Shows
Destination Morocco PodcastDiscover a Real Morocco Cooking Class Experience - Live on Location at Riad Ghita, FesYou can also find the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here: "Discover a Real Morocco Cooking Class Experience"After the inspiring ideas of our last episode, 'Food Travel in Morocco: What to Order When You Visit', this week we take you a step further, into an actual Moroccan kitchen!The hosts at Riad Ghita in Fès welcome us behind the scenes for a genuine Moroccan cooking class, where we put together the ingredients for a lamb tagine, Moroccan salads, camel sk...
2025-12-1555 min
Destination Morocco PodcastFood Travel in Morocco: What to Order When You VisitYou can also find the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here: "Food Travel in Morocco: What to Order When You Visit"Dig in with us to this fun conversation that provides a great overview of Moroccan gastronomy and its cultural importance.Azdean and producer Ted take a look at some of the popular dishes you'll find in Morocco, some you've probably heard of, and others which might be less familiar, but that you'll discover quickly once you arrive.This episode is a...
2025-12-0130 min
Destination Morocco PodcastAn Introduction to Rabat: Morocco's Dynamic Modern CapitalWe 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...
2025-11-1512 min
Destination Morocco PodcastA Couple's Guide to Romantic MoroccoYou 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 Te...
2025-11-0138 min
Destination Morocco PodcastHow to Find Authentic Cultural Experiences in MoroccoYou can also find the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here: "How to Find Authentic Cultural Experiences in Morocco"Azdean is joined again by producer Ted to chat about the rich variety of cultural activities available to visitors, something that is often requested by Destination Morocco's guests. Travellers want to experience Morocco's real culture, whether it's the cooking, the music, the language or even the landscape, but framed around a vivid society dating back thousands of years.Step one is having a local guide with y...
2025-10-0136 min
Destination Morocco PodcastMorocco's Getting Busy: Book Your Trip Early!You can also find the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel here: "Morocco's Getting Busy: Book Your Trip Early!"Azdean is joined today by Destination Morocco producer Ted Cragg for an update on current travel trends and predictions for tourism in Morocco, as we head towards the end of 2025, with an eye on 2026.Morocco is getting busier and busier, and with some major events coming up, there is one key takeaway: book early!Morocco hosts the Africa Cup of Nations, the African equivalent of a...
2025-09-1538 min
Destination Morocco PodcastDiscover Casablanca Through the Eyes of a Blind Tour GuideWe recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "How a Blind Tour Guide Shows Tourists the Best of Casablanca"Khalil Nejjary is a blind tour guide in Casablanca, and when Azdean visited the city and the incredible Hassan II Mosque, he finally had the chance to invite him on the podcast, in person.We previously published this episode in audio form, but we now have the complete video to go along with the story, with stunning images of the i...
2025-09-0130 min
Destination Morocco PodcastA Unique Merzouga Desert Camp ExperienceWe recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "Discover a Unique Merzouga Desert Camp Experience"Azdean sits down with Mr. Said, manager and co-owner of Sahara Sky Luxury Camp, located in the heart of the desert, yet just 23 miles from the town of Erfoud, the local service centre. Said and Azdean sit down to talk about how he founded his camp, how they maintain their own animals and gardens in the desert, their emphasis on organic ingredients in their in...
2025-08-1522 min
Destination Morocco PodcastDiscover Gnawa: Morocco's Indigenous MusicWe recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: Discover Gnawa: Morocco's Indigenous Music (YouTube)---Gnaoua (also spelled Gnawa) music is known as Morocco's indigenous music, brought to the modern-day country over centuries from nomads across north Africa, and gradually adapted to various regional interpretations.Today's episode was recorded live on location at a Merzouga desert camp and at a Marrakech restaurant, and originally aired on the podcast in early 2024. Now, we have the video version f...
2025-08-0126 min
Destination Morocco PodcastA Food Tasting Tour in the Heart of Marrakech!We recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here:A Food Tasting Tour in the Heart of Marrakech! (YouTube)----Today's live episode takes you on a culinary food tour through the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, in the heart of Marrakech, with Azdean and local guide Mr. Ahmed. Together, they delve into the rich culinary traditions of the area, first with a visit to the olive section, where Ahmed explains the significance and variety of olives used i...
2025-07-1535 min
Destination Morocco PodcastHow to Avoid the Generic, Cookie-Cutter Tours of MoroccoWe recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "Create the Tour YOU Want in Morocco"When you're the type of traveller, particularly to Morocco, who would like to get past the overwhelm and uncertainties of crafting your own trip around the country and take a guided tour instead, it's easy to then get bombarded by the various discount trips, package deals without a lot of detail, rushed itineraries and tightly controlled schedules.There are better ways to s...
2025-06-0141 min
Destination Morocco PodcastWhy Chefchaouen is a Unique Gem Within MoroccoWe recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "Why Chefchaouen is a Unique Gem Within Morocco"Azdean sits down on-location with local guide Hamid to learn about the history of Chefchaouen, the famous blue city of northern Morocco.This small town roughly 4 hours north of Fes, or 2 hours south of Tangier, has been attracting tourists for decades and, in the age of Instagram, gets more popular every year.As Hamid and Azdean emphasize, Chefchaouen is not just a...
2025-05-1537 min
Destination Morocco PodcastA Morocco Travel Itinerary That's Made for Photographers!You can also watch this episode on video, where you'll see some of John's fabulous photos! You can find it on our YouTube channel here:A Morocco Travel Itinerary That's Made for Photographers!----Photographer and dedicated world traveller John Hernandez joins Azdean today to share his inspiring travel experience to Morocco, with an emphasis on photography. John recently travelled from Tangier, down through Chefchaouen, Fes (visiting Volubilis on the way), then Marrakech, the High Atlas Mountains, Essaouira and the Agafay Desert. This tw...
2025-05-0158 min
Destination Morocco PodcastShopping in the Souks of Marrakech: An Insider's Tour!We recommend watching this episode on video, on our YouTube channel. You can find it here:Shopping in the Souks of Marrakech: An Insider's Tour!----If you want to see what it's like visiting the souk, going into a real artisan shop: the sales pitch, the bartering, the valuable information and explanations, the language barriers and yet finding common ground and understanding - this will be an eye-opening episode.Azdean tours the souk of Marrakech, and visits two artisan craft workshops. Our camera crew was there...
2025-04-1528 min
Destination Morocco PodcastFrom Texas to Marrakech: American Impressions of MoroccoThis episode also appears as a video episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "From Texas to Marrakech: American Impressions of Morocco"----One evening in Marrakech, at the conclusion of their tour, Azdean sat down with three of Destination Morocco's tour guests from Texas: Eric, Allison and her brother Matt, to chat about their tour experience, and their impressions and reflections upon visiting Morocco.If you're wondering what it's really like to experience Morocco for the first time, this fascinating conversation gives you a...
2025-04-0117 min
Destination Morocco PodcastWhat Travel in Morocco Was Like in 1989, with Cathy NesbittThis episode also appears as a video episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "What Travel in Morocco Was Like in 1989"----World traveller Cathy Nesbitt joins Azdean on today's episode with a special story of visiting Morocco way back in 1989.Cathy and her future husband arrived off the boat in Ceuta, thinking they were already in Morocco, but a crash course in geopolitics and navigation quickly got them to the actual border within a few minutes.From there, they f...
2025-03-1531 min
Destination Morocco PodcastHow do Moroccans Celebrate Ramadan?This episode also appears as a video episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: How do Moroccans Celebrate Ramadan?----Ramadan in 2025 starts on the evening of Friday, February 28th and goes until Saturday, March 29th, followed by the feast of Eid al-Fitr, or the ‘Feast of Fast-Breaking.' Despite its perhaps solemn reputation, Ramadan is a joyful time for Muslims around the world, Morocco being no exception. As Azdean, Hiba and Sam explain in today's episode, the food is unique and better, families and...
2025-03-0130 min
Destination Morocco PodcastBuy a Moroccan Rug and Enjoy the Experience!We recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "Buy a Moroccan Rug and Support the Work of Local Women"Today's episode features the Akhnif Lglaoui Carpet Co-Operative, located just south of Aït Benhaddou and Ouarzazate, about 150 miles south of Marrakech.Akhnif Lglaoui Carpet Co-OpLearn about rugmaking in an informative, curious, no-pressure environment that supports the work of the local women who work so hard to make these amazing yet functional pieces of art.
2025-02-1528 min
Destination Morocco PodcastExploring Hiking & Berber Culture in Telouet, the High Atlas mountains of MoroccoWe recommend watching the video version of this episode on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "Exploring Hiking & Berber Culture in Telouet, the High Atlas mountains of Morocco" Combine outstanding hiking and trekking with authentic Amazigh (Berber) cultural experiences by visiting the town of Telouet, in the heart of the stunning High Atlas Mountains. Our episode today features a conversation between Azdean and local guide & historian Ali el-Haddadi, who leads trekking tours and escorts groups through the region. Telouet is located about a three hour dr...
2025-02-0133 min
Destination Morocco PodcastTravel to Morocco in 2025: Travel Highlights to Help Your PlanningThis episode also has a video version on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "Travel to Morocco in 2025: Travel Highlights to Help Your Planning"Or stay here for the audio version - your choice!---Morocco had a banner year in 2024, with tourist numbers reaching over 17 million, a number predicted for 2026 and yet reached two years ahead of time.With new air routes getting underway, both international and domestic, and new hotels and luxury brands setting up in the country, Morocco is very much...
2025-01-1537 min
Destination Morocco PodcastVisiting Morocco in January, February and March (replay)Palm trees and snow?T-shirts in the afternoon, winter coats in the evening?This is Morocco in winter, and it's a fun time to explore!As we head into 2025, if you are thinking of putting together a quick winter trip to Morocco, especially for those of our listeners in Europe, this replay episode gives you some useful info on what to expect and how to prepare. January, February and March are excellent times to visit Morocco: the crowds are less, the temperature is comfortable and n...
2025-01-0123 min
Destination Morocco PodcastLive Street Food Tour of MarrakechCome with us and discover some of Morocco's amazing local food, direct from the source in this dynamic live-recorded walking tour of the food stalls in Marrakech.Azdean is joined by local food guide Ahmed, who takes us through the sweet and the savory, from dishes that are common across the country to those only found, or perfected, in Marrakech specifically.We start with the olives. Olives have a long and deep history in Morocco, not just as a delicacy, but with strong cultural and religious meaning too. Ahmed tells us why olives come in...
2024-12-1535 min
Destination Morocco Podcast"The Amazigh Chronicles" - Understanding the Amazigh Language and Flag (Part 4)We continue our series on the history of the Amazigh (Berber) people, with part four of the conversation between Azdean, co-host Sam and our researcher, Hiba.In this episode, we delve into the Amazigh language, its importance to cultural identity, and the role of the Amazigh flag. Azdean, Hiba and Sam discuss the Tifinagh script, its ancient origins, and the preservation of the Amazigh language despite historical invasions. Amazigh is an oral language, which helped it survive centuries of discrimination and oppression. However, conversely, this meant there was no formal written script until 1992! This is...
2024-12-0124 min
Destination Morocco PodcastAll About Riads: Why staying in Morocco's unique accommodation is a must for your trip (replay)Riads are a wonderful way to experience Morocco, and we highly recommend you include them in your itinerary as much as possible.This episode is a replay of a popular episode devoted to riads, and talks about what exactly are riads, their history and development, how they have evolved as options for travellers, what to expect in terms of service and amenities, and so much more.Shortcut your research and get your notebook ready: this episode will have you dreaming of exotic Moroccan nights!---(From...
2024-11-1526 min
Destination Morocco PodcastTravel Agents' Special! How to talk about Morocco to your clientsThis episode also has a video version on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "Travel Agents' Special! How to talk about Morocco to your clients"Or stay here for the audio version - your choice!---We take a behind-the-scenes look in today's episode of Destination Morocco podcast, with a different theme and focus than our usual series. Azdean and producer Ted explore the psychology and mindset of how to talk about and sell Morocco, how to answer questions and generate enthusiasm. This episode i...
2024-11-0135 min
Destination Morocco PodcastFrom Capitals to Afterthoughts and Back Again: The Stories of Meknes & Volubilis (live walking tour)Today we visit 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.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...
2024-10-1542 min
Destination Morocco Podcast"The Amazigh Chronicles" - The Ancient Amazigh Civilization and Their Contribution to History (Part 3)We return to our series on the history of the Amazigh (Berber) people, with part three of the conversation between Azdean, co-host Sam and our researcher, Hiba.Our first two episodes covered an overview of Amazigh culture and history ("The Amazigh Chronicles" - The Berber History of Morocco, Part 1), followed by an in-depth look at the various tribes, which stretch across not just Morocco but all of northern Africa ("The Amazigh Chronicles" - The Rich Tapestry of Amazigh Tribes: History, Language, and Customs, Part 2).Today we start to bring...
2024-10-0141 min
Destination Morocco PodcastExploring Unique Moroccan Cultural ExperiencesThis episode also has a video version on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: "What Are Some of Morocco's Unique Cultural Experiences?" Or stay here for the audio version - your choice!---Morocco offers many unique cultural experiences and attractions, including many you might be aware of, but with their own distinct Moroccan twist.This podcast episode explains particular Moroccan cultural activities, to help you understand what they are, how they work, where you can find them and how you can participate yourself.
2024-09-1544 min
Destination Morocco PodcastDiscover Morocco's Amazing Selection of Luxury Accommodation. Live Q&AThis is a replay of the Live Q&A recording of Friday, September 6, "Discover Morocco's Amazing Selection of Luxury Accommodation."Watch the full episode on our YouTube channel for even more details and tourist ideas, and particularly for the visuals that accompany our conversation. Maps, photos and more await you there!"Discover Morocco's Amazing Selection of Luxury Accommodation" (YouTube)--Morocco is a country that can hold its own when it comes to luxury accommodation. Stunning five star hotels are matched with our distinct riads and desert...
2024-09-0858 min
Destination Morocco PodcastIntroduction to Rabat & TangierToday we have a two-part episode with some excerpts of audio recordings on location from Azdean and Sam's tour around Morocco in 2023. It continues the theme from our previous episode (#67), where we were in Chefchaouen on the same trip.Today, we are still in northern Morocco. We start off 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. You'll hear Azdean and his guide for the day, Mr. A...
2024-09-0131 min
Destination Morocco PodcastA Visit to Chefchaouen, the Blue CityAzdean sits down on location with local guide Hamid to learn about the history of Chefchaouen, the famous blue city of northern Morocco.This small town roughly 4 hours north of Fes, or 2 hours south of Tangier, has been attracting tourists for decades and, in the age of Instagram, gets more popular every year.As Hamid and Azdean emphasize, Chefchaouen is not just about the stunning colours, but the beautiful architecture, historic Medina and kasbah, and its natural setting in the Rif mountains. Gentle creeks of water wind their way through the town, artisans a...
2024-08-1537 min
Destination Morocco PodcastJust how easy is it to travel to, and around, Morocco?This episode also has a video version on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: Just how easy is it to travel to, and around, Morocco?or stay here for the audio version - your choice!--In today's episode of Destination Morocco podcast, Azdean and Sam respond to a common question they receive: Just how easy is it to travel to Morocco? This is then a starting point for a detailed discussion on some useful, practical logistics when it comes to travel to, and around, t...
2024-08-0127 min
Destination Morocco PodcastHow Discount Tours in Morocco End Up Costing You 3X More (Or Worse)This episode also has a video version on our YouTube channel, you can find it here: How Discount Tours in Morocco End Up Costing You 3X More (Or Worse),or stay here for the audio version - your choice!--Our good friend Siham (Ep. 24) returns to continue the discussion with Azdean and Sam from Ep. 62 (May 15, 2024) about dangerous scams and unseemly tourism practices in Morocco.This time, the topic is discount "tour operators," the type you see in the Jemma el-Fnaa square in Marrakech (or seemingly...
2024-07-1559 min
Destination Morocco PodcastTop Misconceptions about MoroccoIn today's episode of Destination Morocco podcast, Azdean and Sam discuss common misconceptions about traveling to Morocco. They debunk myths related to the dress code, safety, LGBTQ+ community, and whether there's more to see in Morocco than just Marrakech (!). They also address the availability of Western amenities, the use of credit cards, and the fact that Morocco offers far more than just deserts. If you're a surfing fan, discover some amazing beaches you probably haven't heard of yet!Our podcast aims to offer honest insights to prospective travelers, from native Moroccans like ourselves, an...
2024-07-0135 min
Destination Morocco Podcast"The Best Way to Experience Morocco" - Seeing Morocco Your Way, with Dan & CierraDan & Cierra McPherson travelled to Morocco with Destination Morocco and discovered far more than a generic tour experience. From secret stops to amazing cubbyhole restaurants, they received an authentic, unique exposure to Morocco’s people and culture. Cierra & Dan had a tall order for Destination Morocco when they got in touch with Azdean, looking to travel to Morocco just a short time later. They wanted to see as much of the country as possible, but over just 11 days. Could it be done?This episode recounts their journey. Thanks to Azdean and his team, these world tr...
2024-06-0152 min
Destination Morocco PodcastHow to Recognize a Dangerous, Life-Altering ScamWe've talked about scams in Morocco a few times on the podcast, from one of our early episodes (Scams! How to Understand and Avoid Them) to one of our recent Live Q&A sessions, (Latest Scams: Staying Safe While Traveling in Morocco).It's a topic we often circle back to, because we want to make sure that all tourists, whether they travel with Destination Morocco or on their own, are staying safe and confident while visiting Morocco. Some scams though are far more involved and intricate than overpaying for a taxi...
2024-05-151h 13
Destination Morocco PodcastVisiting Morocco's Secret Lake ResortIn our recent Live Q&A session on secret places in Morocco off the tourist path, one such location is a stunning lake located east of Marrakech, a roughly three hour drive from the city. Perhaps because of this distance, and the fact that it is not on the main tourist routes, it is still largely known only to locals and the occasional informed tourist.You are about to become one of those in-the-know travellers.The lake is in fact a large reservoir, held back by a mini-Hoover Dam, creating one of the...
2024-04-2126 min
Destination Morocco PodcastNavigating Travel Fails in Morocco: Tips for a Safe and Enjoyable Journey!"Travel Fails:" a popular theme in this era of do's, don't's and travel research, comes to the Destination Morocco podcast with today's episode, featuring Azdean, Hiba and Sam. They share their knowledge of travel in Morocco, as well as first-hand experience as travellers themselves in their country, to give you some useful tips of what to do (and what not to do) when you are exploring Morocco yourself.Focusing on safety, we talk about security measures against pickpocketing and theft, avoiding scams, medical preparations, food and water safety, and dealing with the heat. The importance of understanding...
2024-04-1133 min
Destination Morocco PodcastFes Walking Tour Part 2: Visiting the Famous Fes Pottery StudioAzdean and his local Fes guide extraordinaire, Moulay Hafid Alami, conclude their tour of the old city with a visit to the pottery and ceramic studio, "Mosaique et Poterie de Fes."Located just to the east of the medina, this is more than a simple shop selling their beautiful craftwork (and there is a lot of it!). When you arrive, you get a guided tour of the facility, starting with handling the raw clay itself, learning how it's shaped, dried and fired, then glazed and decorated.In our episode today, Azdean is taking...
2024-04-0129 min
Destination Morocco PodcastFes Walking Tour Part 1: The Royal Palace, Jewish Quarter and the TanneryExperience the sounds and ambience of Fes in this live walking tour of the medina, during Azdean's tour in 2023. Accompanied by expert guide Moulay Hafid Alami, we start in Fes el Jdid, the 14th century quarter, learning about the Royal Palace of Fes and its seven golden doors (only created in the 1960's), and the importance of the neighboring Jewish Quarter, or Mellah, the first in Morocco. We pause to take in the quiet tranquility of the Jewish Cemetery, as Hafid tells us about the special bond between Muslims and Jews in Morocco, in Fes in particular....
2024-03-2137 min
Destination Morocco PodcastExploring the Magical City of Fez. Live Q&AThis is an excerpt of the Live Q&A recording of Wednesday, March 13, exploring the vibrant city of Fez.Watch the full episode on our YouTube channel for even more details and tourist ideas, and particularly for the visuals that accompany our conversation. Maps, photos and more await you there!Exploring the Magical City of Fez, video replayAzdean, Sam and Ted expand on our recent episode on Fez (which goes over a sample four-day itinerary) and reminisce on their own experiences and memories there, while answering your questions...
2024-03-1433 min
Destination Morocco PodcastTop Things to Do and See in Fez!We have dabbled in Fès since the start of the Destination Morocco podcast, as it has made an appearance in episodes such as our tour overview of Morocco, our discovery of famous Moroccan food, or in particular from our guests' stories, such as with Chantal and her family, who spent some memorable days in and around the city:Episode 4: A Guided Tour Around MoroccoEpisode 14: Dig Into Genuine Moroccan Dishes in FèsEpisode 22: Comfortable and Safe Family Travel in MoroccoNow, we enter into our first dedicated series of episodes on this fabulous city, starting with a ge...
2024-03-1127 min
Destination Morocco PodcastUnderstanding Ramadan in Moroccan CultureYou can also watch this video episode on our YouTube channel here: https://youtu.be/FhPkzzzYjnsRamadan in 2024 starts on the evening of Sunday, March 10th and goes until Tuesday, April 9th, followed by the feast of Eid al-Fitr, or the ‘Feast of Fast-Breaking.' Despite its perhaps solemn reputation, Ramadan is a joyful time for Muslims around the world, Morocco being no exception. As Azdean, Hiba and Sam explain in today's episode, the food is unique and better, families and community frequently come together, and it is a time for celebration and co...
2024-03-0127 min
Destination Morocco PodcastLive Gnaoua Music: Discover Morocco's Powerful Musical HeritageWe conclude our cultural tour of Morocco with a performance of Gnaoua (also spelled Gnawa) music, recorded live on location at a Merzouga desert camp and at a Marrakech restaurant.In between performances, Azdean sits down with Mohamed, a musician and member of the Gnaoua performers in Qser el Khamliya, a small village just south of Merzouga. Mohamed started playing when he was eight years old, and gives us some background on the roots of Gnawa music, created by slaves and nomads from Sub-Saharan countries. The music was meant to express the suffering of slaves and their...
2024-02-2126 min
Destination Morocco PodcastLanguage Phrases for Travellers in Morocco. Live Q&AThis episode is the audio replay of part our Destination Morocco live Q&A session, on Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024.You can find the full video version here on our YouTube channel.Our live Q&A session this month focused on identifying useful phrases in Moroccan languages that travellers can use while in the country. As a very multilingual country, this means doing so in more than one language, which as we explore today essentially means Darija (Moroccan Arabic), Berber (or Tamazight, the original indigenous language), and French, which is still in very...
2024-02-1523 min
Destination Morocco PodcastMultilingual Insights: Conversations with Mr Mustapha in Aït Ben HaddouContinuing on a bit further south from our last episode in Telouet, we follow Azdean on his summer tour down to Aït Ben Haddou, southern gateway to the High Atlas mountains and their stunning scenery and hiking. Aït Ben Haddou is a small town but is known for its traveller services, restaurants and accommodation, and its welcoming hospitality.In this episode of Destination Morocco podcast, Azdean sits down with Mr. Mustapha, who works at the restaurant l'Oasis d'Or (Golden Oasis), a popular restaurant located on the main road through town. Mustapha speaks extensively about Berber cu...
2024-02-1117 min
Destination Morocco PodcastExploring Telouet's Berber Legacy with Local Historian Ali AhdadiWe continue our exploration of Berber/Amazigh culture with a visit to Telouet, a small village deep in the High Atlas Mountains, known for its kasbah, trekking and beautiful scenery. Azdean met with local guide and historian Ali Ahdadi to delve into Berber influence in the area and activities for travellers passing through.Telouet is a bit off the beaten path, hence why it was largely a secret until recently. But in reality it's only a 2.5 hour drive from Marrakech, an hour south to Aït Benhaddou, and another half hour from there down to Ouarzazate. The r...
2024-02-0133 min
Destination Morocco Podcast"The Amazigh Chronicles" - The Rich Tapestry of Amazigh Tribes: History, Language, and Customs (Part 2)In today's episode of Destination Morocco podcast, Azdean, Hiba and Sam expand on the historical canvas and cultural fabric formed by the Amazigh, or Berber, tribes across North Africa.Our focus is an overview of some of the more prominent tribes and communities, who have had a long and lasting impact on the region. Long before modern political borders, invaders and settlers, and contemporary languages and culture, these Amazigh peoples were laying down cultural roots still seen today.Our list includes:the Riffians of Northern Morocco and the Rif Mountains, the Kabyles of Northern A...
2024-01-2132 min
Destination Morocco PodcastUnderstanding Scams in Morocco: How to Travel with Confidence. Live Q&AThis episode is the audio replay of our Destination Morocco live Q&A session, on Wednesday, Jan. 10, 2024.You can find the video version here on our YouTube channel.In this month's session, Azdean, Sam and podcast producer Ted, navigate the labyrinth of traveller scams in the bustling streets and markets of Morocco. With a focus that is as practical as it is necessary, they will equip you with the knowledge to sidestep common pitfalls that many an unwary traveller might stumble into.What are the latest tricks taxi drivers have up...
2024-01-111h 05
Destination Morocco Podcast"The Amazigh Chronicles" - The Berber History of Morocco (Part 1)Who are the Moroccans?To a large extent, the native population of Morocco are the Amazigh people, whose presence and influence date back thousands of years. Commonly known as “Berbers,” in fact their preferred term, “Amazigh,” is a more positive, inclusive name that means “the free people.” Speaking the Tamazight language, and pronounced similar to “A-ma-zirgh,” (with the “rgh” a soft guttural sound) Amazigh roots spread far beyond just the borders of Morocco, which as you’ll learn in today’s episode, are quite artificial. Tribes and bloodlines stretch from Egypt to modern day Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, Maurita...
2024-01-1131 min
Destination Morocco PodcastGetting Value for your Money in MoroccoYou’ve spent a lot of money to get to Morocco, especially to see it thoroughly and comprehensively. And even more importantly, your trip is the culmination of months or years of dreaming, planning, research and preparation. We all know that unexpected things can happen, from getting sick to breakdowns or even just surprisingly poor customer service. But to sort out these problems, you’ll want to be in the hands of experienced professionals who see you as more than a number or a confirmation code. Today’s episode is our first of 2024, and Azdean and Sam...
2024-01-0138 min
Destination Morocco PodcastRachel's Impromptu Adventure: Morocco on a WhimOne of the great travel stories we’ve heard from a guest on the podcast was just over a year ago now. It was with Rachel Metcalfe, for whom Morocco went from being a remote, distant idea to, a month later, sitting on the airplane on her way to Casablanca.Destination Morocco took on the challenge of organizing her last-minute trip, and in this episode Rachel explains how that made all the difference in having an enjoyable, complete tour that covered the sights she wanted to see.This is our last episode of 2023, and many th...
2023-12-2139 min
Destination Morocco PodcastFood & Cuisine: What do people eat in Morocco? What is tagine? Is there alcohol in Morocco? Live Q&AThis episode is the audio replay of our Destination Morocco live Q&A session, on Wednesday, Dec. 13.You can find the video version here on our YouTube channel, with lots of visuals that go with the conversation.In this month's session, Azdean and Sam answered your questions about Morocco's fabulous food and cuisine. You've likely heard at least a bit about tagines, pastillas, mint tea and of course, couscous. But this episode will really fill in the blanks and help you place your order.How do you order tagine when you're...
2023-12-141h 07
Destination Morocco PodcastHow a Blind Tour Guide Shows Tourists the Best of CasablancaOver the course of many episodes of the podcast, we’ve often mentioned a certain guide based in Casablanca. He has had a lasting and indelible impact on those who have had the pleasure of meeting him. Our guests on the podcast, from Chantal to Pablo and even Ted have remarked on his knowledge, warmth and spirit.Khalil Nejjary is his name, and when Azdean visited Casablanca and the incredible Hassan II Mosque this past summer, he finally had the chance to invite him on the podcast, in person.If you remember his story, you'll kn...
2023-12-1130 min
Destination Morocco PodcastWhat Makes Morocco Appealing?Today's episode of Destination Morocco ponders the question of "What makes Morocco appealing?" What attracts people to Morocco, and what are their perceptions of the country before going there?Naturally there are always stereotypes and assumptions that build up over time, and as Azdean points out in this episode, Europeans are inevitably more familiar with Morocco than North Americans due to their proximity, and the ease of getting there, perhaps even for a quick long weekend.But for many travellers, Morocco is a bucket list destination that they may only reach once in their lifetime...
2023-12-0134 min
Destination Morocco PodcastWhere to Find a Genuine Moroccan Rug and a Positive, Ethical Shopping ExperienceContinuing our recent theme of shopping, tipping and travelling safely in Morocco, today's episode features the Akhnif Glaoui Carpet Co-Operative, located just south of Aït Benhaddou and Ouarzazate, about 150 miles south of Marrakech. Azdean visited this wonderful, genuine boutique back in June of this year, during the summer trip to Morocco, while on the Southern Morocco tour. It was here where he met Sarah, host and guide of the facility, who gave Azdean and family a tour and showed them the incredible weaving and rugmaking that is done there, all by women. This Women's C...
2023-11-2127 min
Destination Morocco PodcastInsider's Guide to Navigating Tipping and Shopping in MoroccoThe culture of tipping in Morocco is something we get a lot of questions about, and indeed many people aren't sure if they should tip at all, or when, and how much. It can quickly get overwhelming and a little awkward, if you don't know what to expect.Azdean is here today to set out a comprehensive guide to tipping when you're travelling in Morocco. The short answer is yes, tipping applies in many cases across the country, in many different situations. The culture has evolved to something similar to the United States and other countries. You...
2023-11-1131 min
Destination Morocco PodcastThe Story Behind Destination MoroccoYou've heard his baritone podcast voice for the past year and a half, and picked up bits and pieces of his story. But as we approach our 50th episode of Destination Morocco podcast, have you wondered, "How did Azdean come to live in Houston, and how did Destination Morocco get its beginnings?”Azdean did in fact grow up in Marrakech, never imagining that he would wind up in the United States, raise a family, start businesses and build connections around the world. It's an inspiring story of perseverance, opportunity and getting much help and support along the wa...
2023-11-0137 min
Destination Morocco PodcastPodcast Trailer: The Destination Morocco PodcastTake yourself on a tour and gain new understanding for the beautiful country of Morocco on the Destination Morocco Podcast, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and more. Our goal is to introduce you to the real Morocco, showing you how to prepare, what to see, what to expect and how to make the most of your time.Join host Azdean Elmoustaquim as we meet locals and guides, learn about costs and prices, safety, the kinds of scams to look out for in the bazaars, what languages to expect, types of accommodation and so much more.
2023-10-2600 min
Destination Morocco PodcastBuild your Morocco itinerary your way: all the details on private, personalized tours. Live Q&AThis episode is the audio replay of our Destination Morocco live Q&A session, on Wednesday, Oct. 11.You can find the video version here.In today's conversation with Azdean, Sam and podcast producer Ted, we'll focus on what's included in a typical Destination Morocco tour, how we go about building itineraries, and how we build from your preferences and priorities to shape a tour that works for you, and is specific to you.This is a big part of what makes Destination Morocco an ideal travel partner: we don't force you...
2023-10-1251 min
Destination Morocco PodcastListen to This Before You Go to MoroccoWatch the video version of this episode here: https://youtu.be/8c83YIlxYqcHere at Destination Morocco, we receive questions all the time about how to prepare for a trip to Morocco and what to expect. We love being able to help out our fellow travellers and help you avoid the sense of shock, while preserving the sense of adventure, once you arrive in our homeland.This episode is the first of a series that will answer travel questions about Morocco, grouped together in various themes. Today, we are focusing on what to prepare before-hand...
2023-10-1128 min
Destination Morocco PodcastTravelling to Morocco, Post-EarthquakeCeasha Micallef had her dream tour to Morocco booked months in advance, with a departure date of Friday, September 8, 2023. As she was in-flight over the Atlantic, heading for a stopover in Paris before going on to Casablanca, the 6.8 magnitude earthquake hit southern Morocco. She arrived at the airport to text messages and missed calls from family and friends, wondering if she was still able to go. In truth, she wasn't sure herself. Back and forth texts with the Destination Morocco team in Marrakech, particularly with her driver, Mohammed, quickly confirmed that the country was safe...
2023-10-0144 min
Destination Morocco PodcastEarthquake in Morocco: Impact on Travel, Tourism, and Human Relief EffortsFriday night's earthquake in Morocco was sudden and unexpected, and hit home for us here at Destination Morocco. Our office is based in Marrakech and sustained damage, and many of our staff are now homeless. Azdean, based in Houston, felt stuck and helpless, trying to figure out what he could do from so far away.Many of our podcast listeners and former clients have reached out with their condolences and offers of help, for which we are very thankful and appreciative.As we come to terms with this disaster, we know that the Moroccan people...
2023-09-1121 min
Destination Morocco PodcastTouring Morocco: Learning From Azdean's ExperienceAzdean spent the summer of 2023 researching attractions, riads, hotels, restaurants and activities in Morocco, gathering information to give Destination Morocco clients an even better, more authentic experience.He and his team also captured hours of audio and video footage, which is being rolled out on the Destination Morocco podcast and the new YouTube channel.All in all, it was a lot of logistical planning that put him in the shoes of his clients: figuring out where to go, what to see and for how long. Today Azdean and Ted Cragg, the podcast producer...
2023-09-0134 min