For me Valentine’s Day is simply a traditional and irrational Hallmark holiday. However, I must see it as a ‘Day of Love’: to celebrate those feelings of interpersonal affections and life pleasures. I dedicate this day to my beautiful family, to my most meaningful relationships, to my crazy but loyal dogs and to my greatest passion: travel.
What is your love story?
On Friday, an estimated audience of 3 billion people worldwide watched the Opening Ceremony of the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic Games. The ceremony was extravagant, breathtaking and colourful, preceded by the march of athletes into the Fisht Olympic Stadium, fired with enthusiasm, excitement and proud smiles.
The Sochi Games haven’t got a positive press lately. Of course it started with bad Internet humor pretending the ban of China in figure skating after an athlete tested positive for homosexuality. Then this article about the murder of the technical specialist responsible for the 5th Olympic ring change fail at the Opening Ceremony. However, the capture of 2 orcas and the killing of stray dogs were real, agitating people from all around the globe, giving a negative start to the Games. And let’s not forget the criticism of human right violation concerning the less-than-satisfactory conditions for athletes, journalists and visitors. No wonder why people are questioning those 51 billions spent for the Games.
But my point here isn’t to criticize the Sochi Olympic Commitee. I’m sure they’ll be a ton of other people to do so. As much as we can hate the organization and be against the glitches of this year’s Games, we should not forget that the Olympics are for the athletes: the ones that train hard everyday, year after year, in the goal of realizing a lifelong dream. The ones that inspire the world by sharing their passion for the sport and representing their country with a unique sense of patriotism, accomplishment and pride.
“Never underestimate the power of dreams and the influence of the human spirit. We are all the same in this notion: The potential for greatness lives within each of us.” – Wilma Rudolph, U.S. gold medalist in track and field
When we hosted the Whistler/Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic Games, most of the residents were a a bit skeptic about hosting the international event. The arrival of the Games created a lot of change in our small village: a new highway, new hotels, a forest traded for a stage. We surely had our share of feelings then. A lot of residents flee for a couple of weeks, some others feared the crazy work schedule we were about to undertake. But when we opened our doors to the world, everything changed.
The rush of emotions experienced during the Games is indescribable. To be in the middle of a crowd of people from different nationalities cheering and hugging, congratulating each other without even speaking the same language, I felt like for once the world was happily united. As much the Olympics are a competition, it felt more like an euphoric celebration of humanity. And I’m glad I had the chance to be part of it.
“Thank you, Canada. For being such good hosts. For your unfailing courtesy… For reminding some of us we used to be a more civilized society. Mostly, for welcoming the world with such ease and making lasting friends with all of us.” – Brian Williams, NBC News
I remember when Canadian skeleton athlete Jon Montgomery won his gold medal. He strolled down the village capping the Canadian flag with a honored smile. When he passed in front of our restaurant, the patio cheered, one man handing him a pitcher of beer that he proudly enjoyed under the snowflakes falling. And when Crosby scored the goal that made win the men Canadian hockey team against the United States, the crowd went hysterical. The ground was shaking, the honks orchestrating, the passionate patriots became ecstatic. History was made, on home soil. Those two scenes are just a few amongst others, all so powerful, palpable and exceptional.
“This quiet city with such beautiful scenery made all of Canada proud … In a nightly transformation, as many as 150,000 people flooded the closed-off downtown streets to savor the Olympic experience. Mostly mild instead of wild, the crowds whooped, hollered, danced and shouted ‘Go Canada Go!’ well into the morning.” – The Houston Chronicle
The Olympic Games turned out to be one of the richest experience in my life. From the athletes celebrating their dreams achieved, to the concerts and parties, medals circulating through a crowd of different ethnicities. The air was electric, the crowd vitalizing and moments memorizing.
Despite all the concerns and controversies affecting the Sochi 2014 Winter Olympic Games, let’s put our energy for a moment towards all the dedicated, talented and diligent people involved. Let’s embrace the Games and cheer for accomplished and uplifting individuals. They might inspire you to believe, and follow your dreams.
Good luck to all athletes, and let the Games begin!
***I do not own these photographs.
I am sitting in front of a blank page, not really sure what to write about. I guess I’m not really sure of a bunch of things right now. That’s always been my life. Uncertainty. Instability. Insatiability. Never knowing what’s gonna happen next has always been challenging, although exciting and exhilarating. I always lived up to that. Now that I reached the age of 30, I’m wondering when am I gonna start being serious? When am I gonna switch lane and settle down?
“Whenever you find yourself on the side of majority, it is time to pause and reflect.” -Mark Twain
Lately I’ve been reading articles about growing up. Most mention that at the age of 30 you should know exactly where you stand: confident of your future, stable with your finances, certain of your relationships, holder of land. I guess I’ve been too busy enjoying my 20’s that I forgot to think about all of the above.
Career? I know I don’t want to work for someone else’s dream. That’s why working in the service industry gives me flexibility to travel and the funds required to get closer to my own pie in the sky. Family? I do want kids. Some of my own, some adopted. However, I’m not ready yet. I just finished being one myself. Perhaps I’ll never be done being a kid. Marriage? I don’t believe in the modern concept of marriage. Still, I do believe in love. And I believe that once you find real love, you hold on to it. It might be this thing in life worth fighting for. Home? I do have a few places I call home. Places that inspire me, places that bring me back to great memories. I’m grateful I got the chance to live in these beautiful locations. But what is home anyway? A place? A person? A satisfaction?
I’m 30 and key free. I have the freedom to leave without worrying about anything. When I was 25 I had too many too young. Between car, house, locker, parking, office keys, I found myself living the stable life I never wanted. It only lasted a year, then I decided to get rid of all keys, packed my bags and moved to an island of the Caribbean, where neither keys or shoes were required.
Growing up. Do I have to? I don’t want to loose my eagerness to run to the sea, to climb a tree, to roll in the mud with my dogs. I don’t want to loose the power to day dream and believe in fairy tales. I don’t want to loose the ability of letting loose and being spontaneous. I don’t want to loose the capability to book a one way plane ticket, the open mind to backpack to a developing country, to love to sleep in the jungle amongst cockroaches, spiders and howler monkeys. I don’t want to let go of my freedom. I don’t want to grow up.
“If growing up means it would be beneath my dignity to climb a tree, I’ll never grow up, never grow up, never grow up! Not me!”-J.M. Barrie
Ok, you’re thinking: “one day you’ll hit a stump and you’ll have to start thinking about your future”. It’s true. I do think about my future, a lot more these days. And I think about my mom’s, and my future kids’ one day. And tic and toc… I know where I want to be, it’s just taking me longer than ”normal”, as I let life be. I guess first step would be to start putting priorities first. If my 20’s were all about the importance of making ”mistakes”, I should know by now not to make them again. Learning from past experiences. Understanding the feelings. Thinking before acting. Be more responsible. Be more knowledgeable of the world and its people. Choosing wisely. Moving forward. Growing up?
We surely grow old, accumulating years in our body, sun marks and eternal tan lines on our unfair skin. Each freckle commemorates a trip, each scar tells an interesting story, each wrinkle represents the repetition of an emotion. The benefits of yoga are racing with the existence of gravity affecting our body. We grow old. I came to accept that. And I guess I am growing up too, only at my own speed. Yet, one thing is for sure, if my body ages and my soul blossoms, I’ll ensure I keep my heart forever young and free.
At the edge of entering the 30’s, I reflect on the past 10 years that went by. I have to admit it: I’m a late bloomer. In fact, the reason why I left the city was because people were going too fast. That was never a road I wanted to chase. So no, I don’t own a house, or have a family, or a professional career. But damn did I have a good ride!
Here are 10 things I did that truly enlighten my 20’s (please remember that these are personal suggestions taken from my own experiences. They are not things to do, but rather things you can do):
1. Travel.
When I travelled overseas to a developing country for the first time, I was only 20. I soon became addicted to discover new places, learn about cultures and the people. This travel bug has allowed me to trot the globe, visiting 5 continents and exploring 25 countries (and yet, I’ve only seen 12% of the world). My travels have educated and shaped me into becoming the person I am today. Travelling will not only open your mind and your heart, but it will also teach you life skills, build your confidence, make you compassionate and appreciative of the differences, and make you grateful and thankful for what you have. Travelling is indeed, the richest experience of my life.
2. Stay active.
Ok, I’m not talking about dieting here, I don’t believe in diets. Drink that wine, splurge on that pasta, enjoy that left-over pizza for breakfast. You’re only 20-something, you are allowed to enjoy the pleasures of delicious food, as long as it’s with moderation. The trick here is to be active, breathe fresh air and have a good balance in your life. You’ll find that the more active you are, the less crap you want to eat. Go for a doggy walk, go skating on the lake, go mountain biking, go dancing, go play outside, go have fun! There are tons of active ways to get that booty moving, and it doesn’t have to be boring. Living in the mountain ranges of the Canadian West Coast for the past decade, I found myself spending most of my time on the mountains then anywhere else. In fact, I am the proud owner of 10 Whistler/Blackcomb season passes, with some years counting up to 100 riding days.
3. Discover a new passion.
You might already have a bucket list with new things to try. That’s great! Try new things, scary things, things you never thought you would ever do. Challenge yourself. Sign up for that mountain bike drop-in class you always wanted to try, get a membership at a yoga studio, start painting, writing, photographing, cooking. You might fall in love and develop a new passion that can lead you to new people, new places, new opportunities. I was always attracted to the depth of the ocean and its intriguing creatures. So when I got PADI certified in Panama, I immediately fell in love with the underwater sport. As of today, I scuba dove in 3 oceans, a total of 51 times, and I still have a lot more on my list!
4. Cultivate personal relationships.
You might realize while you live through your 20’s that there isn’t much left of that panoply of friends you had in your teenage years. People change, develop new taste and evolve in different ways. The importance is to keep close the people that matters and let go of the negative relationships. Choose your friends wisely. Surround yourself with positive and inspiring people. The real friends are the people that will inspire, encourage and support you through the years. They shape who you become. Get to know who the real friends are and keep them close. Also, appreciate your parents. They are the ones that will love you unconditionally no matter what happens. Stay connected, love them in return, you never know when they’ll be gone.
5. Work to live, not live to work.
I work to make enough money to live comfortably, have a fun lifestyle and travel as much as I can. I work hard, but play harder. I don’t want to work my ass off for someone else’s dream. When I’ll have my own business, I’ll make sure I have the right balance with work and life. Working hard in your 20’s toward your retirement years? Really? And then what? Experience life when you’re 65? Sure. But for me, I’d rather do it all now -now that I have the energy, the health, the open-mind and the flexibility. Of course I’m not saying to blow all your money and end of broke by 30. But remember that money comes and goes. You can be financially responsible, but don’t forget to live and have fun, now.
6. Volunteer.
I did my first volunteering experience last year, where I taught French and English to kids and empowered women in Morocco. I also stayed with a charming local family. It was challenging at first, as I felt that I learned more from them than they did from me, but it was the greatest reward at the end, when everyone showed their appreciation with warm hugs and sincere words. Along with helping people in need and giving back to the world less-fortunates, volunteering helps build confidence, increase social and relation skills and gives a sense of accomplishment. To get more information on how you can help, visit IVHQ.
7. Pack up, move, relocate.
You’re young. You might not own a house yet, or have kids or hold a professional career. Pack your things and move to an other city, an other country, overseas. You can always come back if that ain’t working. When I left my hometown at the age 19, I knew I was never going to come back. I moved solo, 5,000km across the country, with the little English I knew, a backpack and a snowboard on my back. Moving away helped me experience new scenes, meet new people, live different lifestyles. I found a home in the mountains with breathtaking scenery and inspiring people -roommates that became a family. And when I got an offer to work in the Caribbeans 8 years later, I jumped on the opportunity and packed my bags again. Along with fear, anxiety and uncertainty of jumping into the unknown once again, I put my life in boxes and flew South where I lived and worked for nearly 2 years -some of the best time of my life, and a roommate that became a best friend.
8. Spend time alone.
It’s ok to disconnect from social life once in a while. Spending time alone will help you reboot your brain and unwind, enhance your creativity and concentration and give you an opportunity to put things into perspective by reflecting on where your life is heading. Play some music, crack a bottle of wine, read a book, watch your favorite shows, dance in your living room, write in a scrapbook, day dream. Do the things you love. Why even not take the road for a few days, fly to a new destination, backpack to a new country. Spending time alone is healthy and beneficial. Don’t underestimate the power of solitude.
9. Meet new people.
Whether it is while travelling, or at a new job, or at a new yoga class, open yourself to others, you never know where that new relationship will lead you. People have different background, outlook on life and each and everyone has something to offer and a beauty to be seen. Meeting new people will help you expand your skills and knowledge, boost your self-esteem, be culturally aware and understand the world. Also, increasing your network can be beneficial for your future. For me, travelling gave me the amazing opportunity to meet people from all around the world, whether it was on a plane, at a hostel or while riding an elephant. Some are acquaintances, some became my best friends. If there is one thing I am the most grateful about my 20’s, it’s for all the amazing and inspiring people I met, from all around the planet.
10. Experience, experience, experience.
Your 20’s are the time to taste freedom, make mistakes, do crazy things, live your own list. No one should tell you how to live your life. Never say no to opportunities, take risks and embrace every moment. Get weird, let loose, embrace your oddities. Have fun. Be wild. Be young. You’re free. My experiences are the fruits of choices and decisions I made. Good and bad. They define who I am.
You don’t have to take the common highway and hurry up to your destination, choose your own road, at your own pace. Smell the flowers. Enjoy the journey. You’ll have your 30’s to figure out the rest 😉
To my friends and family: Thank you for all that enlightened this journey, to the ones that stood by, to the ones that inspired, to the ones that became family. You are part of who I be. The 20’s have been the craziest, wildest and raddest ride. Am a bit scared of letting it go, to be honest, but I’m ready to start fresh and begin this new chapter of life. Time to be awesome! Peace, love and always, believe x
-Capucine
Photographs taken in Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain. Read the full post here: Vacationing in Gran Canaria.
After a six-week adventure exploring Morocco, I decided to head west to the Canary Islands of Spain for a 10-day vacation. Despite not being a fan of all-inclusive options, the need for a relaxing break and the consideration of the expensive Euro led me to opt for the convenience and cost-effectiveness of a nice hotel where I wouldn’t have to worry about a thing.
Situated on the southwest coast of the island of Gran Canaria, between the port town of Puerto Mogan and the popular town of Puerto Rico, Playa Taurito is perched on volcanic hills. Notably, the iconic sand dunes of Maspalomas are just a short drive away, offering the chance for a camel ride along the desert-like dunes.
Choosing the hotel Paradise Valle Taurito through www.booking.com proved to be an excellent decision, given its scenic location, reasonable pricing, and a plethora of attractions (my personal reviews are listed at the bottom).
This family self-sufficient resort provides all the services and amenities one could need. Picture waking up to a delicious breakfast on the terrace, followed by a leisurely day by the pool with a book in hand and a refreshing pina colada. For lunch, savor a seafood paella or opt for a classic burger and fries. If an action-packed afternoon is more your style, the waterpark offers slippery rides, or you can unwind on your patio while admiring the beautiful views of the resort and the nearby ocean. For extra relaxation, indulge in the full-service spa.
There’s no shortage of activities in Taurito. Book a package with one of the beachside companies offering jetskiing, banana boating, parasailing, snorkeling, diving, and sailing.
The black sand beach of Taurito is just a few feet from the hotel, nestled between two wind-shielding cliffs, creating a peaceful and comfortable area to relax, take a stroll, or simply watch the warm golden sunsets.
The hotel room patio becomes a perfect spot to catch up on work, share adventures with those back home, or simply enjoy a glass of wine.
Evenings can be spent savoring a nice dinner under the stars, followed by a leisurely stroll on the venue. Public shows and entertainment add to the lively atmosphere. For those seeking a quieter experience, the poolside bar, manned by friendly bartenders, offers a perfect setting for conversations over a glass of wine with fellow vacationers. Nothing beats the tranquility of these moments.
I booked a day diving trip with Delphinus and did 2 beautiful dives at the marine reserve of El Cabron.
The vibrant port town of Puerto Rico provides a delightful escape, offering a variety of experiences. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk along the oceanfront promenade, catching glimpses of fishermen returning to the marina, enjoying a delectable dinner at one of the authentic local restaurants, lounging on a beach chair by the shore, or strolling through the pedestrianized development surrounded by gardens of bougainvillea, palm trees, bird-of-paradise flowers, hibiscus, and other colorful plants, this little “Venice of the Canaries” is sure to enchant you with its diverse and charming offerings.
Finally, it wouldn’t be a complete vacation if you don’t cruise along the coast. Whether it is by bus, by car, or by scooter, the road along the ocean offers a scenic drive with the perfect sea breeze. We opted to rent a scooter and rode along the winding cliff roads, wind in the hair, chasing the sun setting over the Atlantic. Epic, scenic, simply majestic.
Paradise Valle Taurito Hotel review:
Photographs taken in Taghazout, Morocco. Read the full post: Hanging Loose in Taghazout.
North of the city of Agadir, in the south west coast of Morocco, is located the small fishing village of Taghazout, where sun bleached hair surfers showcase their skills on the ocean curls and where camels lounge peacefully on the golden beaches.
Mostly of Berber origins, the residents have become to be local surfers, blending with an increasing number of tourists who come to experience the Atlantic waves. Along with tourism, fishing and the production of Argan oil are the main source of income. French is the main language spoken after Arabic, but it is becoming common to hear English spoken by locals, whom learned from visitors.
There are many consistent and generally uncrowded breaks to choose from, whether you are a beginner, an intermediate or an advanced surfer. As well as the rest of Morocco, Taghazout is famous for its long right hand point breaks. With the right conditions, this point can offer a 2km ride, surfing from ”village to village”, starting at Anchor Point, meeting up with Hash Point and ending at Panorama’s beach break.
A few restaurants are lined up on the main street, offering a variety of food, from Moroccan dishes to International cuisine. You will also find souvenir stalls and small convenient stores with non-aggressive and laid back sellers.
Many surf schools have grown in recent years offering lessons and guidance, with packages including accommodation, lessons, authentic meals and rentals. If you don’t want to book a package with one of the surf schools, you can simply rent one of the many apartments, most of them oceanfront. If you choose that option, I highly recommend to rent a car to give you the freedom to travel from break to break, do a trip in town, explore the coast and its surroundings, or simply chase the sunsets.
The coastal city of Agadir is approximately 20 min drive South from Taghazout. You will find a variety of large malls with grocery and liquor stores where you can pack up on what you need (remember that Morocco is a Muslim country where the consumption of alcohol isn’t openly tolerated. So be wise where you drink and how you act. Be a smart tourist and respect the locals). The city center is large and dynamic with tons of shops and restaurants servicing a diverse clientele. For souvenir shopping, the Agadir Souk is a great stop, although be ready to pay more than other cities. The beautiful and clean waterfront promenade offers a lovely stroll where you can glimpse at kids playing futbol and families gathering.
If the water is flat and the waves are shy, a nice day trip to Paradise Valley is in order. About 45min drive through a winding mountain road and you arrive at the entrance of the trail. The Valley was found by a German couple who took refuge there for a few years to recover from illness. They were cured by the peacefulness and natural surrounding of the Valley. Hence the name, Paradise Valley. Hang out on the rocks, cool off in the refreshing turquoise pools, show off by jumping off the rocks.
Taghazout is a beautiful, peaceful and friendly surfing destination. Whether you come here to learn how to stand on your board, or are in search of the perfect sea surf, this little coastal village is sure to satisfy your adventurer’s needs. Conquer the waves, taste the salt on your lips, feel the sun warming your face and hang loose on the beach amongst fellow surfing enthusiasts, friendly dogs and lounging camels. You’ll leave with new friends, improved skills and fascinating stories to tell.
The sun painted the golden sand in beautiful shades of bright orange and gentle pink. My scarf protected my head, shielding it from the intensity of the midday sun. We traveled through the Erg Chebbi dunes at a leisurely pace. My legs dangled on each side of his rib cage, six feet above the yellow sea of sand. He wasn’t the most comfortable ride, but I couldn’t complain—I was the one sitting on his back. His hooves softly brushed the sun-scorched sand. His lashes were long and thick. Sometimes he would turn towards me, requesting a scratch on his long woolen neck. His name was Africa, an athletic and elegant 21-year-old dromedary, a worker of the desert.
When my mom announced that she would meet me in Morocco after I completed my volunteering program, I was eager to explore the rest of the country with her. My mother is my favorite travel partner—cultivated, worldly, and well-traveled. She always seeks the best ways to fully immerse herself in the local culture. At 63 years old, she was ready to hop on local buses, eat from street stalls, ride a dromedary through the desert, and even try camel milk. Since I had already covered the northern part of the country, including Rabat, Fes, and Chefchaouen, we decided to meet in Marrakech.My mom had visited Morocco before and didn’t want me to leave the country before experiencing the Great South. So, after a detour to Essaouira, we headed south and embarked on a five-day road trip through the High Atlas Mountains, all the way to the gateway of the Sahara Desert.
Day 1: Marrakech to Zagora
We could have rented a car and done the drive ourselves since the roads are well-maintained and fairly easy to navigate. However, to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, we chose to hire a local driver. We were introduced to Hocine, a young, knowledgeable, and hardworking Berber who would be our chauffeur on our journey to Ouarzazate.
We set off from Marrakech early in the morning, heading south towards Zagora. The two Kasbahs we visited along the way were just as impressive as the drive itself. The winding road through the Atlas Mountains was breathtaking, with its earthly peaks and vast dunes forming a stunning backdrop. The lunar landscape was adorned with a variety of fruit trees, such as olives, oranges, lemons, dates, and figs, adding vibrant colors to the scenery. We even spotted Berbers and their goats climbing the mountains, searching for a meal and occasionally causing rocks to tumble onto the paved road. As we traveled, I caught glimpses of men riding donkeys for long distances, artists showcasing their handmade pottery and crafts, and vendors selling fascinating fossils and mineral rocks from the Atlas region.
As we journeyed through the High Atlas Mountains, Hocine enlightened us about the origin of the term “Berber.” It was historically attributed to the earliest inhabitants of the Barbary Coast of North Africa. The term itself derived from the Greek word “bárbaros,” which originally referred to any foreigner and later became the root of the derogatory term “barbarian.” Hocine further shared that the Berbers prefer to call themselves Imazighen, which translates to “Free People” in the indigenous Tamazight language.
Upon reaching Zagora, we were greeted by Ismael, our 16-year-old camel guide. In the obscurity of the night, he led us on our camels through a landscape reminiscent of scenes from Star Wars. With no control over our animals and having left our belongings in the car (as we were instructed to only bring the essentials), we placed our complete trust in this courteous young boy. What was initially anticipated as a 20-minute camel ride turned into an hour-long journey through the lunar landscape, guided solely by the darkness of the night. Eventually, we arrived at the bivouac, where we nervously laughed about the unexpected adventure and felt a sense of relief that we had safely made it to the camp.
We were warmly welcomed by fellow travelers gathered around the campfire. Tea was served, and we engaged in conversations with the Imazighen. A delightful couscous was prepared and served in the main tent. Chanting and dancing ensued around the bonfire, with our feet sinking into the sand as the moon ascended into the starry sky. It was a magical experience that left us in awe.
Day 2: Sunrise camel trek in Zagora
When Ismael softly whispered, “It’s time,” at the entrance of our tent, the clock hadn’t even struck 6 am. There was no room for sleeping in or hitting the snooze button for another 15 minutes. We had a mission to fulfill. Hastily, I donned my hoodie, wrapped my scarf snugly around my neck, and clutched my camera tightly. Barefooted, I stepped out of the tent and ascended the nearest dune.
There, perched atop the sandy mound, were fellow early risers. Wrapped in blankets, their cameras mounted on tripods, they eagerly awaited the unfolding scene. I gazed toward the horizon, where the vast expanse of sand met the distant mountains. And then, between two jagged peaks, I saw it: the first rays of the sun, piercing through the serene blue morning light.
As the sun gradually ascended in the sky, we made our way back to our waiting vehicle. It was a comforting sight to find Hocine and all our belongings safely waiting for us. Climbing back into the car, we embarked on our journey towards Mergouza.
Day 3: Entering the gateway of the Sahara in Mergouza
I was introduced to Africa, my loyal camel companion. Passing through the gateway of the Sahara, we began an enchanting and thrilling two-hour expedition through the tranquil dunes of Erg Chebbi.
We reached the bivouac just in time to witness the mesmerizing sunset. Disembarking from Africa’s back, my feet sank into the refreshing, shaded sand. As a gesture of gratitude, I scratched Africa’s head, providing him with a momentary respite from the persistent flies buzzing around his face.
Driven by excitement, I challenged myself to a sprint, racing with all my might towards the peak of the tallest dune in anticipation of witnessing a truly awe-inspiring sunset. Despite having witnessed countless sunsets over oceans, mountains, and cities, this upcoming spectacle was a new experience for me. Patiently, I stood there, taking in the breathtaking view of an endless expanse of sand dunes. The scarf that had shielded my head now draped over my shoulders, providing a touch of warmth. Gradually, the sun sank behind the dunes, bringing a refreshing coolness to the air and allowing the moon to claim its reign over the night sky.
Exquisitely crafted Imazighen carpets adorned the sandy floor in front of each tent, adding a touch of beauty and cultural richness to the desert camp. A low table, covered with handmade blankets, was carefully arranged, surrounded by soft cushions for added comfort. The chameliers took charge of preparing and serving a delectable dinner, treating us to a mouthwatering traditional couscous accompanied by the authentic flavors of Moroccan mint tea. As the evening unfolded, the camp was illuminated by the gentle flicker of candlelight, creating an intimate ambiance in the heart of the desert. With the soft sand beneath us and the African sky sparkling above, we enjoyed a truly memorable dining experience amidst the serene beauty of the desert.
Following dinner, I engaged in a friendly race with Hocine, sprinting towards the summit of a nearby dune. Reaching the top, we settled ourselves on the cool sand, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the captivating spectacle of shooting stars illuminating the night sky. The vast expanse of the Greater Sahara provided the perfect backdrop for this mesmerizing display, as we sat in awe, contemplating the wonders of the universe above us.
Day 4: Todra Gorge in Tinerhir and the Road of the Thousand Kasbahs
Witnessing the sunrise over the desert was a breathtaking way to commence the day. With a renewed sense of wonder, I mounted Africa and together we began our journey back towards civilization, leaving behind the serene beauty of the desert as we embarked on our return.
On our way to Tinerhir, while en route to explore the Todgha Gorge, I suddenly felt a sharp pain in my stomach. Even a sip of water became impossible to swallow, and with every turn, my nausea intensified. To make matters worse, as a woman, I was denied access to any bathrooms along the way. When we finally reached our guesthouse, I retired to my room for the night. Meanwhile, my mom dined alone downstairs, sharing the tale of my illness with fellow travelers. I remained bedridden, plagued by severe dizziness. Thankfully, the kindness of the guesthouse host came to my rescue, as they brought me Vervaine tea and some rice. Without their thoughtfulness, I would have gone without food for three days. Although weak, I managed to rest and miraculously finished the tea after taking a single bite of rice.
The next morning, as I entered the dining room, I was met with concerned inquiries from everyone about my well-being. I am grateful for my mom’s support throughout the ordeal.
Unfortunately, due to a misunderstanding and language barrier between our guide, driver, and ourselves, we ended up missing the opportunity to visit the Todgha Gorge—an immense disappointment for me. Instead, we were taken to an Imazighen women’s carpet factory, where our guide strongly encouraged us to make a purchase. This created a discomforting situation, as it felt like we were imposing on the hardworking women. I have encountered this scenario before. When traveling abroad, I always strive to support local communities and encourage merchants, often beyond what I can afford. Respectfully, I declined the offers. However, the guide turned to my mom, who felt so bad that she ended up buying an expensive carpet that she will likely never use. Oh, mom! These situations unfortunately occur frequently when traveling in foreign countries where tourism can have complex effects on the local population. The best we can do is remain kind while standing our ground. And if we do give in, at least the souvenir becomes part of a laughable (in hindsight) story.
Continuing our journey, we embarked on the “Road of the Thousand Kasbahs,” a scenic route that unveiled a breathtaking tapestry of desert landscapes, majestic snow-capped mountains, and lush palm groves. Along the way, we made a stop at El Kelaa M’gouna, also known as the Valley of the Roses”. Here, we had the opportunity to purchase rose water spray bottles, a delightful souvenir that would make perfect gifts to bring back home. The fragrant essence of the roses added an extra touch of beauty to our memorable adventure.
Day 5: Wrapping up in Ouarzazate
Stepping into the ancient Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou., built in the 11th century, I felt as if time had come to a standstill. The walls, constructed from red mudbrick, enclosed a labyrinth of dwellings, souvenir stalls, and captivating viewpoints. While the majority of the residents have now relocated to a more contemporary village on the opposite side of the river, eight families still call this fortified city their home. The blend of history and modern life created an intriguing atmosphere, immersing me in the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Our final destination was the Atlas Studio, renowned for being the filming location of numerous Hollywood blockbusters and famous movies. Despite the gusty winds and sand swirling around us, we ventured through the impressive sets and backdrops.
Upon our return to Marrakesh, we expressed our heartfelt gratitude to Hocine and provided him with a generous tip for his exceptional service as our knowledgeable, reliable, and caring chauffeur. His presence has truly enriched our journey, and we sincerely wish him all the best. Reflecting on our time in the Great South of Morocco, we realized what an extraordinary adventure it has been. Sharing this remarkable experience with my mother has made it even more special, creating memories that we will cherish forever.
For more information about the excursion and trips similar to this one, check out Click Excursion.
Footloose Diary