Family Adventure in the Heart of Marrakech

A Final Day in the Red City

As our family adventure in Marrakech draws to a close, I find myself filled with a mix of emotions. Excitement for the journey home to Heidelberg, but also a tinge of sadness at leaving behind the vibrant colors, enchanting sounds, and warm hospitality of Morocco. Today was all about soaking in the last moments and revisiting some of the experiences that made our trip so special.

Our day began, as it often did, with a delightful breakfast at La Grande Table Marocaine. The Royal Mansour is truly stunning! The service was impeccable, and the traditional Moroccan dishes were a feast for the senses. Aisha particularly enjoyed the fresh fruit and pastries, while Hans and I savored the flavorful tagine. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our final day of exploration.

With our appetites satisfied, we set out to visit the Moulay al-Yazid Mosque, also known as the Kasbah Mosque. Its historical significance and beautiful architecture were striking. Though non-Muslims can't enter, admiring its exterior, with its intricate tile work and towering minaret, was a worthwhile experience. I tried to capture the essence of its beauty with my camera, hoping to preserve the memory of its grandeur.


Discover the architectural beauty and spiritual ambiance of the Moulay al-Yazid Mosque, a must-visit cultural landmark in the heart of Marrakesh.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.

Next on our itinerary was a visit to the Royal Palace. While we couldn't go inside, strolling around the palace grounds gave us a sense of the rich history and royal grandeur of Morocco. The architecture was magnificent, and the well-manicured gardens provided a tranquil escape from the bustling city. I imagined what it must be like to live within those walls, surrounded by such opulence and history.


Explore the majestic Royal Palace of Marrakech, a stunning embodiment of Moroccan royal heritage and exquisite architecture amidst vibrant Medina surroundings.

After our dose of history and culture, it was time for some retail therapy at Boutique EL Fenn. The boutique was a treasure trove of unique Moroccan crafts, clothing, and jewelry. I found a beautiful hand-woven scarf for myself and a few small souvenirs for friends back home. Aisha was particularly taken with a set of colorful beaded bracelets, which she insisted on wearing immediately.


Explore Boutique EL Fenn in Marrakech for a unique selection of handcrafted gifts and authentic Moroccan artistry, perfect for every traveler.

For lunch, we decided to try Stah Marrakech, a restaurant known for its modern take on Moroccan cuisine. We shared a variety of tapas, each bursting with flavor and spices. The rooftop setting provided stunning views of the city, making our meal even more memorable. Aisha loved the mini-pastries, while Hans and I enjoyed the flavorful tagines and couscous.


Discover Stah Marrakech: Where Spanish Tapas Meet Moroccan Flair for an Unforgettable Dining Experience.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to take a leisurely stroll through the souks one last time. The vibrant atmosphere, with its colorful displays of spices, textiles, and handicrafts, was as captivating as ever. I bartered for a few more souvenirs, enjoying the friendly banter with the local vendors. Aisha was fascinated by the snake charmers and storytellers in Jemaa el-Fnaa square, and we spent some time watching their performances.

Before heading back to Riad Elias, we made one final stop at a local patisserie for some sweet treats. Aisha chose a decadent chocolate éclair, while Hans and I opted for traditional Moroccan pastries filled with almonds and honey. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration.


Discover the enchanting Riad Elias in Marrakesh, where luxury meets local charm. Enjoy exquisite dining, relaxing pools, and cultural experiences.

For our final dinner in Marrakech, we chose Dar Justo, a restaurant recommended by several locals for its authentic Moroccan cuisine and cozy atmosphere. The riad itself was stunning, and the staff was incredibly welcoming. We started with a selection of traditional salads, followed by a tagine of lamb with prunes and almonds. The flavors were rich and complex, and the presentation was beautiful. Aisha even tried a bit of the lamb, declaring it “delicious!” The spa also looked fantastic.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Dar Justo in Marrakesh—where tradition meets innovation in every delightful dish.

As we savored our meal, we reflected on our incredible journey through Marrakech. We had explored ancient mosques and palaces, wandered through bustling souks, and indulged in delicious Moroccan cuisine. But most importantly, we had created lasting memories as a family. I thought about my home, Koumpentoum, Senegal, and how much I appreciate sharing different cultures with my family.

One minor mishap: I realized I forgot Aisha’s favorite stuffed animal! I hope she doesn’t mind too much. We also still need to get a power adapter for Moroccan outlets. I'll add these to my list for future trips.

As I write this, sitting on the rooftop terrace of Riad Elias, I can hear the distant sounds of the city – the call to prayer, the chatter of locals, and the rhythmic beat of drums. It's a bittersweet symphony, a reminder that our time here is coming to an end. But I know that the memories we've made in Marrakech will stay with us forever. I'm already dreaming of our next family adventure, wherever it may take us.

Tomorrow, we bid farewell to Marrakech and begin our journey back to Heidelberg. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have shared this incredible experience with my family. Marrakech, you will be missed!

As I prepare for our departure, I'm reminded of a quote by Ibn Battuta, a famous Moroccan explorer:

Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.

And so, as our Marrakech adventure comes to an end, I embrace the role of storyteller, eager to share the magic of this enchanting city with all who will listen. Until next time, Marrakech!

I hope our journey inspires you to embark on your own family adventures, to explore new cultures, and to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Thank you for joining us on this incredible ride!

The Marrakech English Book Festival is also happening right now! I wish we had more time to check it out. Maybe next time!

A bientôt!