Family Journey to the Heart of Morocco: Exploring Moulay Idriss

Immersing Ourselves in the Sacred City

Today was a day of profound exploration in Moulay Idriss, a city that pulses with spiritual energy and historical significance. From the bustling Place Moulay Hassan to the serene Dar El-Makhzen, every corner of this Moroccan gem offered a new perspective and a deeper understanding of the country's rich heritage. It was a day filled with sensory delights, cultural immersion, and, most importantly, quality time spent with my beloved family.


Discover the vibrant culture and stunning views at Place Moulay Hassan in Essaouira, Morocco, a must-visit destination for every traveler.

Our day began with the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the sounds of Moulay Idriss stirring to life. We headed to Cafe Restaurant Nassim for breakfast. The cafe was already bustling with locals and a few early-rising tourists, all eager to start their day. I ordered us some traditional Moroccan pancakes, msemen, served with honey and a side of mint tea. Ama, of course, was more interested in the sweet honey than the pancakes themselves, but Klaus and I savored every bite.


Discover the flavors of Morocco at Café Restaurant Nassim, where delightful grill specialties meet a warm, inviting atmosphere.

After breakfast, we set out to explore Dar El-Makhzen. I had read that it was an old palace, also known as 'the house of authorities' that offers a glimpse into the history of Morocco. The architecture was stunning, a beautiful display of Moroccan artistry with intricate details etched into every surface. Although we couldn't go inside , admiring the ornate main entrance was enough to transport us back in time. The building has been renovated multiple times and at one point even served as a home to the Sultan's representative. I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like within those walls centuries ago.


Explore Dar El-Makhzen in Meknes, a stunning royal palace showcasing Morocco's rich history and breathtaking architecture amidst lush gardens.

From Dar El-Makhzen, we made our way to Place Moulay Hassan. This central square is the heart of Essaouira, and it was alive with activity. Street performers entertained the crowds, musicians played traditional Moroccan tunes, and vendors sold everything from spices to handcrafted souvenirs. Ama was instantly captivated by a group of Gnawa musicians, their rhythmic beats and soulful melodies drawing her into an impromptu dance. Klaus and I watched, beaming, as she twirled and clapped, completely absorbed in the music. It was one of those spontaneous moments that make traveling with family so special.

Traveling is more than seeing the sights, it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.

For lunch, we chose La Baraka, a restaurant known for its authentic Moroccan cuisine. We sat outside, enjoying the warm sunshine and the views of the surrounding hills. I ordered a tagine with chicken and preserved lemons, while Klaus opted for the lamb couscous. Ama, predictably, wanted French fries, but we managed to convince her to try a few bites of the tagine. The flavors were incredible – the perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy. La Baraka prides itself on using fresh, local ingredients, and you could definitely taste the difference. The staff was incredibly welcoming, making us feel right at home.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at La Baraka in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun - where tradition meets flavor in every dish.

After our satisfying lunch, we ventured into the قيصرية مولاي ادريس (Kaysariyah Moulay Idriss), the local souk. This traditional market was a sensory overload in the best possible way. The narrow alleyways were packed with stalls overflowing with colorful textiles, fragrant spices, and handcrafted goods. We wandered through the maze, haggling for souvenirs and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. I bought a beautiful handwoven scarf, while Klaus found a set of intricately carved wooden coasters. Ama, of course, was drawn to the colorful displays of sweets, and we ended up buying a bag of local candies.


Explore Qaysariyat Moulay Idriss, a vibrant market in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun showcasing Moroccan crafts, culture, and local hospitality.

As we navigated the souk, I couldn't help but reflect on how different this experience was from our life back in Potsdam. Here, the pace of life seemed slower, more deliberate. People took the time to connect with each other, to share stories and laughter. It was a refreshing change from the hustle and bustle of our daily routines. It reminded me of growing up in Kintampo, where community and connection were at the heart of everything we did.

For dinner, we decided to try Grillade Albanna. It was a small, unassuming place, but the aroma of grilled meats wafting from the kitchen was irresistible. We ordered a mixed grill, which included kefta (ground meat skewers), chicken, and lamb. The meat was perfectly seasoned and grilled to perfection, served with fresh bread and a simple salad. Even Ama, who can be a picky eater, devoured the kefta.


Discover authentic Moroccan cuisine at Grillade Albanna in Moulay Idriss Zerhoun – where traditional flavors meet warm hospitality.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over Moulay Idriss, we strolled back towards our host family's home, our hearts full of memories from the day. Ama, tired but content, was fast asleep in Klaus' arms. I thought about how lucky I was to be sharing this experience with my family, to be able to expose Ama to different cultures and perspectives. It's something I cherish deeply, and I know these memories will stay with us for a lifetime.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore Heri es-Souani and Zerhoun. I'm particularly excited about visiting Zerhoun, the mountain village near Moulay Idriss. I've heard that the views from the top are breathtaking, and I can't wait to capture them with my camera. We'll start our day with breakfast at Haytam, followed by a trip to Heri es-Souani. For lunch, we're planning to eat at Volubilis, and we'll end the day with dinner at Café Restaurant Ksar Pharaon. And perhaps, if the mood strikes, we might even check out LA TERRASSE for a drink.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to travel and explore the world with my family. It's not always easy – there are challenges and sacrifices involved – but the rewards are immeasurable. The memories we create, the lessons we learn, and the bonds we strengthen make it all worthwhile. And as Ama grows older, I hope she will look back on these adventures with fondness and a sense of curiosity about the world around her.

Before I close for tonight, I wanted to mention a few things I’ve been reflecting on during our travels. As a software developer working in AI for sustainable agriculture, I am always keen to see how technology intersects with culture and tradition. Here in Morocco, I've noticed a fascinating blend of old and new, with many farmers still using traditional methods while also embracing modern technologies to improve their yields and conserve resources. It's a delicate balance, and one that I believe is essential for creating a sustainable future.

Also, as a Ghanaian woman living in Germany, I am acutely aware of the importance of cultural exchange and understanding. Traveling to Morocco has given me a new appreciation for the diversity of the African continent and the shared history that connects us all. It's a reminder that despite our differences, we are all part of a global community, and that by learning from each other, we can create a more just and equitable world. I'm excited to continue sharing my thoughts and experiences as our journey unfolds.

Goodnight from Moulay Idriss! I can't wait to see what adventures tomorrow brings.