Family Adventure in Vibrant Marrakech

Marrakech Unveiled: A Whirlwind of First Impressions

After a smooth flight from Frankfurt, Thomas, Leela and I finally arrived in Marrakech! The initial taxi ride was a blur of terracotta buildings and the scent of spices hanging in the air. It felt like stepping into a different world, a vibrant contrast to our quiet life in Heidelberg. I'm eager to share our first day, a sensory explosion that has already captivated us.

Our riad, Riad Le Rubis, is a haven of tranquility, and after settling in, we were ready to dive headfirst into the heart of Marrakech. Discover comfort and culture at Riad Le Rubis, a tranquil haven in the heart of Marrakesh, just steps from iconic landmarks and experiences.


Discover comfort and culture at Riad Le Rubis, a tranquil haven in the heart of Marrakesh, just steps from iconic landmarks and experiences.

Our first stop: the legendary Jemaa el-Fnaa square. As someone who thrives on organization, the sheer chaos initially overwhelmed me, but in a strangely exhilarating way. The square was alive with snake charmers, storytellers, food stalls, and a cacophony of sounds. Leela was wide-eyed, pointing at everything, while Thomas was busy capturing the scene with his camera.


Discover the enchanting Jemaa el-Fnaa, a cultural landmark in Marrakesh offering a vibrant market and unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

We navigated through the crowds, mesmerized by the sheer energy of the place. The scent of grilling meats mingled with the sweet aroma of pastries, creating a tantalizing olfactory experience. I even braved a taste of fresh orange juice from one of the many vendors – a truly refreshing start to our culinary adventures. The initial culture shock quickly gave way to a sense of wonder. Even Thomas, usually so reserved, was grinning from ear to ear.

Next, we ventured towards the Koutoubia Mosque, its towering minaret a majestic landmark against the clear blue sky. Though non-Muslims can't enter, the exterior was breathtaking. The intricate carvings and the sheer scale of the structure were awe-inspiring. We strolled through the surrounding gardens, finding a moment of peace amidst the bustling city. Leela chased pigeons while I admired the fragrant orange trees. It was a welcome respite before plunging back into the Medina.


Explore the iconic Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakech, a stunning symbol of Islamic architecture and a cultural landmark of Morocco.

The beauty of Marrakech lies not just in its monuments, but in the vibrant pulse of its daily life, a rhythm that seeps into your soul and stays with you long after you've left.

Lunch was at Nomad Marrakech, a modern restaurant with a rooftop terrace overlooking the spice market. The food was a delightful fusion of traditional Moroccan flavors with a contemporary twist. I opted for the vegetarian tagine, while Thomas enjoyed a flavorful lamb dish. Leela, ever the adventurous eater, surprised us by devouring a plate of couscous with vegetables. The view from the terrace was stunning, a panorama of colorful spices, bustling activity, and the distant Atlas Mountains. It was the perfect spot to soak in the atmosphere and recharge before our afternoon adventures. The service was great and the host was super friendly, and helpful!


Discover exquisite Moroccan flavors at Nomad Marrakech - where tradition meets modernity in every dish.

After lunch, we plunged into the labyrinthine alleys of Souk Semmarine. This was sensory overload at its finest! The souk was a kaleidoscope of colors, textures, and scents. We wandered past stalls piled high with spices, textiles, leather goods, and handcrafted jewelry. The vendors were persistent but friendly, and I found myself caught up in the art of haggling. I managed to snag a beautiful handwoven scarf for a reasonable price, a souvenir I'll treasure long after we return to Heidelberg.


Explore the enchanting Souk Semmarine in Marrakesh, a vibrant market filled with Moroccan treasures, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences.

Leela was particularly fascinated by the colorful displays of babouches (Moroccan slippers), insisting on trying on a pair of bright pink ones. Thomas, meanwhile, was captivated by the intricate metalwork, admiring the delicate lanterns and teapots. It was a true family experience, each of us finding something to pique our interest. I even found a vendor selling Argan oil, reminding me of my commitment to sustainable living, I knew I had to support the local community.

Our final stop of the day was the Bahia Palace, a stunning example of Moroccan architecture. The palace was built in the 19th century. The intricate tilework, the lush courtyards, and the ornate ceilings were simply breathtaking. Leela loved running through the open spaces, imagining herself as a princess in a faraway land. Thomas, with his keen eye for detail, was fascinated by the geometric patterns and the craftsmanship of the artisans. Even though the rooms were ransacked long ago, I could appreciate the beautifully painted wood doors and ceilings.


Discover the beauty of Bahia Palace in Marrakesh, an exquisite historical landmark showcasing Moroccan architecture and lush gardens.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to Le Jardin Restaurant Marrakech Medina for dinner. The restaurant was a hidden oasis, a tranquil garden filled with lush plants and vibrant flowers. The atmosphere was magical, and the food was delicious. I savored a flavorful tagine, while Thomas opted for a grilled fish dish. Leela, predictably, chose the chicken skewers. The restaurant doesn't serve alcohol, which I didn't mind, but Thomas was a little disappointed. Nevertheless, the ambiance and the food more than made up for it.


Discover authentic Moroccan flavors in a serene garden setting at Le Jardin Restaurant in Marrakech's enchanting Medina.

Reflecting on our first day, I am struck by the sheer contrast between Marrakech and our life in Heidelberg. The city is a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and smells, a place where ancient traditions meet modern life. It's chaotic, overwhelming, and utterly captivating. I'm so glad we decided to embark on this adventure with Leela and Thomas. It's an experience that will undoubtedly enrich our lives and create lasting memories.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit the Jardin Majorelle and the Yves Saint Laurent Museum, followed by a relaxing evening at Le Salama Sky-bar. I'm particularly excited about the gardens, as I've heard they are a true oasis of beauty and tranquility. I'm also looking forward to experiencing the vibrant nightlife of Marrakech. I'm sure it will be another day filled with unforgettable experiences. As I drift off to sleep, I can still hear the echoes of Jemaa el-Fnaa, the scent of spices lingers in the air, and I know that our Moroccan adventure has only just begun. I am also glad that I remembered to pack our sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes, they really came in handy today!

As I prepare for tomorrow's adventures, I realize I forgot to pack an adapter for the Moroccan outlets, I will need to find one in the Souk tomorrow. I should also get an extra memory card for my camera, as I took so many pictures today! Good night from Marrakech!