experiences while you're in Morocco, there's nothing else like it. Today's episode just helps you become a little more familiar, and thus a little more comfortable, with the adventure that awaits.
Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today! Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
**You can also watch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:
"*April, 2026: Is Morocco Safe for Travel?"*
With the conflict happening between Iran and the US/Israel, and travel routes and logistics facing all kind of upheaval, we recognized here at Destinations Morocco that it's important to address what's happening and how it could impact Morocco.
Is it still safe to travel to Morocco? How close is the country to the conflict? Has anything changed on the ground? Should people travel during times of conflict?
Bearing in mind that we recorded this episode at the beginning of April, 2026, reflecting on the state of affairs at that time. Things could change any day, week or month. If events transpire that do put Morocco more under threat, we will do further episodes to share with you what we know, and our best advice.
But for now, the short answer is that Morocco is in North Africa and about 3,000 miles from the Middle East conflict, with no direct threat. Basically, “business as usual,” although travelers may notice more routine checkpoints and security presence.
We look at Morocco’s long-standing alliance with the US, and its Sunni identity versus Iran’s Shia sect, but why spillover is unlikely.
Practical guidance includes buying dedicated travel insurance (including “cancel for any reason” and evacuation coverage), registering with the US STEP program, sharing passport/itinerary copies, staying connected via WhatsApp, transport options like the Green Taxi (Taxi Vert) service and the latest Uber availability, and alternative exit routes to Europe by ferry if flights are disrupted.
We can't know for sure what the coming weeks and months will bring, but what we can give you is as much information and peace of mind as possible, so that you can make an educated decision on whether to carry on with your trip, and feel comfortable and confident in doing so.
And remember that on our tours, you will always have a dedicated team around you, from your driver and guide to the various riad hosts and local guides, and ultimately Azdean himself and his team, who keep 24h monitoring on all of their tours.
If you have more questions about the state of travel to Morocco, the status of your tour, or what to expect in 2026, you can always reach out to Azdean at azdean@destinationsmorocco.com.
Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today! Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
**You can also watch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:
"*A Great Way to Experience Morocco for the First Time"*
Kyle Elizabeth Freeman travelled to Morocco on a solo trip over the Christmas holidays 2025, a potentially tricky time to go! As Azdean always says, things over Christmas/New Year's can be booked up months in advance, and not just accommodation, but tours, guides and attractions as well.
And on top of that, this was right in the middle of Morocco hosting the African Cup of Nations soccer tournament, so it was even busier than usual!
But Kyle knew that she needed a break, to go somewhere completely different and original, and Morocco had been calling to her for ages.
To make it happen, she discovered the Destination Morocco podcast, and then turned to Azdean for as much support as he could provide, given the time frame. Happy to oblige, Azdean pointed Kyle in the right direction for bookings and expectations, hired a car, driver and a fabulous tour guide for her for the week, and together they put together an intriguing approach to visiting Morocco for the first time.
Most travellers understandably want to see as much of Morocco as possible, and cover lots of ground. That was always going to be tricky at this time of year, at a fairly last minute, and with a major event taking place at the same time.
So, they chose instead to focus on Marrakech itself, chose one accommodation for the week to avoid moving around, and used the city as a home base for activities and exploration.
The effect was remarkable, because it turned Kyle's trip into a mini-slow travel experience, and suggested a new way to enjoy the tour format, and your own private guide, without the disruption of constant change and moving around. By the end, Marrakech for Kyle was starting to feel like home, which is exactly the feeling we want you to have!
Our thanks to Kyle for joining us on this episode and sharing her story, her advice and her newfound passion for Morocco.
Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today! Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
**You can also watch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:
"*An Honest Take on Travel in Morocco"*
Jill Smith and her partner Gary traveled to Morocco just before Christmas, 2025, on a southern tour: Marrakech, Merzouga, Ouarzazate and the High Atlas Mountains, and Essaouira, too.
It was mostly amazing, with parts a little frustrating, and she's here today to share with us how it went.
We wanted an honest assessment of their time in Morocco, because we all know: travel isn't perfect. It's exciting, spontaneous, rough, full of pleasant surprises and unexpected twists.
And in a place like Morocco, which is growing in tourism and tourism infrastructure, part of the appeal is being witness to that change and growth. But it can mean that things don't go quite according to plan.
Jill talks about the excitement of interacting with local culture, the incredible variety of food, but also pushing back against suggestions and pressure to do activities. Often it's nice to just take a break and relax.
Destination Morocco not just helps but encourages you to do this: it's your trip, you can choose what you want to see and do. Azdean worked with Jill and Gary before their trip to craft an itinerary based around their interests, and cut through the overwhelm.
2026 is a great time to visit Morocco, before it's even busier, so reach out to us today!
Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today! Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
**You can also watch the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:
"*This November, Join us on a Tour to Morocco!"*
This November is the moment to get yourself to Morocco, with our new small group tour!
For an intimate yet affordable travel experience, our tour this November 8-15, 2026 offers you a tremendous way to visit Morocco.
This is no 50-person coach tour that is hustled along from stop to stop, with constant waiting and delays.
Build friendships and memories that last a lifetime, have quality time in Morocco while seeing all the famous sights, and even help craft the schedule and activities. Azdean himself, along with a national guide, will be with you throughout the tour to share stories and context for what you're seeing.
No other tour of this size will approach the level of value, comfort and personal attention, for such a low price. We want to make it as easy as possible for you to experience Morocco in a safe, relaxed and affordable way.
In our episode today, Azdean and Ted go over the details of the tour: the stops included, logistics such as transport, accommodation and meals, what to expect, and most of all, who it's for.
If you want the pace and flexibility of independent travel, with the safety and companionship of fellow travelers, this tour is your sweet spot.
The maximum size is limited to 12 participants, and the cost is $1995 USD per person, at double occupancy.
Be part of this select group: book a free discovery call with Azdean today, bring your questions, and join us in November for this fantastic tour!
Visit:
https://destinationsmorocco.com/
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
to learn more!
---
Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today! Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
**We recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:
"*Add Some Adrenaline to your Morocco Trip"*
On top of everything else in Morocco: the food, culture, scenery, history, art and design - did you know that it's also a rising destination for adventure travel?
Morocco has wonderful variety in its landscape and environment, which means whether you want to go surfing, mountain climbing, overnight trekking, camel riding or dune buggy exploring in the Sahara Desert, the options are all there!
And a tour company like Destination Morocco can help to facilitate your adventures, handling all the logistics and timing, while making sure that you don't miss out on the regular tourist sights too, like Fes and Marrakech.
This episode is another one which is a bit easier to follow in video form, where we share the screen to show you maps, locations and fabulous images, so hop over to our YouTube channel if you can. But if you're busy driving or jogging, you can still listen along and get the backstories and descriptions!
In today's conversation, Azdean and producer Ted chat about some of the options for adventure travel and activities, from the beaches of Fes and Agadir to the sand dunes of Merzouga, or climbing Mt. Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa. In this example, you'll have lodging, equipment, a guide and even your own chef for the trek, which is a legitimate hike but not quite Everest-scale, so probably more accessible than you might imagine.
We cover safety, costs and equipment too, including advice on what to bring and when to book. There are some corners of Morocco that are becoming less and less of a secret these days, so get in before the crowds, and maybe have a beach to yourself!
Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today! Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
One of the reasons Morocco has become more and more popular lately is its recognition as a honeymoon destination. The combination of stunning landscape, distinct culture and an emphasis on design and aesthetics wherever you go: these are just the starting points.
When we then consider the increasing ease of getting to Morocco, with more direct flights from North America and Europe, improved travel infrastructure, and that distinct combination of accessible yet exotic, Morocco jumps out as a unique and exciting place to escape to after your big event.
Azdean appeared a few weeks ago on the Weddings 101 podcast, with host Kyleigh Grace, to chat about these highlights and more. Now, we're doing an episode swap here on the Destination Morocco podcast, since there was so much valuable information, and a fun conversation too!
What's really interesting is getting an outside, newcomer's perspective on travel to Morocco in general, with the added focus of honeymoon tips and advice. We chat about how couples can blend adventure with relaxation, what a truly immersive honeymoon looks like, safety and dress code tips, realistic budget expectations, what to ask for in accommodation, and how customized itineraries help couples experience Morocco like a local.
Azdean also breaks down unique romantic experiences, from private desert dinners to hammam spa rituals, cooking classes, hot air balloon rides, and more.
A Moroccan honeymoon will leave you particularly indelible memories, so whether you're just starting to plan or looking for insider expertise to elevate your trip, this episode will help you design a Moroccan honeymoon that’s unforgettable, meaningful, and perfectly tailored to you.
Our thanks to Kyleigh for this opportunity and for sharing her resources and insight!
You can find Weddings 101 on their website:
- https://weddings101pod.com
on Instagram:
- https://www.instagram.com/weddings101pod
and listen on Spotify, Apple or wherever you listen to podcasts:
- https://open.spotify.com/show/3kCfEw7JoIn62I1bUgNwZB?si=252633af8b784a07
- https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weddings-101/id1799475222
Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today! Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
**You can also find the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:
"**What's Going on in Morocco Right Now: Travel Updates from Marrakech"
Learn about the latest goings-on in Morocco, direct from the source: Azdean shares with us what tourism is like right now in Marrakech and beyond, as he calls in direct from the red city.
Our conversation today includes a summary of a group tour from Casablanca to Fez, driving down to Merzouga desert, through Dadès Valley and over the mountains to Marrakech. Along the way, the group stopped at a unique and secret cave dwelling, still inhabited, although at least a little modernized!
And a look at how to make dietary requests and come prepared when you travel here. Remember, on a tour your tour director will help make sure that ingredients and special supplies are accounted for, since Merzouga and the villages along the way are certainly quite isolated. Which is of course part of the attraction!
Azdean is there, on the ground as the African Cup completes its setup: there are football fans everywhere, and media from around the world there to cover the event.
As we enter 2026, we look at how busy the country expects to be, and why it may in fact be the best time to visit, because it's only going to get busier as the football World Cup approaches, and even more attention is focused on Morocco. Things are busy, but you can still get in before the crowds get even heavier.
Azdean even took a direct flight from Atlanta to Marrakech, thanks to the new service from Delta Airlines. With multiple options from the US and Canada to Casablanca and/or Marrakech, travel to Morocco is becoming even easier.
This is a special episode for us: although we've done some extra bonus episodes and live q&a replays, we consider this one to be our official 100th episode! Thank you to our wonderful listeners and viewers who have been there on this nearly four year journey, we're proud to be the trailblazing podcast for travel in Morocco, and are excited for more great topics and guests to come in the new year!
Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today! Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
**You can also find the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:
"**Discover a Real Morocco Cooking Class Experience"
After the inspiring ideas of our last episode, 'Food Travel in Morocco: What to Order When You Visit', this week we take you a step further, into an actual Moroccan kitchen!
The hosts at Riad Ghita in Fès welcome us behind the scenes for a genuine Moroccan cooking class, where we put together the ingredients for a lamb tagine, Moroccan salads, camel skewers and more.
Discover the authentic, natural ingredients that go into real Moroccan cooking, all freshly sourced from the medina in Fes. You'll see Azdean and the team shopping and gathering everything they need, and then meeting in the riad's modern kitchen to start preparing.
Go beyond the recipe websites and witness an actual cooking class, recorded live on location in Fes, and learn how to put the recipes together, just like a local.
You can book a class like this too, whether in Fez, Marrakech, Essaouira, or anywhere else in Morocco that puts its own distinct twist on national cuisine. Cooking classes can easily be integrated into your itinerary, and leave you with lasting skills that you can put into action when you're back home, not to mention the indelible memories.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today! Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
**You can also find the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:
"*Food Travel in Morocco: What to Order When You Visit"*
Dig in with us to this fun conversation that provides a great overview of Moroccan gastronomy and its cultural importance.
Azdean and producer Ted take a look at some of the popular dishes you'll find in Morocco, some you've probably heard of, and others which might be less familiar, but that you'll discover quickly once you arrive.
This episode is another one which is a bit easier to follow in video form, where you can see the various dishes we're talking about, so hop over to our YouTube channel if you can. But if you're busy driving or jogging, you can still listen along and get the backstories and descriptions!
There's tagine and couscous of course, but Azdean describes the different types of each that you can find, and also shows us the essential spices that define Moroccan cooking. We learn about Harira, the traditional soup served during Ramadan, rich in flavor and ingredients. And how Moroccan cooking techniques emphasize marinating and slow cooking for flavor.
Meanwhile, street food in Marrakesh has improved significantly and is now considered safe, especially in the Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Questions about dietary restrictions? In this day and age, with tourism booming, restaurants are learning to accommodate different demands and requirements. You may have to call ahead, but these days you can find more and more choice.
Food is always a popular topic around here, but it's been a while since we devoted an entire episode to exploring it, so we're excited to share these mouth-watering ideas with you!
Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today! Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
We recommend also watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, in addition to listening to the audio version. Both episodes are only about 10 minutes long, and give you different perspectives on the information and stories.
You can find the video here:
"Rabat: Morocco's Dynamic Modern Capital"
Today we are in Rabat, looking out over the ocean from the Kasbah Oudaya, at the edge of the old Medina. A beautiful site with beaches down below, and the river Oued Bou Regreg dividing the cities of Rabat and Salé.
Despite being the capital, Rabat is sometimes overlooked on itineraries of Morocco, or at best given a sparse couple of hours to see the basic sights, before travelers carry on to perhaps Chefchaouen or Marrakech.
But although it's only been Morocco's capital since 1912, the history here is dynamic and long-reaching.
Our episode this week is essentially a set of companion episodes. There is the audio version, and also the video version, which you can watch on YouTube. Some of the dialogue and conversation overlaps, but the video will help fill you in on what Azdean and his guide for the day, Mr. Ali, are describing.
The audio version meanwhile adds a little more history and context that was not captured in video. The episodes are short: roughly ten minutes each, so try listening/watching them back to back, and see how they compare!
Our goal is to get you inspired to add more time in Rabat to your schedule, for a wonderful mix of history, wild seascapes and modern comforts.
Find this episode on YouTube:
https://youtu.be/0sJxv4B8TxI
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
**You can also find the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:
"*A Couple's Guide to Romantic Morocco"*
Our episode this week puts specific focus on the Moroccan experience for couples: whether you're on your honeymoon, a vacation or maybe even planning to elope, Morocco is truly one of the world's great romantic destinations.
Morocco was in fact ranked number one in 2022 for destination weddings.
You've seen the stunning photos of luxurious accommodation, desert camps and delicate architecture. Now Azdean and producer Ted help fill in the gaps on things like what riads are really like, how to reserve a private dining experience, and how hammams work.
- Riads offer a unique and intimate experience for couples, similar to a bed & breakfast but with even more space, dining options and luxury. You'll learn how to request a private dining experience at your riad, while making the most of other opportunities to get to know your fellow guests, b&b-style.
- Hammams are the traditional Moroccan baths that provide a unique cultural experience. Azdean explains the difference between a spa and a hammam, how long the process takes and the best time of day to go.
- Fes is known for its unique jewelry, making it a great shopping destination for couples to find gifts that last a lifetime.
- A good tour company will make sure you have everything you need for a private dining experience in the desert, such as in Merzouga, where you can't buy wine or other supplies just around the corner. It has to be planned ahead of time, but your guide will make sure it's taken care of, and that you have a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
And, Morocco is more accessible for North Americans than often perceived, just a short flight across the Atlantic, and often a direct one if you're coming from a hub like New York, Washington DC or Montréal.
Morocco has tremendous appeal as a honeymoon, wedding or romantic destination, and if you haven't already, we encourage you to consider it for your next romantic getaway!
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
We recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:
"Exploring the Remarkable Ruins of Volubilis"
Scarcely a 30 minute drive north of Meknes are the Roman ruins of Volubilis one of the must-see highlights in Morocco.
It is an easy day trip from Meknes, or even Fes, and well worth the stop. Volubilis is one of the most extensive and detailed Roman ruins outside of Europe, and was a major center in its own right from the 1st century AD until around 285, when it was captured by the local tribes.
The city remained vibrant for centuries after, but by the 11th century, Volubilis was abandoned, although its structures remained quite intact. The infamous earthquake of 1755 put an end to that though, toppling most of what was left, with the stone and marble looted and taken to Meknes. Within 100 years, people have all but forgotten where Volubilis even was.
Fortunately, archeologists rediscovered it in the late 19th century, and today Volubilis is an important site that gives a detailed glimpse into Roman life, 2000 years ago.
When you visit, a local guide will be available to interpret the ruins, without whom you would only see stacks of rock and stones.
Khalid was our guide in Volubilis, and he describes the architecture, mosaics, olive presses and more with fine detail and precision.
Check out the video version of this episode to see fabulous views of Volubilis and the surrounding countryside, all interpreted by our expert guide: a snapshot of what you can expect when you come visit too!
https://youtu.be/HnnIHY5880k
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
You can also find the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:"How to Find Authentic Cultural Experiences in Morocco"
Azdean is joined again by producer Ted to chat about the rich variety of cultural activities available to visitors, something that is often requested by Destination Morocco's guests. Travellers want to experience Morocco's real culture, whether it's the cooking, the music, the language or even the landscape, but framed around a vivid society dating back thousands of years.
Step one is having a local guide with you as much as possible. It's your guide who separates your experience from the average tourist, sharing stories and insight that would never be found on your own.
Guides help you connect with locals, make the most of your time and itinerary, help translate and explain certain phrases, and help your journey go so much smoother.
We talk about the various cultural activities available, including music, dance and visits to traditional villages, and highlight some of the lesser-known regions of Morocco that provide authentic experiences, away from the typical tourist paths.
We also take a look at language, as a lot of our guests are interested in learning a few phrases and understanding the differences (and similarities) between Moroccan Darija, Morocco's dialect of Arabic, and Tamzight: the Amazigh language.
The key to your experience: have zero expectations. Have dreams and ideas for sure, but the more open you are to whatever may come, to discoveries and adventure, the more you'll find that memorable cultural immersion that you're looking for.
Find our special series on the Darija language here, made exclusively for podcast listeners!
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
You can also find the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:"Morocco's Getting Busy: Book Your Trip Early!"
Azdean is joined today by Destination Morocco producer Ted Cragg for an update on current travel trends and predictions for tourism in Morocco, as we head towards the end of 2025, with an eye on 2026.
Morocco is getting busier and busier, and with some major events coming up, there is one key takeaway: book early!
Morocco hosts the Africa Cup of Nations, the African equivalent of a continental football tournament like Euro or Copa América, from December 21st, 2025 to January 18, 2026, in cities all around the country. If you're planning on attending, you likely have your ticket and travel plans in place already! Or maybe you're open to being spontaneous.
If football/soccer is not your thing though, but you're intending to be in Morocco over that time, you'll still need to be prepared for the crowds and for accommodation being very booked up. Azdean suggests some alternative destinations within Morocco though that you could consider, where there will be fewer football fans and tourists: away from the action, but perhaps blissfully quiet instead.
Beyond the football tournaments though, the travel numbers to Morocco continue to increase overall, which puts even more of a stress on activities and accommodations, particularly the riads. If you're going to Morocco, you have to stay in a riad as much as possible. If you have your eyes though on a specific one, especially that's in walking distance to the souks and sights, again you'll need to get that reservation in early.
Destination Morocco can help you have a trip of your design and priorities, even during the busy times, by using our contacts and connections to give you the best possible options. Not to mention easing the logistics like transport, luggage, tipping, meals and of course, safety.
Reach out to Azdean with your questions and book a free discovery call to let us know what you would like to see in Morocco on your trip!
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
We recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:"How a Blind Tour Guide Shows Tourists the Best of Casablanca"
Khalil Nejjary is a blind tour guide in Casablanca, and when Azdean visited the city and the incredible Hassan II Mosque, he finally had the chance to invite him on the podcast, in person.
We previously published this episode in audio form, but we now have the complete video to go along with the story, with stunning images of the interior of the mosque, the architecture and the full panorama of the area, on a beautiful, sunny Moroccan summer's day.
https://youtu.be/f6gAECOc3c8
Khalil's ability to describe in detail, from memory, the features of the mosque and the exact sights of Casablanca is just remarkable.
We met Khalil at the entrance hall to the mosque complex, where visitors can get tickets for the guided tours and visit the small museum with photos of the mosque's construction. Khalil and other guides meet their guests here, then escort them across the massive courtyard, or esplanade, to the mosque's entrance.
Khalil talks about the mosque's architecture, the materials used and why they were chosen, and the long path from King Hassan II's initial dream of building a great mosque to its eventual completion.
Khalil also tells us about the history of Casablanca and its influence on the world, and outlines a typical tour of the city, which would take in many of the famous and important sights.
His joy and delight in welcoming visitors from around the world, or bumping into old friends, is deeply evident while watching him in his natural element. Khalil is a wonderful example of the genuine, authentic Moroccan hospitality that awaits your arrival when you come visit as well.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
We recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:"Discover a Unique Merzouga Desert Camp Experience"
Azdean sits down with Mr. Said, manager and co-owner of Sahara Sky Luxury Camp, located in the heart of the desert, yet just 23 miles from the town of Erfoud, the local service centre.
Said and Azdean sit down to talk about how he founded his camp, how they maintain their own animals and gardens in the desert, their emphasis on organic ingredients in their incredible food, and how the food itself is different from your standard Moroccan fare.
When you're ready to go beyond the tagines and couscous, Said and his kitchen have wonderful, original recipes for you to try.
All this in addition to a surprising number of activities, located on-site or a short drive away. The desert is about more than just camel rides and dune buggies, although you shouldn't miss out on doing them either!
But the Merzouga area has a number of important cultural sites, some dating back hundreds or thousands of years, that connect the area to Berber and North African history, and Said can easily arrange for you a tour.
Or you can take part in cooking classes and musical performances at the camp itself, before relaxing under the stars. This is Merzouga, and nothing compares to the show that is put on by the night sky.
We previously posted this recording as audio-only, but now have a beautiful video version to share with you. You'll see stunning drone views of the desert, camel rides, 4X4 treks, close-ups on luxury desert tents for meals and sleeping, and the Gnawa music troupe that performs on site.
You'll hear peacocks and cats in the background as we chat, and close your eyes to imagine yourself in this beautiful desert paradise. Because of course, you yourself can experience all this too!
Contact us at Destination Morocco and learn about our custom-built itineraries and tour packages. We love to profile our partners and attractions in our episodes, which you can then be sure to request as part of your own tour.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
We recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:
Discover Gnawa: Morocco's Indigenous Music (YouTube)
Gnaoua (also spelled Gnawa) music is known as Morocco's indigenous music, brought to the modern-day country over centuries from nomads across north Africa, and gradually adapted to various regional interpretations.
Today's episode was recorded live on location at a Merzouga desert camp and at a Marrakech restaurant, and originally aired on the podcast in early 2024. Now, we have the video version for you as well, which you'll see in the YouTube link above, or on our channel here: @destinationsmorocco.
In between performances, Azdean sits down with Mohamed, a musician and member of the Gnaoua performers in Qser el Khamliya, a small village just south of Merzouga. Mohamed started playing when he was eight years old, and gives us some background on the roots of Gnawa music, created by slaves and nomads from Sub-Saharan countries. The music was meant to express the suffering of slaves and their longing for freedom, and evolved into a deep religious expression of the Muslim faith.
The contemporary Gnawa festivals in Essaouira and Merzouga stem from the agricultural rhythm of generations of harvests, the point where abundance and peace could be celebrated. Modern-day events typically coincide with Eid al-Adha celebrations that are timed with cycles of the moon, and take place roughly 11 days earlier in each subsequent year.
However, Gnaoua music and live performances are easy to find year-round in Morocco, particularly in the south. Our samples in this episode of both desert camps and urban restaurants are good examples of this. We check the schedules and availability in the cities and riads that are part of your tour, to see what we can offer you for this amazing experience!
Khemliya, Merzouga
Ending Gnawa music recorded live at Safran Marrakech restaurant.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
We recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:
A Food Tasting Tour in the Heart of Marrakech! (YouTube)
Today's live episode takes you on a culinary food tour through the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, in the heart of Marrakech, with Azdean and local guide Mr. Ahmed.
Together, they delve into the rich culinary traditions of the area, first with a visit to the olive section, where Ahmed explains the significance and variety of olives used in Moroccan cuisine. Next, they take us to a tasting of traditional Moroccan pastries, including Ghriba, Chebakia, and Fekkas, originally influenced by Jewish traditions.
The journey then takes us through the world of dried fruits, highlighting their cultural importance and common uses in special occasions such as weddings and Ramadan.
No visit to Morocco can take place without trying Harira soup, probably the staple of staples in every house and restaurant. Azdean and Ahmed visit another food stall to learn about the ingredients in Harira, when and how it's eaten, and why you can eat more of it when it's not during Ramadan!
The server then brings over a heaping plate of Msemen (Moroccan pancakes), which can be eaten either sweet or savoury, depending on your preference and the time of day. Often we see Msemen at breakfast, or accompanying a hearty bowl of Harira.
Lastly, the tour concludes at a popular food stall, Stall #31 & 50, where you'll learn about the Marrakech specialty dish of Tangia, a slow-roasted and steamed meat dish, baked in a special pot which gives it its name and distinctive flavour. You can request a visit to this stall on your food tour.
Throughout the episode, Ahmed shares cultural insights and historical contexts, making it a rich, immersive experience for anyone interested in Moroccan cuisine. This episode gives you a wonderful taste for a typical food tour, the type that Destination Morocco can easily organize and include for you as part of your custom-build itinerary.
And we talk about the contrast between a food tour and a cooking class, the pros and cons of each, and let you decide which you prefer to do, if not both!
Schedule a free discovery call today at www.destinationsmorocco.com to learn about all the options and possibilities available to you on our tours. We can't wait to show you Morocco.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
We recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:
Where you can find genuine Argan oil, from an ethical source (YouTube)
Discover the versatile and distinctly Moroccan product of Argan Oil in today's conversation, recorded live at the Zin Cooperative, just outside of Essaouira.
Argan oil can be pressed into both edible or cosmetic use, and our guest Chiadma explains the different methods of production, and how they know which is which.
Discarded shells of the nuts are given to the famous tree-climbing goats, whom you might otherwise see along the highway from Marrakech to Essaouira, climbing trees in search of their own supply!
Argan trees particularly thrive in the dry, Mediterranean-style climate of Essaouira, Agadir and Taroudant (which we described recently in Episode 86). Which means sourcing your product from that region is a good start, but you still can't assume that it's the real deal.
Chiadma shares a story of how, before she started working at the co-op, even she succumbed to a too-good-to-be-true sale. Suffice to say, the oil didn't last very long. Good, quality Argan products need a high percentage of oil, and Chiadma explains what to look for.
The Zin Cooperative, like the rug cooperative we featured in Episode 79, provides much needed employment and community for local women, in a positive and supportive environment. Discover not only quality products, but an enterprise that had a meaningful impact on this rural area.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
We recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:
The Magic of Meknes! Morocco's Imperial Secret (YouTube)
Today we feature the imperial city of Meknes, which has a prominent place in Morocco's history and culture, particularly as it relates to the Alaouite Dynasty, who continue to reign as the ruling family of Morocco today.
This episode originally appeared as part of our initial split tour episode: Ep, 71, Oct 15, 2024 - "From Capitals to Afterthoughts and Back Again: The Stories of Meknes & Volubilis (live walking tour)."
BUT - this time we have an extended focus on Meknes, and you can watch the video version as well over on our YouTube channel.
In the mid-17th Century, sultan Moulay Isma'il chose Meknes as his capital. Over the next 50 years, he rebuilt the city on a monumental scale, fitting of a new, imperial city.
The end of Moulay Isma'il's reign however, in 1727, led to a competition for power, and eventually Meknes lost its status of imperial capital, which moved back to Fes. Later, the great Lisbon earthquake of 1755 also hit northern Morocco very hard, causing damage in Meknes that further undermined its status and prestige.
In our episode today, we have a fabulous local guide, Abdellatif, who spoke excellent English and had a deep knowledge of history and detail throughout the old city. Be sure to request him if you have Meknes in your Morocco tour itinerary, fingers crossed he will be available!
Abdellatif tells us about the interconnected nature of the medina, which contains more than 10,000 houses. He tells us the history of the Mellah, and how although the population has dwindled, these days Jewish ancestors come back to retrace ancient footsteps.
We explore the Bab el-Khamis, one of the monumental entrances to the medina, decorated with intricate calligraphy. Abdellatif translates it for us and explains why it's called the "happy gate."
We then visit the mausoleum of Moulay Isma'il, which includes a mosque, prayer space, madrassa and library. We learn about how families with Alaouite ancestry, even if they are not rich and powerful today, are still allowed to bury their dead in the royal cemetery, thanks to this lineage.
We see how mosaics were created through mathematical calculations, and then Abdellatif points out the supposedly haunted prison, the "prison with no windows or doors," where the Sultan would bargain for the lives (frequently Europeans) in the age of piracy. Fortunately those days are long over!
Abdellatif truly brings Meknes to life with his vibrant and descriptive tour. You'll gain a new appreciation for this fascinating and often bypassed city, which is in fact quite easy to add to a standard Chefchaouen-Fes itinerary.
Contact Destination Morocco for more details!
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
**We recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:
"*Create the Tour YOU Want in Morocco"*
When you're the type of traveller, particularly to Morocco, who would like to get past the overwhelm and uncertainties of crafting your own trip around the country and take a guided tour instead, it's easy to then get bombarded by the various discount trips, package deals without a lot of detail, rushed itineraries and tightly controlled schedules.
There are better ways to see Morocco, in a safe, comfortable, relaxed and personalized way, without the crowds, or waiting around for all 47 passengers to board the bus.
Destination Morocco specializes in private and small group tours. We love being able to dart past the big groups waiting in line at the group entrance and instead head straight inside.
We always partner with small, family-run riads, the type that only have an 8 or 12-person capacity, and only default to a hotel when that's the sole option (a rare occasion).
We get you that table at a hidden gem restaurant, the one that only locals know about. Because it's your own local guide who's taking you there. Explore the medina at your own pace, add a museum to a rainy afternoon, or make that extra stop at the argan oil cooperative or an unexpected winery along the way.
Destination Morocco has a new promotions magazine coming out soon, with many beautiful images, background info on Morocco's diverse cities, options for immersive cultural experiences and sample itineraries. Azdean and podcast producer Ted are here today to flip through it, digitally speaking, to inspire you with ideas.
Morocco is getting busier than ever, it's an exciting time! All kinds of big events are coming up, this year and in the coming years, which means more people will be discovering the country, and some of those secret places will become a little less hidden.
Azdean and Ted talk about a couple of these for instance, such as the stunning mountainside town of Taroudant, on the southern slopes of the High Atlas mountains, between Marrakech and Agadir. You won't find it on any regular tour itineraries, but with Destination Morocco you can add it to yours! Now's your chance to get there before it becomes the next big thing.
Today's episode is full of ideas and inspiration. Follow along on our YouTube channel to catch all the images and visual references, you don't want to miss this one!
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
We recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:"Why Chefchaouen is a Unique Gem Within Morocco"
Azdean sits down on-location with local guide Hamid to learn about the history of Chefchaouen, the famous blue city of northern Morocco.
This small town roughly 4 hours north of Fes, or 2 hours south of Tangier, has been attracting tourists for decades and, in the age of Instagram, gets more popular every year.
As Hamid and Azdean emphasize, Chefchaouen is not just about the stunning colours, but the beautiful architecture, historic Medina and kasbah, and its natural setting in the Rif mountains.
Gentle creeks of water wind their way through the town, artisans and craftsmakers line the paths and lane ways, and fresh orange juice vendors squeeze delicious nectar to help you on the climb up to the Spanish mosque, where you get stunning views of the mountains, valleys and the rolling hills of blue.
Hamid explains the historic founding of Chefchaouen as a refuge for both Muslim and Jewish refugees during the time of the Spanish Inquisition. The town is a perfect snapshot of Morocco's welcoming and tolerant nature.
And we finally get a definitive answer as to why the city is blue. Although you may expect that this is something dating back centuries, the reality may surprise you!
Chefchaouen is a calm and quiet jewel of Morocco, with many wonderful features to attract travellers looking for the exotic and colorful, as well as peaceful retreats, fresh mountain air, tremendous hiking and a laid-back spirit and hospitality.
We previously posted this recording as audio-only, but now have a beautiful video version to share with you.
We know that it won't take much to convince you to add it to your Morocco itinerary!
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
You can also watch this episode on video, where you'll see some of John's fabulous photos!
You can find it on our YouTube channel here:
A Morocco Travel Itinerary That's Made for Photographers!
Photographer and dedicated world traveller John Hernandez joins Azdean today to share his inspiring travel experience to Morocco, with an emphasis on photography.
John recently travelled from Tangier, down through Chefchaouen, Fes (visiting Volubilis on the way), then Marrakech, the High Atlas Mountains, Essaouira and the Agafay Desert. This two week trip gave him enough time to get to know a few different places throughout the country, while not feeling rushed, something helped in turn by flying from Fes to Marrakech and thus saving the six hour drive.
John delves into rich cultural interactions, including playing with musicians in the desert, captivating street scenes and amazing street food, staying in stunning riads (particularly in Fes), discovering pleasantly surprising local wine, incredible coffee, fresh olives and olive oil, leather goods and crafts, and picturesque landscapes that are a photographer's dream.
A key concern for any photographer or videographer is of course the safety and security of their gear. John felt very safe throughout Morocco, particularly in Fes, which had a more relaxed vibe, and is less subjected to the buzz of motorbikes everywhere. Marrakech is however well-known for this scourge, and Azdean does include a warning to hold your items a little closer when you're in the souks there, lest they get snapped off your shoulder as a scooter whizzes by!
Ultimately, John emphasizes the importance of immersing oneself in the local culture to truly appreciate and capture the essence of Morocco through photography. Take the time to chat with locals, wander at your own pace, give yourself free time and flexibility in your itinerary. Hire a local guide with the instructions to really get past the tourist stereotypes and uncover the true story of a place.
As John says, "The only way this planet's gonna survive if we can get out of our own way and start connecting with folks from different cultures and learning. Because ultimately we all want the same thing.
Cover photo credit: John Hernandez
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
We recommend watching this episode on video, on our YouTube channel. You can find it here:
Shopping in the Souks of Marrakech: An Insider's Tour!
If you want to see what it's like visiting the souk, going into a real artisan shop: the sales pitch, the bartering, the valuable information and explanations, the language barriers and yet finding common ground and understanding - this will be an eye-opening episode.
Azdean tours the souk of Marrakech, and visits two artisan craft workshops. Our camera crew was there to document the entire experience.
He starts with the artisan wool shop, in fact a cooperative that provides hand-dyed wool for the women's cooperatives that we've featured on the podcast. You'll see the different types of coloring, in powder form, and watch as the wool master adds a few little drops of water to make it transform into a vibrant indigo blue.
We go from the initial stages of steaming and spin drying to seeing the finished product: pashmina shawls, scarves, pillow cases, carpets, hand bags and more. Azdean tries on a Saharan turban, designed for keeping out sand while you're on your camel crossing the desert.
We then go over to the wood-carver's shop, where we see a complex system of tools and chisels that requires three limbs for operation. That's right: if both of your hands are busy, you need to use your feet too! The carver deftly holds the chisel between his toes as the wood is spun by one hand and the other hand manoeuvres the angle of the chisel.
The wood shop features all kinds of intricate carvings and contraptions, but for very useful and practical things: tissue boxes, door knockers, jewelry boxes, backgammon and chess boards - items that don't just look nice on a shelf but gathering dust, but that you can actually use and enjoy regularly.
Although, there are also the soccer balls. Decorative wooden balls with inlaid pieces of wood, designed to mimic a real soccer ball. Okay, these ones you won't want to kick around but they are beautiful works of art.
The souk can be a little intimidating and overwhelming. It takes some getting used to. This episode will help get you not just prepared, but excited to see and touch, and dive into the shopping experience.
Check out the beautiful video on our YouTube channel, put together by our videographers in Morocco, Youssef and Fatah.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
This episode also appears as a video episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:"From Texas to Marrakech: American Impressions of Morocco"
One evening in Marrakech, at the conclusion of their tour, Azdean sat down with three of Destination Morocco's tour guests from Texas: Eric, Allison and her brother Matt, to chat about their tour experience, and their impressions and reflections upon visiting Morocco.
If you're wondering what it's really like to experience Morocco for the first time, this fascinating conversation gives you a window into their discoveries.
The setting: the beautiful Safran rooftop restaurant, overlooking the Koutoubia Mosque, and around the corner from the Royal Mansour Hotel and the famous Marrakech medina.
The conversation revolves around the deep cultural exposure that the group experienced during their tour, highlighted by the enduring nomadic traditions within the Berber culture. Even in this modern day world, that attachment to the land and lifestyle is never far removed.
The group discuss the importance of personal connections, warm hospitality, and the unique, sensory-rich encounters that transcend what can be captured in photos or videos.
They emphasize the value of using personalized tours by Destination Morocco, which allowed them to explore the country intimately and safely, leading to a profound appreciation for the country's diversity, history, and daily life. Their itinerary was crafted in collaboration with Azdean and his team, and so it is not a, "Go here, do this," style of tour, but rather one that incorporates the interests, priorities and pace of each individual guest.
Eric, Allison and Matt also touch on their preconceived notions before arriving in Morocco, versus the reality of actually being there, with a focus on the welcoming nature of the people, the unexpected joy found in local traditions like mint tea, and the genuine hospitality and warmth that was found.
Allison: "The feeling I'll take home with me, and it's at the heart of the people of Morocco, is on a day to day basis I will think about how can I receive people and show that heart to the people in my life."
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
**This episode also appears as a video episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:
"*What Travel in Morocco Was Like in 1989"*
World traveller Cathy Nesbitt joins Azdean on today's episode with a special story of visiting Morocco way back in 1989.
Cathy and her future husband arrived off the boat in Ceuta, thinking they were already in Morocco, but a crash course in geopolitics and navigation quickly got them to the actual border within a few minutes.
From there, they found themselves in Tetouan, with a local guide, being hussled to a carpet emporium.
Sounds like your classic tourist scam, right?
Cathy shares with us a twist though in the story, and her memories and feelings about the encounter, from over 35 years later.
Fortunately for her, and for us, they continued on into Morocco to visit many familiar sites that were only just starting to show signs of tourism fame. It was a different time to travel, without technology and easy translation, credit cards and bank machines, or the kind of transport and comforts that we are used to now.
And yet it was a trip that left many indellible memories, which she shares with us today. Azdean, in turn, talks about how places like Marrakech, Chefchaouen and Casablanca have changed since Cathy visited: in some ways a lot, in others, Morocco remains timeless.
Cathy is a yoga teacher who offers free online yoga sessions every Tuesday morning, you can check her out here:
http://cathysclub.com/
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
This episode also appears as a video episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:How do Moroccans Celebrate Ramadan?
Ramadan in 2025 starts on the evening of Friday, February 28th and goes until Saturday, March 29th, followed by the feast of Eid al-Fitr, or the ‘Feast of Fast-Breaking.'
Despite its perhaps solemn reputation, Ramadan is a joyful time for Muslims around the world, Morocco being no exception. As Azdean, Hiba and Sam explain in today's episode, the food is unique and better, families and community frequently come together, and it is a time for celebration and collective spirit, where sacrifice and diligence go hand in hand with helping others and giving back.
The question though is often raised by non-Muslim travellers, "Can I travel to Morocco during Ramadan? Is it worth it, is it a good idea?"
Our episode today revisits our conversation from a year ago. Although routines and schedules are undeniably different during Ramadan, it is still very much possible to travel to and around Morocco during the holy month, and it is in fact quite a special experience.
Hiba, Sam and Azdean discuss the spiritual meaning and practices of Ramadan for Moroccan Muslims, which includes fasting, Zakat (charitable giving), communal traditions such as Iftar (breaking of the fast), and increased recitation of the Quran. Because if you are in Morocco during Ramadan, you'll want to understand what the traditions are, why they're important, and what to look for, to give you a better appreciation for what's happening around you.
Then there is some practical travel advice for tourists, including suggested itineraries, cultural etiquette, and meal planning, which is key. Fundamentally, everything remains open in Morocco during Ramadan, from restaurants to shops to riads. The defining difference is the availability of food.
It is easier to find western-catering restaurants in the big cities, but since travel around Morocco involves a lot of driving through the rural countryside, restaurants are fewer anyway and during Ramadan they may be closed during the day. You can plan ahead with snacks and packed lunches, and your tour guide, driver and riad hosts will all help you stay prepared.
Traveling to Morocco during Ramadan is a unique and immersive cultural experience. As Azdean points out, you only have the chance one month out of the entire year, so if you have the opportunity, make the most of it and enjoy this special time!
Music credits:
Min Wahi El-Lami / Ali Sabah / courtesy of www.epidemicsound
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
We recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:"Buy a Moroccan Rug and Support the Work of Local Women"
Today's episode features the Akhnif Lglaoui Carpet Co-Operative, located just south of Aït Benhaddou and Ouarzazate, about 150 miles south of Marrakech.
Akhnif Lglaoui Carpet Co-Op
Learn about rugmaking in an informative, curious, no-pressure environment that supports the work of the local women who work so hard to make these amazing yet functional pieces of art.
We meet Sarah, host and guide of the facility, who gave Azdean and family a tour and shows them the incredible weaving and rugmaking that is done there, all by hand.
This Women's Co-op is groundbreaking, and crucially important not just to the local economy, but to women's recognition and self-sufficiency. Instead of relying on others, typically men, to sell their detailed and complex creations, products of hours of hard work and labour (which are then often resold at even higher prices, for which the women don't see an extra dime) - at the co-op, each weaver has a say in the price and value of their rug, and when it's sold they get a very generous and appropriate percentage.
Imran and Azdean sat down with Sarah to learn about her story and what brought her back to Aït Benhaddou, now working to showcase the co-op and its efforts, as well as teaching the women some English!
Sarah explains the shopping experience there, which puts an emphasis on removing the stress and pressure to buy that you typically find elsewhere. At Akhnif Lglaoui, you are free to browse, learn about rugs and carpets, and perhaps even order one later from back home, once you've made the correct measurements in your house.
It's a breath of fresh air when it comes to shopping in Morocco, which you'll appreciate after our episode on Tipping in Morocco, and our Q&A on bartering and avoiding touts, which talked about safety and security, especially while shopping. It is refreshing to find a place that allows you to really appreciate the craft and work that goes into these unique, individual creations.
The Akhnif Glaoui has a bright future and we are pleased to support them and send our guests their way.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
We recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:"Exploring Hiking & Berber Culture in Telouet, the High Atlas mountains of Morocco"Combine outstanding hiking and trekking with authentic Amazigh (Berber) cultural experiences by visiting the town of Telouet, in the heart of the stunning High Atlas Mountains.
Our episode today features a conversation between Azdean and local guide & historian Ali el-Haddadi, who leads trekking tours and escorts groups through the region. Telouet is located about a three hour drive from Marrakech, on the south slope of the mountains heading down towards Aït Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate.
Ali tells us about Berber history and influence in this part of Morocco, where even until very recent times (in the past 30 years) there was minimal electricity, people lived off the land and used techniques passed down for centuries to preserve food, build their homes and make their clothing.
You can see this amazing and authentic culture still to this day, especially through a certified and trustworthy tour operator like Destination Morocco, who can match you with local families, find safe and exciting activities and organize truly immersive experiences.
This episode is like a living guidebook, recorded on location with a true local. For Ali, a lifelong interest in languages has made him an impressive polyglot, English alone being his 3rd or 4th language. We've added some subtitles to the video to help you follow along! But when you meet someone like Mr. Ali in person, you truly see the impact and importance of modern tourism on the locals, opening up opportunities that never existed before, and broadening cultural understanding for everyone.
We previously posted this recording as audio-only, but now have a beautiful video version to share with you.
If trekking and cultural immersion are on your Morocco bucket list, consider adding Telouet to your itinerary. This episode will give you some further inspiration and encouragement to do so!
Telouet
Guide Ali Ahdadi
Video Episode credits:
Youssef and Fattah
Music credits:
Edward Karl Hanson / Moroccan Marketplace / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
This episode also has a video version on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "Travel to Morocco in 2025: Travel Highlights to Help Your Planning**"
Or stay here for the audio version - your choice!**
Morocco had a banner year in 2024, with tourist numbers reaching over 17 million, a number predicted for 2026 and yet reached two years ahead of time.
With new air routes getting underway, both international and domestic, and new hotels and luxury brands setting up in the country, Morocco is very much on the up and up. For the first time, it outdrew Egypt as the top destination for travellers in Africa. Tourist numbers are predicted to reach 26 million per year by 2030, the year Morocco co-hosts the World Cup, alongside Spain and Portugal.
All of which means, now is the time to go! Azdean and Destination Morocco podcast producer Ted Cragg discuss, in today's episode, what to prepare for in 2025, particularly events and prices that could affect your travels.
They highlight some of the numerous large festivals that take place throughout the year, including the Gnawa Music Festival in Essaouira in June, and the Marrakech International Film Festival in December. These are annual events that always draw large crowds, but equally are exciting and prestigious events to witness.
Adding to the excitement though in 2025, and in a preview of what's to come 5 years from now, are some major international football/soccer tournaments that will take place in Morocco.
The U-17 Africa Cup of Nations will be held from March 30 to April 19, followed by the Women's Africa Cup of Nations from July 5 to 26.
Then, FIFA's U-17 Women's World Cup will take place from October 17 to November 8, expanded to 24 teams for the first time.
And in the largest of them all, Morocco will host for the second time ever the Africa Cup of Nations, starting towards the end of the year, December 21, 2025 and running to January 18, 2026. This major tournament will be spread amongst six cities across the country: Tangier, Agadir, Rabat, Marrakech, Fez, and Casablanca.
Therefore, if you are planning a visit during one of these festivals or tournaments, make sure you do your research! Prices will likely be inflated, and accommodation will be less available and flexible as the dates draw near.
Alternatively, knowing when these events are taking place may help you decide exactly when to go, if you would rather avoid the crowds and the hype and go at a quieter pace.
Either way, we have lots to look forward to in Morocco in 2025, an exciting year in and of itself, but also a prelude of what to expect for the rest of the decade.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
Palm trees and **snow?
T-shirts in the afternoon, winter coats in the evening?
This is Morocco in winter, and it's a fun time to explore!**
As we head into 2025, if you are thinking of putting together a quick winter trip to Morocco, especially for those of our listeners in Europe, this replay episode gives you some useful info on what to expect and how to prepare.
January, February and March are excellent times to visit Morocco: the crowds are less, the temperature is comfortable and not scorching, there is better chance of last-minute availability for accommodation and activities, and you'll enjoy the hot tea, toasty food, comfortable riads and warm hospitality.
In our conversation today, between Azdean and podcast producer Ted Cragg, we learn about:
- What the weather is like in January, February and March,
- What to pack and expect for clothing in a country with different zones and weather systems,
- How the experience of the desert changes between seasons,
- How Azdean and his team will help you find a place that's well-located and convenient to the sights and your activities,
- What a short weekend break could look like, hopping over from Europe,
- Whether you have to fly into Casablanca or if you can enter the country in different locations, including by boat.
Destination Morocco is here to help you enjoy the best of Morocco, at your pace and style. Set up a free discovery call and let us know what you would like to see!https://destinationsmorocco.com/plan-a-trip -----
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
Come with us and discover some of Morocco's amazing local food, direct from the source in this dynamic live-recorded walking tour of the food stalls in Marrakech.
Azdean is joined by local food guide Ahmed, who takes us through the sweet and the savory, from dishes that are common across the country to those only found, or perfected, in Marrakech specifically.
We start with the olives. Olives have a long and deep history in Morocco, not just as a delicacy, but with strong cultural and religious meaning too. Ahmed tells us why olives come in different colors, how they are harvested and the spices used to prepare them.
From there it's over to the pastry stalls, a hallmark of Moroccan hospitality. Many pastries in fact owe their existence to the Jewish influence in Morocco, and have since been embraced as delicacies by Muslims, Jews and Christians alike. A true example of Morocco's open and tolerant society.
Ahmed explains not just what the pastries are and how they're made, but their role in hosting and welcoming guests when they visit your home.
A key ingredient in many dishes that can easily go unnoticed are dry fruits. Something so innocuous yet very influential in cooking, seasoning, and even celebrations. They are used in pastries and cookies, soups, tagines, salads and even as gifts at weddings. Ahmed elaborates on how all this came to be.
If you have been to Morocco, or when you go, perhaps the first Moroccan dish you will sample is Harira soup. It is the cover image of this episode, and it is ubiquitous. Harira is often closely associated with Ramadan, but is in fact common place throughout the year, and as Azdean points out, when there are no fasting restrictions you get to eat even more of it!
Few things say Morocco more than this hearty, simple, typically vegetarian soup. Harira is often served with Msemen, the Moroccan pancake, and Ahmed elaborates on this common dish as well.
The final stop is to sample some Tangia, and witness it being cooked. Tangia is a clay pot, double-lined to allow steam to escape, in which meat and spices are mixed. The pot is then lowered into the ground, into a hot pit of fire and coals, to slow cook for hours.
When you visit a Tangia stall, you will see all this in action right in front of you, usually in a small, hole-in-the-wall type of place. There is a real pit of fire right there in the middle, so watch your step!
This episode brings you front and centre with distinct Moroccan dishes, and the stories behind them. Whether on a food tour, in a cooking class, or both, make sure to add a genuine food experience to your itinerary when you come visit.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
We continue our series on the history of the Amazigh (Berber) people, with part four of the conversation between Azdean, co-host Sam and our researcher, Hiba.
In this episode, we delve into the Amazigh language, its importance to cultural identity, and the role of the Amazigh flag. Azdean, Hiba and Sam discuss the Tifinagh script, its ancient origins, and the preservation of the Amazigh language despite historical invasions.
Amazigh is an oral language, which helped it survive centuries of discrimination and oppression. However, conversely, this meant there was no formal written script until 1992! This is when a congress was held to codify grammar, spelling and form for the language and ensure its proper preservation, not to mention instruction in schools.
Out of approximately 9 million Amazighophones in Morocco, the Tashelhiyt dialect is the most common, with nearly 5 million speakers, largely in the south, from Tiznit and Agadir over towards Ouarzazate in the High Atlas Mountains.
This episode highlights the diversity within the Amazigh language, differentiating between various dialects spoken across North Africa such as Tarifit, Tashlehit, Siwi and Tumzabt. Modern borders have little say or influence on the spread of this ancient language and its various off-shoots, and as we've heard in the previous Amazigh Chronicles episodes, there are common bonds amongst Amazigh tribes that stretch across North Africa, indifferent to nation states.
We also look at the significance of the Amazigh flag: its colors, and the symbolic representation of language, land, and people of the Amazigh culture. The conversation underscores the importance of maintaining and promoting the Amazigh language and culture across various media platforms and daily life.
We encourage you to check out the following companion episodes for the full scope of our Amazigh exploration and conversations:
#50: "The Amazigh Chronicles" - The Berber History of Morocco (Part 1)#51: "The Amazigh Chronicles" - The Rich Tapestry of Amazigh Tribes: History, Language, and Customs (Part 2)#70: "The Amazigh Chronicles" - The Ancient Amazigh Civilization and Their Contribution to History (Part 3)
and our Live Q&A: Darija, Berber, French... what are some useful phrases for travellers in Morocco?"
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
**Riads are a wonderful way to experience Morocco, and we highly recommend you include them in your itinerary as much as possible.
This episode is a replay of a popular episode devoted to riads, and talks about what exactly are riads, their history and development, how they have evolved as options for travellers, what to expect in terms of service and amenities, and so much more.
Shortcut your research and get your notebook ready: this episode will have you dreaming of exotic Moroccan nights!**
(From the original description) One of Morocco's defining characteristics is its riads: homestays with a traditional twist. Riads give travellers everything from convenience and comfort to cultural immersion, all presented in a unique, distinctive package.
Azdean is here today to share lots of info and get you excited to discover myriad riads yourself. Each one is different, which is inherent to the idea and concept. Each offer authenticity, space, privacy and modern amenities, typically within walking distance to the medina and souks.
Riads are an amazing option for families thanks to their warm, welcoming nature, in a safe and secure environment. Indeed, the owners/hosts of a riad typically live there themselves, so what better way to learn more about the Moroccan home and society.
Why stay anywhere else? Genuinely: you are far better served staying in a unique, comfortable and convenient riad in any Moroccan city rather than a generic hotel in the outskirts, far from the action and activities and well beyond walking distance from the medina.
It's a little overwhelming trying to figure out what to look for and what to request for accommodation, when you book your Destination Morocco tour. Let Azdean and his team know what you're looking for in a riad, and they'll put their resources and connections to work to find something that meets your criteria, including activities like cooking classes or in-house hammam spa treatments. Many riads offer these and more.
After a busy day sightseeing, there is nothing better than relaxing on a comfy couch in a peaceful inner courtyard, sipping on mint tea and enjoying genuine Moroccan hospitality at a traditional riad.
You're about to learn:
- How riads different from AirBnb's.
- How a riad can offer personalized, individual service designed around your interests and needs.
- The history of riads, why they were built, who they were for and their impact upon Moroccan society.
- Comparing costs between riads and hotels, and the difference in value.
- Some of the activities available at a riad, or that can be organized by your hosts.
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Episode 3: "Scams! How to Understand and Avoid Them"
Book your riad via destinationsmorocco.com
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
This episode also has a video version on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "Travel Agents' Special! How to talk about Morocco to your clients**"
Or stay here for the audio version - your choice!**
We take a behind-the-scenes look in today's episode of Destination Morocco podcast, with a different theme and focus than our usual series. Azdean and producer Ted explore the psychology and mindset of how to talk about and sell Morocco, how to answer questions and generate enthusiasm.
This episode is tailored particularly for travel agents, who these days have more and more opportunity to promote and encourage travel to Morocco. It's a destination gaining more attention and excitement as major events take place, infrastructure expands and travellers return home with stories to tell.
We uncover strategies for planning trips, including the role of the tour operator, understanding client preferences, and dispelling common misconceptions about Morocco.
Whether your clients are seeking adventurous escapades, historical explorations, or leisurely getaways, this episode packs a wealth of practical advice. We emphasize the importance of personalized, well-timed itineraries and highlight emerging trends in Moroccan travel, such as the growing popularity of hub cities and private villas.
Fundamentals such as the essentials of managing logistics, integrating unique experiences and keeping the best pace of travel are also covered. A good tour itinerary has a mix of both busy activity and down time, and we know how to find that balance. Also, discover how our own local knowledge offers a distinct advantage in designing authentic and flexible tours.
This episode is a launch pad for travel agents looking to deepen their understanding of Morocco and enhance their clients' travel experiences. It also goes well with the tandem episode, "Top Misconceptions About Morocco" from July, 2024, which we highly encourage you to listen to, and add to your foundation of knowledge.
Destination Morocco is here to give you the tools you need to give your clients an experience of a lifetime.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
Today we visit the imperial city of Meknes, which has a prominent place in Morocco's history and culture, particularly as it relates to the Alaouite Dynasty, who continue to reign as the ruling family of Morocco today.
In the mid-17th Century, sultan Moulay Isma'il chose Meknes as his capital. Over the next 50 years, he rebuilt the city on a monumental scale, fitting of a new, imperial city.
The end of Moulay Isma'il's reign however, in 1727, led to a competition for power, and eventually Meknes lost its status of imperial capital, which moved back to Fes. Later, the great Lisbon earthquake of 1755 also hit northern Morocco very hard, causing damage in Meknes that further undermined its status and prestige.
Our episode today features an excerpt from the walking tour Sam and Azdean did in Meknes last summer. We had a fabulous local guide, Abdellatif, who spoke excellent English and had a deep knowledge of history and detail throughout the old city. Be sure to request him if you have Meknes in your Morocco tour itinerary, fingers crossed he will be available!
Abdellatif tells us about the interconnected nature of the medina, which contains more than 10,000 houses. He tells us the history of the Mellah, and how although the population has dwindled, these days Jewish ancestors come back to retrace ancient footsteps.
We explore the Bab el Khamis, one of the monumental entrances to the medina, decorated with intricate calligraphy. Abdellatif translates it for us and explains why it's called the "happy gate."
We then visit the mausoleum of Moulay Isma'il, which includes a mosque, prayer space, madrassa and library.
Then, a bonus: we head up the road 30 minutes to the Roman city of Volubilis.
Ruled by Rome from the 1st century AD until around 285, Volubilis is one of the most extensive Roman ruins outside of Europe.
Our infamous earthquake of 1755 toppled most of what was left, with the stone and marble looted and taken to Meknes. Within 100 years people had all but forgotten where Volubilis even was.
Fortunately, archeologists rediscovered it in the late 19th century, and today Volubilis is an important site that gives a detailed glimpse into Roman life, 2000 years ago.
When you visit, a local guide will be available to interpret the ruins, without whom you would only see stacks of rock and stones.
Khalid was our guide in Volubilis, and he describes the architecture, mosaics, olive presses and more with fine detail and precision.
We'll be doing more episodes on Meknes and Volubilis coming up soon, to give you more ideas that you can add to your itinerary, and history to look for when you come visit.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.*Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!
Send us a message, what did you think of this episode?
We return to our series on the history of the Amazigh (Berber) people, with part three of the conversation between Azdean, co-host Sam and our researcher, Hiba.
Our first two episodes covered an overview of Amazigh culture and history ("The Amazigh Chronicles" - The Berber History of Morocco, Part 1), followed by an in-depth look at the various tribes, which stretch across not just Morocco but all of northern Africa ("The Amazigh Chronicles" - The Rich Tapestry of Amazigh Tribes: History, Language, and Customs, Part 2).
Today we start to bring things forward and make the links to more modern times, looking at Amazigh influence on art and architecture, language, politics, military and economics, through to the 20th century.
Imagine a time when Morocco was the crossroads of the world, when nomadic traders would cross the Sahara to reach Marrakech and Essaouira by land, while western European ships would head for Essaouira as well, and eastern Europeans and Ottomans would stop at Tangier.
Morocco was the jumping off point to the Iberian peninsula, the Mediterranean, or alternatively the coastal waters south towards the equator. It's no wonder that language, architecture and even banking systems gained an influence that can still be felt today, far beyond modern Moroccan borders.
Gold, salt and olive oil; calligraphy, geometric designs and distinct kasbah strategic design; all these and more passed through this land and collected distinctive new features from the Amazigh people as they did so.
"Berber" may be the more familiar name, but "Amazigh" is their preferred name, and these indigenous people in their many guises maintain a powerful influence in Morocco to this day.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
Send us a message, what did you think of this episode?
This episode also has a video version on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "What Are Some of Morocco's Unique Cultural Experiences?**"
Or stay here for the audio version - your choice!**
Morocco offers many unique cultural experiences and attractions, including many you might be aware of, but with their own distinct Moroccan twist.
This podcast episode explains particular Moroccan cultural activities, to help you understand what they are, how they work, where you can find them and how you can participate yourself.
Azdean is joined by podcast producer Ted to chat about:
- the Moroccan spa and hammam experience,
- the hammam sand bath,
- what's involved with visiting the desert (whether on a day trip or overnight),
- camel riding in Morocco,
- where to find Berber (Amazigh) cultural experiences,
- how to visit mosques and other Islamic sites, and
- where to find Morocco's rich Jewish heritage.
Our goal is to clarify those lingering mysteries and ambiguities, and to identify what makes these wonderful activities and experiences unique to Morocco, in their own way.
You'll come away knowing what to look for, what questions to ask, and most of all, if it's something you want to add to your itinerary when you come visit!
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
Send us a message, what did you think of this episode?
**This is a replay of the Live Q&A recording of Friday, September 6, "Discover Morocco's Amazing Selection of Luxury Accommodation."
Watch the full episode on our YouTube channel for even more details and tourist ideas, and particularly for the visuals that accompany our conversation. Maps, photos and more await you there!
"*Discover Morocco's Amazing Selection of Luxury Accommodation*" (YouTube)
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Morocco is a country that can hold its own when it comes to luxury accommodation. Stunning five star hotels are matched with our distinct riads and desert camps, offering comfort and style in unique and unexpected settings.**
In this replay of our recent live Q&A on YouTube, Azdean, Sam and podcast producer Ted take you on a tour from Casablanca to Rabat, Chefchaouen to Fes, Marrakech and beyond, to explore the many options available at each destination.
You'll hear familiar names like Four Seasons, Marriott and Mandarin Oriental, and discover one-of-a-kind, made-in-Morocco properties that can compete on a global stage for luxury and service.
Every once in a while, a Moroccan property breaks through into everyday conversation and awareness. You may have seen recently in the news (CNN) that the Royal Mansour Marrakech earned the "Art of Hospitality" award, by The World's 50 Best Hotels, for its outstanding service and hospitality, as well as its unique concept. Royal Mansour takes inspiration from riads by creating effectively mini-riads within its walls, combining authenticity with privacy.
You may be curious about standards, expectations, grading scale (is 5 star in Morocco the same as 5 star elsewhere?), service, inclusions and more.
This live Q&A gives you more background on luxury hotels and riads, and useful, practical details on logistics, practicalities and what to expect during your stay.
Destination Morocco is here to get you started, get you inspired, and to help you discover the many options available in this stunning country.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
Send us a message, what did you think of this episode?
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!Destination Morocco + --
Today we have a two-part episode with some excerpts of audio recordings on location from Azdean and Sam's tour around Morocco in 2023. It continues the theme from our previous episode (#67), where we were in Chefchaouen on the same trip.
Today, we are still in northern Morocco. We start off in Rabat, looking out over the ocean from the Kasbah Oudaya, at the edge of the old Medina. A beautiful site with beaches down below, and the river Oued Bou Regreg dividing the cities of Rabat and Salé. You'll hear Azdean and his guide for the day, Mr. Ali, talk about the difference between the two cities, and some of the highlights and sights to see in Rabat.
Then, for part two of this episode we head right up to the northern tip of Morocco to visit Tangier. Azdean and Sam are standing at Cap Spartel Park, a famous lighthouse just west of the city that looks out over the Strait of Gibraltar. Spain is off in the distance, and you can imagine all the history that's taken place right before this spot, over thousands of years.
Sam gives us a bit of background into the place and role of Tangier in Morocco's culture and history, and things to see and do, not just in Tangier but some of the surrounding area as well.
And then we have a final clip where Azdean and Sam head down to the bottom of the cliffs, only about a mile or so south of Cap Spartel, to the Caves of Hercules. Right on the west coast of Morocco, looking out to the Atlantic Ocean, it is a place full of mythology and legend, and which is very much alive and active to this day.
Both the cape and the caves are just a short drive from downtown Tangier, roughly 20 minutes, so very easy to get to when you're there.
We love sharing these little clips with you recorded on-location, live on site. You'll hear the echo of the caves when they're standing there. You'll hear the waves crashing down below. Seabirds flying around. People relaxing and having fun down on the beach below the Kasbah. It's a really wonderful ambiance and we hope it adds to your excitement to come visit.
Don't forget that you can check the episode transcript to confirm spellings, to help you in your research!
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
Send us a message, what did you think of this episode?
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!Destination Morocco + --
Azdean sits down on location with local guide Hamid to learn about the history of Chefchaouen, the famous blue city of northern Morocco.
This small town roughly 4 hours north of Fes, or 2 hours south of Tangier, has been attracting tourists for decades and, in the age of Instagram, gets more popular every year.
As Hamid and Azdean emphasize, Chefchaouen is not just about the stunning colours, but the beautiful architecture, historic Medina and kasbah, and its natural setting in the Rif mountains.
Gentle creeks of water wind their way through the town, artisans and craftsmakers line the paths and lane ways, and fresh orange juice vendors squeeze delicious nectar to help you on the climb up to the Spanish mosque, where you get stunning views of the mountains, valleys and the rolling hills of blue.
Hamid explains the historic founding of Chefchaouen as a refuge for both Muslim and Jewish refugees during the time of the Spanish Inquisition. The town is a perfect snapshot of Morocco's welcoming and tolerant nature, as well as having its share of rebellion and defence against invaders. The ancient kasbah is a reminder of the not-so-peaceful aspects of the region's history as well.
We learn the meaning of the name "Chefchaouen" in the Berber dialect, and finally get a definitive answer as to why the city is blue. Although you may expect that this is something dating back centuries, the reality may surprise you!
Chefchaouen is a calm and quiet jewel of Morocco, with many wonderful features to attract travellers looking for the exotic and colorful, as well as peaceful retreats, fresh mountain air, tremendous hiking and a laid-back spirit and hospitality.
We know that it won't take much to convince you to add it to your Morocco itinerary!
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
Send us a message, what did you think of this episode?
This episode also has a video version on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: Just how easy is it to travel to, and around, Morocco? **or stay here for the audio version - your choice!
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Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --**
In today's episode of Destination Morocco podcast, Azdean and Sam respond to a common question they receive: Just how easy is it to travel to Morocco?
This is then a starting point for a detailed discussion on some useful, practical logistics when it comes to travel to, and around, their beautiful country.
Starting with visa requirements, particularly for U.S. and Canadian travelers, they then talk about passport validity and various direct flight options, more of which are starting all the time.
They go over the diverse range of accommodations in Morocco, highlighting both luxury international and local brands. Many, if not most, of the familiar hotel brands are well-established in Morocco, from Holiday Inn to Four Seasons. Plus some particular Moroccan-owned specialty hotels, some of whom have had a role in history.
But if you're a regular listener, you'll know that Sam and Azdean will always tout the virtues of Morocco's wonderful riads. If you're looking for an authentic accommodation experience, with comfort, quality and genuine hospitality, prioritize staying in riads wherever you go in Morocco. Sam highlights a few today, and don't forget we have other dedicated episodes too on riads, with even more detail. (Episode 29: The Allure of Moroccan Riads)
We then talk about transportation options within Morocco, including flights, trains, and buses. Modern Morocco has high-speed trains, luxury AC buses, and increasingly frequent and widespread domestic flights.
Whether you're a solo traveler or planning a group trip, this episode will guide you through those basic fundamentals, and get you started on a wonderful Moroccan adventure.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
This episode also has a video version on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: How Discount Tours in Morocco End Up Costing You 3X More (Or Worse)**,
or stay here for the audio version - your choice!
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Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --**Our good friend Siham (Ep. 24) returns to continue the discussion with Azdean and Sam from Ep. 62 (May 15, 2024) about dangerous scams and unseemly tourism practices in Morocco.
This time, the topic is discount "tour operators," the type you see in the Jemma el-Fnaa square in Marrakech (or seemingly on every street corner and cubbyhole), offering "$80 tours to Merzouga Desert" or "$20 to visit Aït Benhaddou." Impossibly cheap prices, yet tantalizing as a result.
As has been said, "We hear a story too go to be true - it ain't."
You might be wondering therefore what exactly comes with one of these tours, do they even go to the destination at all? How could they possibly advertise transport, breakfast and accommodation for that price? What actually happens when you sign up?
Well, Siham did us a solid and went on one of these tours to Merzouga, posing as a regular "tourist," to find out.
She tells us about:
- Having to pay extra for AC in a hot van,
- Being pressured to buy "mandatory Sahara scarves" for the desert,
- Hearing "Guide included," but it's not the guide who ends up meeting you, for whom you then have to pay,
- Sharing a room with other travellers, because the tour wasn't advertised as "private rooms,"
- Visiting a Berber "house" that turns out to be a rug shop,
and much more.
Imagine, you're stuck in the middle of the desert, without any other options: no grocery store, no alternate accommodation, no other transport out. They've got you trapped, and that $80 price is suddenly a faint memory.
Even for more substantial, multi-day tours, Azdean has a story of what starts as an $800 fee then turns into $2800 in expenses once all is said and done.
Tune in to this episode for not just valuable information and some head-shaking examples, but how you can be sure to avoid any of this happening to you!
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
**This is a replay of the Live Q&A recording of Friday, July 5, "Movies Filmed in Morocco (And How to Visit the Locations)."
Watch the full episode on our YouTube channel for even more details and tourist ideas, and particularly for the visuals that accompany our conversation. Maps, photos and more await you there!*Movies Filmed in Morocco (And How to Visit the Locations)* (YouTube)
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Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --**Morocco is one of the most popular locations in the world for filming movies, and Hollywood is a regular visitor. Many of your favorite movies and TV series have been filmed there:
Game of Thrones, Mission: Impossible, James Bond, John Wick, The Witcher and Indiana Jones are just some of the big names at least partly filmed in Morocco.
Why is Morocco such a popular location? Filming movies in Morocco goes back many decades, but it was a couple of hits around 1999/2000 that really brought it more attention: The Mummy and Gladiator. The setting and environment was as much a star as the actors and story, and triggered a new era of big-budget, blockbuster productions.
The country can easily double for anywhere from Egypt to Greece to ancient Rome, fantasy lands to anywhere that needs a desert. The architecture of the cities and medinas have filled in for India, Italy and medieval Europe.
And, as the industry has grown in Morocco, so has the Atlas Studios, where massive sets can be built and desert and mountains are right on the doorstep. The success of Atlas has made it even easier for major productions to choose the country, especially for weeks-long shoots.
**So, would you like to visit these locations yourself?!
We've done the research and will show you the locations of famous scenes in film and TV, how they appear in real-life, and then, how you can visit them too!**
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
In today's episode of Destination Morocco podcast, Azdean and Sam discuss common misconceptions about traveling to Morocco.
They debunk myths related to the dress code, safety, LGBTQ+ community, and whether there's more to see in Morocco than just Marrakech (!).
They also address the availability of Western amenities, the use of credit cards, and the fact that Morocco offers far more than just deserts. If you're a surfing fan, discover some amazing beaches you probably haven't heard of yet!
Our podcast aims to offer honest insights to prospective travelers, from native Moroccans like ourselves, and highlights the rich cultural heritage and hospitality of Morocco. Tune in to learn why Morocco should be on your travel list and how Destination Morocco can help craft your perfect itinerary.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
**This is an excerpt of the Live Q&A recording of Friday, June 7, "Shopping in Morocco: What to Buy and How to Buy It."
Watch the full episode on our YouTube channel for even more details and tourist ideas, and particularly for the visuals that accompany our conversation. Maps, photos and more await you there!*Shopping in Morocco: What to Buy and How to Buy It* (YouTube)
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Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --
This replay collects many of your questions over the past few weeks, asking about how to shop in Morocco, which is a much different experience from what you may be used to!**Learn about the most popular items to bring home, what to look for, how to barter and find a good price, and what are the specialties of certain cities and regions.
Hear insider tips on how to approach bartering, negotiation, how to say no, when to say yes, and how to confidently find the authentic item you're looking for.
From rugs to tagine pots, argan oil to beauty products, major items to tiny carry-ons: this was a very useful live Q&A session!
Make sure that what you get is authentic, genuine, fairly priced and, most of all, what you **wanted to buy. Not what someone pressured you to buy, or something you have no idea what it is, or what it does.
Remember to visit our Live Q&A page to send in more questions on this and other topics, whatever you need help with. We put them together into a topic for our monthly live sessions; join us on YouTube, the first Friday of each month!**
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
Dan & Cierra McPherson travelled to Morocco with Destination Morocco and discovered far more than a generic tour experience. From secret stops to amazing cubbyhole restaurants, they received an authentic, unique exposure to Morocco’s people and culture.
Cierra & Dan had a tall order for Destination Morocco when they got in touch with Azdean, looking to travel to Morocco just a short time later. They wanted to see as much of the country as possible, but over just 11 days. Could it be done?
This episode recounts their journey. Thanks to Azdean and his team, these world travellers had an experience that ranked with the best of their many destinations.
Hear their stories about enjoying Tangia stew, Moroccan bread, and yes, a dish that consists of cooking (then eating) an entire sheep: head, eyes and all, that has been slow-cooked in a hole in the ground (Shoua).
They met Khalil, the blind tour guide of Hassan II Mosque, whom you've heard numerous guests rave about on the podcast. Their guide used his connections to allow them early access to the mosque, before the regular crowds arrived.
In Chefchaouen they sampled fresh peanuts, boiled in honey, and freshly-squeezed orange juice on the walk up to the Spanish mosque overlooking the city.
Thanks to their flexible schedule and efficient transport, they were able to visit both Volubilis and the camel hump town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun on the same day, when most tour groups have to choose one or the other.
And learn about more local delicacies from their personal experience: Having tried a camel burger, which would you now choose, camel or beef?
Dan & Cierra were lodged along the way in Morocco's beautiful riads, which can accommodate no large groups, just a few guests at a time. A great opportunity to mingle and chat with the hosts and other travellers.
Meanwhile, it wasn't planned as a romantic trip, but in such a romantic country, they were swept up in the spirit. Dan & Cierra were treated to their own Moroccan wedding, with henna designs and Berber attire, and enjoyed memorable meal after memorable meal: breakfasts, lunch and dinner.
Whether on a private tour such as theirs, or on a small group tour that combines nimble flexibility with an affordable price, you can craft your own indelible Moroccan experience with Destination Morocco, and this episode gives you some tremendous ideas to add to your list.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
We've talked about scams in Morocco a few times on the podcast, from one of our early episodes (Scams! How to Understand and Avoid Them) to one of our recent Live Q&A sessions, (Latest Scams: Staying Safe While Traveling in Morocco).
It's a topic we often circle back to, because we want to make sure that all tourists, whether they travel with Destination Morocco or on their own, are staying safe and confident while visiting Morocco.
Some scams though are far more involved and intricate than overpaying for a taxi or a rug. They are the product of years of nurturing, patience and trust, trust which turns out to be a dangerous façade.
These scams prey on vulnerable tourists, people in moments of change and desperation in their lives, who can't, or refuse, to recognize the signs. They meet someone and form an emotional bond, and if that bond is made under false pretenses, it's not just money but so much more that comes under threat.
Today's episode is designed to help you know what to look out for, how to recognize the signs, think about your situation and listen to those close to you, who are giving you warnings from a different perspective.
And if you're listening and know of someone who might fit one of the scenarios we talk about, we want to give you the tools to help them be safe, and extricate them from that relationship.
Siham Essahiri, whom you'll remember from the impactful conversation last year, "Henna and the Strength of Moroccan Women," joins Azdean and Sam on this episode to share some of her first-hand experience in recognizing these dangerous scams. These moving stories will help you recognize just how deep these scams and false pretenses can go.
We recognize that this may sound like a very doom and gloom episode, that might put you off travel to Morocco. But as Siham points out, the vast majority of Moroccans, 99+%, are genuinely friendly, courteous and kind. Love stories and friendships do exist that are absolutely real and sincere. But we have seen enough of the opposite to want to make sure that all visitors to Morocco are simply aware that yes, it can happen, and we don't want it to happen to you.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
**This is an excerpt of the Live Q&A recording of Friday, May 8, "Finding a Morocco Tour at an Affordable Price."
Watch the full episode on our YouTube channel for even more details and tourist ideas, and particularly for the visuals that accompany our conversation. Maps, photos and more await you there!*Finding Morocco Private-Style Tours at an Affordable Price* (YouTube)
--
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --
If you enjoy the convenience and security of group tours, but find large coach tours of 50 people a little less appealing, this live session replay is for you.**
Or, if you enjoy the freedom and control of travelling solo, yet are looking for the safety and service that comes with a private tour, but at an affordable price, then this live session replay is also for you.
Destination Morocco has put together the best of both worlds to give you some amazing tour options in 2024: convenience, comfort, flexibility and personal attention, all at an affordable price.
Quick Sprinter vans enable you to skip the crowds and make the most of every minute. You'll come home with a greater understanding of Morocco, its culture, its people and its stunning landscape.
Each itinerary includes all accommodation stays, certain meals, local tours, a certified private driver, an award-winning nationally-certified tour leader, airport transfers, 24/7 in-destination support from our local office in Morocco, as well as further features.
**We want you to see Morocco in 2024, before the crowds really increase. The World Cup is on the horizon, major airlines are adding new flights from North America and Europe, and Morocco is becoming more popular than ever.
Now is the time to experience the best Morocco has to offer, and we can take you there.**
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
Hop down after the episode description for an update on our podcast schedule and our new donor link!---
You've heard that Morocco is a modern, plural, largely Westernized country and, well, that is largely true. Dress or behave, within reason, as you would in most of Europe or North America and you won't feel out of place at all.
But as always, there are exceptions, and this episode of our "travel fails" series draws attention to the places where modesty and propriety are expected. Tourists who pay attention to and respect these customs will in turn discover a wealth of hospitality and welcome.
Topics covered in today's conversation include:
- cultural awareness,
- appropriate clothing,
- respecting religious sites,
- photography etiquette,
- local customs,
- communication barriers,
- visa issues,
- avoiding currency exchange scams,
- shopping for souvenirs (and budget planning!),
- managing travel documents,
- and the importance of travel insurance.
When you're on a Destination Morocco tour, your knowledgeable guide is not just there to explain history or keep things on schedule, but also to make sure you're prepared and informed to avoid any potential faux-pas and sticky situations.
Even our Small Group Tours are small enough that you get that personal attention and assistance, while sharing the experience with new friends.
As we head into a busy summer, our programming is adjusting to follow suit.
For starters, you can now join our monthly Live Q&A sessions on the first Friday of every month, at 1 pm Pacific/4 pm Eastern/10 pm Central Europe.
This means the next one is coming up this week, on Friday May 3rd! We'll be sharing more about how you can get a private tour experience without the expense, the best of both worlds, so bring your questions on logistics, practicalities, pricing and more.
Meanwhile, we'll be publishing two regular episodes per month, on the 1st and 15th, in addition to the replay of each Live Q&A.
If you enjoy our podcast and would like to support us, you can easily do so no on our new donation page. Thank you for your generosity! We'll continue to inspire your dreams and plans to see Morocco yourself and enjoy the country has to offer.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Supporter program!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
In our recent Live Q&A session on secret places in Morocco off the tourist path, one such location is a stunning lake located east of Marrakech, a roughly three hour drive from the city. Perhaps because of this distance, and the fact that it is not on the main tourist routes, it is still largely known only to locals and the occasional informed tourist.
You are about to become one of those in-the-know travellers.
The lake is in fact a large reservoir, held back by a mini-Hoover Dam, creating one of the largest bodies of water in Morocco: Bin el-Ouidane.
Mountains and rolling hills line the shore, in an area still largely undeveloped and untouched. A nature paradise, but with some stunning accommodations available too.
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Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!Destination Morocco + --
One of the most impressive places to stay, not just at the lake but in all of Morocco, is the Widiane Luxury Hotel and Spa. Built on a hillside overlooking the lake, with access to the water, the resort is a combination of relaxing getaway and a multitude of adventure activities. When you're ready to get out of the busy cities and discover amazing hiking, watersports, spas and hammams, 5 star food and accommodation, and most of all tremendous service, this is the place.
Azdean and his team stayed at Widiane last summer as the final stop on their two month tour around the country, and he sat down with hotel ambassador Mr. Nabil to talk about this stunning part of the country, and how the resort fits in to the environment.
Widiane places a particular emphasis on local: local cuisine, local ingredients (often reinterpretations of international cuisine), local artisans and local staff. This is not a member of a chain of resorts and hotels, it is Moroccan-owned and supported, and a great way to give back to the local economy.
Check out our conversation today, recorded live on location, to learn more about this beautiful area. You can add a stop here to your tour itinerary, which gives you transport and guided stops along the way.
Visit our website to learn more: www.destinationsmorocco.com
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
**This is an excerpt of the Live Q&A recording of Wednesday, April 10, "Getting off the tourist path in Morocco."
Watch the full episode on our YouTube channel for even more details and tourist ideas, and particularly for the visuals that accompany our conversation. Maps, photos and more await you there!*Getting Off the Tourist Path in Morocco* (YouTube)*List of sights mentioned* (doc)
--
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --**
We spend a lot of time talking about the great sights of Morocco, from Marrakech to Fès, Chefchaouen and Tangier, Ouarzazate and the Merzouga Desert.
If you are making plans for your first trip to Morocco, and indeed if it may be your only trip to Morocco, then we always say to make sure you visit these famous locations, to get a good overview and understanding of the country.
But if you are the type who likes to wander further afield, get away from the crowds, discover something new and different (and maybe be a trailblazer in that regard!), then this live Q&A session will be right up your alley.
We'll be focusing on some of the lesser-known sights of Morocco, the places that people typically get to after they've visited the more famous locales. Or, perhaps they have a few extra days on their big trip and can start exploring right away.
Whether waterfall or canyon, quiet neighborhood or hidden museum, there are lots of options to get off the touristy path while on your tour. And the best part is, it is easy for us to integrate those stops into your itinerary or, with enough notice, modify a full day.
With Destination Morocco, we can easily incorporate any such requests. On a private tour, you can make those decisions, you're the boss!
The best way to follow this episode is by watching it on our YouTube channel, where you can follow along with the maps and images.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
"Travel Fails:" a popular theme in this era of do's, don't's and travel research, comes to the Destination Morocco podcast with today's episode, featuring Azdean, Hiba and Sam. They share their knowledge of travel in Morocco, as well as first-hand experience as travellers themselves in their country, to give you some useful tips of what to do (and what not to do) when you are exploring Morocco yourself.
Focusing on safety, we talk about security measures against pickpocketing and theft, avoiding scams, medical preparations, food and water safety, and dealing with the heat. The importance of understanding and respecting local street food practices is another big one, as we want to find a balance between encouraging trying out new food and flavors, while not taking any undue risks to your stomach.
Meanwhile, being aware of insect-borne diseases also comes up, as although Morocco is far from a tropical country, it can get hot, and add to that some puddles of standing water and you can have the right mixture for breeding mosquitos. It partly depends on the time of year, but if you are planning a summer trip then make sure you take account of both heat and insect precautions.
Certain topics are as common to Morocco as to any place in the world: drinking bottled water, avoiding unfamiliar areas after dark, and the benefits of carrying a basic medical kit. But we also talk about understanding local dress codes, and again finding that balance between being comfortably modern yet suitably modest.
Preparation, awareness, and cultural respect are key to enjoying a safe and pleasant trip to Morocco, and this episode will help get you ready. In fact, we anticipate a series of further episodes along a similar theme, so stay tuned in our podcast feed. And if you haven't already, we have two episodes focused specifically on tourist scams in Morocco, so make sure you catch up on those:
Live Q&A Episode #5 - Understanding Scams in Morocco: How to Travel With Confidence
Ep. 3: Scams! How to Understand and Avoid Them
Destination Morocco is your safest partner in Morocco, helping you navigate through unexpected moments and sticky situations. Visit destinationsmorocco.com to learn about our tour options, including our new series of Small Group Tours!
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
Azdean and his local Fes guide extraordinaire, Moulay Hafid Alami, conclude their tour of the old city with a visit to the pottery and ceramic studio, "Mosaique et Poterie de Fes."
Located just to the east of the medina, this is more than a simple shop selling their beautiful craftwork (and there is a lot of it!). When you arrive, you get a guided tour of the facility, starting with handling the raw clay itself, learning how it's shaped, dried and fired, then glazed and decorated.
In our episode today, Azdean is taking this very tour, and you'll hear all the explanations, combined with the sounds of patting down clay, opening the kiln door, chiseling delicate vases and more.
Listen in to learn why Fes is such an important and influential artistic centre, not just to Morocco, but worldwide. We visit the kiln and learn about the firing process, the particular wood used, and a special natural ingredient added to the kiln.
Zalish mosaic tiles, famous around the world, are produced right here in this studio. Zalish is the root of the Portuguese word "Azulejo," the famous blue tiles, meaning "polished stone" in Arabic.
We learn more about funduqs (such as the converted Nejjarine Museum), the unique former accommodation for traders in Fes, and then we end the tour with a quick stop back in the medina, at the al-Karouyin University, the world's oldest.
You can view this special Google Map to find out the exact location of all our stops in Parts 1 and 2 of the Fes tour.
And don't forget, all our episodes have transcripts, which can help to make sense of some of the accents and place names. Apple users with the latest update should see the transcript on their phones. Or, you can visit the episode page below to follow along with the .pdf file:
Fes Walking Tour Part 2: Visiting the Famous Fes Pottery Studio
Thank you for joining us during this past month of celebrating the magical city of Fes, Morocco. As Azdean says, if there is one place in the country you should visit, it's right here, and we hope this series has given you inspiration and momentum to book your trip!
Music credits:
Mike Franklyn / Scorpion Dance / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
Experience the sounds and ambience of Fes in this live walking tour of the medina, during Azdean's tour in 2023. Accompanied by expert guide Moulay Hafid Alami, we start in Fes el Jdid, the 14th century quarter, learning about the Royal Palace of Fes and its seven golden doors (only created in the 1960's), and the importance of the neighboring Jewish Quarter, or Mellah, the first in Morocco. We pause to take in the quiet tranquility of the Jewish Cemetery, as Hafid tells us about the special bond between Muslims and Jews in Morocco, in Fes in particular.
From there, we head over to the Burj Sud, or "southern fortress," an army installation on top of a hill that looks out over the old city. A quick drive to the top of the hill allows us to wander around the perimeter, where Hafid explains the layout of the city and the differences between its three sections: Fes el Bali, Fes el Jdid and the Ville Nouvelle.
How many streets are in the old medina? How do people find their way around, and what happens when someone gets lost, especially a child? Hafid will tell you first hand from his own experience!
Part One of our tour concludes with the famous Chouara Tannery, where visitors can look down on the many colored vats containing various dyes and natural chemicals. We meet another guide from the tannery and shop, Mr. Mushor, who tells us how the tanning process works. Yes, there is a special ingredient and yes, it is not particularly pleasant but Mushor explains why it makes such a difference to the finished product, and why the process remains in its original form, dating back hundreds of years. Everything is done by hand, and from this tannery leatherworks are shipped out around the world.
You've heard us talk about the magic and charm of Fes in our episodes this past month, now you can close your eyes and be whisked away yourself. And all of our episodes have transcripts, which can help to make sense of some of the accents and place names. Apple users with the latest update should see the transcript on their phones. Or, you can visit the episode page below to follow along with the .pdf file.
Fes Walking Tour Part 1: The Royal Palace, Jewish Quarter and the Tannery
The tour continues in our next episode, as we visit the craftsmen of Fes, making pottery and ceramics, rugs, woodwork and more.
We hope you enjoy this immersive audio experience!
Music credits:
Mike Franklyn / Scorpion Dance / courtesy of
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
**This is an excerpt of the Live Q&A recording of Wednesday, March 13, exploring the vibrant city of Fez.
Watch the full episode on our YouTube channel for even more details and tourist ideas, and particularly for the visuals that accompany our conversation. Maps, photos and more await you there!**Exploring the Magical City of Fez, video replay
Azdean, Sam and Ted expand on our recent episode on Fez (which goes over a sample four-day itinerary) and reminisce on their own experiences and memories there, while answering your questions about what to see and do in the city, a bit of history and context, and practical logistics like accommodation and transport.
Fez is a remarkable place to visit, wandering the maze of the Medina, popping into shops, admiring the mosques and madrasas, learning about the tanning process while overlooking the dye vats: and all of this within the old city alone!
Branching further out, there are beautiful lookout stops, pottery and ceramic studios, or the modern contrast of the New City, which instantly brings you forward to the present-day.
Fez has prominent Jewish heritage, and it is easy to visit the historic Mellah, synagogue and Jewish cemetary, located alongside the royal palace, with its brilliant gold doors.
We talk about all this and much more in our live Q&A session, and it will get you more excited than ever to see this fabulous city for yourself. The best way to follow this episode is by watching it on our YouTube channel**, where you can follow along with the maps and images.
But if you're listening in your car, on the bus, cooking, going for a walk etc., this audio excerpt of our live recording is a great place to begin.
You can always send us questions and ideas for episode and live Q&A topics, and join us and interact live on our monthly sessions, the 2nd Wednesday of each month.
---**
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
We have dabbled in Fès since the start of the Destination Morocco podcast, as it has made an appearance in episodes such as our tour overview of Morocco, our discovery of famous Moroccan food, or in particular from our guests' stories, such as with Chantal and her family, who spent some memorable days in and around the city:
- Episode 4: A Guided Tour Around Morocco
- Episode 14: Dig Into Genuine Moroccan Dishes in Fès
- Episode 22: Comfortable and Safe Family Travel in Morocco
Now, we enter into our first dedicated series of episodes on this fabulous city, starting with a general overview of the main sights to see, and a sample itinerary for a typical four-day visit.
Crucial to planning your trip to Fès is knowing how much time you should spend there, as it is not like any other destination in Morocco. The medina's maze of labyrinthine streets and alleys alone could keep you occupied for a week or more, simply by checking out different corners, craft studios, shops, tanneries, cafés and restaurants.
And that's without seeing some of the city's other highlights including the great observation points that look out over the valley, the pottery and ceramics studios that are further to the edge, the Fes Jdid (or "New Fez," which expands beyond the old medina and in fact dates from 1276), or of course the New City (la Nouvelle Cité), which offers a modern, dynamic contrast to the ancient streets.
Hiba serves as our guest host for today's episode, with Azdean and Sam as the guests, primarily because they reflect on their own trip to Fès in 2023 as tourists themselves. Although they have visited often, Fez far enough from their home base in Marrakech to be a special trip and experience, even for them. They can thus draw from the itinerary they followed last year where, like many of Destination Morocco's guests, four days was the allotted time.
In four days, one can start with a visit to the iconic Bab Bujlud gate and a guided tour of the Medina. Other highlights include the Al-Qarawiyyin Mosque, Madrasa Bu 'an Aniyah, and the famous, colorful Chouara tannery. That still leaves time for activities, including taking a cooking class, trying a distinct Fes hammam, visiting the Dar Batha Museum, or relaxing in Jnan Sbil Gardens.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
You can also watch this video episode on our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/FhPkzzzYjns
Ramadan in 2024 starts on the evening of Sunday, March 10th and goes until Tuesday, April 9th, followed by the feast of Eid al-Fitr, or the ‘Feast of Fast-Breaking.' Despite its perhaps solemn reputation, Ramadan is a joyful time for Muslims around the world, Morocco being no exception. As Azdean, Hiba and Sam explain in today's episode, the food is unique and better, families and community frequently come together, and it is a time for celebration and collective spirit, where sacrifice and diligence go hand in hand with helping others and giving back.
The question though is often raised by non-Muslim travellers, "Can I travel to Morocco during Ramadan? Is it worth it, is it a good idea?"
Our episode today is to counter that view and establish that, although routines and schedules are undeniably different during Ramadan, it is still very much possible to travel to and around Morocco during the holy month, and in fact it is quite a special experience.
Hiba, Sam and Azdean discuss the spiritual meaning and practices of Ramadan for Moroccan Muslims, which includes fasting, Zakat (charitable giving), communal traditions such as Iftar (breaking of the fast), and increased recitation of the Quran. Because if you are in Morocco during Ramadan, you'll want to understand what the traditions are, why they're important, and what to look for, to give you a better appreciation for what's happening around you.
Then there is some practical travel advice for tourists, including suggested itineraries, cultural etiquette, and meal planning, which is key. Fundamentally, everything remains open in Morocco during Ramadan, from restaurants to shops to riads. The defining difference is the availability of food.
It is easier to find western-catering restaurants in the big cities, but since travel around Morocco involves a lot of driving through the rural countryside, restaurants are fewer anyway and during Ramadan they may be closed during the day. You can plan ahead with snacks and packed lunches, and your tour guide, driver and riad hosts will all help you stay prepared.
Traveling to Morocco during Ramadan is a unique and immersive cultural experience. As Azdean points out, you only have the chance one month out of the entire year, so if you have the opportunity, make the most of it and enjoy this special time!
Music credits:
Min Wahi El-Lami / Ali Sabah / courtesy of www.epidemicsound
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
We conclude our cultural tour of Morocco with a performance of Gnaoua (also spelled Gnawa) music, recorded live on location at a Merzouga desert camp and at a Marrakech restaurant.
In between performances, Azdean sits down with Mohamed, a musician and member of the Gnaoua performers in Qser el Khamliya, a small village just south of Merzouga. Mohamed started playing when he was eight years old, and gives us some background on the roots of Gnawa music, created by slaves and nomads from Sub-Saharan countries. The music was meant to express the suffering of slaves and their longing for freedom, and evolved into a deep religious expression of the Muslim faith.
The contemporary Gnawa festivals in Essaouira and Merzouga stem from the agricultural rhythm of generations of harvests, the point where abundance and peace could be celebrated. Modern-day events typically coincide with Eid al-Adha celebrations that are timed with cycles of the moon, and take place roughly 11 days earlier in each subsequent year.
However, Gnaoua music and live performances are easy to find year-round in Morocco, particularly in the south. Our samples in this episode of both desert camps and urban restaurants are good examples of this. Your guide or riad owner will help you find the best locations to witness Gnaoua in person, don't hesitate to ask!
Khemliya, Merzouga
Ending Gnawa music recorded live at Safran Marrakech restaurant.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
This episode is the audio replay of part our Destination Morocco live Q&A session, on Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024.
You can find the full video version here on our YouTube channel.Our live Q&A session this month focused on identifying useful phrases in Moroccan languages that travellers can use while in the country. As a very multilingual country, this means doing so in more than one language, which as we explore today essentially means Darija (Moroccan Arabic), Berber (or Tamazight, the original indigenous language), and French, which is still in very common use and may be at least a bit more familiar to many travellers.
The best way to follow this episode is by watching it on our YouTube channel, where you will see the visuals as we spell each word or phrase in Darija, French and Berber.However, interspersed with our language lesson, and particularly in the first 20 minutes, is some background and contextual information on languages in Morocco, where you'll hear each one, and in what situation.
We have a fun conversation on language identity, and talk about examples when Azdean, Sam and Hiba had to figure out themselves which language to use, and how their accents were interpreted. It turns out that the dialects alone amongst Berber speakers can be quite distinct!
It's not just travellers but locals as well who navigate this linguistic landscape. But in a place where exposure to multiple languages on a daily basis is a common occurrence, there is far less awkwardness or embarrassment as a result. **So if you're listening in your car, on the bus, cooking, going for a walk etc., check out this audio excerpt of our live recording for the fascinating background info on languages.
Then, you can jump over to the YouTube channel and at the 20 minute mark, you'll see our language lesson begin!**
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
Continuing on a bit further south from our last episode in Telouet, we follow Azdean on his summer tour down to Aït Ben Haddou, southern gateway to the High Atlas mountains and their stunning scenery and hiking. Aït Ben Haddou is a small town but is known for its traveller services, restaurants and accommodation, and its welcoming hospitality.
In this episode of Destination Morocco podcast, Azdean sits down with Mr. Mustapha, who works at the restaurant l'Oasis d'Or (Golden Oasis), a popular restaurant located on the main road through town. Mustapha speaks extensively about Berber culture and how they have embraced tourism as a way to present their culture and provide a unique experience to tourists from around the world. He speaks seven languages, which he attributes to interacting with diverse tourists, as well as a reflecting a common Moroccan trait of having a knack for language. Although, as Azdean points out, there are certainly pockets of Morocco where people are not only unilingual, they may speak only Moroccan Arabic (Darija) or the Berber (Amazigh) language, the original indigenous language, without really being able to communicate in the other.
So it's not a given that all Moroccans are polylingual, but we have certainly met quite a few examples on the podcast who are! And it is an impressive thing to see. Mustapha even speaks Russian and Mandarin, thanks to the many Chinese tour groups that have been coming through Aït Ben Haddou and Ouarzazate over the last few years.
Mustapha also discusses the establishment, menu, and services of l'Oasis d'Or, highlighting its welcoming approach to customers and how the staff operate as a big family. Azdean, with his eye for hospitality and service, praises the restaurant's generosity and the quality of its food, voicing optimism for l'Oasis d'Or's plans to open a new hotel in the near future.
On the theme of languages, we welcome you to join us live on YouTube on Wednesday, February 14 at 12 pm EST for our next live Q&A session, where we'll be talking about languages in Morocco, particularly the difference between Berber and Darija. Azdean and Sam will teach us a few useful phrases for travellers. Always handy, especially if you're heading off the beaten path for some real cultural immersion, which is the theme of our recent series of episodes!
l'Oasis d'Or, Aït Ben HaddouDestination Morocco YouTube
Music credits:
Sight of Wonders / Desert Footsteps / court
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
We continue our exploration of Berber/Amazigh culture with a visit to Telouet, a small village deep in the High Atlas Mountains, known for its kasbah, trekking and beautiful scenery. Azdean met with local guide and historian Ali Ahdadi to delve into Berber influence in the area and activities for travellers passing through.
Telouet is a bit off the beaten path, hence why it was largely a secret until recently. But in reality it's only a 2.5 hour drive from Marrakech, an hour south to Aït Benhaddou, and another half hour from there down to Ouarzazate. The roads are largely saled and well maintained, and to compensate for the twisty switchbacks there are stunning views of valleys and snow-capped mountains along the way.
Ali guides us through his personal experiences growing up in Telouet, from his family's ancestral craft of blacksmithing to the evolution of Berber communities, highlighting the unique blend of Jewish and Berber cultures steeped in the region's history. Having left to go to university in Marrakech and working around Morocco, he appreciates even more being able to come back home and make a living in this quiet area with fresh air and a peaceful pace of life.
At the same time, Azdean and Ali talk about some of the major events that are starting to put Telouet on the map, including the Atlas Mountain Cycling Race that passes through town, bringing around 200 riders on a traverse from Marrakech to Essaouira. Ali's anecdotes about mountain climbing and the importance of development and visibility of Telouet's history and culture paint a vivid image of a place poised on the cusp of tourism transformation.
Moreover, you'll learn about Telouet's historical importance as a rich salt source, the health benefits of this mineral in both the culinary and medicinal spheres, the profound connection to esteemed painters like Jacques Majorelle, and the significance of the area as a link between Africa and Europe.
It's an episode filled with warmth, a delightful conversation with a local guide well-known to the trekking community. Don't forget to pack your sense of wonder for this captivating instalment of Destination Morocco – your gateway to the traditions and innovations of the Amazigh heartland.
Telouet
Guide Ali Ahdadi
Music credits:
Edward Karl Hanson / Moroccan Marketplace / courtesy of www.epidemicsound.com
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
In today's episode of Destination Morocco podcast, Azdean, Hiba and Sam expand on the historical canvas and cultural fabric formed by the Amazigh, or Berber, tribes across North Africa.
Our focus is an overview of some of the more prominent tribes and communities, who have had a long and lasting impact on the region. Long before modern political borders, invaders and settlers, and contemporary languages and culture, these Amazigh peoples were laying down cultural roots still seen today.
Our list includes:
- the Riffians of Northern Morocco and the Rif Mountains,
- the Kabyles of Northern Algeria,
- the Tuareg: a more nomadic people but with predominantly in Mali,
- the Chleuh of southern Morocco and the High Atlas Mountains (Agadir, Tafraout, Ouarazazate areas),
- the Zayanist of a different area of southern Morocco (the Anti-Atlas Mountains),
- the Mzabites of central Algeria,
- and the Siwa of western Egypt, who have far more in common with their Amazigh cousins than with the Arabs of contemporary Egypt.
In Part 1 of our series, we gave an overview of the Amazigh culture and identity, and its history and influence dating back thousands of years. In Part 2, we explore the distinct identities, customs and dialects within the Amazigh world, since they are far from a homogeneous community, which makes sense covering such a large area.
While listening to their story, it is important to erase for a moment those borders, lines, names and flags that are more familiar. Underneath are the Amazigh, and when you visit Morocco, or indeed continue further across North Africa, you will know who these groups are and how they all fit together.
Our series, "The Amazigh Chronicles," will continue after this as additional bonus episodes for those who enjoy diving in deeper to cultural history from a modern day perspective, brought to you by native Moroccans themselves. Keep an eye out for further episodes in our podcast feed.
Our general theme in early 2024 is learning about cultural identities in Morocco and North Africa, and in turn opportunities for you as a traveller to understand and experience this in person. Our upcoming episodes in February, including our Live Q&A, will continue along these lines with lots of practical information and advice to help you really get to know Morocco and its people.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
This episode is the audio replay of our Destination Morocco live Q&A session, on Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024.
You can find the video version here on our YouTube channel.
In this month's session, Azdean, Sam and podcast producer Ted, navigate the labyrinth of traveller scams in the bustling streets and markets of Morocco. With a focus that is as practical as it is necessary, they will equip you with the knowledge to sidestep common pitfalls that many an unwary traveller might stumble into.
What are the latest tricks taxi drivers have up their sleeves, and how can you ensure a fair fare? What about those unofficial tour guides who seem so helpful at first glance? Learn the subtle tactics scammers use and get concrete tips on how to say no to unwanted tours and purchases.
You might not thinking that dining out is something prone to scams, but Azdean sheds light on menu price changes and added fees, while Ted reveals his take on unexpected items showing up at your table. Is it complimentary, or will you find it on your bill?
How can a photograph safeguard against overcharging? And in the vast array of merchandise in the souks, how can you distinguish a genuine offer from a scam?
It's not all negative though: fortunately some areas of travel in Morocco have seen substantial improvement. Sam talks about the improvements in taxi services, including the benefits of a scheduled green taxi pick-up and how to utilise the newly introduced kiosk system at the airports. Learn when and how you can call the police, or even threaten to do so, and how that can make all the difference.
We go over the importance of guarding your belongings against theft at the airport, how to effectively navigate interactions with customs officials, and why certain travellers are targeted.
Scams are an international reality, and knowledge is your best ally against them. Get ready to jot down valuable insights that will help you embrace the vibrant Moroccan experience with confidence and peace of mind.
This episode not only raises the questions but offers the answers that could save you time, money, and stress!
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
Who are the Moroccans?
To a large extent, the native population of Morocco are the Amazigh people, whose presence and influence date back thousands of years. Commonly known as “Berbers,” in fact their preferred term, “Amazigh,” is a more positive, inclusive name that means “the free people.”
Speaking the Tamazight language, and pronounced similar to “A-ma-zirgh,” (with the “rgh” a soft guttural sound) Amazigh roots spread far beyond just the borders of Morocco, which as you’ll learn in today’s episode, are quite artificial. Tribes and bloodlines stretch from Egypt to modern day Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Mauritania and more. The Amazigh tussled with the pharaohs, faced the Carthaginians, mingled with the Romans, occupied Iberia (modern Spain and Portugal), and absorbed Islamic invaders to lay the foundations of their modern culture.
In more recent times, the Amazigh and Morocco (and Africa in general) have gone through the sting of colonialism and adapting to the imposition of European culture and languages. Moroccan independence from France in 1956 marked a return to the path of freedom and self-determination that has marked the vast majority of the country’s history.
Morocco today is a multiethnic, modern and cosmopolitan society. But it is the Amazigh people who have the deepest roots and impact.
Meanwhile, at Destination Morocco, one of the most frequent questions from our tour guests is, “How can I learn more about the native people, and experience the Berber culture?” Many travellers have a desire to go beyond the touristy sights and attractions and have a true culturally immersive experience.
To that end, one of the topics we’ve had on our podcast list has been to give an overview of Berber/Amazigh history, and context to their role in Moroccan society today. This episode is the first part of a new ongoing series, a mix of regular and bonus episodes that are a bit of a glimpse “behind the curtain” into the culture and identity of everyday Moroccans.
Azdean and Sam are joined by friend of the podcast Hiba, live from her home in Marrakech, to talk about Amazigh history. In Part 1, they talk about the early development of Amazigh identity, its reaction to the various invaders and conquerors over the centuries, and how those milestones have influenced culture and identity today.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
You’ve spent a lot of money to get to Morocco, especially to see it thoroughly and comprehensively. And even more importantly, your trip is the culmination of months or years of dreaming, planning, research and preparation.
We all know that unexpected things can happen, from getting sick to breakdowns or even just surprisingly poor customer service. But to sort out these problems, you’ll want to be in the hands of experienced professionals who see you as more than a number or a confirmation code.
Today’s episode is our first of 2024, and Azdean and Sam are joined by podcast producer Ted to reflect on the past year and their own travels around Morocco, and how to get out of sticky situations or adjust to sudden changes. Destination Morocco focuses intentionally on small group and private tours, so that each client gets personal care and attention, and the greatest value for their money.
This means not just choosing the “best” riads, based on reviews or reputation, but Sam and the team actually going to stay, anonymously, at properties around the country in order to make an accurate assessment. The same goes for restaurants, right up to 5 star hotels. Just because a hotel has 5 stars doesn’t necessarily mean it offers outstanding service or quality: often reputation obscures reality. Sam and the team in Morocco are there to verify these things themselves, and ideally avoid problems before they arise.
Often, it’s not so much a case of not wanting to spend money but rather getting the quality and value you expect for your budget. Our episode today shares some first-hand insight from Azdean, Sam and Ted’s personal experiences to help you know what to expect when you travel to Morocco.
Some of the highlights featured in this episode include:
Widiane Resort & Spa
Riad Ghita, Fès
Episode 33: Live episode with Said from Sky Sahara Camp, Merzouga
Episode 3: Scams! How to Understand and Avoid Them
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
One of the great travel stories we’ve heard from a guest on the podcast was just over a year ago now. It was with Rachel Metcalfe, for whom Morocco went from being a remote, distant idea to, a month later, sitting on the airplane on her way to Casablanca.
Destination Morocco took on the challenge of organizing her last-minute trip, and in this episode Rachel explains how that made all the difference in having an enjoyable, complete tour that covered the sights she wanted to see.
This is our last episode of 2023, and many thanks to our listeners for a wonderful year of great episodes and great tours. In 2024, our new documentary, Kingdom of Colors, premiers, which follows Azdean's family’s trip around Morocco with some stunning visuals. You can see the trailer now on our website or the Destination Morocco YouTube channel.
Imagine: One day, someone gives you the idea of going to Morocco, and you think, "Yeah, maybe..." But then, a month later, spur of the moment, you buy a return ticket!
But you're not a big fan of planning, and the prospect of filling out the details of your impending trip are a little daunting, to say the least.
What do you do next?
This is Morocco on a Whim, Rachel Metcalfe's story of making the commitment and turning to Destination Morocco to create what became a very special and memorable trip.
Rachel starts off in Casablanca, and like many of our other guests meets Khalil, the blind tour guide of Hassan II Mosque. She tours around the north of Morocco, and falls in love with the picturesque, crossroads city of Tangier. Hear her wax poetic on its old world charm and beautiful setting between ocean and mountains. She is captivated by the blue city of Chefchaouen, leaving her Instagram page bursting with color.
Fès then takes center stage, with Rachel being guided through the labyrinth of streets, visiting the mosaic & tile factory and then dropping in on the famous tanneries, a crucial mint coming in very handy.
Her riad in Fès, so completely unassuming from the outside, turns out to be a veritable palace once you walk through the door. Rachel takes us on a tour and describes it in detail.
A highlight was the hammam, or "sand bath," in the desert at Agafay, just an hour outside of Marrakech. A relaxing and revitalizing experience, complete with herbs and spices for distinct aromas.
Rachel had her own private tour, allowing her free reign to change plans, sleep in, go somewhere different or be spontaneous. With an indivi
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
This episode is the audio replay of our Destination Morocco live Q&A session, on Wednesday, Dec. 13.
You can find the video version here on our YouTube channel, with lots of visuals that go with the conversation.
In this month's session, Azdean and Sam answered your questions about Morocco's fabulous food and cuisine. You've likely heard at least a bit about tagines, pastillas, mint tea and of course, couscous. But this episode will really fill in the blanks and help you place your order.
How do you order tagine when you're at a restaurant? What kinds of varieties of tagine are there? What is pastilla made from? What's the difference between tagine and tangia? What are some regional variations to the same dish? What kind of cultural practices and norms should you be aware of, whether it's when certain dishes are eaten, or how they're eaten? Is rice used in Morocco? What is the name of the bread you see everywhere in Morocco?
Then we get into ordering, including are menus in Morocco written in English, do you need to order in advance, is potable water included at Moroccan restaurants, and what are some of the prices of well-known Moroccan meals.
You may be wondering if in Morocco people generally eat late, as we often see in Europe: Azdean and Sam talk about local customs, as well as whether you can order alcohol at a restaurant, and even where you can purchase alcohol in Morocco to bring back to your riad.
And we certainly get a lot of questions about dietary considerations, gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan, allergies and food contamination concerns.
There's lots to fill up your plate in this episode, particularly for when you go to Morocco, but if you're lucky and have a Moroccan restaurant in your home town, you'll now be able to order with the confidence of an experienced connoisseur!
And don't forget to take a moment to listen to our most recent podcast episode, "How a Blind Tour Guide Shows Tourists the Best of Casablanca," a fascinating conversation with guide Khalil Nejjary, live from Hassan II Mosque this past summer. Khalil's knowledge of the mosque and Casablanca will give you a new appreciation for Morocco's biggest city:
https://destinationsmorocco.com/podcast
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
Over the course of many episodes of the podcast, we’ve often mentioned a certain guide based in Casablanca. He has had a lasting and indelible impact on those who have had the pleasure of meeting him. Our guests on the podcast, from Chantal to Pablo and even Ted have remarked on his knowledge, warmth and spirit.
Khalil Nejjary is his name, and when Azdean visited Casablanca and the incredible Hassan II Mosque this past summer, he finally had the chance to invite him on the podcast, in person.
If you remember his story, you'll know that not only is Khalil a fabulous guide with an encyclopedic memory, but he is also in fact blind. Today he'll tell us the story of how this happened and how he has been able to continue his career. Khalil's ability to describe in detail, from memory, the features of the mosque is just remarkable.
We met Khalil at the entrance hall to the mosque complex, where visitors can get tickets for the guided tours and visit the small museum with photos of the mosque's construction. Khalil and other guides meet their guests here, then escort them across the massive courtyard, or esplanade, to the mosque's entrance. It was during this walk that we were able to record our conversation, and Khalil talks about the mosque's architecture, the materials used and why they were chosen, and the long path from King Hassan II's initial dream of building a great mosque to its eventual completion.
Khalil also tells us about the history of Casablanca and its influence on the world, and outlines a typical tour of the city, which would take in many of the famous and important sights.
We've touched on Casablanca a bit throughout the podcast, but if you remember back to the episode on April 15 that was an overview of Casablanca and Rabat, one of the themes was how Morocco's biggest city is often bypassed, aside from the mosque of course!, so that travellers have more time in other locations.
So in today's episode Khalil really gives Casablanca its due, and you'll come away with a better understanding and appreciation for the city.
It was truly a joy meeting up with Khalil in person, at last, and we're so happy to be able to share his insight with you. In fact, Khalil had just returned from the Hajj pilgrimage to Saudi Arabia, so was quite busy at the time with family and people visiting. But he took the time to meet with us, for which we were very appreciative.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
Today's episode of Destination Morocco ponders the question of "What makes Morocco appealing?" What attracts people to Morocco, and what are their perceptions of the country before going there?
Naturally there are always stereotypes and assumptions that build up over time, and as Azdean points out in this episode, Europeans are inevitably more familiar with Morocco than North Americans due to their proximity, and the ease of getting there, perhaps even for a quick long weekend.
But for many travellers, Morocco is a bucket list destination that they may only reach once in their lifetime. Their view of the country is likely formed by movies, media and events, from the positive: soccer success and hit movies, to the negative: a powerful earthquake and rumors of scams and rip-offs.
Our podcast is here to tell you about the real Morocco and break down those stereotypes, and indeed many listeners have taken that information and made clear, confident requests for particular sights and activities that they want added to their itinerary when they book a tour.
We get in a bubble though sometimes, and this episode is a chance to take a step back and try to understand perceptions of Morocco, where does myth meet reality, and who are the travellers to Morocco. From newlywed couples to empty nesters, adventure seekers and cultural pilgrims, there's a good chance you'll see yourself identified in this episode.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
Continuing our recent theme of shopping, tipping and travelling safely in Morocco, today's episode features the Akhnif Glaoui Carpet Co-Operative, located just south of Aït Benhaddou and Ouarzazate, about 150 miles south of Marrakech.
Azdean visited this wonderful, genuine boutique back in June of this year, during the summer trip to Morocco, while on the Southern Morocco tour. It was here where he met Sarah, host and guide of the facility, who gave Azdean and family a tour and showed them the incredible weaving and rugmaking that is done there, all by women.
This Women's Co-op is groundbreaking, and crucially important not just to the local economy, but to women's recognition and self-sufficiency. Instead of relying on others, typically men, to sell their detailed and complex creations, products of hours of hard work and labour (which are then often resold at even higher prices, for which the women don't see an extra dime) - at the co-op, each weaver has a say in the price and value of their rug, and when it's sold they get a very generous and appropriate percentage.
Imran and Azdean sat down with Sarah to learn about her story and what brought her back to Aït Benhaddou, now working to showcase the co-op and its efforts, as well as teaching the women some English!
Sarah explains the shopping experience there, which puts an emphasis on removing the stress and pressure to buy that you typically find elsewhere. At Akhnif Glaoui, you are free to browse, learn about rugs and carpets, and perhaps even order one later from back home, once you've made the correct measurements in your house.
It's a breath of fresh air when it comes to shopping in Morocco, which you'll appreciate after our last episode on Tipping in Morocco, and our November Live Q&A, which talked about safety and security, especially while shopping. It is refreshing to find a place that allows you to really appreciate the craft and work that goes into these unique, individual creations.
The Akhnif Glaoui has a bright future and we are pleased to support them and send our guests their way.
Speaking of which, we are offering 30% off any of our Destination Morocco tours when reserved by Cyber Monday, November 27. Your travel date can be any time in the next year, or even later!
Simply visit our website, destinationsmorocco.com, and mention the code "30% podcast" in the comments section when you request either one of our standard 8 or 9 day tours, or your own
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
This episode is the audio replay of our Destination Morocco live Q&A session, on Wednesday, Nov. 15.
You can find the video version here.
We get a lot of questions about safety and security in Morocco, once you are there and making your way through the souks, squares and even the restaurants.
Your Destination Morocco tour director is always there for guidance and advice, as well as your local guide, for when you're first exploring a new city.
But we always want to encourage people to then explore on their own, follow your nose and see what else you can discover. If that's something you're interested in doing!
Imagine, you're in Marrakech, Fès, wandering the souks and shops, the markets and squares, and have lots of people pulling you in many different directions.
There will be people beckoning you into their shop, there will be "guides" offering to take you here or there (even if you've already been), with no guarantee that they are trustworthy.
It's an exciting, adrenaline-filled environment, and it can be a little overwhelming. Especially if you are on your own, how do you keep your wits about you, and enjoy the experience?
These things are a part of travel, and common to any country in the world. Knowing what to expect though is crucial to having an enjoyable experience.
Shopping and browsing is perfectly safe in Morocco, but to help you navigate Morocco and be prepared, we answered your questions on safety, local customs and what to do in certain situations.
And take a moment to listen to our most recent episode on "Navigating Tipping and Shopping in Morocco," which covers many similar issues:
https://destinationsmorocco.com/latest-episode
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
The culture of tipping in Morocco is something we get a lot of questions about, and indeed many people aren't sure if they should tip at all, or when, and how much. It can quickly get overwhelming and a little awkward, if you don't know what to expect.
Azdean is here today to set out a comprehensive guide to tipping when you're travelling in Morocco. The short answer is yes, tipping applies in many cases across the country, in many different situations. The culture has evolved to something similar to the United States and other countries. You can expect to tip in a lot of familiar circumstances, but the question still remains, how much? And where do you get the small bills and change that you'll need?
Tipping might not be mandatory in Morocco, but it's a key part of the culture deeply appreciated by locals. From cab rides to restaurant meals, the tipping norms vary, and Azdean will help you navigate them like a pro. This episode is a mix of listener questions and Azdean's own experience as a traveller in Morocco himself.
We'll equip you with the know-how to identify different Dirham notes and why the humble 20 dirham note is your ultimate travel buddy. Plus be prepared for moments where you aren't used to tipping, and try not to be caught out.
As we journey deeper into the episode, we switch gears to tackle Moroccan shopping realities. There are shopping pitfalls where unsuspecting tourists can be exploited. Destination Morocco is there to help you out, but awareness and precaution are crucially important. Azdean explains what can happen and how the company tries to circumvent it.
Tipping is one of those things that can be an afterthought in your tour preparations, but when you're there, in the moment, you'll appreciate having learned how to navigate as a confident traveller.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
You've heard his baritone podcast voice for the past year and a half, and picked up bits and pieces of his story. But as we approach our 50th episode of Destination Morocco podcast, have you wondered, "How did Azdean come to live in Houston, and how did Destination Morocco get its beginnings?”
Azdean did in fact grow up in Marrakech, never imagining that he would wind up in the United States, raise a family, start businesses and build connections around the world. It's an inspiring story of perseverance, opportunity and getting much help and support along the way, a big reason why Azdean is happy to pay it forward now that he's in position to do so.
Until he was in his early 20's, Azdean barely spoke more than basic English, and yet to immigrate to the US he needed to pass the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) exam. He had just a few months to go from beginner to functional level and get a passing grade, and the steps he took were astounding, from music to movies to cramming at times 15 hours of study per day.
Once established in Houston, he developed a passion and understanding for hospitality, American-style, and ultimately applying that mindset to tourism. Starting Destination Morocco wasn't so much a lifelong dream, but rather one that materialized once their son Imran was born, a desire to include Morocco in his life and to foster an understanding of it. This then morphed into providing that opportunity for others, but with the wealth of knowledge from being a native-born Moroccan.
Stemming from the family-run business beginnings, the company has maintained its focus on private tours and small group travel, so that guests can have as much flexibility and control as possible, just as if they were visiting on their own.
Azdean talks about how helping people avoid scams and know who to trust has been a big part of the motivation for organizing tours, and he shares some unpleasant examples, including the time that a waitress at a restaurant in Fès mentioned, unprompted, that the tagine Azdean's clients had just purchased was a fake.
Of course, they were surprised and put off by this, and weren't sure what to believe. Fortunately he knew what to tell them so that they could identify for themselves if it was true.
Morocco is a bucket-list destination, the type of place you may only visit once (or twice!), and you should always put your faith and funds in people you can trust. We're here on the podcast to build that trust, to have fun talking about Morocco and make sure you get the most out of your trip. From
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
Take yourself on a tour and gain new understanding for the beautiful country of Morocco on the Destination Morocco Podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and more.
Our goal is to introduce you to the real Morocco, showing you how to prepare, what to see, what to expect and how to make the most of your time.
Join host Azdean Elmoustaquim as we meet locals and guides, learn about costs and prices, safety, the kinds of scams to look out for in the bazaars, what languages to expect, types of accommodation and so much more.
Destination Morocco Travel Agency offers private and small group tours, creating custom-designed itineraries that cater to your interests and priorities, taking you on a wonderful adventure with memories that will last a lifetime.
With great stories, anecdotes and conversations, Destination Morocco podcast will leave you ready to discover this amazing land, its distinct culture and vibrant history.
Visit www.destinationsmorocco.com to learn more, and for special discounts on upcoming tours.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
One year ago exactly, Pablo Juarez and his partner Harmony were touring Morocco with Destination Morocco, experiencing incredible variety from Fès, Merzouga Desert, over the Atlas Mountains, through Ouarzazate and Aït Benhaddou, and ending up in Marrakech.
After they got back home to Ottawa, Canada, we had Pablo on the podcast to talk about their trip, the amazing sights, and some surprising and unexpected discoveries along the way.
It was such a great episode that we felt we should do it justice by sharing it with you again. This is a great episode not just for those dreaming of going to Morocco, but for those who have been. It will rekindle fond memories and nostalgia, and will probably get you thinking about your next trip!
It was the first trip to Morocco for Pablo and his partner Harmony, and it was full of pleasant surprises. From the food, the generosity, the riads, the landscape and most of all, the people, Morocco was at once modern and wonderfully traditional.
Even experienced travellers turn to tour companies from time to time, to help them get the best out of their vacation, and have access to places and experiences they otherwise would have never known about. The great thing is you can combine a guided tour with some of your own independent sightseeing, it doesn't have to be all one or the other.
Having some prior knowledge of Morocco, thanks to the podcast, helped complement the guided tour once they were actually there. The show provided a solid foundation for what to expect and how to prepare.
Pablo describes their riads in great detail: hot tubs, pools, rooftop patios, and lounges where you can meet the other guests, who rarely number more than 7 or 8 in total. "It feels like you're visiting with a family member or friend. We ate so much amazing food in Morocco," he says.
Thank you to Pablo for sharing his journey with us, and encouraging more people to discover this amazing land.
Experiences you're about to share:
- Visiting the Hassan II Mosque: what it's like inside, the way the light comes into the spaces.
- A touching story from Aït Benhaddou, and an experience that you don't find in other large group tours.
- The fascinating experience of learning about hand-woven rugs at the Ouaouzguite Rugs Cooperative, getting to try it himself and how long the entire process can take.
- What might be an "Omelette with drippy meat" ?!
- Devouring stone-baked bread, off the beaten path.
- Discovering hidden underwater aquifers, in caves that have existed for centur
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
This episode is the audio replay of our Destination Morocco live Q&A session, on Wednesday, Oct. 11.
You can find the video version here.
In today's conversation with Azdean, Sam and podcast producer Ted, we'll focus on what's included in a typical Destination Morocco tour, how we go about building itineraries, and how we build from your preferences and priorities to shape a tour that works for you, and is specific to you.
This is a big part of what makes Destination Morocco an ideal travel partner: we don't force you to follow the tourist path, or insist on "must-see" sights that don't interest you. We'll give you advice, certainly, when you want ideas and recommendations. But you can always bring your list of sights and attractions, and we then use our connections and experience to craft a smooth, sensible itinerary that goes at your pace.
Ready to discover the hidden gems and must-see attractions of Morocco? We've got you covered.
If you're curious about when to book a tour, how long they last, how much flexibility you have while on a tour, what are any additional costs, how much driving is there, what do we eat and where: Azdean will have you covered.
Are the tours private, or with large groups? Do we offer day tours, and can you book a day trip or overnight if you are already in Morocco? How is the travel market in Morocco changing, especially post-covid?
These questions and more will help you learn about our offers and make an informed decision on finding the best tour for you.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
Watch the video version of this episode here: https://youtu.be/8c83YIlxYqc
Here at Destination Morocco, we receive questions all the time about how to prepare for a trip to Morocco and what to expect. We love being able to help out our fellow travellers and help you avoid the sense of shock, while preserving the sense of adventure, once you arrive in our homeland.
This episode is the first of a series that will answer travel questions about Morocco, grouped together in various themes. Today, we are focusing on what to prepare before-hand, whether it's packing, medication, passports and documents, and so much more. As well as some of the initial steps to take once you arrive, particularly finding cash and bottled water.
We talk about the best times to visit, what languages to expect, and the country's tipping etiquette. No more awkward moments wondering if you should tip your cab driver or your tour guide!
Morocco is a tremendously photogenic country, and the temptation to bring your drone is very high. We break down Morocco's photography rules and drone regulations, ensuring you capture stunning views without breaking any laws. Plus, we'll tackle the topic of travel insurance—when to get it, why it's crucial, and what coverage to look for for your trip.
When it comes to food, should you just dive right in? Or maybe pace yourself and allow your stomach to adjust? Azdean has a great recommendation for adapting to the cuisine, particularly when it comes to sampling meat dishes.
And no adventure is complete without knowing where to rest your weary head. We guide you through the differences in accommodation, from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxurious four-star riads and hotels.
Don't forget our Live Q&A sessions with Azdean, the 2nd Wednesday of each month, starting at 9 am PT/12 noon ET. Upcoming dates include October 11, November 8 and December 13. We're keen to get more interaction with our listeners and answer live more of your questions about tour planning to Morocco.
Visit destinationsmorocco.com and click the button at the top to find the link to this live event. You can send questions in advance, observe as an "Audience" member, and even request to join us live on the show!
If you are picturing your own Moroccan adventure and have important, urgent questions about anything from costs and safety to food and accommodation, get them answered with Azdean at our live Q&A's.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
Ceasha Micallef had her dream tour to Morocco booked months in advance, with a departure date of Friday, September 8, 2023.
As she was in-flight over the Atlantic, heading for a stopover in Paris before going on to Casablanca, the 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit southern Morocco. She arrived at the airport to text messages and missed calls from family and friends, wondering if she was still able to go. In truth, she wasn't sure herself.
Back and forth texts with the Destination Morocco team in Marrakech, particularly with her driver, Mohammed, quickly confirmed that the country was safe, the trip was still on and they would make any adjustments necessary. Ceasha boarded the connecting flight and carried on to Casablanca, and it turned into one of the greatest, most meaningful trips this veteran of 20+ countries has ever experienced.
Now, Ceasha is back home in Toronto and chatting with Azdean about her time in Morocco, the exhilarating adventure in Merzouga Desert, the beautiful drives through the High Atlas Mountains, incredible food and wonderful, warm hospitality.
Ceasha's vivid description of her time there - the zenith of tranquility, spiritual connections symbolized by green orbs, the raw thrill of quad rides in the sand dunes, and immersing herself in the local culture through a cooking class - will leave you wanting to follow in her footsteps. Tourism is the best way for the country and its economy to get back on its feet.
She and Azdean also break down the tipping etiquette in Morocco, offering practical advice on this often tricky subject.
But it's not just about the sights and sounds of exotic locales. It's the people who make the journey unforgettable. Hear Ceasha recount the special bond formed with her driver Mohammed and the camaraderie they built over the span of her trip. They also visit Le Patron/Deux Ciels restaurant, featured in one of our recent walking tour episodes of Marrakech.
After the blur of the past three weeks, Ceasha helps us make sense of the earthquake's impact on southern Morocco with her first-hand knowledge and insight, confirming that it is open and safe: a tremendous reassurance for everyone.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
Unearth the mesmerizing allure of Morocco, as Sam, our Destination Morocco insider, guides us through the highlights of a typical Northern and Southern Tour.
In this episode of Destination Morocco, we put particular emphasis on the entrance fees to these famous sights and attractions, including which ones are free. Sam is careful to convert from Moroccan Dirhams into US Dollars which, as it turns out, is a pretty straightforward process.
Our route takes us from Marrakech to Essaouira, then Casablanca, Rabat, Fès, Meknes, Ouarzazate and the Atlas Studios, Merzouga Desert, the Canyons of the south, hiking villages of the High Atlas Mountains, particularly Midelt, then back to Tangier, Chefchaouen and neighboring Akchour.
We deliver insider tips and insights into these must-see sights that are sure to make your Moroccan adventure truly unforgettable.
And beyond just the regular tourist highlights, we tap into activities and options, their costs and how much time they take, for when you have more than just a day or two at a particular stop. One can absolutely spend 3 or 4 days in Merzouga or Chefchaouen, Tangier or Rabat, and find lots to discover and explore. These are the cultural immersions and off-the-beaten-path secrets that most tourists don't get to.
We conclude this episode on a poignant note, as Sam shares his deeply moving experience delivering aid to villages affected by the recent earthquake. His heartfelt retelling of the gratitude expressed by the locals is a powerful reminder of the spirit of community and resilience in Morocco.
We'll continue to have more earthquake updates over the coming weeks, as Morocco gets back on its feet. But in the meantime, the most important message is: come! Come visit Morocco, bring your energy, enthusiasm and curiosity. Nothing will help recovery more than having your presence with us.
You can donate to Destionation Morocco's earthquake relief here:
https://destinationsmorocco.com/relief
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
This episode is the audio replay of our first Destination Morocco live Q&A session, on Wednesday, Sept. 13.
You can find the video version here.
Visit our Relief page to find out how you can donate to earthquake recovery efforts.
As you may know, we had been planning this event for the past few weeks, with a focus on how to plan your bucket list of things to see and do in Morocco.
The earthquake near Marrakech on Sept. 8 immediately turned our focus to sharing as much information as possible on the state of recovery, on whether people can still travel to Morocco and what they can expect there.
The short answer is: yes! People are still travelling in and to Morocco, and most of the country has been unaffected. Even in Marrakech, 5 days after the disaster, streets are already being cleared and businesses are reopening, if they closed at all. Most of the new city was only minimally damaged. The older, brick and mortar buildings of the Medina were much more susceptible to damage, but most of the riads remain open.
Destination Morocco's office manager in Marrakech, Sam, joins the call today with a report on-location, filling us in on the state of recovery, and how the company and its tours are adapting.
This conversation is also about the extraordinary unity and generosity that emerges from adversity. Hear firsthand how Berber/Amazigh people from around the world have came together to provide aid. Also, you'll get an inside look at the relief efforts orchestrated by the Destination Morocco team. We touch on the cultural respect and etiquette, vital to understand if you're planning a visit during the recovery period.
As we round off the discussion, we explore the rebuilding efforts, particularly in the mountainous regions of Morocco. We highlight the role of technology in visualizing the impact and the importance of donations in this phase. If Morocco is on your travel wish list, we assure you of its safety and rich cultural experiences waiting to be explored. From its unique architectural styles to stunning landscapes, Morocco beckons you with its captivating charm.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!* --
Support the podcast with our new Subscriber link!*Destination Morocco +* --*Join us for our monthly Q&A's! Live on Destination Morocco's YouTube,* Facebook and LinkedIn pages, the 1st Friday of each month at 1pm Pacific/4pm Eastern/10pm Central European time.**
Friday night's earthquake in Morocco was sudden and unexpected, and hit home for us here at Destination Morocco. Our office is based in Marrakech and sustained damage, and many of our staff are now homeless. Azdean, based in Houston, felt stuck and helpless, trying to figure out what he could do from so far away.
Many of our podcast listeners and former clients have reached out with their condolences and offers of help, for which we are very thankful and appreciative.
As we come to terms with this disaster, we know that the Moroccan people are very strong and resilient, will help each other to recover, and will rebuild. We know that tourism will continue, and we encourage people to keep planning their trips and bucket lists. Although Marrakech sustained a lot of damage, being closer to the epicentre, most of the country was untouched. The spirit and energy of travellers will help us enormously with the recovery in the weeks and months ahead.
Azdean is joined in today's quick episode by producer Ted to share the latest news and updates that he is aware of from Morocco. The situation is changing and evolving with every passing hour. We'll be making the most of the podcast platform to share updates as we receive them, and keep you apprised of ways to help.
Earthquake Relief for Moroccan Communities (Donate button)
As you may be aware, we have had a live Q&A session with Azdean scheduled for this Wednesday, September 13th at 9 AM Pacific Time, 12 noon Eastern, to answer questions on planning a memorable itinerary to Morocco.
We will continue with this event, but understandably our focus will change to answering your questions on the latest earthquake updates and response, how it will impact travel, what remains open, and what people can do to help.
We are in a privileged position at Destination Morocco in having direct access to aid workers and community organizations on the ground, and can coordinate funding and supplies to them quickly and efficiently.
Azdean has been working the phones day and night to put the pieces in place and pass the details along to you. Please join us Wednesday if you can, to learn more and have your questions answered directly. Simply follow the link below to join us live, or you can click here to RSVPand add a reminder to your calendar.
The event will be recorded, and of course we will have continuing updates on the website and the podcast.
Direct link for Wednesday's live event (session opens at 12 noon EDT):riverside.fm/studio/destination-morocco-live-qas
Thank you again for your many thoughts and messages over the past couple days, as we keep in our thoughts those we've lost in Marrakech and the surrounding villages. The tragedy is still very raw and intense, but in this difficult time, we kn
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Download the stunning Destination Morocco magazine!Follow the podcast and help us grow.*
Azdean spent the summer of 2023 researching attractions, riads, hotels, restaurants and activities in Morocco, gathering information to give Destination Morocco clients an even better, more authentic experience.
He and his team also captured hours of audio and video footage, which is being rolled out on the Destination Morocco podcast and the new YouTube channel.
All in all, it was a lot of logistical planning that put him in the shoes of his clients: figuring out where to go, what to see and for how long.
Today Azdean and Ted Cragg, the podcast producer, chat about the tour experience and how listeners can relate when it comes to making the choices for their own tours. From food stops, temperature, driving times, everyday costs, to famous sights and more obscure ones, there is lots in this episode to help you gather ideas and suggestions for your own itinerary, and get a behind the scenes look at Destination Morocco.
We're also excited to announce our first Live Q&A session with Azdean, coming up on Wednesday, Sept. 13 at 9 am PDT/12 noon EDT. We're keen to get more interaction with our listeners and hear your questions about tour planning to Morocco.
Visit destinationsmorocco.com and click the button at the top to find the link to this live event. You can send questions in advance, observe as an "Audience" member, and even request to join us live on the show!
It's the first of recurring monthly events, taking place the 2nd Wednesday of each month. If you are picturing your own Moroccan adventure and have important, urgent questions about anything from costs and safety to food and accommodation, get them answered with Azdean at our live Q&A's.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Download the stunning Destination Morocco magazine!Follow the podcast and help us grow.*
In today's episode, we continue our wandering through the medina of Marrakech, as Azdean visits artisanal workshops, souks and a particularly delectable seafood restaurant.
Picture yourself in a bustling wool and cotton workshop, the air thick with stories of craftsmanship as we learn how natural colors like indigo, orange, and even black breathe life into the fabric. You'll almost feel the soft touch of cactus silk while we dig into the secrets of these age-old crafts, by chatting with passionate shop owners.
Spinning wheels and looms give way to chisels and saws as we pop into a wood shop, where they make intricate wood carvings for all kinds of useful and decorative items. You'll hear the craftsman talk about his preparation methods and the different types of wood he uses, and we get our microphones right in there as he's chipping, sawing and sanding his next creation.
At this point, we're ready for a meal, and fortunately one of Destination Morocco's valued partners is just a few minutes' walk from the medina. Azdean and Sam visit the remarkable seafood restaurant, le Patron de la Mer, where fresh seafood arrives daily by truck from the Atlantic coast, hundreds of kilometres away. The focus is on Mediterranean cuisine, and the decor and entertainment are a blend of European and Moroccan influences.
Azdean chats with the delightful manager, Kenza, who generously shares her experiences and takes us on an audio tour of the restaurant. You'll practically taste the seafood, feel the warmth of the hospitality, and be swept up in the rhythm of life in Marrakech.
From wool shawls to wood carvings to seafood tastings, imagine yourself on location with us at Destination Morocco podcast, exploring the fabulous medina of Marrakech.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Download the stunning Destination Morocco magazine!Follow the podcast and help us grow.*
Our Marrakech walking tour continues in today's episode, as Azdean and local guide Youssef explore the historic Medina, visit the Ben Youssef Madrasa and conclude with a visit to the famous Majorelle Garden.
In Part One, we made three stops, focusing around three sights on the south side of the Medina, or city centre: the Mellah (Jewish Quarter), the El Badi Palace, a stunning ruin that was once full of jewels, art and precious stones, and the Bahia Palace, which is still standing, and is one of the absolute must-sees of Marrakech.
Click here to find Part One of the audio tour!
In Part Two, Youssef explains to us how medinas are organized, including their six essential components. He delves into the significance of Koranic schools, and describes the still-active public fountain and communal oven.
Then, the winding path leads us to the lush embrace of the Majorelle Garden, which so many of our listeners and clients are keen to visit. It is truly an oasis amongst the hustle and energy of Marrakech. Youssef tells us who founded the gardens, the connection to Yves St-Laurent (who was not the founder but whose name is often attached to it), some tips for photography and the best visiting times.
Did you know that the medina in Marrakech is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the country, dating back to the 11th Century, and was built to cater to the caravan trade, coming in across the mountains from the Sahara Desert? Imagine the mix of cultures, languages, food and goods that was all happening right here.
And it still does, just in a more modern way! You can follow in the footsteps of ancient traders and contemporary tourists by booking a tour with Destination Morocco. Make sure you tell us which of Marrakech's highlights you don't want to miss, and we will add it to your custom-built itinerary.
Simply visit our website, destinationsmorocco.com, and you'll see the big button at the top: "Let's Plan Your Trip."
Come along with us, let's uncover the mysteries of Morocco together!
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Download the stunning Destination Morocco magazine!Follow the podcast and help us grow.*
Prepare to embark on a journey through the vibrant energy and rich history of Marrakech in today's episode. Azdean teams up with local guide Youssef to explore the fascinating Jewish Quarter known as the Mellah - a testament to integration and cooperation between diverse religions and cultures. As we wander through this neighborhood, the ruins of the 16th-century Badia (Badi) Palace and the stunning Bahia Palace showcase the intricate Moorish architecture and the historical context that shaped them.
Our exploration doesn't stop at the gates, as Youssef leads us into the private quarters of the Bahia Palace itself, where we are granted access to record and document the tour. Here, we learn the marvels of Moorish architectural innovation that incorporates local materials, along with pre-industrial air conditioning!
The serene garden, a distinct feature of this architectural style, beautifully encapsulates the tranquility and grandeur of the palace. Journey with us into the central courtyard, featured in the cover photo of this episode, and learn the history of why it has a specific number of rooms, all laid out in symmetrical style, and what they were used for.
Our immersive audio tour unravels the unique story of the Grand Vizier of the Bahia Palace, who made the intriguing decision to employ only blind musicians! And listen closely as we wander through, when the call to prayer starts in the background.
On our walk today, you'll hear some of the tourists and big groups in the background, being hustled along. But like Azdean, you'll have your own private guide. Our tours always go at your own pace, sidestepping the crowds and taking the time to explore.
Our next episode will follow up on today with part two of our walking tour, which takes us over through the old Medina and to the famous Marjorelle Gardens. But now, imagine, you're standing with Azdean along the Rue Bahia Bab Mellah, the main street connecting the two palaces, with the Mellah in between, as Youssef starts his tour, amongst the lively energy and excitement of Marrakech.
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires. If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Download the stunning Destination Morocco magazine!Follow the podcast and help us grow.*
In today's episode of Destination Morocco podcast, we continue on our southern tour of Morocco, and arrive in what is often considered the highlight of a traveller's time in Morocco: the Merzouga Desert itself. Our host is Said, manager and co-owner of Sahara Sky Luxury Camp, located in the heart of the desert, yet just 38 km from the town of Erfoud, the local service centre.
Said and Azdean sit down to talk about how he founded his camp, how they maintain their own animals and gardens in the desert, their emphasis on organic ingredients in their incredible food, and how the food itself is different than your standard Moroccan fare. When you're ready to go beyond the tagines and couscous, Said and his kitchen have wonderful, original recipes for you to try.
Said gives us a glimpse into daily life at the camp, and shares fascinating perspective on his family history. Said's own grandparents were traditional nomads, and Said himself is not far removed from that reality.
All this in addition to a surprising number of activities, located on-site or a short drive away. The desert is about more than just camel rides and dune buggies, although you shouldn't miss out on doing them either! But the Merzouga area has a number of important cultural sites, some dating back hundreds or thousands of years, that connect the area to Berber and North African history, and Said can easily arrange for you a tour. Or you can take part in cooking classes and musical performances at the camp itself, before relaxing under the stars. This is Merzouga, and nothing compares to the show that is put on by the night sky.
You'll hear peacocks and cats in the background as we chat, and close your eyes to imagine yourself in this beautiful desert paradise. Because of course, you yourself can experience all this too!
Contact us at Destination Morocco and learn about our custom-built itineraries and tour packages. We love to profile our partners and attractions in our episodes, which you can then be sure to request as part of your own tour.
Visit destinationsmorocco.com to learn more and add a stay at Labyrinth Kasbah to your itinerary.
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires. If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Download the stunning Destination Morocco magazine!Follow the podcast and help us grow.*
Imagine getting to Marrakech, your own private van waiting, driving up and over the High Atlas Mountains, across deserts and rocky outcroppings, little villages lining the hills along the way, and arriving in the gorgeous Dadès Valley: a sliver of green amongst the dry landscape.
Your destination: an authentic Berber riad, recently renovated, overlooking the lush valley below. A cup of hot mint tea awaits, and your comfortable room, while your host Mehdi and his staff stand ready to take your order for dinner.
Labyrinth Kasbah is the scene for today's episode, recorded live on location from Dadès Valley itself, 200 miles from Marrakech in the shadow of the High Atlas. Host and owner Mehdi chats with Azdean about his story: returning to his home village with a university degree in tourism, to create a welcoming, authentic riad destination out of the original family home.
Azdean and Mehdi discuss activities to do in Dadès Valley, including hiking and visiting waterfalls, and Mehdi suggests going for a "sand hammam:" instead of water, immersing yourself in the healing sand of the desert.
Labyrinth Kasbah is a place to truly feel the Berber culture on your visit through the south of Morocco. As Mehdi says, why fly hours and hours to Morocco to stay in a generic 5-star hotel, when you could have just as much comfort at a genuine Moroccan riad, at a better price, with more personal attention and authentic Moroccan hospitality? Especially when you're also surrounded by a stunning natural environment.
Berber culture at its best: visit destinationsmorocco.com to learn more and add a stay at Labyrinth Kasbah to your itinerary.
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires. If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Download the stunning Destination Morocco magazine!Follow the podcast and help us grow.*
You've heard him share his passion for Morocco, tell stories of his childhood and Berber culture, interview riad owners and restauranteurs, and chat with his own clients who have been to Morocco over the past couple years, including even podcast producer Ted.
In all that time, our host Azdean has been at home, in Houston, patiently waiting for his turn to go back. Countless times since 2019, plans have fallen through, reservations have changed, intended trips have been pushed back. 2021 became 2022, and then 2023, making it four long years since he had seen family and friends, visited his home village, wandered the medina of Marrakech and sipped tea at his favorite hangout overlooking the Jemaa el-Fnaa square.
Today marks the beginning of Azdean and family's long-awaited return to their home country. Leaving from Houston, they must first make a stopover in Frankfurt, Germany, before connecting a few hours later to their flight to Casablanca. It is from Frankfurt that we catch up with Azdean, including a cameo from Imran, sharing with us live this special moment for them that has finally arrived.
Feel the palpable excitement as Azdean talks about the plans for their return, the reunions and introductions, and the plans to document it all for the podcast. In the coming weeks, we'll be visiting Berber villages and hearing the Ahwash style of drumming and dancing, heading back to Essaouira to check in on Xavier at his stunning riad and to visit the vibrant fish market, and touring the souks of Marrakech to chat with shop owners and tour guides.
This and so much more. Camera and audio crews will be accompanying Azdean throughout Morocco to document a typical Destination Morocco tour, showcasing the best of what the country has to offer.
We wish Azdean and his family a safe and happy return to their native land, and Destination Morocco podcast will be there throughout the adventure.
**Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?
Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.
If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com*, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.Download the stunning Destination Morocco magazine!Follow the podcast and help us grow.*
Nancy Crann visited Morocco for the first time at the end of 2022, in a trip that was about more than just adventure and discovery. It was also about loss and hope, pain and recovery. A cathartic release to ponder the next phase of her life. Little did she know the effect that Morocco would have on this journey.
Through the safety and ease of a guided tour, Nancy met fellow travellers from around the world, and discovered the kindness and generosity of native Moroccans, keen to welcome her into their homes and shops.
Deep conversations and genuine interactions illuminated everything from food to music, language and architecture: stories of grief and joy that Nancy shares with Azdean on today's episode.
An avid photographer, throughout her trip Nancy rediscovered her passion for light, framing and perspective. In fact, this would then drive her decision to return to Morocco later this year, and embark on an even longer adventure.
In their conversation today, Nancy shares what she has learned about travelling in Morocco: how to dress, what food to order, how to connect with locals and how to become a confident, assertive Moroccan traveller. Her and Azdean talk about responsible tourism and giving back, including a special project that Azdean is working on for his home village.
Tune in for this inspiring episode about warmth and inclusion, community, storytelling and discovering all this and more when you travel to Morocco.
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Visit destinationsmorocco.com, and book your discovery call today!
Follow, Share and Participate:
Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
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One of Morocco's defining characteristics is its riads: homestays with a traditional twist. Riads give travellers everything from convenience and comfort to cultural immersion, all presented in a unique, distinctive package.
Many listeners have inquired about what is the exact nature of a riad, what to expect when staying in one, how did they evolve in Morocco, how do they compare to hotels and why do they come so highly recommended.
Azdean is here today to share lots of info and get you excited to discover myriad riads yourself. Each one is different, which is inherent to the idea and concept. Each offer authenticity, space, privacy and modern amenities, typically within walking distance to the medina and souks.
Riads are an amazing option for families thanks to their warm, welcoming nature, in a safe and secure environment. Indeed, the owners/hosts of a riad typically live there themselves, so what better way to learn more about the Moroccan home and society.
Why stay anywhere else? Genuinely: you are far better served staying in a unique, comfortable and convenient riad in any Moroccan city rather than a generic hotel in the outskirts, far from the action and activities and well beyond walking distance from the medina.
It's a little overwhelming trying to figure out what to look for and what to request for accommodation, when you book your Destination Morocco tour. Let Azdean and his team know what you're looking for in a riad, and they'll put their resources and connections to work to find something that meets your criteria, including activities like cooking classes or in-house hammam spa treatments. Many riads offer these and more.
After a busy day sightseeing, there is nothing better than relaxing on a comfy couch in a peaceful inner courtyard, sipping on mint tea and enjoying genuine Moroccan hospitality at a traditional riad.
You're about to learn:
- How riads different from AirBnb's.
- How a riad can offer personalized, individual service designed around your interests and needs.
- The history of riads, why they were built, who they were for and their impact upon Moroccan society.
- Comparing costs between riads and hotels, and the difference in value.
- Some of the activities available at a riad, or that can be organized by your hosts.
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Episode 4: "Scams! How to Understand and Avoid Them"
Book your riad via destinationsmorocco.com
Follow, Share and Participate:
Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
Help people find us: Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts
Help us grow: Rate us on Spotify
Become a Guest on the Show!
Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
In a first for Destination Morocco, we take you along on an authentic, immersive walking tour of the beautiful coastal city of Essaouira, in a preview of more great live content to come this year.
Walk with us as we explore the Medina, the ramparts, fishing harbour and market, artisan craftworks, and learn how the pluralistic, welcoming spirit of Essaouira made it a haven for multiple religions and languages, all living side by side.
The audio is raw, authentic and captured on-site. You'll hear street music, waves crashing, seagulls hunting for scraps, footsteps down quiet alleys and traders selling their wares. It's a genuine example of the type of local tour you can expect when you go with Destination Morocco.
Podcast producer Ted Cragg and his family has the chance to visit Morocco themselves in February of this year. Ted chatted with Azdean about it on our March 15 episode, particularly from the angle of travelling in Morocco with young kids.
Essaouira was the final stop on their tour, and being a quieter, more laid-back place, it presented a perfect opportunity to do this live recording of their walking tour. As in Fès, Meknes, Rabat and Marrakech, the tour was led by a local guide, in this case Ait Bahadou Zaid, a veteran of Essaouira tours and a guide who typically escorts groups of 40-50 people at a time.
However, being a Destination Morocco tour, Ted and family had Zaid for a private tour, and you’ll hear the full range of interactive questions and personalized commentary.
As Ted explains, as a listener himself, it was the pinch-me moment he had dreamed of since learning about Essaouira in Episode 7. Of all the fabulous sights in Morocco, it was this small oceanside city with its sweeping sandy beach, moderate climate and relaxed feel that was the place he was most excited to see.
To capture its charm and spirit was the goal of this episode, and it will undoubtedly inspire you to go and discover it yourself.
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Essaouira, Morroco
Episode Blog post with more photos of the tour.
Episode 7, "Discover Essaouira, Morocco's Coastal Gem"
Episode 30, "Family Travel in Morocco"
Follow, Share and Participate:
Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
Help people find us: Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts
Help us grow: Rate us on Spotify
Become a Guest on the Show!
Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Casablanca and Rabat, separated by scarcely an hour's drive along the beautiful Atlantic coast, are Morocco's twin cities of misconception.
Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco, the wealthiest, the economic driver: the largest port in Morocco, immortalized by Hollywood and home to the country's principal international airport.
Rabat is the country's capital, an imperial city, full of grand boulevards, parks and beaches. In a country full of royal palaces, this is the one where the King actually lives most of the time.
And yet, they are the two major cities often passed over by travellers, or at best given an hour or two before heading out towards Chefchaouen, Fès or Marrakech.
Azdean and Sam chat today about that reality, as it does often feature on Destination Morocco tours. It comes down to how much time you have, what your priorities are and often having to make tough choices.
But we get a lot of questions about, "Is there more to do in Casablanca?" and, "Should I give Rabat more time?" The answer is of course, "Of course!" if you choose to.
Casablanca has a historic Jewish Quarter, great public squares for people-watching, art galleries, restaurants and the best night life in the country.
Rabat has beautiful museums, reflecting its stature as national capital and a stately city. It offers a more calm, quiet ambience than Morocco's other big cities, and that alone is a nice change of pace.
Our episode today is an overview of things to see and do in these two cities, whether you have a short amount of time or can add an extra day or two to your itinerary. You won't regret it.
Sights Mentioned in this episode:CASABLANCA:Hassan II Mosque
Sacred Heart Cathedral
Royal Palace of Casablanca
Mohammed V Square
United Nations Square
Villa des Arts museum and cultural centre
Rick's Café
Jewish Quarter
RABAT:
Medina
Royal Palace of Rabat
Mohammed V Mausoleum/Hassan Tower
Kasbah of the Udayas/Andalusian Gardens
Amazing viewpoint
Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary Art
Bab Rouah Gate and Art Gallery
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Follow, Share and Participate:
Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
Help people find us: Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts
Help us grow: Rate us on Spotify
Become a Guest on the Show!
Visit Destination Morocco Travel Ag
Marrakech is often the top destination in mind for travellers planning a trip to Morocco, and in today's episode Azdean is joined by Destination Morocco's Operations Manager, Sam, live from Marrakech, to chat about all kinds of activities and recommendations that make a visit there more complete.
The central square, Jemaa el-Fnaa, the Bahia Palace, the medina and the Majorelle Gardens are all wonderful starting points. What are some options though after you've spent some quality time in those places, and are ready to see more?
Marrakech is a great home base for everything from day hikes in the Atlas Mountains, to exciting desert activities in Agafay, hot air balloon rides from the nearby plains or a day trip to Essaouira.
Or you can stay in town and check out the many fascinating museums, which shine a light on Berber culture. Food tours and cooking classes are another great option to keep you busy. Find some new skills to take home with you and make your own tagines!
We learn about some of the types of street food you can find, how hot air ballooning fits into your schedule, what to expect and how strenuous the hiking in the Atlas Mountains is, where to find Berber and Jewish cultural sites in Marrakech, the differences between the nearby Agafay Desert and the more remote Merzouga camps in the Sahara Desert, the best time to visit Aït Benhaddou, and whether you should stay overnight in Essaouira.
It's a fun conversation with our man on the ground in Marrakech, bringing this vibrant city closer to home for our listeners.
Here are some of the activities we cover today:
- Taking a Moroccan cooking class or cooking tour
- Going on a food tour, and/or a street food tour specifically
- Enjoying an early morning hot air balloon ride
- Visiting Berber villages in the Atlas Mountains
- Hiking in the mountains
- Discovering four of the premier museums in Marrkech
- Visiting the Sahara Desert and kasbahs
- Making a side trip to Essaouira
- Getting out to the Agafay Desert
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Ep. 10: Balloon Rides over Marrakech and Mountains
Imlil (the popular Atlas hiking starting base)
Aroumd (another Atlas hiking base)
Yves Saint Laurent (YSL) Berber Museum at Majorelle Gardens
Tiskiwin Museum, Marrakech
Photography Museum
Dar El Bacha Museum
Taghazout, fishing and surfing spot near Agadir
Follow, Share and Participate:
Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
Help people find us: Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts
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Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Family travel, particularly with young kids, is an experience in itself, no matter what destination you're going to. Especially when you're coming from a background of travelling as adults or as a couple: adding kids to the mix presents a whole new complexion.
Families are frequent guests on Destination Morocco tours, and we have been keen to shine a light on that experience here on the podcast, and the particular advantages and challenges therein.
And what better opportunity to do so than the one we had in February of this year! If you remember back to our episode of January 1st, 2023, Azdean and Ted, the producer of Destination Morocco podcast, mentioned that there was a possiblity of Ted and his family actually going to Morocco in the near future.
Travelling in Portugal between January and March, it would be a pretty straightforward jump over to north Africa. In the end, they flew from Lisbon to Casablanca on Feb. 16, with a return flight on Feb. 26. Tour Director Driss Maaza, whom you met recently in Episode 28, and driver Abderrahim, "Abdul," who has been mentioned frequently by our guests, were the hosts for the 10 day tour, expertly managing the stops and the pace.
The key was to factor in the needs and interests of the kids. At 5 and 7 years old, Ted and his wife Emilie's kids are certainly in the younger range of guests. Everything from safety, health and cleanliness, crowds and motorbikes, long-distance driving, meals, activities, restrooms, walking tours and more had to be seen through their eyes. This is what makes family travel different from your standard tour for adults.
Here today to tell the story and provide an overview of the experience is Ted himself, joining Azdean to chat about their wonderful tour. They discuss logistics, timing, accommodation, planning and the mentality you need to approach family travel to Morocco. It's a stunning and unique country, but it can be intense too:
- How did the kids handle the crowds, the noise, the traffic, the food?
- Would the family have been able to go by themselves, even as experienced travellers?
- And how was the tour able to adapt and be spontaneous as energy levels, hunger and bathroom needs evolved?
If you are considering heading to Morocco with your young kids, or have already booked your tickets, tune in to this episode for a great overview of information and inspiration!
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Episode 28, Exploring the South of Morocco, with Driss
Episode 25, Exciting Plans for the Podcast in 2023, with Ted
Ted Cragg Podcasting
Follow, Share and Participate:
Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
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Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
One of the highlights of a visit to Morocco is getting a henna art design, something as authentically Moroccan as tagines and desert camping. More than just a decorative activity, henna has deep cultural roots in Morocco, particularly for women.
Siham Essahiri is an expert henna artist, offering design experiences to travellers from around the world out of her home studio in Marrakech. Many listeners and guests on the podcast have had this experience themselves.
But few of us have known her remarkable true life story, until now. Born in a mountain village in the High Atlas mountains, Siham was put into an arranged marriage in the mid-2000's, and became pregnant at the age of 19. Despite being worldly and well-educated, she was facing a bleak future in a society of pre-determined roles and customs.
In today's episode, Siham shares how she took control of her and her daughter's lives, making bold choices and becoming self sufficient. Key to this achievement was her ability as an artist, which opened doors and opportunities in tourism and beyond.
Azdean and Siham talk about the power and strength of women in Morocco, the many barriers that still exist, yet the inspiring examples of Siham and others like her.
We learn about the history of henna, and the many occasions where it is used. Siham explains how henna parties are a part of a bride's wedding preparation: more than just an art session, it's a major event!
And being so popular an activity, scams to hook tourists in will inevitably abound, at the Jamma el Fna square in Marrakech in particular. There are numerous reasons to avoid these and other scams, and Siham shares some horror stories of "tattoos" gone wrong and exorbitant fees charged.
If and when you're in Marrakech, go for the real deal: an all-natural, custom-designed henna experience from an authentic artist. Siham is a wonderful artist, host, cook, guide and more, and will welcome you into her home with open arms.
You're about to learn:
- What exactly is henna, the plant.
- How henna differs around the world, and the Moroccan interpretation of it.
- How henna paste is made, and when it should be made.
- Why authentic, hand-mixed henna paste is not just better quality but will last much longer than what you find in the square, where it is chemical and cheap.
- Can you buy the hand-mixed paste and do it yourself?
- What tool Siham uses to create her designs.
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Visit Siham on Instagram.
and on Facebook.
Siham's website.
Follow, Share and Participate:
Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
Help people find us: Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts
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Become a Guest on the Show!
Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Today's episode marks the beginning of our shift towards the south of Morocco here on Destination Morocco podcast.
If you are looking for a Moroccan experience a little more rugged and raw, a little less touristy, and very authentic, you will find the southern half of Morocco a fascinating draw.
Starting from Marrakech as a base, a typical tour will cover deserts, high mountains, deep gorges, genuine Berber villages dating back centuries, and plenty of local culture, with a touch of Hollywood along the way.
Come with us in search of spices, fresh dates, saffron, henna, fossils and mint tea.
Taking us on our tour today is one of Destination Morocco's guides, Driss Maaza, who traces some of the historical connections amongst trading peoples and royalty, dating back many hundreds of years. We'll be travelling along the same historic caravan route from Timbuktu to Marrakech that still exists today.
Azdean and Driss uncover all kinds of activities, stunning views, places to go hiking, unique museums, and learn about an area that traditionally does not get quite as much attention as the north.
You'll hear why Driss is the perfect person to describe this area and inspire you to visit.
Sights and highlights mentioned in this episode (with Google Maps links):
Marrakech
Telouet/Onila Valley
Ouarzazate
Aït Benhaddou
Skoura
Kasbah Amridil (Famous museum, featured in the film Lawrence of Arabia and on the 50 Dirham bank note)
Dadès Valley/Gorge
Toudra Gorge
Tinejdad
Ksar Elkhorbat (ancient village and Berber museum)
Rissani
Nkob
Ziz Valley
Agdz
Draa Valley (Palm tree oasis)
Solar Power station near Ouarzazate (incredible satellite view)
Imlil village (hiking base)
Toubkal mountain, highest in North Africa
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Follow, Share and Participate:
Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
Help people find us: Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts
Help us grow: Rate us on Spotify
Become a Guest on the Show!
Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Chantal Rosenthal, her husband and three young adult children travelled to Morocco over the Christmas holidays of 2022, with Destination Morocco. As Jewish tourists, they were in search of Jewish heritage and influence, in a place that had long been a desired destination for them.
In today's episode, Chantal and Azdean talk about trip planning for 5 people, each with their own priorities for sightseeing.
Fortunately, they had Ilyas as their tour guide, and Ahmed as their driver, who were both able to navigate the crowds, markets and touts to give Chantal and her family a very enjoyable trip, without any headaches.
Chantal talks about visiting Jewish heritage sights in Fès, such as the Quarter and the synagogues. How the Jews have balconies, while the Muslims have inner courtyards. She gives vivid descriptions of wandering the medina and souks, and how Fès, although oriented towards tourism, feels real and authentic.
We learn about shopping in Fès, taking guidance from Ilyas to find good, quality places, with trusted local artisans. Chantal describes looking for Moroccan couscous bowls, fired in burning olive pits, and visiting the tanneries: the dye pits, the hides hanging from everywhere, and yes the smell that may still be embedded weeks later.
Then there's hearing the call to prayer in Fès, and how the energy changes in the city each time. Staying in Fès for 3 days, they were fortunate to hear it frequently, each time with its own distinct character.
The family takes in a night at a desert camp, where one realizes how insignificant you feel under a carpet of brilliant desert stars. They discover djellabas, the full-length robe with sleeves that is perfect for the changing conditions.
Meanwhile, in Marrakech, walking along the streets and narrow lanes, Ilyas makes sure everyone squeezes against the wall to avoid the motorbikes. They go to a packed popular restaurant, where lamb is cooked in earthen stoves, but listen to how Ilyas does his thing: "Now I go to work!"
And to add a touch of seriousness, what happens during a medical emergency in Morocco? Chantal's daughter had an urgent need to find a dentist. The thought of finding one safe and reliable was daunting.
It was a trip that for the family may mark the end of an era, and Destination Morocco was happy to make it as memorable as possible.
You're about to learn:
- How Fès is the best place to get leathers in Morocco.
- Getting meals outside the riad versus staying in to eat there.
- You get so much food at the restaurants, and you can't possibly eat it all, but what happens to the rest afterwards?
- What to wear in winter.
- The differences between riads, each with their own personal style.
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Episode 22 with Cierra & Dan McPherson
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Today's episode of Destination Morocco is absolutely chock-full of useful, practical information that will get your Morocco travel planning in 2023 off to a great start.
Azdean receives questions all the time from curious and engaged listeners, asking fundamental questions about travel around Morocco, things to do there, and most of all how to do it safely and reliably. No one wants to get ripped off and taken advantage of, and for something that is typically a once-in-a-lifetime trip, you want to make sure you get the most out of it and, if at all possible, make the right decisions.
This episode will help you in putting those ideas and plans together, whether you're a solo traveller, a couple or a small group. You may be an independent traveller who builds their own itinerary and activities, and that's perfectly fine. Or you may be looking for a more personalized, private tour experience from a company like Destination Morocco.
Either way, the information today will help you navigate and know what to expect, where to go and what to ask.
Here is some of what we cover today:
- Recommendations and a sample itinerary for a 7 to 12 day, self-guided, independent trip around Morocco, if you are organizing it yourself.
- How to navigate the souks in Marrakech, and the best time of day to visit.
- How to find the best traditional Moroccan food, and where.
- How to experience a traditional Moroccan hammam, how they work and how much you should expect to pay.
- How to take a desert tour in Morocco, and what questions to ask when you go to book.
- How to find the best hotels and riads in Morocco, what you should expect for each price range, and how to actually reserve a room at a riad.
- How to navigate public transportation in Morocco. Azdean explains the train system and options. How the bus transportation companies complement the train system, and two companies that Azdean recommends.
- How to "attend" a Moroccan wedding (i.e. without an invitation!).
- How to explore the Atlas Mountains in Morocco, from the right gear to the best time of year.
- How to take a cooking class in Morocco, including what to look for and how to book.
- Some valuable perspective on luxury as it pertains to Morocco: their definition may be quite different than that of North America or Europe, not to mention what's included and what's not included.
- How to take a camel ride in Morocco: knowing what to do and how to react.
- How to explore the Berber villages in Morocco. A unique and poignant question, Azdean brings perspective to this as a native Berber himself.
And lastly, thank you to our listeners for putting Destination Morocco in the top 25% of all Buzzsprout podcasts (and there are more than 10,000!)!
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Intercity buses:
https://ctm.ma/
https://www.supratours.ma/
Trains and other transport:
https://myticketservices.com/
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Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
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Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
We welcome in the new year with lots of exciting upcoming plans and topics to share, and tremendous appreciation for our listeners since the start of the Destination Morocco podcast journey.
Azdean was recently at a conference in Chicago, complete with a display about the podcast, QR codes so people could find it, merchandise and images. The big Moroccan flag was an instant attraction, and lots of folks came by, brimming with enthusiasm after the World Cup and now keen to learn more about the country. It was another demonstration of the growing interest in Morocco.
One of the challenges with the show from the start has been getting quality audio and reliable connections with podcast guests in Morocco. Azdean has figured out a solution: the company will be opening a dedicated podcast studio in Marrakech in the coming weeks, where guests can simply come in, sit down for an interview with proper tools and technology, and have a strong fibre optic connection.
This will enable us to ramp up creative opportunities with episodes direct from Morocco, making it feel that much closer for guests and listeners alike.
Upcoming topics will include in-depth profiles of Casablanca, Volubilis, Rabat, Tangier and more: places that have been touched on in previous episodes, but that will now have their own dedicated focus.
Meanwhile, Azdean's wife Khadija is a noted cook, with her own Moroccan catering company in Houston. We're looking forward to new episodes with her, explaining the story behind distinct Moroccan dishes and the recipes to go with them.
These will be complemented by more and more videos, so stay tuned to the Destination Morocco YouTube channel, Instagram and TikTok, as we put images and movement to the stories and fascinating information.
Thank you to all of our listeners in our first year of 2022! We are excited for what’s to come, uncovering more Moroccan secrets and discoveries.
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Follow, Share and Participate:
Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
Help people find us: Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts
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Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
It's been a whirlwind since our last Destination Morocco episode, just two weeks ago. The World Cup was still in its group stage, with 32 teams still alive. Since then, the Moroccan Cinderella story has resolutely swept the country, and the world, streaking all the way to the semi-finals of the tournament.
As so many of our listeners are tuning in from outside Morocco, including Azdean himself, the question we're all wondering is, "What is it like in Morocco right now?!"
Fortunately, we can get a report from a first-hand source. Regular listeners will have heard the name "Sam" many times: Destination Morocco's Operations Manager in Morocco, but today we finally get to hear his voice.
Sam, aka Hussein, makes his debut on the podcast to fill us in on the energy in the country, street celebrations and the shock and surprise of it all. Sam gives us a bit of context too, talking about some of the Moroccan players, their roots and their professional clubs, and the history of Morocco applying to host the World Cup, and coming so close, especially for the 2010 tournament that ended up going to South Africa.
Meanwhile, in part two of today's episode we put a new twist on the podcast, and share with you info about Morocco, and Azdean himself, from a different perspective.
Azdean recently appeared on The Travel Agents Podcast with hosts Brian Chima and Will Lee, and we found it was such a good overview of Morocco that it would be fun to share it with you here. We've picked out some of the highlights of the conversation, where Will and Brian asked questions from the listeners' perspective that really encapsulated being curious about Morocco and keen to learn.
If you're new to the podcast and haven't gone through our earlier episodes yet, this one is a good introduction. And if you are already a regular listener, you'll find that today's conversation fills in some gaps and helps complete the picture of this amazing land.
Highlights include:
- Learning about relative distances and driving times between some major sights.
- The best way to get from Spain to Morocco.
- An overview of riads and why they emerged in Morocco.
- What exactly is a tagine and how is it used for cooking.
- The Jewish influence on Morocco, from food to architecture and even language.
- Understanding the difference between Moroccan Arabic and the more common dialects in places like Egypt.
- The construct of Berber families and villages, who preserve their unique culture and laws to this day.
Thanks to Will and Brian for letting us share their episode with our listeners too. Check out the links below to hear more of their great topics!
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
The Travel Agents podcast
https://www.instagram.com/the_travelagents/
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Imagine: One day, someone gives you the idea of going to Morocco, and you think, "Yeah, maybe..." And then, a month later, spur of the moment, you buy a return ticket!
But you're not a big fan of planning, and the prospect of filling out the details of your impending trip are a little daunting, to say the least.
What do you do next?
This is Morocco on a Whim, Rachel Metcalf's story of making the commitment, travelling solo and turning to Destination Morocco to create and guide what became a very special and memorable trip.
Rachel starts off in Casablanca, and like many of our other guests meets Khalil, the blind tour guide of Hassan II Mosque. She tours around the north of Morocco, and falls in love with the picturesque, crossroads city of Tangier. Hear her wax poetic on its old world charm and beautiful setting between ocean and mountains. She is captivated by the blue city of Chefchaouen, leaving her Instagram page bursting with colour.
Fès then takes center stage, with Rachel being guided through the labyrinth of streets, visiting the mosaic & tile factory and then dropping in on the famous tanneries, a crucial mint coming in very handy.
Her riad in Fès, so completely unassuming from the outside, turns out to be a veritable palace once you walk through the door. Rachel takes us on a tour and describes it in detail.
A highlight was the hammam, or "sand bath," in the desert at Agafay, just an hour outside of Marrakech. A relaxing and revitalizing experience, complete with herbs and spices for distinct aromas.
Rachel had her own private tour, allowing her free reign to change plans, sleep in, go somewhere different or be spontaneous. And as a small, family tour company, changes could be made on the spot, without calling around, waiting for approval from someone in an overseas office, many time zones away.
Thanks to being on a guided tour, with an individual itinerary made for her, Rachel was able to relax and enjoy each day of the experience, without wondering or figuring out the next steps, and all the logistics therein.
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Tangier
Agafay desert
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Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Cierra & Dan McPherson had a tall order for Destination Morocco when they got in touch with Azdean, looking to travel to Morocco just a short time later. They wanted to see as much of the country as possible, but over just 11 days. Could it be done?
Our episode today recounts their journey. Thanks to Azdean and his team, particularly intrepid tour director Ilyas (Ep. 12) and driver Abdul, these world travellers had an experience that ranked with the best of their many destinations.
Ilyas took them to innumerable places off the beaten track, from hole-in-the-wall restaurants to secret spots known only to locals. Hear their stories about enjoying Tangia stew, Moroccan bread and yes, a dish that consists of cooking (then eating) an entire sheep, head, eyes and all, that has been slow-cooked in a hole in the ground (Shoua).
Meanwhile, it wasn't planned as a romantic trip, but in such a romantic country they were swept up in the spirit. Dan & Cierra were treated to their own Moroccan wedding, with henna designs and Berber attire, and enjoyed memorable meal after memorable meal: breakfasts, lunch and dinner. They had arrived looking forward to the cuisine, and whether street food or established restaurants, it was amazing.
Listen in as they share delightful, heartfelt stories. "See how a date can open up the world?!," says Ilyas. And slowing down to feel the wind, watch the stars, and be present in the moment, in such a beautiful place.
Through it all, it is another unique and personalized adventure with Ilyas. After this episode, you'll want more than ever to go on one of his tours too.
You're about to discover:
- Khalil, the blind tour guide of Hassan II Mosque.
- How the connections of their tour guides allowed them early access to the Hassan II Mosque, before the regular crowds arrived.
- Amazing Chefchaouen peanuts, boiled in honey.
- Volubilis and the camel hump town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun.
- How Ilyas and Abdul always keep things interesting with little anecdotes, personal stories and connections. Never a dull moment on those long drives!
- Having tried a camel burger, which would you now choose, camel or beef?
- How remarkably small the riads can be, meaning no large groups, just a few guests at a time. A great opportunity to mingle and chat with the hosts and other travellers.
- What happened when they accidentally tipped a guide far less than the intended to. Ilyas was there to save the situation.
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Episode 12 with Ilyas
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Moroccans are known for their generous, welcoming hospitality, and their instinct for making visitors feel at home. Traveler and podcast listener Pablo Juarez is here today to confirm this, having just returned from Morocco scarcely a week before the recording, in mid-October of 2022.
It was the first trip there for Pablo and his partner Harmony, and it was full of pleasant surprises. From the food, the generosity, the riads, the landscape and most of all, the people, Morocco was at once modern and wonderfully traditional.
Even experienced travellers turn to tour companies from time to time, to help them get the best out of their vacation, and have access to places and experiences they otherwise would have never known about. The great thing is you can combine a guided tour with some of your own independent sightseeing, it doesn't have to be all one or the other.
Pablo and Harmony were hosted by Destination Morocco for 4 days of their 18 day trip, taking the desert tour through Fès, Merzouga, Marrakech, Ifrane, Dades Valley, the Atlas Mountains, Ouarzazate and Aït Benhaddou, with tour director Ilyas (from Episode 12).
Having some prior knowledge of Morocco, thanks to the podcast, helped complement the guided tour once they were actually there. The show provided a solid foundation for what to expect and how to prepare.
Pablo describes their riads in great detail: hot tubs, pools, rooftop patios, and lounges where you can meet the other guests, who rarely number more than 7 or 8 in total. "It feels like you're visiting with a family member or friend. We ate so much amazing food in Morocco," he says.
Thank you to Pablo for sharing his journey with us, and encouraging more people to discover this amazing land.
Experiences you're about to share:
- Visiting the Hassan II Mosque: what it's like inside, the way the light comes into the spaces.
- A touching story from Aït Benhaddou, and an experience that you don't find in other large group tours.
- The fascinating experience of learning about hand-woven rugs at the Ouaouzguite Rugs Cooperative, getting to try it himself and how long the entire process can take.
- What might be an "Omelette with drippy meat" ?!
- Devouring stone-baked bread, off the beaten path.
- Discovering hidden underwater aquifers, in caves that have existed for centuries.
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Pablo Juarez on Instagram
Ep. 12 Ilias, Tour Guide
Ep. 7 Xavier, Essaouira
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Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
The winter season is soon approaching, but does that mean that travel to Morocco slows right down? What can be expected by visiting in January or February?
Azdean and Destination Morocco producer Ted Cragg sit down today to talk about what it's like to travel in Morocco in winter, particularly because Ted is hoping to head there with his family in February or March! Can they expect a much different experience than if they went during the high season? Can they decide to go even at the last minute?
Travel to Morocco these days is increasingly a year round activity. Although temperatures can be cool, and yes there is a bit more rain, you can still find plentiful accommodation and activities that are open, at a better price and with fewer crowds. Indeed, many people prefer to travel in the low season for the slower pace and quieter experience. You won't be disappointed in Morocco, but you will need to be prepared, especially when it comes to having the right clothing and supplies.
We talk about options for short trips, and whether it's worthwhile to hop over for a weekend if you're already in a place like Spain or France, with quick flights or even the ferry at your disposal.
There's also a little bit of behind the scenes of the making of the podcast. We're breaking barriers in Morocco! Introducing the concept and giving folks opportunities to experience podcasting for the first time.
The crowds start to pick up again as we get into late March and April, so if you're looking for the Moroccan experience without quite so much bustle, when the stars shine their brightest, this episode will help get you started on your planning.
You're about to learn:
- What the weather is like in January & February.
- What to pack and expect for clothing in a country with different zones and weather systems.
- How the experience of the desert changes between seasons.
- When you should be doing your research and making your bookings. Accommodation can sell out fast, so you may need to reserve early for a place you really want to stay.
- How Azdean and his team will help you find a place that's well-located and convenient to the sights and your activities.
- What a short weekend break could look like, hopping over from Europe.
- Info touching on family travel, slow travel and long-term stays (digital nomad-style).
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Algeciras, SP - Tangier, MR ferry service
Fès International Airport
Riad Zahra, Essaouira
Ted Cragg Podcasting
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Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
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Become a Guest on the Show!
It’s time to talk about food!
Azdean invites restauranteur Aziz Zgani, owner of Le Patio Bleu in Fès, to explain native Moroccan dishes (and their ingredients!) such as pastilla, special filo pastry, tagine and a beef jerky that is unique to Fès and its dry climate.
Vegetarian options abound, as menus become more diverse and chefs more well-versed. And Aziz talks about the cultural history of dishes, particularly couscous, a dish for people to gather around.
Coming from Fès, everything is "refined:" traditions, culture, people: this is reflected in the cuisine and its international roots. Aziz shares some background history on Fès as a multi-ethnic sanctuary hundreds of years ago, providing a welcome home to Jews, Spanish, Berbers and Arabs, all of whom contributed to the city's distinct identity.
This may be the biggest surprise: pigeon pastilla?! Yes, it's true, and it's a delicacy! Although most restaurants these days default to chicken, pigeon can still be found and Azdean talks about growing up with it as a familiar, and delicious, meal.
This episode provides a great introduction to Moroccan food, and will help you become familiar with exotic menus and dishes when you arrive. It's the first of an ongoing series of episodes that will profile Morocco's unique cuisine, with the help of Azdean's wife Khadija, who runs a catering business in Houston, serving Moroccan food, to inspire your taste buds and cooking skills!
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Le Patio Bleu restaurant, Fès
Chicken pastilla
Beef tagine with pears
Moroccan bread
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Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
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Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Joanie Conwell fulfilled a dream in May of 2022, visiting Morocco for two weeks, inspired by the works of Paul Bowles. And she did it as a solo traveller, unaccompanied and through her own planning and research. With a bit of help from Destination Morocco podcast, especially Episode 4!
Joanie joins Azdean today to trace her adventure through northern Morocco, starting in Casablanca then staying in Rabat, Tangier, Tetouan, Chefchaouen and Fès.
Joanie shares her expenses, including the average nightly cost of her accommodations, recounts special moments with strangers, and gives her views on whether it's a good idea to travel solo to Morocco, and what to expect.
A lot of information on the internet seems designed to frighten travellers curious about Morocco. Walking along the shoreline near Hassan II Mosque, observing regular families strolling at the sunset: the reality is much more nuanced than what you read online.
You're about to learn:
- Understanding transportation as a solo traveller. Azdean explains the differences between the petit and big taxis.
- How Joanie took Azdean's advice to upgrade her basic room to a living room suite with gorgeous views, for only about $25 extra.
- The price of a 2nd class ticket on the high speed train (Al Boraq) from Rabat to Tangier.
- Taking a long-distance big taxi ride with six Moroccan strangers.
- How the price for virtually everything that isn't prepaid is negotiable. Finding a taxi ride that was one-tenth of the original price quoted.
- How to avoid the touts hassling you to sell bus tickets, and just book online. Or, how to prepare for the touts and get a successful outcome.
- Joanie's great advice for anyone with dietary restrictions, allergies or other sensitivities to negotiate their way through Morocco (or any Arabic country).
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Joanie Travels
Joanie's links
Joanie on Instagram
Episode 4: Scams!
Paul Bowles, writer and composer
American Legation Museum Tangier
Cap Spartel (Where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic)
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Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Podcast listeners! Destination Morocco is offering a special 8 day guided tour with Azdean, from October 17 to 24, at over $700 off the total price.
Click here: 8 Day Morocco Imperial Trip for podcast listeners.
Reserve now (link)!If you're looking for an affordable place to travel, but don't want to sacrifice quality, Morocco is a great option. One of the challenges, however, is to figure out just how much things cost, and what you can expect for the prices you pay.
In today's episode, Azdean walks us through many of the essential expenses you will encounter on your trip, from accommodation to transport and, most importantly, the food! Carefully-planned savings could evaporate after a few delicious, full-course meals, but then again, that might just be worth it!
Ultimately, the budget for your trip will come down to your own priorities and choices, whether it's standards of accommodation or the number of activities you participate in. But this episode will give you some context on what you can expect to pay, regardless of your style and interests.
There's even a bit of reverse-psychology at play when you're at a restaurant: if you give first, you get something back.
Azdean shares with you tips on how to save money every day, and tips on how to tip: a more recent phenomenon in Morocco, but an important one nonetheless. Tips are rarely included on organized tours, but even as extra costs they won't add a lot to your total budget, and indeed may be worth every penny. Plus, it demonstrates your appreciation for service and goes a long way to helping the locals with their livelihood.
Check out this episode, take some notes, and let's make your Morocco experience as smooth as possible!
You're about to learn:
- Finding affordable transportation.
- The most affordable time of year to visit Morocco.
- How to choose the best accommodation for you.
- Hiring a driver vs. hiring your own tour guide.
- How much does the food cost.
- Recognizing when you've been overcharged.
- Not just restaurant prices but coffee, juice, dessert and other items too.
- How to barter. Get your poker face ready!
- The tipping culture in Morocco.
- Can you use the US dollar in Morocco, and can you pay by credit card?
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Episode 4: Scams!
Sidi Ali water
Moroccan dirhams
USD to MAD (xe.com)
Follow, Share and Participate:
Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
Help people find us: Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts
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Become a Guest on the Show!
Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
It's been a fun and exciting 7 months since we launched our Destination Morocco podcast, and in that time we've enjoyed interacting with listeners, getting your questions and hearing your feedback about the show, and about Morocco in general.
To keep all this useful information in one place, we've assembled an episode that answers some of the most frequently asked questions about travel to and around Morocco.
You may be considering a solo or couple's trip, a group tour or a destination wedding, or you may in turn be a travel agent looking to answer your own clients' questions and be better prepared.
This episode is for you, everything from the fundamentals about weather, transport and group sizes to questions about Roman history, Jimi Hendrix and camping in the desert.
And, we introduce to you a budding young podcaster with a great voice, who will present your questions to Azdean!
Some of the questions we'll answer:
- Do you offer guaranteed departure tours?
- Are there tours to the Merzouga Desert?
- How is the safety and comfort for the LGBTQ community?
- Are these Group or Private tours and how many people on each tour?
- Do you need shots to go to Morocco?
- How many tents are there for a wedding, and what is their capacity?
- How long does it take to get to the desert camps from Fes?
- Do you only work with travel agents, or direct to the public?
- How long is a good stay to the beach city where Jimi Hendrix went?
- Do you take Travel Agents for tours?
- What type of vehicles do they use for a party of 4?
- Which city is still "searching for their theatre”?
- What is the best time of year to travel for good weather and less crowds?
- What about dietary restrictions? Are dietary restrictions able to be handled in Morocco?
- How is the safety?
- Are any documents required other than a passport?
- Do you list the hotels you use on your website?
- Do you provide Spanish-speaking Guides?
Podcast listeners! Destination Morocco is offering a special 8 day guided tour with Azdean, from October 17 to 24, at over $700 off the total price.
Click here: 8 Day Morocco Imperial Trip for podcast listeners.
Reserve now (link)!
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Things to Pack and Prepare for Your Trip to Morocco.pdf
STEP: Smart Traveler Enrollment Program
Azdean's Presentation + Images on Morocco
Follow, Share and Participate:
Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
Help people find us: Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts
Help us grow: Rate us on Spotify
Become a Guest on the Show!
Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Podcast listeners! Destination Morocco is offering a special 8 day guided tour with Azdean, from October 17 to 24, at over $700 off the total price.
Click here: 8 Day Morocco Imperial Trip for podcast listeners.
Reserve now (link)!
On today's episode, Azdean chats with a colleague from the travel industry, Laura Ericson, who organizes small guided tours to exotic destinations like Colombia and Peru.
Laura was recently on her first trip to Morocco, scouting future tours there, and her enthusiasm and evocative storytelling inspired Azdean to invite her on the podcast to share what she learned.
A big part of the experience of Morocco is the journey itself around the country, the rapidly changing scenery and complete shifts in landscape and people. Laura pointed out to her guide, "I feel like I'm in a movie scene!" To which he replied, "You are!" Many popular films and shows have been made in Morocco, and you can tour everything from the Atlas Studios to the streetscapes of Essaouira, following in their footsteps.
Laura shares stories from her journey through Marrakech, Fès and in particular, the Sahara desert, where the shifting sands create a constantly changing landscape. It was actually raining through most of her time in the Sahara, and they even got trapped on the wrong side of a flooded road, and had to figure their way out.
The Berber locals, friendly and welcoming as always, were keen to show their camps in the desert, and Laura reflects on how remarkable this life is in this day and age.
And then there's the silence: the eerie yet beautiful silence of the desert. It is a peaceful place that inspires reflection and contemplation, as you ride a camel to go watch the sunset.
Laura shares her experiences as a woman travelling, whether solo or with a friend, and being prepared for what can happen. How to blend in and not look like a tourist, and how to be assertive and confident. She and Azdean chat about important safety tips and advice, and the merits of guided trips to places like Morocco, giving you safety and security, a chance to become friends with someone local, and even saving you money in the long run.
You're about to learn:
- How glad Laura was to have chosen to stay two nights in the Sahara instead of just one.
- The experience of a Sahara desert tour by 4x4, on no roads.
- How Fèz is great for shopping and finding unique local artisan crafts, maybe even better than Marrakech.
- The story of how Laura was having breakfast, on her riad's rooftop terrace, put her foot down on what she thought was a rock, but it was in fact their pet turtle!
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Laura on Instagram
Follow, Share and Participate:
Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
Help people find us: Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts
Help us grow: Rate us on Spotify
Become a Guest on the Show!
Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Podcast listeners! Destination Morocco is offering a special 8 day guided tour with Azdean, from October 17 to 24, at over $700 off the total price.Click here: 8 Day Morocco Imperial Trip for podcast listeners.Reserve now! (link)
In today's episode, podcast listener, professional photographer and seasoned traveller Maxx Walske fulfills a dream by visiting Morocco.
Maxx is a planner who loves to research and learn about her upcoming destinations. Typically she travels independently, but this time, having listened to the podcast, she went for the peace of mind and comfort of a private, guided tour, organized by Destination Morocco.
In our episode today, Maxx chats with Azdean about her trip, about culture shock, the reality of being in Morocco as a tourist, the accommodation, the food, the shopping and more.
Maxx had all the typical questions and concerns going into the trip, but discovered a country blessed with stunning scenery and modern amenities: an open society of warm, friendly people.
And, "A photographer's dream!"
You'll recognize some familiar names from past episodes, who met Maxx in Morocco and showed her around: Ilias (Ep. 12), Youseff (Ep. 3) and Fatima Zahra (Ep. 8).
Punctuated by fun anecdotes and stories, it's a pleasant conversation that reminds you it's not all about Instagramable scenes and selfies, you have to enjoy the moment and be present.
Morocco is unique and magical, "You have to see it to believe it!" (Maxx).
You're about to learn:
- How busy it was, in general, and if there were people everywhere.
- How the square changes from day to nighttime. "It's a beast!" (Azdean).
- How June is a very good time to go, weather-wise.
- How planning helps you prepare, but throw away your expectations once you get started on your trip.
- How to prepare for shopping in Morocco, and how having local guides you can trust makes the entire experience worthwhile. You'll come home with quality items that you feel good about.
- Azdean talks about planning an itinerary, based on a person's interests and schedule, and how it becomes a very personal experience.
- About the wonderful hospitality, people going out of their way to help, even inviting you into their home.
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Maxx & Me Photography
on Instagram
Maxx's travel photos
Volubilis, Meknes (Roman ruins)
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Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Angel Nair and her husband travelled to Morocco in May of 2022, their first time in the country, and the Destination Morocco Podcast was a huge help in preparing them for the journey. She joins Azdean today to talk about her trip and what she learned.
Angel shares her perceptions of Morocco, drawn from movies, film locations and cultural expectations, and how those perceptions changed after just two weeks in the country. Although yes, they did explore classic movie locations in Casablanca and elsewhere, they packed so much more into their journey, from Marrakech all the way up to Tangier.
Listen to hear her describe watching sunsets next to the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, looking out over the Atlantic Ocean, or from the hills above enchanting Moulay Idriss Zerhoun in northern Morocco, or amongst the magical colours of Chefchaouen.
Angel shares how the Destination Morocco episode on Scams helped her immensely, whether at the airport, saving them 200 Dirham as a result, or by avoiding having to pay the charmers in Marrakech to take a snake off her back!
And through it all, there's the food! Special and delicious, Angel talks about the many dishes they discovered, from tagines to pastillas, fresh seafood, tangia and even camel burgers.
From pleasant surprises to dramatic scenery and wonderful, welcoming people, journey along with Angel as she shares her story with her fellow travellers.
You're about to learn:
- How the hospitality of the people made all the difference.
- About the empowerment of women in Moroccan society and commerce.
- What were some of Angel's planning resources.
- How going with an organized tour helped not just with preparation but also logistics once they were there: baggage, transport, accommodation and more. Although, they were able to add extra independent days onto the beginning and end.
- What a Moroccan homestay (staying with a local family in their home) is like.
- What was the most striking difference between each city she visited.
Podcast listeners! Destination Morocco is offering a special 8 day guided tour with Azdean, from October 17 to 24, at over $700 off the total price.
Click below to learn more:October Morocco Tour, Podcast Special
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Angel on Instagram (photos from her trip)
Moulay Idriss Zerhoun
Cafe Sofia, Chefchaouen
Follow, Share and Participate:
Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
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Become a Guest on the Show!
Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Many travellers to Morocco, especially for the first time, place their trip into the care of a certified Tour Director. Someone who will accompany them throughout, make sure things run as smoothly as possible, that they are prepared for what's next and, ultimately, will show them a good time.
Meet Ilyas Baayay, a certified Moroccan guide, tour director, storyteller and passionate host. Ilyas joins Azdean today to talk about touring Morocco from a guide's perspective, in an uplifting conversation that showcases his personality and his story.
Ilyas grew up in a small remote Moroccan village, a one hour walk from the nearest water supply, and an hour and a half walk to school.
Moving with his family to the town of Ouzoud, home to the second-highest waterfall in Africa, gave him exposure to tourists and languages from around the world, and created a love for learning and storytelling.
Ilyas and Azdean chat about Moroccan hospitality, with inspiring stories about Moroccans and tourists alike. You'll learn tidbits like Morocco's three names, and the source of the name "Morocco" itself, how given names in the United States have been unknowingly influenced by the Berber language, and how the importance of hospitality to Moroccans reflects an inherently generous, giving and welcoming people.
Join us for a truly local perspective on the Moroccan people and their values. Ilyas' joyful spirit and generosity will make you want to come and discover this beautiful land.
You're about to learn:
- Why tour directors in Morocco are required to run a marathon to become officially certified.
- About the process of arriving in Morocco, at the international airport in Casablanca: when do you meet your tour director, what is their role and what should you expect.
- Background of the Berber language, and how it differs from Moroccan Arabic.
- The diverse religious foundations of the Berber culture, which has resulted in a very open and accepting society.
- What to expect from hotel standards, as Morocco is still a developing country.
- The surprising prevalence of Moroccan-source dinosaur fossils.
- The important simplicity of asking for permission.
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Ilyas on Instagram
Ouzoud waterfall
InstagramGoogle Maps
Follow, Share and Participate:
Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
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Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
In today's episode, Azdean is joined by Destination Morocco Podcast producer Ted Cragg for an important conversation that tackles some of the first questions any traveller has about going to Morocco: What should I bring, and what should I wear?
Morocco bridges the divide between Europe and Africa, is a gateway to the Muslim world, and features everything from ocean beaches to deserts and high mountains. Whether culturally or environmentally, it can be an intimidating challenge to pack the right things, and to know what to expect.
Azdean helps listeners prepare for this challenge, sharing his experience as a tour organizer, having helped hundreds of clients over the years with everything from lost luggage to visa questions, but also as a traveller himself, sharing what he prepares for a trip home to Morocco from his current home base of Houston.
And Ted is there to ask the questions from the mind of a traveller, which is good because he's hoping to go to Morocco with his family later this year too!
You're about to learn:
- Visa and vaccination requirements, and where to find the info for your country.
- What temperatures and weather to expect.
- The best luggage to bring, and baggage restrictions to be aware of.
- Are you expected to dress conservatively in Morocco?
- How common are laundry services, and how easy are they to find.
- The quality of toiletries that you find in Morocco.
- What you can expect from pharmacies and drug stores.
- The voltage used in Morocco.
- Where to get cash (Dirhams) once you're there.
- Tipping expectations and procedures.
- Things to look for in your travel insurance!
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Things to Pack and Prepare for Your Trip to Morocco.pdf
Morocco Entry Requirements
Visa Central: visacentral.com
877 535-0688
STEP: Smart Traveler Enrollment Program
step.state.gov/step
Morocco Weather
Merzouga
Power adapters in Morocco and plug sockets
Follow, Share and Participate:
Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
Help people find us: Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts
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Become a Guest on the Show!
Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
There are few activities more evocative and memorable than a hot air balloon ride, no matter where in the world. Drifting up from the earth in the calm of early morning, the sound of birds and breeze interspersed with puffs from the burner.
Escaping the hustle and bustle of Marrakech to float over the medina towards the High Atlas mountains is an undoubted highlight of anyone's trip to Morocco.
Sherif is the owner of Adventure Balloon Marrakech, which launched in 2018 and just 4 years later is already one of the largest and most successful ballooning companies in Morocco. They have quickly grown to a fleet of 5 balloons, with a capacity of 300 persons per day.
Sherif talks a bit about his background: growing up in Egypt, studying tourism, falling in love with hot air balloons, and then letting them carry him to business ventures in Turkey, Kenya and now Morocco, which he explains is one of the very best places in the world to go ballooning.
You're about to learn:
- How they determine the capacity and weight limits of a balloon.
- The schedule of a typical "classic flight," from pick-up to inflation to flight and touch-down.
- What time Sherif finishes for the day. "I'm the first one in the world to finish work!"
- Why balloons typically go afloat in the early hours of the day, instead of later.
- Why ballooning in Marrakech is blessed with such great conditions and very low cancellation rates (a common factor when ballooning in other locations).
- Ticket options, packages and prices, and what's included in the experience (hint: it's all-inclusive!).
Ballooning is a wonderfully communal, shared experience. Fellow passengers become friends. Memories are created in a short time that last a lifetime. It is a thoughtful, peaceful adventure that easily fits into your schedule of sightseeing and activities.
Follow the links below to learn more, and contact Destination Morocco for more questions and to learn how to integrate a balloon ride into your itinerary!
Destination Morocco is offering a special Jewish-themed guided tour, July 17-26, incorporating Jewish heritage highlights, in addition to regular popular sights.
All the details and a special rate for podcast listeners can be found here: https://bit.ly/3wKYBEs
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Adventure Balloon Marrakech
On Instagram
On Facebook
What'sApp contact: +212 691-707744
Email: info@adventureballoonmarrakech.com
Balloons taking off outside of Marrakech
Follow, Share and Participate:
Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
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Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Siham Nkonda joins us today to share her insight as a wedding and events planner, based out of Marrakech with her company, La Perle Bespoke Events.
Morocco is consistently named one of the world's top wedding destinations (Harper's Bazaar, Brides.com, Pinterest Magazine and more), being a country with so many options for vibrant locations, cultural activities and stunning photographs.
As an overseas excursion for most, it is the type of wedding that will likely require the knowledge and expertise of an experienced local wedding planner, and Siham's passion is to be just that.
You're About to Learn:
- How it takes a lot of people behind the scenes, a great network of collaborators, to prepare a destination wedding: videographers, photographers, vendors, caterers and more.
- Who Siham's typical clients are, and why, and the types of wedding packages she offers.
- The story of henna, how it's done and what role it plays during Moroccan weddings.
- Who the Negafa is, and how important she is for the bride.
- The different types of kaftan dresses and how they fit into the ceremony.
- When to start planning, and how far in advance.
- Why Siham puts an emphasis on local sourcing and themes for her events.
If you're considering something different, exotic, exciting and unique for your wedding, there are few places more enchanting than Morocco. This episode is the perfect place to get started on your dreaming and planning!
This Episode is sponsored by:
Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
La Perle Wedding and Event Planners
La Perle on Instagram
La Perle on Facebook
La Perle on Pinterest
Siham's own wedding: stunning photos!
Who is the Negafa? Instagram story
What is the Ammaria? Instagram story
Henna tattoos: Process and presentation
Follow, Share and Participate:
Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
Help people find us: Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts
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Become a Guest on the Show!
Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Fès: The original. Where everything started.
The first imperial capital, the roots of Moroccan culture, famous for its mixing of religious and cultural heritage.
The capital city of Moroccan crafts, from carvings and jewellery to tanneries, and a former political capital as one of the four Imperial cities of Moroccan royalty.
Our episode today features a modern trailblazer, one of the first women to become a certified tour guide in Morocco, Fatima Zahra. Growing up inspired by travellers from around the world coming to visit her city, Zahra now takes guests through the medina, the souks, madrassas and Jewish heritage sites of her native Fès.
Azdean and Zahra chat about her experience becoming a guide in a male-dominated field, an introduction to the history and unique identity of Fès, and her suggestions for things to do whether you have only a couple days, or ideally many more, to truly appreciate this distinct and special city.
You're about to learn:
-
The three principal tourist areas of Fès:
-
Fès el Bali (the old city).
- Fès el Jdid (the new city) and the neighbouring Jewish Quarter.
-
La Ville nouvelle (the modern city).
-
Why the houses may seem plain on the outside, but are so beautiful on the inside.
- Fès' Jewish heritage, and how Berber, Jewish and Arab cuisines mixed together.
- Some of the local delicacies, particularly cooked salads and Moroccan pastilla.
- The traditional black ovens used to cook bread and filo pastries.
- The importance of madrassas (Koranic schools), and how you can visit them.
For more show notes, including Azdean's recommendations of souks, madrassas and museums to visit when you're in Fès, go to the episode page:
https://www.destinationmoroccopodcast.com/fes-the-roots-of-moroccan-culture-ep-8/
Now is the time to visit, and Destination Morocco is in fact offering a special Jewish-themed guided tour, July 17-26, incorporating Jewish heritage highlights, in addition to regular popular sights.
All the details and a special rate for podcast listeners can be found here: https://bit.ly/3wKYBEsThis Episode is sponsored by:Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Fès, Morocco
Zahra on Instagram
https://www.handsofmorocco-tours.com - Zahra's great website
Fès tanneries
Moroccan craftsmanship, in many forms!
Somewhere inside Moroccan souks
Mellah (Jewish Quarter) of Fès
Follow, Share and Participate:
Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
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Visit Destination
Welcome to the stunning oceanside city of Essaouira, located southwest of Casablanca, due west of Marrakesh, and midway down the Atlantic coast of Morocco.
In this episode, Azdean welcomes Xavier Panadés, owner of the riad "Riad Zahra," which sits but one block from Essaouira's stunning beach and oceanfront promenade. Xavier has Moroccan roots, but grew up in Barcelona, before returning to Morocco, settling in Essaouira and opening his Riad about 16 years ago.
Essaouira has many claims to fame, perhaps none more important or poignant than as a melting pot of cultures and religions. Arabs, Jews and Christians have lived together harmoniously for hundreds of years, a source of pride for the locals, known as swiriyin and swiriyat.
Xavier gives us some background on things to see and do in Essaouira, local dishes, spices and markets, and the story behind his beautiful riad, which combines Moroccan and Spanish cuisine and influences.
You're about to learn:
-
About Essaouira's Game of Thrones connection. Orson Welles too.
-
About Riad Zahra, just 2 minutes' walk from the beach.
-
Check out the amazing Live Webcam!!
-
The Gnaoua International Music Festival, one of the largest music festivals in the world.
-
The Hiloula Jewish festival, commemorating Rabbi Haim Pinto.
The special tagines of Essaouira:
- eel tagine
- octopus tagine
-
Useful, valuable tips for buying Argan oil, Olive oil and even Moroccan honey. Look for the new official government label to ensure quality control.
-
How Essaouira is a haven for Thuya wood and Argan trees.
Now is the time to visit, and Destination Morocco is in fact offering a special Jewish-themed guided tour, July 17-26, incorporating Jewish heritage highlights, in addition to regular popular sights.
All the details and a special rate for podcast listeners can be found here: https://bit.ly/3wKYBEs
This Episode is sponsored by:Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.
https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:Essaouira map
Riad Zahra website
Riad Zahra welcome video
- The Essaouira live cam
- Riad Zahra on Facebook
- on Twitter
- on Instagram
Argan oil
Thuya tree
Gnawa music
Follow, Share and Participate:
Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
Help people find us: Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts
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Become a Guest on the Show!
Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Come with us on a history and cultural journey, and learn the story and meaning of Ramadan, which in 2022 begins on April 3.
If you find yourself travelling in Morocco during Ramadan, what might you expect to see and experience? As Azdean explains, different Muslim countries often have their own variances on certain dates and traditions, and Morocco is no exception.
Many travellers may have the perception that during Ramadan, destinations and attractions are closed down, or much quieter.
In fact, the opposite is true. Not only are businesses still open, including restaurants for tourists, but the food and celebrations are even more dynamic and intense. City squares come alive as the sun sets, and people gather together to share in their common bond.
Understanding Ramadan gives you an important cultural appreciation, and a window into daily life in Morocco during this holy month. This episode will give you the information and context behind many terms and customs that you may be slightly familiar with, but will make much more sense after Azdean gives you his own, personal perspective on what Ramadan is and what it's like.
You're about to learn:
- Where the name "Ramadan" comes from.
- About the 5 prayers of Ramadan, and their meaning (listen at the 3:28 mark):
- Fajr
- Dhuhr
- Asr
- Maghrib
- Isha
- The special meditation prayer taraweeh.
- The ten days of Ramadan: the three stages.
- Iftar, the nightly breaking of the fast.
- Zakat, the Islamic tax.
- Laylat al-Qadr: the "Night of Destiny," celebrated during the last ten days of Ramadan.
- Eid al-Fitr, the holiday marking the end of Ramadan.
Ramadan is a joyous occasion, and should you have the chance to witness it, whether this year or in years to come, it will be a unique and fortunate opportunity.
Listen in to this episode to get a taste of the experience.
This Episode is sponsored by:Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:Marrakech prayer times during Ramadan, 2022
Beautiful photos of fresh Moroccan food!
Dadès Valley
Follow, Share and Participate:Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
Help people find us: Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts
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Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
It may be your first time to Morocco, or you simply may want to cover as much as you can on your trip, in an organized, hassle-free way. Many travellers to Morocco choose a guided tour as the best way to see the country and come away with a real, vivid understanding for what they've experienced.
There are of course all kinds of options available, from focusing on specific areas of Morocco, to pursuing certain themes like perhaps food or outdoor activities, and lengths of a few days to two weeks or longer.
Azdean recommends 10 days as the ideal length, to see much of the sights, capture the variety, have enough time yet not feel too rushed. But it's your trip, you determine your preferences, and a good tour company will work together with you to make it a reality.
You're about to learn:
- How to book a tour.
- Options for add-ons and personalization, lots of flexibility.
- The options for getting around the cities and between cities.
- What's included in a typical tour, and what you need to prepare for that may not be included.
- Medication and supplies you may find helpful.
- Attractions and activities to see along the way.
- About camping under the stars in Merzouga desert.
- How to ride a camel!
- The role that tour guides play throughout your trip.
- How to acclimatize to the food.
- Guidance about cancellations, documentation and travel insurance.
This episode gives a great overview of the details of visiting Morocco, and will take the trip that's in your mind a big step towards becoming reality.
This Episode is sponsored by:Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:Sample Tour Itinerary
Casablanca
Chefchaouen, the "blue pearl"
Fès
Ifrane, "The Switzerland of Morocco"
Ziz river and Gorge Canyon
Merzouga desert
Camping under the stars
Essaouira
Follow, Share and Participate:Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
Help people find us: Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts
Help us grow: Rate us on Spotify
Become a Guest on the Show!
Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Travellers love Morocco for its exotic appeal, culture, stunning landscapes, distinct cuisine, and for its charms.
Yes, these charms can include scams, a regular feature of life as a tourist in Morocco, as elsewhere. And as Azdean will tell you, natives like him are far from exempt! Most of what you'll hear in this episode has happened to him at some point.
With touches of humor, detail and vivid descriptions that carry you away to the streets, taxi cabs, markets and restaurants of Marrakesh, Azdean guides you through what to expect, right from arrival at the airport.
You're about to learn:
- How to prepare your cash and use an ATM in Morocco,
- Understanding the money and conversions,
- Arriving at the airport, things to look out for,
- Getting your rental car,
- Finding a good SIM card for your mobile phone,
- Taxis: a key experience to navigate. How to prepare yourself for a taxi scam. Be prepared!
Arriving in the square. What scams to look out for?
- A guided tour, the price looks great and the itinerary is exciting. But where will you end up spending the night?
- A henna tattoo, what could go wrong?
- Surely orange juice is just orange juice, right?
- How do you choose where to eat, and not be gouged on the price?
And, Azdean shares which is the scariest scam of them all.
Always, always: Remember your body language!
Join us for a fascinating, insider's look into how scams operate, how to avoid or get out of situations, and why they exist in the first place.
This Episode is sponsored by:Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:Jamaa el-Fnaa Square (aka "The Square")
Moroccan dirhams
Globe Convert app
Mobile SIM card Maroc Telecom Etisalat
Follow, Share and Participate:Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
Help people find us: Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts
Help us grow: Rate us on Spotify
Become a Guest on the Show!
Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Marrakesh is one of the most famous destinations in Morocco, one of the "imperial cities" (one-time capital cities), and a place immortalized in popular culture and romantic images.
When you think of a Moroccan city, and ancient markets, spices, mosques, vibrant colours and winding, narrow alleyways come to mind, it is likely Marrakesh that you're thinking of.
Azdean welcomes his friend and local tour guide Youssef Kharroubi to the podcast, to give us an overview of the city and its many sights and activities. We talk a bit about the history of the city and its place in Morocco, and Youssef introduces highlights such as the city gardens, the Bahia Palace, the souk (marketplace), the Kutubiyya mosque (nearly 900 years old) and the Bab Agnaou gates. Most of this is encapsulated in the medina (city centre), named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
And then there's the food! You may be familiar with the cone-shaped tagine cooking pot, great for cooking vegetables and couscous. Youssef also introduces the tangiya, which is a similar concept, but more of a deep, oval-shaped clay pot often used for cooking lamb dishes, and immersed in coals to slow-cook for 8-10 hours.
Each topic could be an episode in itself, and so Youssef helps to orient us and set the stage for the discovery of Marrakesh. This episode will get your travel juices flowing!
This Episode sponsored by:Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:A Moroccan souk (market)
A traditional Moroccan tagine cooking pot
Stunning Moroccan gardens
Kutubiyya Mosque in Marrakesh, built in 1158
Marrakech Tour Guide
Youssef Kharroubi (Marrakech Tour Guide) on Instagram
Follow, Share and Participate:Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
Help people find us: Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts
Help us grow: Rate us on Spotify
Become a Guest on the Show!
Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Episode 2 - An Introduction to MoroccoAs we begin our exploration of Morocco, Azdean invites his producer, Ted Cragg, onto the podcast, to chat about what listeners can expect from the show over the coming episodes.
Imagine us sitting in a nice café, or maybe drinking some fresh Moroccan mint tea, as Azdean gives us an overview of Morocco for those just beginning to learn about the country. We talk about some of the fundamentals: population, languages, climate, distances, costs, potable water, security and more.
Azdean gets us started on planning a trip to Morocco: where would you go if you had 1 week? What choices would you need to make? We get a sense of the scale and proximity of the various cities and sights, and some of the highlights to make sure to include.
As you'll hear in this episode, there are so many facets of Morocco to be explored, topics and curiosities that will appeal to both the casual traveller who enjoys learning about different places around the world, and to those with an upcoming trip in mind to Morocco. We set the stage here in Episode 2 for all of these discoveries. So much to look forward to!
This Episode is sponsored by:Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:Destination Morocco Instagram
A Moroccan riyad (traditional house & garden)
Some of the movies filmed at Atlas Studios (IMDB)
Today's Weather in Morocco
Sidi Ali water
Ted Cragg Travel Podcasting
Follow, Share and Participate:Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
Help people find us: Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts
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Become a Guest on the Show!
Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Episode 1 - A Welcome from Azdean!Destination Morocco launches its podcast, with an introduction to the show and a greeting from our host, Azdean.
Azdean and his family hail from the small village of Telouet, Morocco, about 40 miles (in a straight line, much longer by road!) southeast of Marrakesh. After finishing school in Marrakesh, he moved to the United States in 1995, settling in Houston. Azdean and his wife Khadija Elomari then took their passion for sharing their homeland and created the Destination Morocco tour company, in 2016.
The Destination Morocco podcast is the next step in the journey, an opportunity to share with you the rich culture, history and stories of Morocco. Azdean and his guests open the door to travel in Morocco, helping you learn what to expect, how to plan, what to see and what to experience.
There will also be all the latest news and updates on health and safety, travel restrictions and regulations, costs and other logistics.
Morocco is a country that is at once familiar, and yet mysterious. Destination Morocco podcast is here as the first step on your journey to uncovering its secrets.
Come along for the adventure.
This Episode is sponsored by:Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.https://www.travelanywhere.travel/
Resources Mentioned in this episode:Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Destination Morocco Podcast Page
Follow, Share and Participate:Learn more about the show on our Podcast Website
Find beautiful pictures on our Instagram!
Help people find us: Leave a Review in Apple Podcasts
Help us grow: Rate us on Spotify
Become a Guest on the Show!
Visit Destination Morocco Travel Agency
Morocco: Beautiful, wild, colorful, romantic, exotic. It is an enticing destination: a place that impels you to visit, a place that triggers your curiosity. A mix of the modern and traditional, the Gateway to Africa.
Join host Azdean Elmoustaquim, native Moroccan and head of inspiration at Destination Morocco tour company, as he takes you on an exploration of his country's distinct culture, vibrant history and stunning attractions. We'll meet locals and guides, and experienced travellers too, as they share their stories of unlocking this fascinating territory.
Azdean prepares you for the real Morocco, showing how to travel there, how to get around, what to expect and how to make the most of your time. We learn about costs and prices, safety, especially for female travellers, the kinds of scams to look out for in the bazaars, what languages to expect, and so much more.
Destination Morocco unpacks the mystery, opening up discovery of an amazing land. We invite you along for the journey.