Hi, I'm Isabel and I recently travelled to Morocco for the first time. Here I take you on my trip through the country and the culture and share my experiences with you.
I leave cold, rainy Hamburg early in the morning and board the plane. Together with the rising sun, the anticipation of the upcoming adventure grows - Morocco!
After a short stopover in Madrid, a completely new image appears below me around midday: a barren landscape with palm trees and terracotta-coloured roofs framed by the snow-covered peaks of the Atlas Mountains. When I arrive in Marrakech, I change money at the airport, activate my eSim on my mobile phone and feel the first rays of sunshine on my skin. My first accommodation is a riad - a traditional Moroccan townhouse with an open courtyard, often decorated with ornate tiles and a small fountain. These hidden oases are located deep in the medina, the historic centre of the city, where cars no longer drive. So I'm allowed to walk the last few metres - but not alone! As soon as I step out of the taxi, one of the many young porters standing here with their handcarts grabs my rucksack and swiftly makes his way through the winding alleyways. Arriving at the riad, he is delighted to receive a few dirhams (the Moroccan currency) as thanks.
Marrakech - colours, spices and the chaos of the medina
Marrakech is a firework display for the senses. I stroll through the medina, past fragrant spice stalls, brightly coloured fabrics and ornate lamps. The traders shout wildly and try to lure people into their shops with a charming smile. If you're in a shopping mood and good at haggling, you'll have fun here, as it's part of the culture. It's easy to get lost in the many narrow alleyways, but if you just ask for "Plaza", you will quickly be pointed in the direction of the famous Jemaa el-Fna, the city's central square. In daylight, it seems like an ordinary marketplace, but in the evening it transforms into a fantastic spectacle: fire-eaters, musicians, dancers - all kinds of culinary specialities, from snails and sheep's heads to juicy dates and fresh fruit juices. If you have a robust stomach, you'll certainly be able to sample your fill here! My personal insider tip for Morocco: the Gallery Kasbah and a rucksack and fanny pack for travelling.
Fortunately, there are idyllic roof terraces everywhere in Marrakech - the perfect retreat. Whether in the afternoon sun or at night, when it gets too colourful in the large square. High above the hustle and bustle, I end the day with a freshly brewed mint tea. This is traditionally poured into glasses from a great height - not just for show, but to demonstrate respect and create a light layer of foam that intensifies the flavours of the tea.
Magic above the clouds - a hot air balloon ride at sunrise
The next day, I am roused from bed before dawn. Marrakech is still asleep while I head towards the outskirts of the city in a jeep. The destination: a hot air balloon ride over the vast Moroccan landscape. The chill of the night still hangs in the air, but as soon as the first rays of sun touch the horizon, the magic begins. We slowly take off, and with every metre the world beneath me becomes smaller. Wide plains stretch out, interspersed with small villages and olive groves, while in the distance the Atlas Mountains are bathed in warm morning light. The view is breathtaking. For a moment, time seems to stand still - just me, the silence and the rising sun.
The stone desert of Agafay - 1001 nights experience
After this experience, I was drawn further out into the vastness of the country. However, as I didn't have the time for the long journey to the Sahara, I opted for the stone desert of Agafay - an impressive alternative. The landscape is barren - gentle sand and stone formations stretch to the horizon, where the snow-capped peaks of the Atlas Mountains loom in the distance. There are small camps with cosy tents, traditional dinners and nightly campfires under the stars, creating a real 1001-night experience. A place where you can leave everyday life behind and simply enjoy the moment.
Essaouira - holiday flair on the coast
A highlight of the trip is the small harbour town of Essaouira on the Atlantic coast. Instead of a hectic pace, a fresh sea breeze with a relaxed hippie flair wafts through the alleyways here. The white and blue houses convey a holiday feeling, which is underscored by the musicians in the small cafés. I spend the day strolling through the markets, buying a bottle of argan oil - the "liquid gold of Morocco" - and dipping my feet in the sea. I highly recommend a cookery course where you learn how to prepare the traditional tagine in a clay pot.
An honest look at Morocco
On the three-hour journey from Essaouira back to Marrakech, I reflect on my impressions of Morocco so far. As fascinating and beautiful as the country is, there are still things that give me pause for thought. While cats are highly valued here and are lovingly fed everywhere in the streets, many other animals are less fortunate. The exotic "attractions" at Jemaa el-Fna, from monkeys to snakes, also leave a special feeling. Morocco is an incredibly hospitable country, but also one where there is a lot of poverty - as a traveller, you notice this on every corner. As the landscape outside passes by the car window, I realise that Morocco is full of contrasts. Magical moments and challenges are often close together.
Bye bye Morocco
Before heading back home, I spend some time in Marrakech. I enjoy a last cup of tea on one of the many rooftop terraces while the muezzin's calls to prayer echo across the city. Morocco leaves lasting impressions - in the form of memories, smells, flavours, encounters and stories.
One thing is for sure: I'll be back!
