breaking one hundred

dedicated to our love of travel and the things we enjoy along the way.
                             

Source: theheadsofstate.myshopify.com via Jana on Pinterest

We’re on a quick trip to the states for a dear friends wedding this weekend. The jet lag will surely be worth the quality time with my Theta ladies and some family coming into town just to see us!

The Five/Marrakech.

  1. Forget the camel and explore the desert on 4-wheelers. Loved it.
  2. Get yourself a guide and dive into the Medina, better yet, get yourself Mustapha. Email: riadgodshouse@yahoo.fr / Tel: +212 (0)662 104 099
  3. Experience modern Moroccan cooking via the 5-course gastrodinner at Maison MK.
  4. Try the local delicacies such as sweet and savory pigeon pie. We also enjoyed the local wine.
  5. Take some time to relax in the warm African sun. Note, traditional Riads may not have a large pool - try the Palmerie.

Bonus: We skipped it because of our sensitive skin woes, but the Hammans (Turkish Spas) are suppose to be out of this world - they scrub and rub til you melt in relaxation. 

Post 4-Wheelin’ Lunch

With out favorite Local, Mustapha

Pre-dinner drinks overlooking the Koutoubia on the roof terrace at Maison MK.

Local classics on our last night

Pictures around Les Deux Tours - two thumbs up!

The Packing List/Marrakech.

Uniqlo Tank, Marimekko Skirt, Madewell Jacket, Topshop Bag, Steve Madden Sandals, Bracelet from Market in Amsterdam

Thomas Pink Linen Shirt, J.Crew Shorts, Topshop Bag, Steve Madden Sandals, Rayban Sunglasses

Madewell Shirt, Ann Taylor Pants, Tory Burch Shoes, Topshop Bag, COS Scarf, Bijenkorf Aviators

Roxy Tank, PINK Sports Bra, Nike Shorts, Nike for J.Crew Sneakers, Rayban Sunglasses

H&M Dress, Urban Outfitters Necklace, Steve Madden Sandals

Outfit Picture Bonus (he’s not posing, he’s actually ordering drinks)

Fishtail Swervin’.

Riding 4-wheelers in the Afagay Desert was the highlight of the trip. The scenery was breathtaking* and of course motoring around dirt paths in the desert is ridiculously fun. The tour ended with refreshing drinks, lunch and lounging around the beautiful pool back at the lodge.

*The pictures we could take on our stops don’t even begin to do it justice. 

Dirty Faces

Close up!

Souk-y it to me.

A visit to Marrakech wouldn’t be complete without a trip to the old town. Similar to Budapest - Marrakech is actually two cities - Marra & Kech. Instead of being divided by a river, they are divided by a wall that encompasses the old city, Marra, more commonly known as the Medina. 

We hired a guide to whisk us around the seemingly endless labyrinth of streets and alleyways that are the Medina and the Souks. We had the perfect guide, Mustapha, who was extremely knowledgeable and clearly well respected and admired among the locals (allowing us some insider perks). 

Koutoubia Mosque (notice each side of tower is different). With art installation for the 4th Arts Biennale of Marrakech curated by Vanessa Branson in second picture.

Streets of the Alkazar - ‘The real Marrakech’ according to Mustapha.

Slave Market until 1920

Souks - which literally mean ‘a mess’

Learning to make a rug - the only job for women in the souks

Moroccan Street Meat 

Jemaa el-Fnaa

Travel Notes:

  • Moroccans are natural born salesmen - take their soliciting lightheartedly and feel free to barter. Be sure you’ve agreed to a price before taking anything.
  • Take as many pictures as you like of things in the souks, but ask if you want to take pictures of people.
  • In the Jemaa el-Fnaa expect to be approached - if you do decide to hold a monkey/snake/etc. payment of 10-20 dirhams (aka about 1-2Euro) is customary and expected. Remember, they’re providing you a service.
  • Wear closed toes shoes - it’s dirty! Ladies, cover your shoulders and knees to avoid (or at least minimize) stares.
  • Taxis will typically rip you off (Mustapha confirm this) so it’s better to book a car through your hotel.