We sat together as a group wondering where we want to go as a group on a vacation and considered South America, Asia, Europe and Africa. We really wanted to go to Japan but they were still under strict covid practices so ditched that real fast and moved over to Turkey or Morocco. We narrowed in on Morocco as it was gateway to Sahara that all of us wanted to visit. We booked our travel - into Marrakech and out of Tangier and then let it lie for a bit. We then started micro planning it and it looked something like this. I am sharing it here in case you want to copy our itinerary. My only recommendation would be start in Tangier and end in Marrakech :) Marrakech has great shopping for cheaper than Tangier that you can shop and carry out rather than lugging it around the entire trip. Tangier was slightly on the pricier side for shopping.
- Moroccans genuinely love Bollywood and Indians. They will stop to sing a song for you or tell you that they love Shahrukh Khan or Salman Khan. They will be ready to drop a beat and chat with you about their favorite movie or song.
- The most welcoming people I have met in all my travel. They are ready to invite to you their house for tea or share their number so that you can call them if you need any help.
- In contrary to what is on youtube about Morocco - the hawkers do not touch you, or force you to buy anything. They tell you - if you are happy to buy, I am happy to sell, if you do not like anything, do not be afraid to say no, I will still be a friend.
- No lady randomly drew henna on my hand.
- Bargaining was fine, they did not force you if you were unreasonable but if you were close, they were ready to make a deal.
- Did not feel intimidated in any of the Medina's or the food squares that we were in. We in fact played along and enjoyed the pseudo celebrity status quite a bit.
- The Riad's were amazingly beautiful and the hosts were gracious and generous with their love.
- The Desert Safari that we booked through Desert Majesty was a leap of faith and faith was restored as we enjoyed it wholeheartedly.
- The food is not at all spicy, I think we ate gallons of harissa to make up for it.
- Bread is served at every meal and each city or restaurant has it's own flavor of bread.
- They have paratha like bread that is just amazing but mostly served only at breakfast. Also, try out their onion paratha - yummy.
- Surprisingly, we got dates served only at two hotels and at none of the Riad's.
- Public bathrooms are available everywhere but for some you need to pay at 1 or 2 MADs to use. They are not generally equipped with toilet paper or soap. It is advisable to carry some wipes or sanitizer to make up for it.
- The hikes are spectacular.
- We were surprised by the variety of landscape that you come by as you drive through the countryside. Every half hour, there is something new to see.
- Kids and people alike look happy, content.
- Watching football in the square at Chefchouen was beautiful with dance, music and chanting!
