Marrakesh
As I made my way through the bustling streets of Marrakesh, I couldn't help but be mesmerized by the city's vibrant energy. The air was thick with the smell of spices, leather, and incense and the many sounds of the medina filled my ears.
I had traveled to Morocco together with my mother and my sister, for a birthday weekend away. Our home for the week was the beautiful Riyad Snan13, a traditional Moroccan guesthouse tucked away in the heart of the medina. From the moment we arrived, I was enchanted by the peaceful oasis that awaited me inside. The bright courtyard was filled with lush greenery and a tranquil pool, while the rooms were decorated with beautiful textiles and intricate window designs.
But it was the rooftop space that truly took my breath away. From this vantage point, I was able to take in the breathtaking views of the city, with its red rooftops and towering minarets stretching out before me.
As we ventured out of our oasis, through the winding alleys of the medina, I was struck by the ambiance of the markets. The smell of spices and incense wafted through the air, while the vibrant colors of the textiles and ceramics created a feast for the senses. The sounds of clanging metal and chatter added to the sensory overload, leaving me feeling both exhilarated and a bit overwhelmed.
Navigating the souks was no easy feat, with their labyrinthine alleys and hidden corners. But it was this sense of adventure and discovery that made the experience so thrilling.
I do want to mention the importance of being mindful when walking around the medina. Locals were protective of their privacy and culture, and many did not want to be photographed. This made it difficult to capture the essence of the medina in photographs, but it also added to the mystique and allure of the experience.
The souks were a true reflection of the vibrant culture and rich history of Marrakesh, a place where the old and new came together in a beautiful symphony of sound, color, and texture.
One of my favorite dining experiences was at Le Jardin, a stunning restaurant located in the heart of the Medina. As you enter through a small door, you step into a serene courtyard, filled with greenery. The menu featured a variety of traditional Moroccan dishes, including tagines and couscous, as well as more contemporary options.
For my birthday dinner, we had reserved a table at the rooftop restaurant of El Fenn, a stunning hotel located just a few steps away from our Riyad. As the sun began to set, the sky transformed into a palette of warm oranges, pinks, and purples. The warm glow of the sun cast a serene blanket over the city, illuminating its beauty.
It was a moment of pure magic that I will never forget.
But it was at the Beldi Country Club where I truly felt like I was experiencing the best of Marrakesh. This sprawling oasis, located just outside the city, was filled with gardens, pools, and a glass-blowing factory. After exploring the grounds and buildings, we spent the afternoon lounging by the pool, sipping on fresh-squeezed orange juice.
Living in a Riyad was an experience unlike any other. The staff was gracious and welcoming, eager to share their knowledge and love for the city. But what really captured my heart was the sense of peace and tranquility that permeated throughout. Each day, I woke up to the sound of birds singing and the smell of fresh mint tea brewing, together with a large plate of the best honey pancakes I’d ever had.
