You can also find the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:

"Food Travel in Morocco: What to Order When You Visit"

Dig in with us to this fun conversation that provides a great overview of Moroccan gastronomy and its cultural importance.

Azdean and producer Ted take a look at some of the popular dishes you'll find in Morocco, some you've probably heard of, and others which might be less familiar, but that you'll discover quickly once you arrive.

This episode is another one which is a bit easier to follow in video form, where you can see the various dishes we're talking about, so hop over to our YouTube channel if you can. But if you're busy driving or jogging, you can still listen along and get the backstories and descriptions!

There's tagine and couscous of course, but Azdean describes the different types of each that you can find, and also shows us the essential spices that define Moroccan cooking. We learn about Harira, the traditional soup served during Ramadan, rich in flavor and ingredients. And how Moroccan cooking techniques emphasize marinating and slow cooking for flavor.

Meanwhile, street food in Marrakesh has improved significantly and is now considered safe, especially in the Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. Questions about dietary restrictions? In this day and age, with tourism booming, restaurants are learning to accommodate different demands and requirements. You may have to call ahead, but these days you can find more and more choice.

Food is always a popular topic around here, but it's been a while since we devoted an entire episode to exploring it, so we're excited to share these mouth-watering ideas with you!

Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?

Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.

If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!

We recommend also watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, in addition to listening to the audio version. Both episodes are only about 10 minutes long, and give you different perspectives on the information and stories.

You can find the video here:

"Rabat: Morocco's Dynamic Modern Capital"

Today we are in Rabat, looking out over the ocean from the Kasbah Oudaya, at the edge of the old Medina. A beautiful site with beaches down below, and the river Oued Bou Regreg dividing the cities of Rabat and Salé.

Despite being the capital, Rabat is sometimes overlooked on itineraries of Morocco, or at best given a sparse couple of hours to see the basic sights, before travelers carry on to perhaps Chefchaouen or Marrakech.

But although it's only been Morocco's capital since 1912, the history here is dynamic and long-reaching.

Our episode this week is essentially a set of companion episodes. There is the audio version, and also the video version, which you can watch on YouTube. Some of the dialogue and conversation overlaps, but the video will help fill you in on what Azdean and his guide for the day, Mr. Ali, are describing.

The audio version meanwhile adds a little more history and context that was not captured in video. The episodes are short: roughly ten minutes each, so try listening/watching them back to back, and see how they compare!

Our goal is to get you inspired to add more time in Rabat to your schedule, for a wonderful mix of history, wild seascapes and modern comforts.

Find this episode on YouTube:

https://youtu.be/0sJxv4B8TxI

Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?

Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.

If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!

You can also find the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:

"A Couple's Guide to Romantic Morocco"

Our episode this week puts specific focus on the Moroccan experience for couples: whether you're on your honeymoon, a vacation or maybe even planning to elope, Morocco is truly one of the world's great romantic destinations.

Morocco was in fact ranked number one in 2022 for destination weddings.

You've seen the stunning photos of luxurious accommodation, desert camps and delicate architecture. Now Azdean and producer Ted help fill in the gaps on things like what riads are really like, how to reserve a private dining experience, and how hammams work.

• Riads offer a unique and intimate experience for couples, similar to a bed & breakfast but with even more space, dining options and luxury. You'll learn how to request a private dining experience at your riad, while making the most of other opportunities to get to know your fellow guests, b&b-style.
• Hammams are the traditional Moroccan baths that provide a unique cultural experience. Azdean explains the difference between a spa and a hammam, how long the process takes and the best time of day to go.
• Fes is known for its unique jewelry, making it a great shopping destination for couples to find gifts that last a lifetime.
• A good tour company will make sure you have everything you need for a private dining experience in the desert, such as in Merzouga, where you can't buy wine or other supplies just around the corner. It has to be planned ahead of time, but your guide will make sure it's taken care of, and that you have a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

And, Morocco is more accessible for North Americans than often perceived, just a short flight across the Atlantic, and often a direct one if you're coming from a hub like New York, Washington DC or Montréal.

Morocco has tremendous appeal as a honeymoon, wedding or romantic destination, and if you haven't already, we encourage you to consider it for your next romantic getaway!

Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?

Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.

If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!

We recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:

"Exploring the Remarkable Ruins of Volubilis"

Scarcely a 30 minute drive north of Meknes are the Roman ruins of Volubilis one of the must-see highlights in Morocco.

It is an easy day trip from Meknes, or even Fes, and well worth the stop. Volubilis is one of the most extensive and detailed Roman ruins outside of Europe, and was a major center in its own right from the 1st century AD until around 285, when it was captured by the local tribes.

The city remained vibrant for centuries after, but by the 11th century, Volubilis was abandoned, although its structures remained quite intact. The infamous earthquake of 1755 put an end to that though, toppling most of what was left, with the stone and marble looted and taken to Meknes. Within 100 years, people have all but forgotten where Volubilis even was.

Fortunately, archeologists rediscovered it in the late 19th century, and today Volubilis is an important site that gives a detailed glimpse into Roman life, 2000 years ago.

When you visit, a local guide will be available to interpret the ruins, without whom you would only see stacks of rock and stones.

Khalid was our guide in Volubilis, and he describes the architecture, mosaics, olive presses and more with fine detail and precision.

Check out the video version of this episode to see fabulous views of Volubilis and the surrounding countryside, all interpreted by our expert guide: a snapshot of what you can expect when you come visit too!

https://youtu.be/HnnIHY5880k

Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?

Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.

If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!

You can also find the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:

"How to Find Authentic Cultural Experiences in Morocco"

Azdean is joined again by producer Ted to chat about the rich variety of cultural activities available to visitors, something that is often requested by Destination Morocco's guests. Travellers want to experience Morocco's real culture, whether it's the cooking, the music, the language or even the landscape, but framed around a vivid society dating back thousands of years.

Step one is having a local guide with you as much as possible. It's your guide who separates your experience from the average tourist, sharing stories and insight that would never be found on your own.

Guides help you connect with locals, make the most of your time and itinerary, help translate and explain certain phrases, and help your journey go so much smoother.

We talk about the various cultural activities available, including music, dance and visits to traditional villages, and highlight some of the lesser-known regions of Morocco that provide authentic experiences, away from the typical tourist paths.

We also take a look at language, as a lot of our guests are interested in learning a few phrases and understanding the differences (and similarities) between Moroccan Darija, Morocco's dialect of Arabic, and Tamzight: the Amazigh language.

The key to your experience: have zero expectations. Have dreams and ideas for sure, but the more open you are to whatever may come, to discoveries and adventure, the more you'll find that memorable cultural immersion that you're looking for.

Find our special series on the Darija language here, made exclusively for podcast listeners!

Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?

Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.

If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!

You can also find the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:

"Morocco's Getting Busy: Book Your Trip Early!"

Azdean is joined today by Destination Morocco producer Ted Cragg for an update on current travel trends and predictions for tourism in Morocco, as we head towards the end of 2025, with an eye on 2026.

Morocco is getting busier and busier, and with some major events coming up, there is one key takeaway: book early!

Morocco hosts the Africa Cup of Nations, the African equivalent of a continental football tournament like Euro or Copa América, from December 21st, 2025 to January 18, 2026, in cities all around the country. If you're planning on attending, you likely have your ticket and travel plans in place already! Or maybe you're open to being spontaneous.

If football/soccer is not your thing though, but you're intending to be in Morocco over that time, you'll still need to be prepared for the crowds and for accommodation being very booked up. Azdean suggests some alternative destinations within Morocco though that you could consider, where there will be fewer football fans and tourists: away from the action, but perhaps blissfully quiet instead.

Beyond the football tournaments though, the travel numbers to Morocco continue to increase overall, which puts even more of a stress on activities and accommodations, particularly the riads. If you're going to Morocco, you have to stay in a riad as much as possible. If you have your eyes though on a specific one, especially that's in walking distance to the souks and sights, again you'll need to get that reservation in early.

Destination Morocco can help you have a trip of your design and priorities, even during the busy times, by using our contacts and connections to give you the best possible options. Not to mention easing the logistics like transport, luggage, tipping, meals and of course, safety.

Reach out to Azdean with your questions and book a free discovery call to let us know what you would like to see in Morocco on your trip!

Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?

Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.

If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!

We recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:

"How a Blind Tour Guide Shows Tourists the Best of Casablanca"

Khalil Nejjary is a blind tour guide in Casablanca, and when Azdean visited the city and the incredible Hassan II Mosque, he finally had the chance to invite him on the podcast, in person.

We previously published this episode in audio form, but we now have the complete video to go along with the story, with stunning images of the interior of the mosque, the architecture and the full panorama of the area, on a beautiful, sunny Moroccan summer's day.

https://youtu.be/f6gAECOc3c8

Khalil's ability to describe in detail, from memory, the features of the mosque and the exact sights of Casablanca is just remarkable.

We met Khalil at the entrance hall to the mosque complex, where visitors can get tickets for the guided tours and visit the small museum with photos of the mosque's construction. Khalil and other guides meet their guests here, then escort them across the massive courtyard, or esplanade, to the mosque's entrance.

Khalil talks about the mosque's architecture, the materials used and why they were chosen, and the long path from King Hassan II's initial dream of building a great mosque to its eventual completion.

Khalil also tells us about the history of Casablanca and its influence on the world, and outlines a typical tour of the city, which would take in many of the famous and important sights.

His joy and delight in welcoming visitors from around the world, or bumping into old friends, is deeply evident while watching him in his natural element. Khalil is a wonderful example of the genuine, authentic Moroccan hospitality that awaits your arrival when you come visit as well.

Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?

Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.

If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!

We recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:

"Discover a Unique Merzouga Desert Camp Experience"

Azdean sits down with Mr. Said, manager and co-owner of Sahara Sky Luxury Camp, located in the heart of the desert, yet just 23 miles from the town of Erfoud, the local service centre.

Said and Azdean sit down to talk about how he founded his camp, how they maintain their own animals and gardens in the desert, their emphasis on organic ingredients in their incredible food, and how the food itself is different from your standard Moroccan fare.

When you're ready to go beyond the tagines and couscous, Said and his kitchen have wonderful, original recipes for you to try.

All this in addition to a surprising number of activities, located on-site or a short drive away. The desert is about more than just camel rides and dune buggies, although you shouldn't miss out on doing them either!

But the Merzouga area has a number of important cultural sites, some dating back hundreds or thousands of years, that connect the area to Berber and North African history, and Said can easily arrange for you a tour.

Or you can take part in cooking classes and musical performances at the camp itself, before relaxing under the stars. This is Merzouga, and nothing compares to the show that is put on by the night sky.

We previously posted this recording as audio-only, but now have a beautiful video version to share with you. You'll see stunning drone views of the desert, camel rides, 4X4 treks, close-ups on luxury desert tents for meals and sleeping, and the Gnawa music troupe that performs on site.

You'll hear peacocks and cats in the background as we chat, and close your eyes to imagine yourself in this beautiful desert paradise. Because of course, you yourself can experience all this too!

Contact us at Destination Morocco and learn about our custom-built itineraries and tour packages. We love to profile our partners and attractions in our episodes, which you can then be sure to request as part of your own tour.

Do you dream of exploring the enchanting land of Morocco?

Destination Morocco is your ultimate travel experience for those seeking luxury and adventure. We specialize in crafting bespoke itineraries tailored to your unique tastes and desires.

If you're a discerning traveler who values an immersive, curated adventure, visit www.destinationsmorocco.com, and let us bring your dream Moroccan vacation to life.

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

Explore our Private Tours and Small Group Tours!