AWESOME: Morocco 2017 (April 10-20, 2017)

This trip marked my first journey to the African continent, and it shattered my preconceived notions. I had anticipated a scorching and desolate landscape, but Morocco defied expectations. Resembling a European nation (it borders Spain), Morocco boasts a diverse terrain. From sleeping under the stars in the Sahara Desert and riding camels to witness the sunrise to exploring coastal towns along the Atlantic Ocean, the remnants of the ancient city of Volubilis, Swiss-like valleys, snow-capped peaks in the Atlas Mountains, and the captivating local culture, this single country offered an abundance of experiences. The journey was lengthy, with over 20 hours spent on airplanes and extended travel between cities. However, the adventure was filled with unique experiences and cross-cultural encounters. Notably, the weather during my visit was pleasantly cool, with temperatures ranging from 14 to 20 degrees Celsius. This review serves not as a travel guide but rather as a personal account of my journey and the insights gained.

All photos were taken with my amateur camera, a Fuji XA2 with the XF35mm f1.4 lens. Some photos were also taken with an iPhone 6 Plus. Please note that the photos do not capture the full beauty of the actual scenery as seen with the naked eye.

**No editing was done to the photos, except for resizing them for this review. (I still haven't learned how to edit photos.)**

**Special thanks to my talented personal photographer who accompanied me throughout the trip and took these amazing photos.**

My reviews are mostly travelogues, as most of the photos are handsome photos of myself. 555

Please refer to the previous threads below for more information.

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Note: I have translated the sentence into English while maintaining a simple and short tone. I have also avoided using personal pronouns, colloquialisms, and the passive voice. Additionally, I have ensured that the translation is of the same quality as a local speaker.

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Morocco Trip: Key Takeaways and Essentials

This section provides a concise summary of the essential information and insights gleaned from a trip to Morocco.

1. Trip name: "Grand Morocco 11 Days" is the longest and most visited tour package in Morocco at that time.

Travel from April 10-20, 2017 for only 82,900 Baht per person.

Organized by Go Together Travel (www.gotogethertravel.com)

Thai tour guide Mr. Chamnan Arunphootra

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Why Choose a Tour Package?

While independent travel is certainly possible in this country, it requires significant commitment and resilience. Completing a comprehensive itinerary across multiple cities can be time-consuming, and navigating local transportation and booking arrangements can be challenging due to language barriers and potential lack of transparency in local business practices. (This information was shared by a Thai tourist family who self-drove during their trip, during our conversation before their departure flight.) While the people are generally friendly, many interactions are ultimately driven by financial motives. This is not to generalize or disrespect the entire population, but it's a reality to consider. Additionally, reliable internet access is limited to urban areas and hotel Wi-Fi, making navigation difficult in remote locations.

Considering these factors, along with the cost of flights (roundtrip prices starting around 30,000-40,000 baht), accommodation, meals, and other necessities, the tour package price of 80,000 baht for comprehensive coverage of key destinations becomes quite reasonable. The high-quality accommodations (including 5-star hotels like Hilton and desert accommodations) further enhance the value proposition. Even with a tour package managing logistics, the trip can be physically demanding. Independent travel would likely be even more strenuous, potentially detracting from the overall enjoyment of the experience.

The seasoned travelers on this trip, with their extensive experience in self-driving tours across Europe and New Zealand, aurora hunting, and countless other exotic destinations, all agree: Morocco is a must-visit for any true adventurer.

3. Airlines: There are no direct flights from Bangkok to Morocco. At the time, tour companies only offered two airlines: ETIHAD and EMIRATES. We flew with ETIHAD (EY), which required a layover in the UAE (Abu Dhabi). The flights were generally on time, with only a few departures delayed by less than an hour. However, we still arrived at our destination on time, sometimes even earlier. The service was excellent, with amenities such as eye masks, earplugs, socks, toothbrushes, and toothpaste provided in addition to neck pillows, blankets, and headphones for watching TV (available at every seat). The food on board was average and rather bland.

4. Aircraft: Boeing 777 with a 3-4-3 seating configuration, serving the Bangkok-Abu Dhabi and Abu Dhabi-Bangkok routes. Flight duration is approximately 8-9 hours.

5. Aircraft:

Route: Abu Dhabi - Casablanca, Casablanca - Abu Dhabi Aircraft: Airbus A330 Seating configuration: 2-4-2 Flight duration: 6-7 hours

6. Lounge: At Suvarnabhumi Airport, I used THE WISDOM lounge. At Abu Dhabi Airport, I was able to use 3 lounges with my Priority Pass card (which came with the Wisdom card). I chose the Al Reem lounge because it was the closest. In Casablanca, if you are not in Business class or above, you will not be able to use the airline's lounge. (The Priority Pass card will not work, or I couldn't find it, haha.)

Weather: April marks the end of the winter season, with temperatures ranging from 10-25 degrees Celsius. Generally, the weather throughout the trip was cool and pleasant, with clear skies. Walking all day barely caused any sweating. The sun is strong in this country, but the heat is not oppressive. However, be prepared for easy sunburn. The air is dry due to low humidity, causing widespread skin cracking. The exception is the city of Marrakech, where the afternoon heat reaches 36 degrees Celsius, similar to Thailand's hot weather. It is the only city with hot weather, and significantly hotter than the desert (where morning temperatures are around 14-17 degrees Celsius). *For those traveling after May, be prepared for extreme heat and potential sunburn.

8. Currency Exchange and Spending in Morocco

Prepare US dollars or euros before leaving Thailand to exchange for Moroccan dirhams (MAD) upon arrival in Morocco. Ensure you exchange all remaining dirhams before entering the airport, as duty-free shops no longer accept them.

Exchange approximately 10,000 Thai baht for 2,000 MAD, keeping the remaining amount in dollars. You can exchange additional currency with local guides if needed.

Allocate approximately 4,000 baht for souvenirs. Major retailers accept credit cards.

The current exchange rate is 1 MAD : 3.7 THB.

9. Public restrooms, gas stations, tourist attractions, and restaurants all require a tip of 1-2 MAD for the attendant, except for restaurants included in your tour program.

The staple food is Tajine, a stew of meat (chicken, beef, lamb; *Muslims do not eat pork and any pork products are strictly prohibited from entering the country) cooked with spices in a clay pot. Appetizers consist of bread served with various pickled vegetables. While the tour program selected restaurants with good taste (better than expected), the lack of variety after several days became tiresome. Fortunately, the tour leader brought along chili paste, dipping sauce, and chili sauce to enhance the flavors. Additionally, they prepared special meals (outside the program, depending on the leader's skills; this trip was truly lucky) such as stir-fried chicken with basil and fried egg, rice porridge with pork, chicken porridge, and papaya salad. Luckily, the tour leader's cooking skills were excellent, and the food tasted just like in Thailand (even better than some restaurants in Thailand). The instant noodles I brought were barely touched and had to be brought back to Thailand. (The tour leader also brought instant noodles and cup noodles for everyone.)

11. Hotel Breakfast

All hotels offered an international buffet breakfast, often with local dishes incorporated, such as couscous, roasted chicken, and roasted lamb.

12. Must-visit tourist cities if you have limited time and cannot choose a grand program.

12.1 Sahara Desert and Camel Riding

Venture into the vast Sahara Desert and experience the thrill of camel riding in Merzouga. Immerse yourself in the captivating landscape, dotted with towering sand dunes. Engage in a variety of activities, including overnight camping under the starry sky and exhilarating ATV rides across the undulating terrain.

12.2 The Blue Pearl: Chefchaouen (also known as Chaouen) Immerse yourself in the enchanting Medina, a labyrinthine old town marketplace brimming with treasures and narrow alleyways, some barely a meter wide. The city's iconic blue-washed walls create a breathtaking backdrop for photography, offering a refreshing and vibrant visual feast.

12.3 Fez: A Labyrinthine Medina

The medina of Fez, a sprawling labyrinth of over 5,000 alleyways, offers a unique and captivating experience for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in the city's rich history and culture.

Jemaa el-Fna Square: A Shopper's Paradise in Marrakech

Jemaa el-Fna Square, located in the heart of Marrakech, is a bustling hub of activity and a shopper's paradise. It offers a diverse array of goods, from traditional Moroccan crafts to modern souvenirs, all at competitive prices. Bargaining is expected and encouraged, allowing visitors to secure the best deals.

For instance, fossilized ammonites, initially priced at 150 Moroccan dirhams (MAD), can be negotiated down to 60 MAD, demonstrating the significant savings available through skillful bargaining. This vibrant marketplace provides a unique opportunity to experience the rich culture and commerce of Morocco.

13. Must-buy souvenirs and products (Everything can be found in the city of Marakesh. For fossils, it is recommended to check out the shops near the desert bus stop, where you will find a wider selection of beautiful fossils.)

13.1 Marine Fossil Remains

Due to the Sahara Desert's previous existence as a sea, Morocco has become a significant source of fossils in the global market, alongside Madagascar. These fossils include both halved and whole ammonite specimens, as well as other unidentified marine creatures.

13.2 Dinosaur Teeth Fossils:

• Spinosaurus teeth: These are typically priced in the hundreds of Thai baht range.
• Carcharodontosaurus teeth: These are generally more expensive than Spinosaurus teeth, ranging from hundreds to thousands of Thai baht.

13.3 Various sizes of Chinese earthenware pots for souvenirs and home decoration.

13.4 The sand from the Sahara Desert (no one seems to forbid it) is redder than the sand in our country. Some people sell it in small bottles at the car change point before entering the desert, setting the price at 30 MAD per bottle. It is recommended to bring a bag to put the sand back in and buy a beautiful bottle in the city of Marrakech, and then fill the bottle with sand yourself. The price of an empty bottle is 30 MAD. Gather your friends and buy several bottles together, and you can get a price of around 10-15 MAD.

13.5 Rock Cavities

These rock cavities are hollowed-out stones, split in the middle, revealing mineral crystals of various colors. However, be wary of stones with excessively vibrant colors, as they may have been artificially colored. If you find a cavity with natural colors and a reasonable price, they can be a beautiful and affordable addition to your home decor, costing around 100 baht per piece.

13.6 Headscarf for posing on a camel. Available at the desert transfer point for 50-100 MAD, but can be bargained down to 30 MAD. (No need to rush to buy in the city beforehand, as prices will be higher.)

13.7 Magnum ice cream costs 24-30 MAD (around 100 baht) per bar. A can of Coke costs 10 MAD. Ice is very scarce, and most restaurants do not sell it.

13.8. Jubah: A traditional Muslim garment priced between 100-300 MAD depending on style and fabric.

13.9 Argan oil products are widely used as skin care products, renowned for their remarkable properties.

14. The tour guide plays a crucial role in making the trip enjoyable and memorable. Our tour guide, Mr. Chamnan Arunpoolthap, also known as "P'Narn," is an expert in both tour guiding and Arabic language. He possesses a deep knowledge of history, as expected from a tour guide, but also excels in entertainment. His laughter brings joy to the group, and he actively takes photos and videos for the tourists. Moreover, he is an excellent cook, preparing four delicious meals that surpass the quality of restaurants in Thailand.

Before my trip, I stopped by The Wisdom Lounge at Suvarnabhumi Airport. (This lounge is reserved for Krungsri Bank's Wisdom credit card holders only.) There weren't many hot food options, and they varied depending on the day. However, there were plenty of snacks, dim sum, cookies, hot and cold drinks, and wine. The seating was comfortable.

The plane landed at Mohamed V International Airport in Casablanca, a renowned tourist city in Morocco. The superstar, an avid Agatha Christie fan, recalled the detective novels featuring Hercule Poirot, who was believed to have resided in this very city.

The first place I visited was the Hassan II Mosque, the third largest mosque in the world after Mecca. This mosque is a magnificent example of Moroccan architecture, with intricate details and stunning views of the surrounding area. The mosque is a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy the fresh air after completing their religious duties. The atmosphere is peaceful and serene, making it a perfect place to reflect and appreciate the beauty of Moroccan culture.

The tour concludes with a photo of the Thai tour guide and the local guide.

It's time for the first meal, a local dish in Rabat, the capital of Morocco.

The first dish served is Chinese pickled vegetables, which have a unique flavor. However, they are considered a healthy way to aid digestion.

After lunch, visit the Mausoleum of King Mohammed V, the grandfather of the current king. The mausoleum is guarded by soldiers at every entrance and is open to people of all faiths to pay their respects to the king's tomb below. In front of the mausoleum is the Hassan Mosque, which began construction in the 12th century but was never completed and collapsed, leaving only 365 columns standing.

Visit the Hassan Tower

Next, visit the Oudaya Kasbah, a large two-story fortress located on the Atlantic Ocean, surrounded by high walls. Inside is the medina, a collection of houses painted in a clean, eye-catching blue, resembling art on the walls.

The Cave of Hercules, located outside the tour program, is situated along the Atlantic Ocean. Inside the cave, the air is cool and comfortable, and there are photo opportunities from within the cave, passing through to the sea. The atmosphere is pleasant.

We spent the night in Tangier, a coastal city in northern Morocco. We stayed at the Hilton Garden Inn Tangier, a comfortable hotel with delicious food. Before bed, we took a walk along the beach, enjoying the cool night air and the refreshing sea breeze.

Visit the Tangier Kasbah, a Must-See Tourist Destination

The Tangier Kasbah, a prominent landmark and one of the city's main tourist attractions, sits atop the northernmost point of Tangier. This historic fortress offers breathtaking views of the Strait of Gibraltar, making it a popular viewpoint for visitors.

There are some cool coffee shops.

The highlight I enjoyed was Chefchaouen, the Blue Pearl of Morocco. This medina, a labyrinth of narrow streets and alleyways, is entirely painted in shades of blue, creating a visually stunning and serene atmosphere. The vibrant blue hues adorn the houses, shops, and even the steps, transforming the city into a living work of art.

The Roman City of Volubilis, now a collection of ruins caused by a severe earthquake in 1755, still bears witness to its former grandeur as a prominent city within the Roman Empire. This ancient city reached its peak in the 3rd century and was abandoned in the 11th century. Its historical significance led to its inscription as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997.

The Royal Palace Gate of Fes (The Royal Palace) is the entrance to the palace, a beautiful and elegant architectural landmark, and a unique symbol of the Moroccan monarchy.

The intricate labyrinth of Fes el-Bali, the old city of Fes, boasts over 10,000 alleyways, ranging from a mere 50 centimeters to 3 meters in width. These narrow streets are organized into distinct quarters, each specializing in a particular craft. The brass and copperware district, for instance, is adorned with shops displaying an array of pots, pans, and kitchen utensils. The carpet district showcases vibrant carpets meticulously arranged for sale. In the woodworking and weaving quarter, one might encounter elderly men with bushy beards, meticulously carving intricate wooden pieces amidst the narrow passageways.

Another highlight is the Tannery of Fes, a unique and ancient leather tanning pit, preserved by UNESCO.

Continue to Ifrane, a resort town at an altitude of over 1,650 meters above sea level. This summer resort was built by the French in the 1930s and is sometimes called the "Geneva of Morocco." Most houses have red roofs, blooming flowers, and beautiful lakes, making it a popular vacation spot in both winter and summer. This route passes through the Atlas Mountains, a familiar name for many. Crossing the Middle Atlas, the landscape is lush with forests. The roadside changes from dryness to forests, bushes, and alternating with the aridity of the mountains.

The journey traversed diverse landscapes and stunning turquoise lakes, reservoirs constructed by the Moroccan king. The vibrant blue hues were truly breathtaking.

Enter the Sahara Desert

Luxurious desert retreat with delectable cuisine.

The washbasin is made of fossils.

A spicy papaya salad prepared by our expert guide. Very delicious!

It's time to ride a camel and explore the Sahara Desert. The team will meet at the camp next to the hotel around 5:45 AM. Choose a camel and ride together in a caravan. It's a lot of fun and the weather is cold, around 14 degrees Celsius.

I don't want to get up from the desert. The sand is so soft and cool. Can I sleep a little longer?

Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou: A Historic Fortress in Morocco

The Kasbah of Ait Ben Haddou, a fortified village nestled amidst almond groves, stands as a testament to Morocco's rich history. This imposing structure, built from earthen clay and straw, has served as a backdrop for numerous renowned films, including Lawrence of Arabia, Jesus of Nazareth, and Gladiator. Today, the Kasbah stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting visitors from around the globe.

Marrakech, a prominent tourist destination, is nestled at the foot of the Atlas Mountains. Historically, this oasis city served as a resting point for camel caravans traveling from southern Morocco. It was a crossroads for merchants and a former capital during the Almoravid dynasty in the 11th century. Today, it is the most visited city in Morocco. The cityscape is characterized by houses plastered with orange-hued plaster, a government mandate. Locals, however, refer to it as the "Pink City." Marrakech is arguably one of the most captivating cities in the world, earning the nickname "A City of Drama," signifying its beauty akin to a theatrical city that seems too good to be true.

Stroll through the vibrant heart of the city: Djemaa el-Fna Square

Djemaa el-Fna Square, a vast expanse in the heart of the city, is a bustling hub of activity, surrounded by buildings, shops, and markets on all four sides. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, capturing the colorful sights and authentic Moroccan essence through your lens.

Majorelle Garden: A Botanical Oasis in Marrakech

The Majorelle Garden, also known as Jardin Majorelle, is a captivating haven nestled within the bustling city of Marrakech. This botanical paradise boasts a diverse collection of plant life from around the world, including an impressive array of cacti species. Lush water lily ponds and verdant bamboo forests create a tranquil atmosphere, while vibrant blue-painted pots, a signature of the garden's original owner, Jacques Majorelle, add a striking visual element.

Originally conceived as a private residence and artistic retreat for the French artist, the garden has since been transformed into a museum showcasing Moroccan art and artifacts. It also features a dedicated space to the works of Majorelle himself, offering visitors a glimpse into the creative vision that shaped this enchanting oasis.

Take another tour of the city of Marrakech before heading back.

See you on the next trip! I'm getting ready to go to Turkey, and at the end of the year, I'm going to Japan again (Japan again!).

Video of a camel ride in the desert. 😜