Cultural Immersion in Marrakech: A Family Adventure

A Day of Discovery in Marrakech

Today was a day of contrasts, experiencing Marrakech from the serene heights of a hot air balloon to the intimate depths of a traditional cooking class. It was a day filled with breathtaking views, tantalizing aromas, and the warmth of Moroccan hospitality. I am excited to share every detail of this unforgettable day with you.

The day began before dawn, with a pick-up from Riad Dar Massai. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of wood smoke and distant spices. Fatou and Ebrima were especially excited, Ebrima with his camera ready to capture every moment. Our destination: the launch site for Hot Air Balloon Marrakech. The drive was smooth, and as we left the city behind, the landscape transformed into a vast, open plain. The anticipation was palpable as we watched the balloon being inflated, the massive fabric slowly taking shape against the pre-dawn sky.


Discover the charm of Riad Dar Massai, where luxury meets tradition in the heart of Mechouar Kasbah, just moments from iconic attractions.

As the sun began to peek over the horizon, we climbed into the basket. The feeling of lifting off the ground was surreal, a gentle ascent into the awakening world. Below us, the landscape stretched out in a tapestry of colors – the ochre of the earth, the green of the palm groves, and the distant, snow-capped Atlas Mountains. The silence was broken only by the occasional burst of the burner and the soft murmur of fellow passengers, all equally captivated by the view.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are those that offer a new perspective, both literally and figuratively.

The flight lasted about an hour, a meditative journey above the world. Fatou was in awe, pointing out Berber villages and lush valleys. Ebrima, of course, was busy snapping photos, determined to capture the magic of the moment. The experience was truly breathtaking, offering a unique perspective on the beauty of Morocco.

After landing, we were treated to a traditional Berber breakfast in a caïdale tent. Mint tea, fresh bread, and local delicacies filled our bellies as we shared stories and laughter with our fellow adventurers. It was a perfect ending to a perfect morning.

Back in Marrakech, our next adventure awaited: a cooking class with Chef Khmisa. This was an experience I had been particularly looking forward to, eager to learn the secrets of Moroccan cuisine. We arrived at Chef Khmisa's Riad, a beautiful space filled with the aromas of spices and simmering dishes. Khmisa welcomed us with open arms, her warmth and passion for cooking immediately infectious.


Discover the enchanting landscapes of Marrakech from above with a breathtaking hot air balloon ride, capturing unforgettable views of the Atlas Mountains and the vibrant city.

The class began with a visit to the local souk, a vibrant marketplace brimming with fresh produce, fragrant spices, and the lively chatter of vendors. It was a sensory overload, but Khmisa guided us expertly through the maze, pointing out the best ingredients and sharing her knowledge of local produce. Ebrima was fascinated by the array of spices, photographing the colorful mounds of saffron, cumin, and ginger.

Back in the kitchen, we donned our aprons and began to prepare our feast. Khmisa taught us how to make traditional Moroccan dishes, including tagine, couscous, and a variety of flavorful salads. Fatou, a skilled cook herself, was in her element, eagerly learning new techniques and sharing her own culinary tips. I found myself surprisingly adept at chopping vegetables and stirring pots, enjoying the tactile experience of cooking with fresh ingredients.

The highlight of the class was learning to make tagine, the iconic Moroccan stew. Khmisa showed us how to layer the ingredients, carefully arranging the vegetables, meat, and spices in the traditional clay pot. The aroma that filled the kitchen as the tagine simmered was intoxicating, a promise of the delicious meal to come.

As we cooked, Khmisa shared stories about her life, her family, and her love for Moroccan cuisine. She spoke of the importance of food in Moroccan culture, a symbol of hospitality, generosity, and connection. It was more than just a cooking class; it was a cultural exchange, a sharing of traditions and experiences.

Finally, after hours of chopping, stirring, and simmering, our feast was ready. We gathered around the table, laden with tagine, couscous, salads, and freshly baked bread. The meal was a celebration of our efforts, a delicious culmination of our culinary adventure. Every dish was bursting with flavor, a testament to the quality of the ingredients and the skill of our teacher. We ate, we laughed, and we shared stories, feeling a sense of connection with each other and with the Moroccan culture.

After our cooking class, we returned to Riad Dar Massai for a short rest before heading out for the evening. For dinner, we decided to try Naranj Libanese, a restaurant recommended for its delicious Lebanese cuisine. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a stylish interior and a warm ambiance. The menu offered a range of Lebanese dishes, from classic mezze to flavorful shawarmas.


Explore the rich flavors of Morocco with Chef Khmisa's immersive cooking class in the heart of Marrakesh's Medina, a culinary adventure awaits.

We started with a selection of mezze, including hummus, baba ghanoush, and falafel. Each dish was bursting with flavor, the perfect blend of spices and textures. For our main courses, Fatou chose the beef shawarma, while I opted for the Fatet Batinjane, a stuffed aubergine dish. The shawarma was tender and flavorful, while the Fatet Batinjane was a delicious and satisfying vegetarian option.

To end our culinary day, we ventured to BAROMETRE COCKTAILS in Marrakech. This bar is known for its speakeasy vibe and innovative cocktails. The atmosphere was sophisticated and lively, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the creative concoctions. I decided to try one of their signature cocktails, a mix of local fruits and spices. The presentation was impressive, and the taste was even better, a perfect blend of sweet, sour, and spicy.


Discover the rich flavors of Lebanon at Naranj Libanese in Marrakesh - where tradition meets modern dining in an enchanting atmosphere.

As we sipped our drinks, we reflected on the day's adventures. From the breathtaking views of the hot air balloon ride to the intimate experience of the cooking class, it had been a day of discovery, connection, and culinary delight. Marrakech had once again exceeded our expectations, offering a unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Atlas Mountains. We are hoping to experience the natural beauty and serenity of the mountains. We have booked a day trip from Marrakech to Oukaimeden. I am also looking forward to visiting Souk des Tapis to find a beautiful rug to take back home to Bielefeld, a tangible reminder of our Moroccan adventure.

Until then, *beslama* from Marrakech!