Destination Morocco Podcast

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?

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Episode 4: Scams!

Sidi Ali water

Moroccan dirhams

USD to MAD (xe.com)

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

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?

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

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

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, 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!

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, 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!"

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.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Maxx's travel photos

Volubilis, Meknes (Roman ruins)

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

Podcast listener Angel Nair and her husband travelled to Morocco in May of 2022, their first time in the country. 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.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Angel on Instagram (photos from her trip)

Moulay Idriss Zerhoun

Cafe Sofia, Chefchaouen

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

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
Instagram
Google Maps

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 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!

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

Power adapters in Morocco and plug sockets

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

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!

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Balloons taking off outside of Marrakech

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

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:

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!

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.

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 explores the medina, the souks, madrassas and Jewish heritage sites of Fès, a city reknowned for its multicultural influences. It's always at the top of the list for any international traveller, and indeed part of the charm is in its mystique and labyrinthian streets.

But we don't want you to get too lost, so our episode today helps you prepare and get your bearings, before you start to wander. 

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/

This Episode is sponsored by:

Travel Anywhere - One stop for all your travel needs.

https://www.travelanywhere.travel/


Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Fès, Morocco

Mellah (Jewish Quarter) of Fès


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