After my Mexican-themed pop-up cocktail bar in Belgium came to an end. My boyfriend and I truly needed a quick getaway. So we decided to go to Morocco. The main reason we chose this direction is the beautiful Sahara. First, we were dying to see those endless dunes. The second reason is the warm temperature, of course.
We arrived in Marrakech. We spent only one night here because we didn't have much time.
We had an amazing night in a lovely Riad (Riad le Rihani). This Riad was stunning, remarkably quiet, and not expensive at all. We very much enjoyed our time here. This Riad is close to the big square. The evening of our arrival, we had dinner there. AND YES, we both ate tajine! (This was before we knew the only food they're serving in Morocco is tajines. Not bad, though.)
Leaving Marrakech after one night is a crazy idea, but it worked for us. There is so much more to discover in Morocco than only Marrakech. I'll show you:
MERZOUGA
We took the bus to Merzouga. On our way over there, we encountered some very cool places. For example, the old city (Aït Ben Haddou). This city was a decor for many films. Including 'The Gladiator.' He looks a little like Russell Crowe, doesn't he? :)
TODGHA GORGE
The next break on our way to the Sahara was the 'Todgha Gorge.' The Todgha Gorge is a spectacular canyon in Morocco. Well known by mountain climbers for its steep walls. I wouldn't dare go up!
SAHARA
And then, there was finally our moment... We arrived at the edge of the Sahara (the largest hot desert in the world). The camels were waiting; the sun began to set; it was the perfect moment.
After the camel ride, we slept in a tent in the desert, ate delicious tajine, and had tea beside the campfire. I have to admit, the tent was pretty shitty, but it was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The best of our Morocco trip!
CHEFCHAOUEN
A while later, after this wonderful trip, we hired a car and drove all the way to Chefchaouen. Totally worth it! They call it the blue city; you can take its name literally. Pretty much all of the houses are painted in blue.
A small fact: The coloring ritual comes from the Jews who founded the Rif mountains. Some say it's to keep away the mosquitos, and others say it's to keep cool. I'd say it's just marvelous :)
Food tip: Restaurant Beldi Bab Ssour. Best we had in Morocco!
The road from Fez to Chefchaouen is beautiful. Here are some pictures we took when we stopped for a little break:
So far, our Morocco trip. What have we learned? The Sahara was a dream come true; Morocco's roads are pretty good, and Chefchaouene is a blue pearl! If you're not on a tight budget, I'd advise renting a car for at least a week. Being able to do anything you want gives you a lot more freedom.
PS. I visited Morocco in 2017. Therefore the pictures are a bit old & blurry (;
Greetings, and have fun you all!
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