Stepping into Marrakech for the first time felt like stepping into a dream painted in spice tones, punctuated by the call to prayer and carried on warm, jasmine-scented breezes. Morocco had long been on my bucket let, but nothing could have prepared me for the sensory symphony that greeted me, from the brilliant mosaic covered walls to the hypnotic scent of cumin, amber, orange blossom, and freshly baked bread wafting through the alleyways of the Medina.
My stay in Marrakech started right in the heart of the Medina, a maze of narrow alleys buzzing with life, history, cats & kittens, and a rhythm all its own. Tucked away behind unassuming walls was the riad I called home temporarily, Hotel & Spa Dar Baraka & Karam, a place that felt less like a hotel and more like stepping into a private oasis.
The moment I stepped through its textured steel doors, the noise and energy of the city seemed to fade. Inside, it was peaceful, intimate, and filled with beauty in every direction. The tile work, zellige in deep blues and greens, was incredible, and the lanterns threw delicate shadows across the walls. Rich textiles, cozy nooks, and thoughtful details made it feel warm and welcoming.
My room was tucked away on the rooftop, in a private area that felt serene, secluded, and quiet, just far enough from the bustle below. It was the perfect place to begin and end each day in Marrakech.
Mornings were especially enchanting. The Riad staff, warm and attentive, served a lovely breakfast in the courtyard. Each morning brought a new delight: flaky msemen with honey, egg omelette, and fresh fruit, all paired with piping hot mint tea.
To explore Marrakech is to step into a living tapestry of color, texture, and scent. Just a short stroll from my riad, the souks pulled me in like a spell, vibrant, buzzing, and endless fascinating. I learned how to wrap a scarf around my head and face, not just for the sun and dust, but as a way to respectfully immerse myself in the rhythm of local life.
Wandering through the maze-like alleys, I was drawn to the heaping pyramids of saffron, anise, and Ras el Hanout, spices so fragrant they felt like perfume in the air. I lost track of time weaving between stalls of hammered brass tray, handwoven rugs, hand-carved ceramics, silk scarves and leather babouches lined up like candy.
Each moment is the souks was a lesson in Moroccan warmth. Even when I didn't buy anything, I was met with smiles, stories, and the occasional glass of mint tea. As a non-local and tourist, I quickly learned that bargaining is part of the culture. It's not only expected, it's how Moroccans operate. Never accept the first price; instead, vendors will often pull out a pad and pen, ready to go back and forth until you both agree on a fair, mutual cost. It's a respectful exchange, almost like a dance, and adds to the charm of the experience.
New Moroccan Spice Bowls and Moroccan Jewel-Toned Glassware are added to the shop, to bring a little Marrakech into your home.
Marrakech's architecture is poetry in stone and plaster. Even the everyday, the doors, the alleyways, the fountains felt touched by artistry. There's a deliberate beauty in Moroccan design that humbles you, a reminder that space can nourish the soul.
But the real magic of Marrakech revealed itself during an unforgettable evening in the desert. I took a camel ride through the golden dunes as the sun began to dip behind the horizon, painting the sky in shade of rose and amber. Afterwards, we were served a three-course dinner, complete with live music and traditional entertainment that brought the night to life. A reservation was made prior to arriving in Marrakech through GetYourGuide: Agafay Desert Sunset Dinner & Camel Ride.
Everyone I encountered, from our guides to the musicians, welcomed us with pride and joy. It made me slow down, soak it all in, and truly savor the moment.
The Medina is best explored on foot. For longer distances, taxis are easy to find. Just agree on a price before getting in, or ask your hotel/riad to arrange a taxi for you.
Most major airlines fly into Marrakech Menara Airport (RAK). Look for deals on Wizz Air.
If you’ve ever dreamed of visiting a place that awakens every sense, I urge you to put Marrakech at the top of your list.
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We’re excited to share that our travel journeys have resumed. Our first stop: Rome, Italy. This stunning city did not disappoint.
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