Once upon a time in Morocco

Let me introduce myself: I’m Alyssa, 25 years old, an internal auditor in banking.

As I like to say, I’m a free spirit — my heart often wanders elsewhere.

I’m passionate about travel, adventure, new horizons, discovery, and most of all, connection. I love to immerse myself in a culture, to exchange stories, to share experiences. Through my different journeys, I’ve realized how alive I feel when stepping onto new soil, letting myself be carried by art, smiles, and stories. And of course, by those little anecdotes and mishaps — because without them, could we really call it an adventure?

Today, I want to share my story from Morocco. But what does this country mean to me?

Flaming colors, endless desert, dazzling mosaics, majestic mosques, buzzing souks, camels, music, the scent of spices, couscous, tajines, the sea, belly dancers, leatherwork, kindness, narrow streets… and above all, a whirlwind of memories.

So, how did I end up in Morocco?

Doesn’t fate sometimes have a funny way of surprising us? I had always dreamed of discovering this country, and in January 2024, that dream finally came true. It was my first time in Africa. I set off for a week with my boyfriend at the time. The destination? Marrakech. How could I start anywhere else? A desert escape, quad biking, camel rides, wandering through souks and tanneries, visiting the Majorelle Garden, staying in a riad, discovering the legendary Aït Ben Haddou — it had everything.

Well, almost everything… my week began with a little food poisoning (otherwise it wouldn’t be a real trip, would it?). So, no Atlas Studios for me. But I did enjoy an unforgettable camel ride at sunset, one that I’ll never forget.

That trip, filled with laughter, emotion, and intense souk bargaining (because yes, negotiation there is an art form of its own!), left me dreaming. Who would have thought I’d return so soon after?

Back in France, I was looking for my first full-time job. And on my very first day, I was told that by the end of the week… I’d be flying to Morocco. I had just come back, and suddenly, I was headed to Casablanca for ten weeks.

At first, work was intense. My evenings revolved around food — every night, a new restaurant with my colleagues. We tried everything: local, less local, fancy, traditional. My favorite spot? Dar Dada, where the dancers are almost as captivating as the slow-cooked lamb shoulder.

But could I really spend every weekend locked in a hotel room? Of course not. I decided to explore.

And so, I found myself wandering through Fès, Ouarzazate, Tangier, Chefchaouen, returning to Marrakech, and rediscovering Casablanca in a new light. Every weekend was a new adventure. I took trains, booked random excursions, got lost in stations, discovered shared taxis, and occasionally argued with drivers who refused to use the meter. But isn’t that part of the journey too? Some moments amazing, others frustrating, all of them unforgettable.

In Ouarzazate, I soaked in the atmosphere of Aït Ben Haddou — that iconic, timeless village where it feels like stepping into another world. And to think how many famous films were shot there! I finally got to visit the studios, learn about Berber heritage, and even met a French traveler who became a real friend (big up tp Levi).

Then came Chefchaouen — a dream in blue. Every corner looked like a postcard, every wall worthy of a photo. How could anyone not fall in love? That’s where I met Zoubs, who was visiting his family. He shared stories, took me to a great little restaurant, and showed me a sunset I’ll never forget. For one evening, he became my guide, and a friend.

And then there was Fès… my absolute favorite. The heat was overwhelming, but I didn’t care. I woke up early to explore its treasures. My day began with a touching encounter: a souvenir vendor invited me to his home. His house was modest, but his hospitality immense. He even offered me some of the breakfast his wife was preparing. I was deeply moved by such generosity. Afterwards, I continued to wander through the city — the golden gates of the royal palace, colorful souks, the Rainbow Street alive with artists, ancient hammams, the tanneries seen from above… It felt like walking straight into a tale from One Thousand and One Nights.

Finally, Casablanca. I explored the old medina, admired the majestic Hassan II Mosque, rode horses along the beach, and had countless chats with the lovely lady from the dry cleaners. The restaurant owners began recognizing me, greeting me with warm smiles as if I were part of the neighborhood. And those Friday train rides, with excitement bubbling in my chest, off to a new weekend adventure… Casablanca may not be the most spectacular city in Morocco, but it will always have a special place within me.

Morocco will forever be the beginning of so many things: my first step in Africa, my first job, my first solo adventures. Through all the stories and twists along the way, I left a piece of my heart there — and I know I’ll go back someday.