A Journey of Wonders and Floods in Morocco
Turning 60 is a milestone, and celebrating it in Morocco promised a blend of history, culture, and adventure. My October trip began in Casablanca, where the awe-inspiring Hassan II Mosque stood tall against the Atlantic waves. Its intricate mosaic, carved plaster, and the open-air courtyard made it a testament to Moroccan craftsmanship and devotion. From there, I ventured to Rabat, the country’s capital, where the medina’s old-world charm contrasted beautifully with the modernity of the city.
The trip’s tempo quickened in Fes, a city bursting with life. I navigated the labyrinthine streets of the medina, filled with vendors selling everything from fragrant spices to handwoven rugs. At the ceramic village, I watched artisans transform clay into stunning tiles and pottery, their mastery passed down through generations.
The highlight of the journey was a long drive to the Sahara Desert. The landscape shifted dramatically as we traveled east, from the green Middle Atlas mountains to arid plains. After twelve hours, I found myself amidst rolling dunes of golden sand, stretching endlessly under a cobalt sky. Camel trekking at sunset felt surreal, the gentle sway of the camel’s gait and the play of light on the dunes creating a moment of stillness and wonder.
But the desert had more in store. Overnight, the heavens opened in a rare deluge. By morning, the roads between the desert and Marrakech were rivers of mud and water. News came that floods had severed the main routes, isolating us. It was a humbling reminder of nature’s power. While stranded, I marveled at the resilience of the locals. They shared stories of past floods and assured us this, too, would pass. Their resourcefulness and warmth were a testament to Moroccan hospitality.
After two days, a break in the weather allowed us to carefully navigate back to Marrakech. The journey was harrowing, with makeshift detours and vehicles struggling through muddy patches. Arriving in Marrakech felt like an achievement. The city’s vibrant energy was a stark contrast to the stillness of the desert. I wandered the bustling souks, the scent of saffron and leather filling the air, and visited the Bahia Palace, where every mosaic and arch told a story.
This trip was a celebration not just of a milestone but of life’s unpredictability and beauty. Morocco, with its layered history, diverse landscapes, and spirited people, proved the perfect backdrop. And while I’ll never forget the grandeur of its cities or the serenity of the desert, it’s the flood and the shared human resilience it brought to light that will remain most vivid in my memory.