I knew I wanted to do something really spectacular for my 50th birthday, so I planned a trip to Morocco and Portugal. I had never been to Morocco or Africa for that matter. Up until then, my global travel experience was limited–I’d been to a few countries in Europe. I did know one thing: I couldn’t wait to go and see and do! I rounded up a group of my closest friends and we planned the nearly two-week adventure. Most of the group of nine was meeting up in Lisbon (after Morocco), so for the first leg of the trip, it was me, my husband, Jeff, and my girlfriends, Ellen, and Kristin. Let me say this about Morocco, specifically Marrakech. The people, the food, the hospitality is like none other. They were delightful, helpful and accommodating… just truly the best. That’s why we’re anxious to go back! Jeff and I had done our research before traveling and read about and learned their customs and culture because it’s important to know what you're getting yourself into so you don’t offend anyone. We heard things like, women need to dress modestly and cover their shoulders, there’s no alcohol, etc. Don’t worry, we found alcohol AND we kept our shoulders covered. We stayed inside the city walls or what’s known as the Medina. There are precious boutique-type hotels called Riads. We stayed in this one. Tea service upon arrival. After we settled into our new surroundings, we ventured out into the city. OH MY GOSH THE SHOPPING!! I bought this rug on Day 1! Nothing gets by me! He was such a great guy! And a good salesman! See that yellow decanter behind his left arm? I bought it. Did I mention everything is SUPER cheap? Also got to pet a baby camel! (He doesn't look too happy about that part of the job, does he?) Our guide for the week, Muhammed! Besides the shopping and the sightseeing, y’all the food. They cook in these ceramic pots called tagines. And the restaurants are GORGEOUS!! Ain't nobody afraid of color here. A funny note about some of the restaurants. If you ask for a side of fruit you might get this. A giant bowl of fruit. This was one of the best moments. We saw this cat sitting in front of the chicken shop, waiting for his turn. The butcher was having none of it. Yes, there were cobras. A little note about me: I’m TERRIFIED of snakes. Like, if I’m going to have a nightmare, snakes will be involved. So why did I pose so casually in front of this scary dude? Because I was in the moment, living out loud and facing my fears. I’m glad I did this. Now I don’t have to do it again. BUT YOU CAN!
I could go on and on, or you could just go with me and see all of these things for yourself. Come on, let’s go! Wait until you learn what a hammam is. Click here for more details on joining Shauna on the next Moroccan adventure!
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