Destination Morocco Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

We recommend also watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, in addition to listening to the audio version. Both episodes are only about 10 minutes long, and give you different perspectives on the information and stories.

You can find the video here:

"Rabat: Morocco's Dynamic Modern Capital"

Today we are in Rabat, looking out over the ocean from the Kasbah Oudaya, at the edge of the old Medina. A beautiful site with beaches down below, and the river Oued Bou Regreg dividing the cities of Rabat and Salé. 

Despite being the capital, Rabat is sometimes overlooked on itineraries of Morocco, or at best given a sparse couple of hours to see the basic sights, before travelers carry on to perhaps Chefchaouen or Marrakech.

But although it's only been Morocco's capital since 1912, the history here is dynamic and long-reaching.

Our episode this week is essentially a set of companion episodes. There is the audio version, and also the video version, which you can watch on YouTube. Some of the dialogue and conversation overlaps, but the video will help fill you in on what Azdean and his guide for the day, Mr. Ali, are describing.

The audio version meanwhile adds a little more history and context that was not captured in video. The episodes are short: roughly ten minutes each, so try listening/watching them back to back, and see how they compare! 

Our goal is to get you inspired to add more time in Rabat to your schedule, for a wonderful mix of history, wild seascapes and modern comforts.

Find this episode on YouTube:

https://youtu.be/0sJxv4B8TxI

Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!

https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today!

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

You can also find the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here:
 
"A Couple's Guide to Romantic Morocco"

Our episode this week puts specific focus on the Moroccan experience for couples: whether you're on your honeymoon, a vacation or maybe even planning to elope, Morocco is truly one of the world's great romantic destinations. 

Morocco was in fact ranked number one in 2022 for destination weddings.

You've seen the stunning photos of luxurious accommodation, desert camps and delicate architecture. Now Azdean and producer Ted help fill in the gaps on things like what riads are really like, how to reserve a private dining experience, and how hammams work.

• Riads offer a unique and intimate experience for couples, similar to a bed & breakfast but with even more space, dining options and luxury. You'll learn how to request a private dining experience at your riad, while making the most of other opportunities to get to know your fellow guests, b&b-style.
• Hammams are the traditional Moroccan baths that provide a unique cultural experience. Azdean explains the difference between a spa and a hammam, how long the process takes and the best time of day to go.
• Fes is known for its unique jewelry, making it a great shopping destination for couples to find gifts that last a lifetime.
• A good tour company will make sure you have everything you need for a private dining experience in the desert, such as in Merzouga, where you can't buy wine or other supplies just around the corner. It has to be planned ahead of time, but your guide will make sure it's taken care of, and that you have a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience.

And, Morocco is more accessible for North Americans than often perceived, just a short flight across the Atlantic, and often a direct one if you're coming from a hub like New York, Washington DC or Montréal.

Morocco has tremendous appeal as a honeymoon, wedding or romantic destination, and if you haven't already, we encourage you to consider it for your next romantic getaway!

Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!

https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today!

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

We recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:

The Magic of Meknes! Morocco's Imperial Secret (YouTube)

Today we feature the imperial city of Meknes, which has a prominent place in Morocco's history and culture, particularly as it relates to the Alaouite Dynasty, who continue to reign as the ruling family of Morocco today.

This episode originally appeared as part of our initial split tour episode: Ep, 71, Oct 15, 2024 - "From Capitals to Afterthoughts and Back Again: The Stories of Meknes & Volubilis (live walking tour)."

BUT - this time we have an extended focus on Meknes, and you can watch the video version as well over on our YouTube channel.

In the mid-17th Century, sultan Moulay Isma'il chose Meknes as his capital. Over the next 50 years, he rebuilt the city on a monumental scale, fitting of a new, imperial city.

The end of Moulay Isma'il's reign however, in 1727, led to a competition for power, and eventually Meknes lost its status of imperial capital, which moved back to Fes. Later, the great Lisbon earthquake of 1755 also hit northern Morocco very hard, causing damage in Meknes that further undermined its status and prestige.

In our episode today, we have a fabulous local guide, Abdellatif, who spoke excellent English and had a deep knowledge of history and detail throughout the old city. Be sure to request him if you have Meknes in your Morocco tour itinerary, fingers crossed he will be available!

Abdellatif tells us about the interconnected nature of the medina, which contains more than 10,000 houses. He tells us the history of the Mellah, and how although the population has dwindled, these days Jewish ancestors come back to retrace ancient footsteps.

We explore the Bab el-Khamis, one of the monumental entrances to the medina, decorated with intricate calligraphy. Abdellatif translates it for us and explains why it's called the "happy gate."

We then visit the mausoleum of Moulay Isma'il, which includes a mosque, prayer space, madrassa and library. We learn about how families with Alaouite ancestry, even if they are not rich and powerful today, are still allowed to bury their dead in the royal cemetery, thanks to this lineage. 

We see how mosaics were created through mathematical calculations, and then Abdellatif points out the supposedly haunted prison, the "prison with no windows or doors," where the Sultan would bargain for the lives (frequently Europeans) in the age of piracy. Fortunately those days are long over!

Abdellatif truly brings Meknes to life with his vibrant and descriptive tour. You'll gain a new appreciation for this fascinating and often bypassed city, which is in fact quite easy to add to a standard Chefchaouen-Fes itinerary. 

Contact Destination Morocco for more details!

Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!

https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today!

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

In today's episode, podcast listener, professional photographer and seasoned traveller Maxx Walske fulfills a dream by visiting Morocco.

Maxx is a planner who loves to research and learn about her upcoming destinations. Typically she travels independently, but this time, having listened to the podcast, she went for the peace of mind and comfort of a private, guided tour, organized by Destination Morocco.

In our episode today, Maxx chats with Azdean about her trip, about culture shock, the reality of being in Morocco as a tourist, the accommodation, the food, the shopping and more. 

Maxx had all the typical questions and concerns going into the trip, but discovered a country blessed with stunning scenery and modern amenities: an open society of warm, friendly people.

And, "A photographer's dream!"

Punctuated by fun anecdotes and stories, it's a pleasant conversation that reminds you it's not all about Instagramable scenes and selfies, you have to enjoy the moment and be present.

Morocco is unique and magical, "You have to see it to believe it!" (Maxx).

You're about to learn:

• How busy it was, in general, and if there were people everywhere.
• How the square changes from day to nighttime. "It's a beast!" (Azdean).
• How June is a very good time to go, weather-wise.
• How planning helps you prepare, but throw away your expectations once you get started on your trip.
• How to prepare for shopping in Morocco, and how having local guides you can trust makes the entire experience worthwhile. You'll come home with quality items that you feel good about.
• Azdean talks about planning an itinerary, based on a person's interests and schedule, and how it becomes a very personal experience.
• About the wonderful hospitality, people going out of their way to help, even inviting you into their home.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Maxx's travel photos

Volubilis, Meknes (Roman ruins)

Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!

https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today!

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

Podcast listener Angel Nair and her husband travelled to Morocco in May of 2022, their first time in the country. She joins Azdean today to talk about her trip and what she learned.

Angel shares her perceptions of Morocco, drawn from movies, film locations and cultural expectations, and how those perceptions changed after just two weeks in the country. Although yes, they did explore classic movie locations in Casablanca and elsewhere, they packed so much more into their journey, from Marrakech all the way up to Tangier.

Listen to hear her describe watching sunsets next to the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca, looking out over the Atlantic Ocean, or from the hills above enchanting Moulay Idriss Zerhoun in northern Morocco, or amongst the magical colours of Chefchaouen.

Angel shares how the Destination Morocco episode on Scams helped her immensely, whether at the airport, saving them 200 Dirham as a result, or by avoiding having to pay the charmers in Marrakech to take a snake off her back!

And through it all, there's the food! Special and delicious, Angel talks about the many dishes they discovered, from tagines to pastillas, fresh seafood, tangia and even camel burgers.

From pleasant surprises to dramatic scenery and wonderful, welcoming people, journey along with Angel as she shares her story with her fellow travellers.

You're about to learn:

• How the hospitality of the people made all the difference.
• About the empowerment of women in Moroccan society and commerce.
• What were some of Angel's planning resources.
• How going with an organized tour helped not just with preparation but also logistics once they were there: baggage, transport, accommodation and more. Although, they were able to add extra independent days onto the beginning and end.
• What a Moroccan homestay (staying with a local family in their home) is like.
• What was the most striking difference between each city she visited.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Angel on Instagram (photos from her trip)

Moulay Idriss Zerhoun

Cafe Sofia, Chefchaouen

Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!

https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today!

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

In today's episode, Azdean is joined by Destination Morocco Podcast producer Ted Cragg for an important conversation that tackles some of the first questions any traveller has about going to Morocco: What should I bring, and what should I wear?

Morocco bridges the divide between Europe and Africa, is a gateway to the Muslim world, and features everything from ocean beaches to deserts and high mountains. Whether culturally or environmentally, it can be an intimidating challenge to pack the right things, and to know what to expect.

Azdean helps listeners prepare for this challenge, sharing his experience as a tour organizer, having helped hundreds of clients over the years with everything from lost luggage to visa questions, but also as a traveller himself, sharing what he prepares for a trip home to Morocco from his current home base of Houston.

And Ted is there to ask the questions from the mind of a traveller, which is good because he's hoping to go to Morocco with his family later this year too!

You're about to learn:

• Visa and vaccination requirements, and where to find the info for your country.
• What temperatures and weather to expect.
• The best luggage to bring, and baggage restrictions to be aware of.
• Are you expected to dress conservatively in Morocco?
• How common are laundry services, and how easy are they to find.
• The quality of toiletries that you find in Morocco.
• What you can expect from pharmacies and drug stores.
• The voltage used in Morocco.
• Where to get cash (Dirhams) once you're there.
• Tipping expectations and procedures.
• Things to look for in your travel insurance!

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Things to Pack and Prepare for Your Trip to Morocco.pdf

Morocco Entry Requirements

Visa Central: visacentral.com
877 535-0688

STEP: Smart Traveler Enrollment Program
step.state.gov/step

Morocco Weather

Power adapters in Morocco and plug sockets

Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!

https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today!

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

There are few activities more evocative and memorable than a hot air balloon ride, no matter where in the world. Drifting up from the earth in the calm of early morning, the sound of birds and breeze interspersed with puffs from the burner.

Escaping the hustle and bustle of Marrakech to float over the medina towards the High Atlas mountains is an undoubted highlight of anyone's trip to Morocco. 

Sherif is the owner of Adventure Balloon Marrakech, which launched in 2018 and just 4 years later is already one of the largest and most successful ballooning companies in Morocco. They have quickly grown to a fleet of 5 balloons, with a capacity of 300 persons per day.

Sherif talks a bit about his background: growing up in Egypt, studying tourism, falling in love with hot air balloons, and then letting them carry him to business ventures in Turkey, Kenya and now Morocco, which he explains is one of the very best places in the world to go ballooning. 

You're about to learn:

• How they determine the capacity and weight limits of a balloon.
• The schedule of a typical "classic flight," from pick-up to inflation to flight and touch-down.
• What time Sherif finishes for the day. "I'm the first one in the world to finish work!"
• Why balloons typically go afloat in the early hours of the day, instead of later.
• Why ballooning in Marrakech is blessed with such great conditions and very low cancellation rates (a common factor when ballooning in other locations).
• Ticket options, packages and prices, and what's included in the experience (hint: it's all-inclusive!).

Ballooning is a wonderfully communal, shared experience. Fellow passengers become friends. Memories are created in a short time that last a lifetime. It is a thoughtful, peaceful adventure that easily fits into your schedule of sightseeing and activities. 

Follow the links below to learn more, and contact Destination Morocco for more questions and to learn how to integrate a balloon ride into your itinerary!

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Balloons taking off outside of Marrakech

Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!

https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today!

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

Welcome to the stunning oceanside city of Essaouira, located southwest of Casablanca, due west of Marrakesh, and midway down the Atlantic coast of Morocco.

In this episode, Azdean welcomes Xavier Panadés, owner of the riad "Riad Zahra," which sits but one block from Essaouira's stunning beach and oceanfront promenade. Xavier has Moroccan roots, but grew up in Barcelona, before returning to Morocco, settling in Essaouira and opening his Riad about 16 years ago.

Essaouira has many claims to fame, perhaps none more important or poignant than as a melting pot of cultures and religions. Arabs, Jews and Christians have lived together harmoniously for hundreds of years, a source of pride for the locals, known as swiriyin and swiriyat. 

Xavier gives us some background on things to see and do in Essaouira, local dishes, spices and markets, and the story behind his beautiful riad, which combines Moroccan and Spanish cuisine and influences.

You're about to learn:

- About Essaouira's Game of Thrones connection. Orson Welles too.

- About Riad Zahra, just 2 minutes' walk from the beach.

- Check out the amazing Live Webcam!!

- The Gnaoua International Music Festival, one of the largest music festivals in the world.

- The Hiloula Jewish festival, commemorating Rabbi Haim Pinto.

The special tagines of Essaouira:
- eel tagine
- octopus tagine

- Useful, valuable tips for buying Argan oil, Olive oil and even Moroccan honey. Look for the new official government label to ensure quality control.

- How Essaouira is a haven for Thuya wood and Argan trees.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Essaouira map

The Essaouira live cam 

Argan oil 

Thuya tree 

Gnawa music 

Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!

https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today!

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

Come with us on a history and cultural journey, and learn the story and meaning of Ramadan, which in 2022 begins on April 3.

If you find yourself travelling in Morocco during Ramadan, what might you expect to see and experience? As Azdean explains, different Muslim countries often have their own variances on certain dates and traditions, and Morocco is no exception.

Many travellers may have the perception that during Ramadan, destinations and attractions are closed down, or much quieter.

In fact, the opposite is true. Not only are businesses still open, including restaurants for tourists, but the food and celebrations are even more dynamic and intense. City squares come alive as the sun sets, and people gather together to share in their common bond. 

Understanding Ramadan gives you an important cultural appreciation, and a window into daily life in Morocco during this holy month. This episode will give you the information and context behind many terms and customs that you may be slightly familiar with, but will make much more sense after Azdean gives you his own, personal perspective on what Ramadan is and what it's like.

You're about to learn:

• Where the name "Ramadan" comes from.
• About the 5 prayers of Ramadan, and their meaning (listen at the 3:28 mark):
  • Fajr
  • Dhuhr
  • Asr
  • Maghrib
  • Isha
• The special meditation prayer taraweeh.
• The ten days of Ramadan: the three stages.
• Iftar, the nightly breaking of the fast.
• Zakat, the Islamic tax.
• Laylat al-Qadr: the "Night of Destiny," celebrated during the last ten days of Ramadan.
• Eid al-Fitr, the holiday marking the end of Ramadan.

Ramadan is a joyous occasion, and should you have the chance to witness it, whether this year or in years to come, it will be a unique and fortunate opportunity. 

Listen in to this episode to get a taste of the experience.

Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Marrakech prayer times during Ramadan, 2022

Beautiful photos of fresh Moroccan food!

Dadès Valley

Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!

https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today!

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.

It may be your first time to Morocco, or you simply may want to cover as much as you can on your trip, in an organized, hassle-free way. Many travellers to Morocco choose a guided tour as the best way to see the country and come away with a real, vivid understanding for what they've experienced.

There are of course all kinds of options available, from focusing on specific areas of Morocco, to pursuing certain themes like perhaps food or outdoor activities, and lengths of a few days to two weeks or longer.

Azdean recommends 10 days as the ideal length, to see much of the sights, capture the variety, have enough time yet not feel too rushed. But it's your trip, you determine your preferences, and a good tour company will work together with you to make it a reality.

You're about to learn:

• How to book a tour.
• Options for add-ons and personalization, lots of flexibility.
• The options for getting around the cities and between cities.
• What's included in a typical tour, and what you need to prepare for that may not be included.
• Medication and supplies you may find helpful.
• Attractions and activities to see along the way.
• About camping under the stars in Merzouga desert.
• How to ride a camel!
• The role that tour guides play throughout your trip.
• How to acclimatize to the food.
• Guidance about cancellations, documentation and travel insurance.

This episode gives a great overview of the details of visiting Morocco, and will take the trip that's in your mind a big step towards becoming reality.


Resources Mentioned in this episode:

Sample Tour Itinerary

Casablanca    

Chefchaouen, the "blue pearl"    

Fès    

Ifrane, "The Switzerland of Morocco"

Ziz river and Gorge Canyon

Merzouga desert    

Camping under the stars 

Essaouira

Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!

https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today!

Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.