"Moroccan Wonders: A Week of Discovery Along the Southern Coastline"

Last year, I embarked on an incredible journey along Morocco's southern coastline, starting in Casablanca. We had the luxury of a personal driver, which made the trip seamless and allowed us to explore several famous and hidden gems along the way, including Essaouira, Marrakech, Ziara, Jdour, and a memorable two-day adventure in the Sahara Desert.

Starting in Casablanca, we explored the majestic Hassan II Mosque, which stands proudly on the edge of the Atlantic. One of the highlights of our stay in Casablanca was experiencing a traditional Moroccan hammam within the mosque complex, a refreshing and rejuvenating ritualistic bath.

From there, we drove to Essaouira, a charming coastal town known for its laid-back vibe and stunning medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site. While exploring the town's vibrant art scene, one of us purchased an exceptionally large painting from a local artist, capturing the essence of Essaouira's enchanting landscape. The challenge of transporting this large piece back to the States added an adventurous twist to our visit.

Our journey then took us on a two-day camel trek through the Sahara Desert, where we stayed in gorgeous, mystical-looking tents set up in the middle of the desert. The serene beauty of the desert landscape was breathtaking, and we celebrated the birthday of Judith, our group leader in trip planning, by dancing around a campfire under the stars.

Next, we visited Marrakech, where I experienced my first hot air balloon ride—an absolutely beautiful adventure. We took off before sunrise, ascending into the cool early morning air. Watching the sun rise while floating over the vibrant city and the surrounding countryside was surreal.

In Marrakech, the vibrant souks and historic landmarks such as the Bahia Palace, and the tranquil Jardin Majorelle captivated our senses. The city's dynamic atmosphere offered a lively blend of tradition and modernity.

Our journey also included visits to lesser-known spots like Ziara and Jdour. In these areas, we enjoyed a truly local experience by playing soccer with the village children in the streets, discovering hidden shops that sold local wines, and meeting many friendly locals who were eager to share their culture and stories with us. These interactions added a rich layer of authenticity and warmth to our travels.

Having a personal driver allowed us to tailor our itinerary and take our time at each location, which enriched our experience significantly. This trip was not just a travel experience; it was a journey through a vibrant, beautiful country that left us with memories to cherish forever.