Family Adventure in Vibrant Marrakech

Dust, Dunes, and Delicious Discoveries

Today was a whirlwind of exhilarating experiences, contrasting the serene beauty of the desert with the vibrant energy of Marrakech. It’s days like these that remind me why I love to travel – the unexpected adventures and the chance to immerse myself in a culture so different from my own. Leela was especially excited for today, and honestly, so was I!



Our day started with a delightful breakfast at Café Babouche Medina. The rooftop setting offered a stunning view of the city waking up. The smells of fresh mint tea and pastries filled the air. I savored a traditional Moroccan breakfast of msemen and honey, while Thomas enjoyed his usual strong coffee. Leela, of course, opted for a croissant. It’s funny how some things transcend cultures – a 7-year-old's love for a simple croissant, for instance! The friendly staff made us feel right at home, and with full bellies, we were ready for our first adventure: a camel ride!


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors at Café Babouche in Marrakech's enchanting Medina—where culinary tradition meets vibrant atmosphere.

Our camel adventure began in the Palmeraie, a sprawling oasis just outside Marrakech. The drive there was an experience in itself, passing through local villages and getting a glimpse of everyday life. When we arrived, the scene was like something out of a movie – camels kneeling patiently, guides in traditional robes, and the vast expanse of palm trees stretching as far as the eye could see. Leela was beside herself with excitement, and even Thomas, who usually prefers more structured activities, couldn't help but smile.

Mounting the camel was a bit of an adventure. It's a lot higher than you think! But once we were settled, the gentle swaying motion was surprisingly soothing. As we rode through the Palmeraie, I couldn't help but feel a sense of peace. The sun was warm on my skin, the air was dry and clean, and the only sounds were the soft padding of the camel's feet and the occasional call of a bird. Leela, perched in front of me, peppered me with questions about the camels, the palm trees, and everything else she could see. It was one of those precious moments where I felt completely connected to my daughter and to the world around us.

Our guide, Omar, was a wealth of information, sharing stories about the history of the Palmeraie and the Berber people who call this area home. He pointed out the ingenious irrigation systems that have sustained life in this oasis for centuries. About halfway through our ride, we stopped at a traditional Berber tent for mint tea. The tea was sweet and refreshing, and the hospitality was even sweeter. We sat on colorful cushions, sipping our tea and chatting with Omar about Moroccan culture and traditions. It was a simple but profound experience, a reminder that sometimes the best moments in life are the ones that are unplanned and unexpected.

Travel is not about ticking off destinations; it's about creating moments that linger in your heart long after you've returned home.

After our tranquil camel ride, it was time for something a little more adventurous: quad biking! We headed to Palmeraie Quad & Buggy Tours, where we were greeted by our guide, Ali. After a safety briefing and a quick lesson on how to operate the quad bikes, we were off! The Palmeraie transformed into our playground as we zoomed through the sandy terrain, dodging palm trees and kicking up dust. Leela rode with Thomas, who expertly navigated the quad bike through the challenging landscape. I, on the other hand, embraced my inner daredevil and sped ahead, feeling the wind in my hair and the adrenaline coursing through my veins. It was exhilarating! I felt like I was reliving my younger days, when responsibilities were few and adventures were plentiful.

Explore the stunning landscapes of Marrakech with thrilling quad and buggy tours in the scenic Palmeraie region, perfect for adventure enthusiasts.

We paused midway through the tour to take some photos and catch our breath. Leela was beaming, her face covered in dust and her eyes sparkling with excitement. Thomas, ever the cautious one, was slightly less enthusiastic but admitted that he had enjoyed himself. As we continued our ride, I couldn't help but think about how lucky I am to be able to share these experiences with my family. To see the world through Leela's eyes, to witness her wonder and excitement, is a gift that I will always cherish.

After an action-packed afternoon, we were ready for a delicious lunch. Ali recommended Le Trou Au Mur, a restaurant known for its modern take on traditional Moroccan cuisine. The name translates to the hole in the wall, and it certainly lived up to its name! Tucked away in a quiet alley, the restaurant was a hidden gem. The ambiance was cozy and inviting, with colorful lanterns and intricate tile work. We started with a selection of Moroccan salads, each one bursting with fresh flavors and vibrant colors. For our main courses, Thomas opted for the tagine, while Leela and I shared the Berber shepherd's pie. Every dish was a culinary masterpiece, a testament to the rich and diverse flavors of Moroccan cuisine.

Experience exquisite modern European and Moroccan cuisine at Le Trou Au Mur, Marrakesh's premier rooftop dining destination.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Le Foundouk for dinner. This restaurant, located in the heart of the Medina, is known for its romantic rooftop terrace and its exquisite Moroccan and French cuisine. The setting was magical – the city lights twinkling below, the stars shining above, and the gentle breeze rustling through the palm trees. We started with avocado millefeuille with crab meat, followed by a traditional tagine. The food was delicious, the service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was simply unforgettable. Leela fell asleep in my arms halfway through dinner, a testament to the long and exciting day we had had.

Experience exquisite Moroccan-French cuisine at Le Foundouk in Marrakesh's Medina, where vibrant flavors meet elegant ambiance.

To cap off our evening, Thomas and I decided to check out Theatro Marrakech, a renowned nightclub known for its vibrant atmosphere and its eclectic mix of music. I’ll admit, I was a little hesitant at first. I haven't been to a nightclub in years! But Thomas convinced me that it would be a fun way to experience Marrakech's nightlife. And he was right! The energy in the club was electric, the music was infectious, and the crowd was diverse and friendly. We danced the night away, feeling like we were transported back to our carefree college days. It was the perfect ending to a perfect day.

Discover the pulsating nightlife at Theatro Marrakech, where vibrant beats and spectacular performances create a unique disco experience in the heart of Morocco.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but smile. Today was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places; it's about experiencing new things, connecting with new people, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And tomorrow, we're off to explore the Marrakech Museum and Almoravid Koubba! I'm excited to delve deeper into the history and culture of this fascinating city. But for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today – the feel of the sun on my skin, the taste of mint tea on my tongue, and the sound of Leela's laughter echoing in my ears.

And as I think about tomorrow, I know I need to find an adapter for the Moroccan outlets! I completely forgot to pack one, and charging my phone has become a bit of a challenge. Oh well, it’s all part of the adventure, right?