As someone who grew up in a country surrounded by water and with no land borders, crossing one has always felt like a big deal. I’ve done a few before, but this trip easily takes the top spot. Not only did we cross country borders, but we crossed continents, from Europe to Africa.

After Spain, my travel companions suggested Morocco. I immediately said yes, The Alchemist came to mind, and it would be my first time in both Morocco and Africa. From Seville, we took a bus to Tarifa, then a ferry across the Strait of Gibraltar to Tangier, where we spent a night. From there, we took a train to Casablanca for another night before heading to Marrakesh for two days, finally flying back home via Turkey.

Tangier

In Tangier, we stayed at Socco Hotel in the heart of the medina. Walking from the port was easy, though the crowd of tourists nearly threw me off track.

The old medina is a maze of white-washed alleys, centuries-old walls, and lively squares. After settling in, we explored the vibrant streets. Traditional music filled the air as kids played football, tourists wandered about, and food stalls offered everything. 

After indulging in tapas in Spain, I welcomed the change. I had sardines for a late lunch and early dinner, followed by a sweet dessert. A chicken stand with a long queue caught my eye, so I grabbed some to eat back at the hotel.

Our sunset was spent on the hostel rooftop, with panoramic views of Tangier bathed in golden light, a perfect end to our first night in Morocco.

Casablanca

After a Moroccan breakfast at our hostel, we walked out of the medina and took a cab to the train station. A few hours later, we arrived in Casablanca.

We stayed at Syracuse Hotel and took a brief walk to a nearby park, but the heat drove us to Rick’s Café, our main agenda in Casablanca. 

Rick’s Café recreates the iconic scenes from the movie Casablanca. I had lamb paired with Casablanca beer, and of course, we snapped photos in this highly photographed spot.

It is cozy and elegant, with warm lighting, dark wood furnishings, Moroccan tiles, and vintage décor that transport you to 1940s Casablanca. The bar, piano, and intimate tables complete its timeless, cinematic charm.

Later, we walked toward Casablanca’s medina and saw the old walled town along the way. It wasn’t as authentic as I expected, so we returned to our hotel to rest.

Marrakesh

The next day, we took a train to Marrakesh and stayed at Riad Babouchta & Spa in the medina. A riad is a traditional Moroccan house built around a central courtyard or garden. The riad’s architecture, carved wood, zellige tiles, and intimate courtyard made it a beautiful choice.

We booked a day trip to the Agafay Desert, just 30–40 km southwest of Marrakesh. Unlike the Sahara’s towering sand dunes, Agafay is a rocky, moon-like desert. We rode ATVs across the rugged landscape, then later took a camel ride. I wish I could call it relaxing, but for me, it was thrilling from start to finish.

Our evening ended with Moroccan cuisine, live music, and a fire dance. I must admit, Moroccan tour guides know how to get everyone dancing and enjoying the night.

Back in Marrakesh, we explored the medina’s famous markets. Each souk has its specialty. Souk Semmarine sells leather goods, Souk Ableuh has olives and spices, Souk Haddadine is known for metalwork and lamps, Souk Chouari for wooden crafts, and Souk des Teinturiers for colorful textiles. The narrow, winding alleys are alive with artisans, shoppers, and the scents of spices and leather, offering a truly immersive experience.

We also visited Dar Cherifa, one of the oldest houses turned restaurants in the medina. Dating back to the 17th century, it retains its riad charm with carved wood, zellige tiles, and a central courtyard. It serves Moroccan cuisine and tea and often hosts art exhibitions and live music, making it a cultural as well as culinary stop.

Another highlight was the Centre de la Femme Artisane, a women’s artisan center supporting local female craftspeople. Here, artisans create and sell traditional Moroccan handicrafts such as textiles, embroidery, pottery, and jewelry. Visitors can watch demonstrations, shop directly from the artisans, and even take short workshops. It is both a cultural and socially conscious experience.

It feels like we just whisked through Morocco, and we really did. It was just an afterthought this time, but I already know I need to go back to truly soak in more of its colors, flavors, and vibrant culture. Next time, Morocco will be the agenda.