January is every teacher’s chance to reset — the holiday rush settles, and a new year begins.
This year, I traded lesson plans for souk maps and set off for Morocco, a destination that had been on my bucket list for years. What I found was beyond what any history book could capture.
Chapter Trail
Marrakech: A Sensory Wonderland
My adventure began in Marrakech, where every corner buzzed with energy. The medina was a maze of narrow alleys filled with vibrant stalls selling spices, textiles, and handmade lanterns.
Jemaa el-Fnaa square was a spectacle of storytellers, musicians, and food vendors serving sizzling tagines. I spent hours in the Majorelle Garden, a tranquil oasis of cobalt blue buildings and exotic plants that felt like a painter’s dream. The history nerd in me was absolutely thriving at the Bahia Palace, where intricate tilework and carved cedar ceilings told stories of Morocco’s royal past.
Sahara Desert: A Night Under the Stars
Next, I embarked on a journey to the Sahara Desert, a place that truly felt like another world. Riding a camel across the golden dunes of Erg Chebbi was surreal, as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink.
That night, I stayed in a Berber camp, where the silence of the desert was only broken by the rhythmic beats of traditional drums. Wrapped in a warm blanket, I gazed up at the endless stars, feeling both humbled and exhilarated.
Fes: A Step Back in Time
Fes welcomed me with its medieval charm, offering a perfect blend of history and culture. The medina, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was a labyrinth of ancient streets where artisans crafted leather goods, brass lamps, and intricate mosaics using age-old techniques.
I visited the University of Al Quaraouiyine, the oldest continuously operating university in the world, and marveled at its rich intellectual legacy. One of my most memorable moments was standing on a rooftop, watching the tannery workers dye leather in a rainbow of colors, a sight both fascinating and timeless.
Conclusion
Traveling through Morocco taught me more than I ever expected. I learned to embrace the unknown, to savor each meal, and to appreciate the beauty of diverse traditions — lessons I can’t wait to bring back to my students. My trip reminded me that the world is the best classroom, and every adventure leaves you a little wiser.
From sipping mint tea with welcoming locals to navigating the lively souks, Morocco’s warmth extended beyond its sun-soaked landscapes. So, to my fellow teachers dreaming of a getaway: book that flight. Morocco in January is pure magic, and trust me, you’ve earned it.
Check out the free family trip itinerary to Morocco from Baboo Travel below:
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