Sam's Morocco Journey: From Fes Medinas to Desert Sunsets
Morocco was a trip that happened by way of right place, right time. I wanted to join a guided tour with one of our trusted partners, and from all the places offered, Morocco caught my eye. I've always wanted to go to Africa, and it was a country I knew little about, so I wanted to change that.
In March 2025, I joined Insight Vacations on a week long FAM trip. We had a week to experience the highlights, from Casablanca to Rabat, Fes, Marrakesh, and Essaouira, with a group of curious fellow advisors and a knowledgeable guide named Mohammad by our side. This was my first time setting foot in Africa, and I couldn't wait to experience it all.
And experience I did!
The Magic of Fes
Our arrival at the Fes Marriott Hotel Jnan Palace set the tone for everything that followed. Musicians greeted us at the entrance, playing traditional instruments. The ceilings inside were extraordinary, covered in intricate designs with grand chandeliers that made me stop and stare. That evening, we were invited to select our own caftans before a dinner that felt like stepping into another era, complete with live music and food served straight from tagines.
The next morning brought one of those moments that stays with you. We visited an equestrian hospital for working donkeys and horses, where part of our tour payment contributed directly to the organization's care. It was a reminder that tourism, done thoughtfully, can give back. From there, we wandered into the labyrinth of medinas in Fes el-Bali. At the working tannery, locals handed us mint to hold under our noses (trust me, you'll need it). We explored carpet collectives, watched artisans at work, and got wonderfully lost in the winding streets.
Ramadan Changed Everything
What surprised me most was the quiet. We visited during Ramadan, and the streets were emptier than I'd imagined. The medinas, which I'd heard could be overwhelming, felt peaceful and navigable. Each day, the call to prayer would rise across the city, mesmerizing in its beauty as the whole community participated. Even our guide and bus driver fasted during the day, despite traveling long distances that would have permitted them to eat. Their devotion was humbling to witness.
The other highlight came during our free day in Marrakesh. A group of us joined a side tour into the desert, riding ATVs across the dunes before settling in to watch the sunset. Dinner under that vast sky, with the last light fading over the sand, was the kind of moment that makes you fall in love with travel all over again.
What I Wish I'd Known
I'll be honest about one thing: the haggling caught me off guard. Bargaining is expected, even welcomed, and while some of my fellow advisors thrived on it, I struggled. I kept worrying I'd offend someone by offering too little. But I learned that the vendors actually seemed disappointed when I didn't participate. It's part of the culture, part of the connection. Next time, I'm diving in fully.
My practical advice? Keep your clothing flowy and breathable, and bring layers. March weather in Morocco is unpredictable. I was constantly shedding and adding clothes, and we had surprise rain more than once.
Who Will Love Morocco
This trip is perfect for anyone fascinated by history, architecture, and authentic cultural immersion. If you're curious about Africa but feel intimidated by the idea of traveling there, Morocco is a wonderful introduction. The desert landscapes, the animals, the incredible food, the welcoming locals, there's something for everyone. Each city has its own personality: Essaouira with its gorgeous beach, Casablanca and its cinematic fame, Fes with its legendary medinas, Rabat with its palace, Marrakech's market square, Jemaa el-fnaa.
I wouldn't necessarily send a solo female traveler without joining a group, but with a guided tour like this one, the experience felt safe, immersive, and deeply rewarding. I learned more by being there- seeing, smelling, tasting, and interacting, than any amount of research could have taught me. And now I get to share that knowledge with my clients. Morocco is somewhere I hope to return to one day. I've yet to see the famous blue city of Chefchaouen! But for now, I can't wait to help someone else discover what I found there.