Returning to Morocco, a country I’ve visited several times before, held a special allure this time around. But this journey was different – this time, I had my 4 year old son Romeo by my side – where he celebrated his country number 15!!!! Ever since he developed a fascination with the Middle East, I knew Marrakesh would be the perfect destination to nurture his curiosity and ignite his sense of wonder. And so, with anticipation in our hearts and adventure on the horizon, we set off on a voyage of discovery, ready to explore the enchanting streets of Marrakesh together.
The main goal was to relax but still wanted my son Romeo to experience it and learn something from it so the trip was divided into two parts. First, we stayed in central Marrakesh at the medina in a riad super central so we could go anywhere walking. And the second part, we stayed in a nice hotel further from the city center, roughly 30 minutes from town, which was very calm and lovely.
In the heart of Marrakesh, where ancient traditions intertwine with modern life, and with Romeo by my side, we embarked on a voyage of discovery, immersing ourselves in the vibrant tapestry of Moroccan culture.
Nestled within the labyrinthine medina, our riad welcomed us with open arms, offering a glimpse into the soul of Marrakesh. From the moment we stepped foot in this bustling hub of activity, we were captivated by the sights, sounds, and scents that filled the air. Every narrow alleyway, every bustling souk, held the promise of adventure and intrigue.
As the sun set over the city, casting an ethereal glow over its ancient walls, we found ourselves swept up in the fervor of Ramadan. The streets came alive with the sounds of celebration, as families gathered to break their fast and share in the joyous spirit of the season. For Romeo, it was a sensory feast unlike any other, as he marveled at the colorful displays and lively festivities that unfolded before us. Our visit coincided with the last day of Ramadan, adding a layer of cultural richness and significance to our experience.
Leaving the hustle and bustle of the medina behind, we ventured to our tranquil haven, a serene hotel nestled amidst the Moroccan countryside. Surrounded by verdant gardens and bathed in golden sunlight, it was the perfect retreat from the city’s frenetic energy. Here, amidst the tranquility of nature, we spent our days basking in the sun, reading lounging by the pool, playing and immersing ourselves in the simple pleasures of life.
For Romeo, this was a paradise of exploration and imagination. Armed with his binoculars, he transformed into a pint-sized adventurer, exploring every nook and cranny of our idyllic surroundings. Inspired by the wildlife documentaries of Sir David Attenborough, he regaled us with tales of imaginary creatures and exotic habitats, his boundless imagination fueling our own sense of wonder.
As the days stretched lazily into one another, we found ourselves succumbing to the languid rhythm of life in the Moroccan countryside. With no agenda or itinerary to follow, we embraced the freedom to simply be, to savor each moment as it unfolded. And as the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the landscape, we reveled in the simple joy of being together, grateful for the precious memories we had created in this magical corner of the world.
In addition to our explorations and relaxation, there were two experiences that stood out as our favorites during our time in Marrakesh: visiting a local hammam and exploring the enchanting museum dedicated to the legendary fashion designer, Yves Saint Laurent.
One particular experience that captured our hearts was visiting a local hammam. Romeo, with his adventurous spirit, embraced the indulgent experience wholeheartedly. From massages to scrubs, he reveled in being pampered and spoiled. It was a simple yet rejuvenating ritual that left us feeling refreshed and revitalized.
Another highlight of our time in Marrakesh was our visit to the captivating Yves Saint Laurent Museum. Set against the backdrop of the city’s vibrant streets, the museum is a celebration of the iconic designer’s life and work. As we wandered through the galleries, we were mesmerized by the stunning displays of haute couture gowns, archival sketches, and personal mementos that offered a glimpse into the creative genius of Yves Saint Laurent. For Romeo, who has a budding interest in art and fashion, it was a fascinating journey of discovery, as he marveled at the intricate designs and bold colors that defined the designer’s aesthetic – he was particularly fascinated by the cactus. Our visit to the museum was not just a tribute to a fashion icon, but a celebration of beauty, creativity, and the enduring legacy of one of the greatest minds in fashion history.
As we bid farewell to Marrakesh, we carried with us not just memories, but a deeper understanding of the beauty and complexity of the world we inhabit. For Romeo and me, our journey was more than just a vacation – it was a transformative experience that opened our eyes to the wonders of the world and the limitless possibilities that await those brave enough to explore them.
