Exploring the Enchanting City of Marrakech with Friends

Spice, Shutter, and Sip: My Marrakech Day

Today was a sensory explosion, a deep dive into the heart of Marrakech that left me both full and creatively inspired. It’s amazing how much a single day can reveal about a city, especially when you’re willing to roll up your sleeves and get involved. From fragrant spices to captivating photographs, every moment was a new discovery.



The day began, as most do here at the TUI BLUE Medina Gardens – Adults Only – All Inclusive, with a leisurely breakfast. The hotel's buffet is a delightful spread, offering everything from fresh pastries to local specialties. Fuelled up, I met my friends in the lobby, eager to embark on our culinary adventure with Chef Khmisa.


Experience a luxurious adults-only retreat in Marrakesh with all-inclusive amenities, stunning gardens, and proximity to iconic attractions.

Our cooking class with Chef Khmisa was nothing short of magical. We started with a trip to the local market, a vibrant tapestry of colors, sounds, and smells. Khmisa, with her warm smile and infectious enthusiasm, guided us through the maze of stalls, explaining the nuances of each spice and ingredient. It was fascinating to see how the locals bartered and interacted, a glimpse into the daily life of Marrakech that I wouldn't have experienced otherwise. Lena would have loved this, she is always looking for new ideas for the kitchen!


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

Back at Khmisa's traditional Moroccan house in the heart of the Medina, we were welcomed with refreshing mint tea. The aroma alone was enough to invigorate our senses. Khmisa and her assistant, Kawtar, then led us through the preparation of several classic Moroccan dishes. We learned to make a flavorful tagine, a selection of Moroccan starters, and a delectable milk pastilla for dessert. It was a hands-on experience, with everyone taking turns chopping vegetables, grinding spices, and stirring pots. I even managed to perfect my tagine-making skills, much to the amusement of my friends. I think I might try to make one for Sofia when I get back to Heidelberg.

The best way to understand a culture is to taste it.

After our culinary triumph, we ventured into the Medina once more, this time with a different kind of hunger – a hunger for visual stories. Our destination was the House of Photography in Marrakech, a hidden gem tucked away in the labyrinthine streets. The House of Photography is housed in a beautifully restored riad, a traditional Moroccan house with an interior courtyard. The museum showcases a collection of historical photographs of Morocco, dating back to the 19th century. It's a fascinating glimpse into the past, offering a visual record of the country's people, landscapes, and architecture. I was particularly struck by the portraits of Berber tribesmen, their faces etched with the stories of generations. The black and white images transported me to a different era, a time when life was simpler yet perhaps more challenging.


Explore the House of Photography in Marrakech to discover Morocco’s rich visual heritage through captivating historical and contemporary photographs.

I found myself captivated by the evolution of Marrakech captured in these images. From bustling market scenes to serene landscapes, each photograph told a story, offering a glimpse into the soul of Morocco. The museum also showcased early documentary films, providing a moving portrayal of Berber life in the High Atlas Mountains. It was a poignant reminder of the country's rich cultural heritage and the importance of preserving its traditions. I think I will buy a few postcards to send to my family.

For lunch, we stopped at the Bazaar Cafe, a charming restaurant with a rooftop terrace overlooking the bustling Medina. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, the perfect spot to unwind after our morning adventures. We shared a selection of Moroccan salads and grilled meats, savoring the flavors of the local cuisine. The view from the terrace was breathtaking, a panoramic vista of rooftops, minarets, and bustling streets. It was a moment to pause and reflect on the beauty of Marrakech, a city that seamlessly blends the old and the new.


Savor exquisite Moroccan and Italian cuisine at Bazaar Cafe in Marrakech's vibrant Medina—where every dish tells a story.

As the sun began to dip below the horizon, casting a warm golden glow over the city, we made our way to Al Fassia Guéliz for dinner. This renowned restaurant, staffed entirely by women, is a Marrakech institution, known for its exquisite Moroccan cuisine and elegant ambiance. From the moment we stepped inside, we were enveloped in an atmosphere of refined hospitality. The décor was traditional yet sophisticated, with intricate mosaics, plush carpets, and soft lighting. We were greeted by the maître d', a gracious woman who led us to our table with a warm smile. I was particularly impressed by their commitment to empowering women, a refreshing departure from traditional restaurant dynamics.


Experience authentic Moroccan cuisine at Al Fassia Guéliz in Marrakech - where tradition and flavor come together.

We indulged in a feast of Moroccan delicacies, starting with the Pigeon Pastilla, a sweet and savory pie filled with pigeon meat, almonds, and spices. It was a symphony of flavors, a culinary masterpiece that perfectly captured the essence of Moroccan cuisine. We then sampled the lamb tagine with prunes and almonds, a dish that melted in our mouths with its tender meat and fragrant sauce. The service was impeccable, with the all-female staff attending to our every need with grace and efficiency. The prices are fair, and the food is delicious, making it a must-visit eatery in Marrakesh.


To cap off our day, we decided to experience Marrakech's nightlife at Anika Lounge & Bar. The bar exuded a sophisticated charm, with its plush seating, ambient lighting, and a curated selection of cocktails. As we sipped on our drinks, we shared stories and laughter, reminiscing about the day's adventures. The atmosphere was lively yet relaxed, a perfect blend of energy and intimacy. It was the ideal way to end our day, a final toast to the magic of Marrakech.


Discover the charm of Anika Lounge & Bar in Marrakech, where authentic Moroccan flavors and a serene atmosphere await every visitor.

Tomorrow, we're venturing further afield, escaping the city bustle for a day trip to the Atlas Mountains. I’m looking forward to seeing a different side of Morocco, trading the city streets for rugged landscapes and Berber villages. I’ve heard the views are spectacular, and I can’t wait to capture them with my camera. Plus, we’ll be having lunch at La Rosa Agafay, which I'm told has stunning views of the Agafay Desert. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, ready for another day of Moroccan adventures.


Marrakech continues to surprise and delight me at every turn. It's a city that stimulates the senses, challenges perceptions, and leaves a lasting impression on the soul. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.