Honestly, the thought still takes my breath away!  I have always loved Aladdin, and in my wildest dreams never thought I would be dropped into what seems like an alternate universe.  Seeing people in native flowing gowns and wraps, the sights and sounds, the energy was palpable.  Intense colors and patterns are deeply infused in architecture, textures and textiles. Anywhere else it would be too much, but in Morocco it is exactly right.

 

This Morocco trip was layered with so many once in a lifetime experiences, it is hard to know where to begin.  As a female traveling solo, with Amy & Melody of Arete Travel, our group was made up of Moms and single ladies and I felt safe and looked after the entire duration of the trip. Local guides, Mohammed and Abbes travelled with us the entire time. They  took care of everyone’s specific needs, and they generously shared warm hospitality everywhere we went, starting in Marrakesh.   We enjoyed a homemade tagine lunch in a rug shop, while getting a  “lesson” on Moroccan tribes, regions and symbolism, versus being bombarded by pushy rug salesmen in one of the 100’s of rug shops.  This immersive history education was vastly better than any 2 hour guidebook tour.   Amy and Melody are masters at itinerary planning because they maximize their experience and connections to curate authentic cultural travel. We were treated like VIP’s!  I had the freedom to select my preferred activities each day, which for me is important.

Essaouria views were magical. My room in our Riad, had a window looking out over the walls of an ancient fort, then to the ocean.  Our group attended the Gnaoua World Music Festival which celebrates the heritage of traditional North African music and storytelling.   This is an international collaboration with musicians and performers, connecting the roots of African music with contemporary jazz, blues and funk. The city transforms into an unforgettable massive stage with muti-cultural concerts.  Attending this festival would not have been possible without Arete Travel, and I am overwhelmed with gratitude for being present for these magical days.

 

The Gnaoua people create music from multiple handmade instruments and one is a metal shackle with ancestorial slavery history.  Learning about this as we sat on the floor in a small art gallery with Gnaoian masters left a deep imprint on me: joy can be born from pain and oppression.  It is important for us all to remember.

 

Most importantly, this trip empowered me as a solo female traveler.  I now have no doubt that I can go anywhere, make new lifelong friends and that we are all connected in deeply profound ways.

 

The caravan camel ride was  a Pinch Me moment, and even more dramatic with the live Tuareg Blues band at sunset!  As we climbed off our camels, Melody and I looked at each other and burst into tears; did we really just experience this?!

 

I  want to sincerely thank Amy and Melody of Arete Travel for giving me the opportunity to experience something that would not be possible without their guidance, expertise and unique connections to the people and places of Morocco!