Arrival in Morocco

When I arrived in Casablanca Morocco around noon, I had to go through immigration and transfer to my flight to Marrakesh. I was quite stressed due to the 45 minutes I had to achieve all of this (we all know how this process goes) and certainly got my exercise running from one line to the next. When I finally got to my ‘gate’, I had to board a bus that would take us to the plane. The man standing by the door of the airport told me not to worry, they were tracking every person who was flying to Marrakesh and were going to wait until everyone had arrived before leaving. Wow. When was the last time you heard that in an airport? What a relief this still exists in the world! 

Once I landed in Marrakesh, I was met by a very friendly driver who spoke little English but wore a big smile. After collecting my bags we jumped in the van to begin the 1-hour drive from the Marrakesh Airport to Inara Camp, Agafay desert. Upon arrival at the camp, I met with the manager who took me on a tour of the facilities. There are three categories of ‘tents’ all with ensuite bathrooms and semi-permanent structures. A pool, outdoor restaurant, outdoor cafe, and a few other spots to ‘mingle’ could be found on the property. After tea and a tour, I settled into my tent and in a failed attempt to rest in the afternoon heat, found myself at the pool. Why not? 

Before dinner time I found myself mounting a dromedary (part of the camel family), something I never really thought about until it was happening. Though I was raised on horses, this was a different ball game. I’m not too fond of riding animals these days due to animal welfare, but these dromedaries seemed well-loved and knew no other life. We went for a 45-minute sunset ride which was a bit intimidating but lovely all the same. Dromedary (camel family) ride? Check. 

At dinner, I was welcomed by friendly staff and enjoyed a 5-course meal of local cuisine. My curiosity of ‘behind the scenes’ allowed me some time in the kitchen, where I watched the chef and his staff create delicious tagine dishes (fired roasted stew of meats and vegetables prepared by slow cooking in a shallow earthenware dish). 

That night, I enjoyed a beautiful starry sky and a quiet desert breeze.