Shukran

Flying into Marrakech for the first time, we were full of excitement and a little trepidation for what we were about to experience. My first memory of walking off the plane was how floral the airport smelled like, jasmine and orange blossom.

I scheduled our first trip to Morocco to be less hassle being in such a foreign enviorment and I wanted to opportunity to look back at the scenery instead of driving myself. It was an excellent decison beacuse once we got into the inner city walls people drove motorcylces like it was an artform.

Our driver took us as far as he could, then led us on foot through the maze of red clay walls to our Riad. From the outside, our home for the next three days appeared unassuming. A simple wooden door greeted us, but once we rang the bell and stepped inside, it felt like entering a secret garden. The hospitality we experienced at Riad Anya was something I realized I wanted to bring back with me to True North. Upon arrival, instead of checking in immediately, we were guided to an open-air sitting room with comfortable couches and vibrant, lush plants. They had already prepared fresh mint tea and snacks for us. They inquired about our journey and where we were from, making us feel at home in this new place. The kindness and hospitality we received during our stay will always be my first impression of Marrakech.

We spent the days touring the city on garden and food tours. Then came abck to the riad at night to sit on the roof top, drinkign mint tea and eating olives. Getting to walk through the souk and learn about the cultue. The local baker where women would drop off there bread and dinners to be cooked while they went to there local hamams. Walking throguh the spice markets was a culinary dream to get to experience. Our guide for the day Zaky was fantastic!

He truly loved his city and showed us the real heart of it.

Our visit was brief yet delightful. We experienced incredible hospitality and friendliness . We discovered that homemade Moroccan mint tea is truly transformative. Traditionally cooked couscous sets a standard that makes any other couscous pale in comparison. And that Marakkech is a city that loves its traditions and culture. I eagerly anticipate returning one day to explore and eat more!