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

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November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
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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.

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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!

Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
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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.

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Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
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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.

Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
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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.

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Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
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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.

Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
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November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
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Nancy Crann visited Morocco for the first time at the end of 2022, in a trip that was about more than just adventure and discovery. It was also about loss and hope, pain and recovery. A cathartic release to ponder the next phase of her life. Little did she know the effect that Morocco would have on this journey.

Through the safety and ease of a guided tour, Nancy met fellow travellers from around the world, and discovered the kindness and generosity of native Moroccans, keen to welcome her into their homes and shops. 

Deep conversations and genuine interactions illuminated everything from food to music, language and architecture: stories of grief and joy that Nancy shares with Azdean on today's episode.

An avid photographer, throughout her trip Nancy rediscovered her passion for light, framing and perspective. In fact, this would then drive her decision to return to Morocco later this year, and embark on an even longer adventure. 

In their conversation today, Nancy shares what she has learned about travelling in Morocco: how to dress, what food to order, how to connect with locals and how to become a confident, assertive Moroccan traveller. Her and Azdean talk about responsible tourism and giving back, including a special project that Azdean is working on for his home village. 

Tune in for this inspiring episode about warmth and inclusion, community, storytelling and discovering all this and more when you travel to Morocco.

Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
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One of Morocco's defining characteristics is its riads: homestays with a traditional twist. Riads give travellers everything from convenience and comfort to cultural immersion, all presented in a unique, distinctive package. 

Many listeners have inquired about what is the exact nature of a riad, what to expect when staying in one, how did they evolve in Morocco, how do they compare to hotels and why do they come so highly recommended.

Azdean is here today to share lots of info and get you excited to discover myriad riads yourself. Each one is different, which is inherent to the idea and concept. Each offer authenticity, space, privacy and modern amenities, typically within walking distance to the medina and souks.

Riads are an amazing option for families thanks to their warm, welcoming nature, in a safe and secure environment. Indeed, the owners/hosts of a riad typically live there themselves, so what better way to learn more about the Moroccan home and society.

Why stay anywhere else? Genuinely: you are far better served staying in a unique, comfortable and convenient riad in any Moroccan city rather than a generic hotel in the outskirts, far from the action and activities and well beyond walking distance from the medina.

It's a little overwhelming trying to figure out what to look for and what to request for accommodation, when you book your Destination Morocco tour. Let Azdean and his team know what you're looking for in a riad, and they'll put their resources and connections to work to find something that meets your criteria, including activities like cooking classes or in-house hammam spa treatments. Many riads offer these and more. 

After a busy day sightseeing, there is nothing better than relaxing on a comfy couch in a peaceful inner courtyard, sipping on mint tea and enjoying genuine Moroccan hospitality at a traditional riad.

You're about to learn:

• How riads different from AirBnb's.
• How a riad can offer personalized, individual service designed around your interests and needs.
• The history of riads, why they were built, who they were for and their impact upon Moroccan society.
• Comparing costs between riads and hotels, and the difference in value.
• Some of the activities available at a riad, or that can be organized by your hosts.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Episode 4: "Scams! How to Understand and Avoid Them"

Book your riad via destinationsmorocco.com

Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
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In a first for Destination Morocco, we take you along on an authentic, immersive walking tour of the beautiful coastal city of Essaouira.

Walk with us as we explore the Medina, the ramparts, fishing harbour and market, artisan craftworks, and learn how the pluralistic, welcoming spirit of Essaouira made it a haven for multiple religions and languages, all living side by side. 

The audio is live, authentic and captured on-site. You'll hear street music, waves crashing, seagulls hunting for scraps, footsteps down quiet alleys and traders selling their wares. It's a genuine example of the type of local tour you can expect when you go with Destination Morocco.

Podcast producer Ted Cragg and his family has the chance to visit Morocco themselves in February of this year. Ted chatted with Azdean about it on our March 15 episode, particularly from the angle of travelling in Morocco with young kids. 

Essaouira was the final stop on their tour, and being a quieter, more laid-back place, it presented a perfect opportunity to do this live recording. The tour was led by a local guide, in this case Ait Bahadou Zaid, a veteran of Essaouira tours who typically escorts groups of 40-50 people at a time. 

However, being a Destination Morocco tour, Ted and family had Zaid for a private tour, and you’ll hear the full range of interactive questions and personalized commentary. 

As Ted explains, as a listener himself, it was the pinch-me moment he had dreamed of since learning about Essaouira in Episode 7. Of all the fabulous sights in Morocco, it was this small oceanside city with its sweeping sandy beach, moderate climate and relaxed feel that was the place he was most excited to see.

To capture its charm and spirit was the goal of this episode, and it will undoubtedly inspire you to go and discover it yourself.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Essaouira, Morroco

Episode Blog post with more photos of the tour.

Episode 7: "Discover Essaouira, Morocco's Coastal Gem"

Episode 25: "Family Travel in Morocco"

Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today!

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.