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!

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!

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 RSVP and 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

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!

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.

https://destinationsmorocco.com/live-qa

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!

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.

Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!

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.

Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!

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.

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!

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 in Merzouga Desert to your 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!

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.

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'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.

Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!