Mouthwatering Moroccan Cuisine

Morocco's mouthwatering cuisine has a depth of flavor resulting from ancient influences from Andalusian Spain, Arabia, Asia and France.

It's alive with subtle spices and mouthwatering flavor combinations. Imagine fresh, sour green olives paired with preserved lemons, stirred into a tagine of tender chicken; or a tender  pigeon meat pie dusted with cinnamon and icing; or sardines flash broiled coated with a combination of coriander, parsley, cumin and a hint of chili. Every meal is an experience! 

So here are some traditional Moroccan delicacies to look out for when you're traveling this majestic kingdom:

B’ssara

This rich soup of dried fava beans is traditionally served in Northern Morocco for breakfast, topped with a swirl of olive oil, a sprinkling of cumin and paprika, with fresh bread out of the oven. 

Hot soup for breakfast? Absolutely! It's a "fava"lis way to start the day!

Fresh Seafood

Fresh seafood is a staple in Morocco, due to the extensive coastline along the Mediterranean and Atlantic. A highlight of any trip would be to walk the piers of Essouira, purchase sardines fresh off the boat and bring them right to a local restaurant and have them salt-bake the sardines for you. MWA! What perfection! 

There is a wide variety of seafood dishes that you can enjoy anywhere in Morocco, and you can be assured of the highest quality, freshest fish in the world. Think tagine, couscous, stews, bastilla, crab and lobster, etc. When in port towns, make it a priority to find a good guide who can lead you directly to the best seafood restaurants in town. 

Harira

Harira is a perhaps the most common staple of the Moroccan diet. During the holy month of Ramadan, the fast is broken at sunset each day with a steaming bowl of this delicious soup that is rich with tomatoes, lentils, chickpeas (sometimes lamb, sometimes vegetarian), and finished off with a squeeze of lemon juice and some chopped coriander, and served with a sticky sweet pretzel called chebakkiya. 

Couscous

Couscous, perhaps the most familiar of Moroccan dishes, is a fine wheat pasta traditionally rolled by hand and double steamed. When served, the meat is covered by a pyramid of couscous and the vegetables are pressed into the sides and the sauce is served separately. 

It's often garnished with a sweet raisin preserve, or in the Berber tradition, a bowl of buttermilk. 

Royal Couscous is a kind of "kitchen sink" version that has everything and anything the chef wants to add, with several different meats in addition to all the vegetables they can fit. 

B’stilla

This very special pie, served as a main course for special events, represents the pinnacle of exquisite Fassi (from Fez) cuisine. Layers of a paper-thin pastry wrap around a blend of pigeon, chicken, seafood or other meat, mixed with almonds and eggs spiced with saffron, cinnamon and fresh coriander. The savory pie is then dusted with sugar and cinnamon. It is delicious and unforgettable! It takes many hours to make, and is usually quite expensive, but well worth it. 

Tagine

A tagine is both a meal and a kind of pottery. The meal is cooked and served in the tagine pot. 

On your Moroccan journey, you'll find an infinite assortment of roadside "tagineries" where you can stop and have a bite for lunch You'll be able to choose from an assortment of beef, chicken or lamb cooked in a tomato and onion sauce with garlic, fresh coriander and parsley.  It is served with pan bread and mint tea. 

Mint Tea

Mint tea is the quintessential element of Moroccan hospitality. It will be rare that you enter a home or hotel and are not offered the opportunity to sit down immediately for a cup of this delicious refreshment, otherwise known as "Moroccan Whiskey." It is a tea ceremony to rival tea ceremonies, and has been a part of Moroccan tradition for hundreds and hundreds of years. 

Mint tea is prepared with fresh mint, Chinese Gunpowder tea, and sugar. It is steeped, then poured out, and poured back in, until the taste has reached perfection. If you don't consume sugar, you can ask for no sugar and it will be provided. 

On your journey, you will enjoy many cups of Moroccan Hospitality!

Marrakesh Voyage offers cooking classes as a part of our customized, private journies. Whether you're interested in a solo class or a whole tour of cooking classes, we can provide you with the ultimate experience for your budget.

Marrakesh Voyage is a Morocco ground tour operator specialized in FIT and exotic escorted trips throughout the mystical Kingdom of Morocco, representing Guests and Tour Operators from all around the Globe. Our headquarters are in New York, and we have offices all over Morocco.

We will help you design and customize the trip of a life time according to your interest, passions, and desire for you, your guests and for your company.

 

 

 

International Travel in the Age of Ebola

The Ebola crisis has people around the world running scared, cancelling travel plans and halting any plans for future travel. 

It has become a kind of mass hysteria, fueled by speculation and fears that are blown completely out of proportion. This blog will give an objective portrait of the situation, with the intention of dispelling the misplaced hysteria and empowering the public to continue life as normal.

According to Amar Safdar, MD of Emory University in Atlanta, which specializes in infectious diseases (where they cured 2 patients of the virus), “It is not a casual contact-acquired infection. There is no known Ebola transmission through coughing or sneezing, like with influenza or tuberculosis." In other words, you are not at risk for Ebola infection unless you are in direct contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person in the late stages of the virus. (http://www.everydayhealth.com/news/ebola-10-essential-facts-about/)

The most severely affected countries, Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia have very weak health systems, lacking human and infrastructural resources, having only recently emerged from long periods of conflict and instability.  (http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs103/en/)

Because of this recent instability, these countries have extremely poor nutrition and the people who live there have very low immunity, which makes them much more susceptible to infection than people of the First World. (http://www.naturalhealth365.com/natural_cures/ebola-virus-thomas-levy-1095.html)

To prevent cross-contamination, major airports are now flagging travelers for Ebola screening to prevent infected passengers from boarding planes (http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2014/10/13/355874691/ebola-screening-at-jfk-airport-flagged-91-travelers-none-had-virus). 

If you have to travel, what is the best way to protect yourself?

The best way you can prevent any viral or bacterial infection is to boost your immune system. Eat a healthy diet low in sugars and processed food, stay hydrated with good water, get plenty of exercise and sunshine, and boost up your intake of quality, non-chemical Vitamin C. These are simple steps that you can take all year long to remain healthy in any situation. (http://blog.drbrownstein.com/what-can-you-do-to-preventtreat-ebola/) 

Don't let fear prevent you from living the life you deserve! 

Life is to be lived, and lived well. In our modern world, it is a crucial skill to be able to recognize hype, and see beyond it. I hope this information helps you to understand that Ebola is completely over-hyped, and there is absolutely NO reason to fear traveling anywhere in the world that you desire to go.

“I must not fear. Fear is the mind-killer. Fear is the little-death that brings total obliteration. I will face my fear. I will permit it to pass over me and through me. And when it has gone past I will turn the inner eye to see its path. Where the fear has gone there will be nothing. Only I will remain.” 

- Frank Herbert, Dune

Marrakesh Voyage is a Morocco ground tour operator specialized in FIT and exotic escorted trips throughout the mystical Kingdom of Morocco, representing Guests and Tour Operators from all around the Globe. Our headquarters are in New York, and we have offices all over Morocco.

We will help you design and customize the trip of a life time according to your interest, passions, and desire for you, your guests and for your company.

 

The Adventure of Marrakesh

There's something mystical and enchanting about this desert oasis, which in ancient times was a vibrant trading post for camel trains connecting Sub-Saharan Africa with Europe and the North.

In its 1000 year history Marrakesh has belonged to many different kingdoms, but in most respects it is a Berber city, painted with the natural hues of roses and pinks and reds that mirror the iron in the High Atlas mountains just beyond. The medina, the old city, with its narrow, cobbled streets is home to modern-day traders in exquisite handicrafts and fruits of the desert for an absolute shopping delight. There are fantastic museums of antiquity, where you can glimpse the lives of the concubines of the harem, and the caliphs, and the sultans. Much remains as it was hundreds of years ago.

This includes, of course, the souk.... the ancient covered market where you can wander for days, haggling with the vendors, feasting your eyes on some of the most wondrous selection of handicrafts, herbs, ointments, clothes, and whatever else you can imagine.

And yet because of the years of the French Protectorate, there is a gleam of modern elegance and technology, lodged in step with the ancient city. World class restaurants, bars and cafes; art museums; music, film and cultural festivals;  fabled grand hotels.... Marrakesh has something to delight everyone.

Visit the famed Marjorelle Gardens, built by french artist Jacques Marjorelle, who gave to Morocco its ubiquitous "Marjorelle Blue," a home and property that was later owned by Yves St. Laurent, who gifted it to the Moroccan people. Enjoy a quick trip to the Sadiaan Tombs from the 16th century, which will inspire and captivate, and the Koutoubia Mosque, finished in 1199, which was the largest mosque in Morocco until the Hassan II Mosque was built in Casablanca in recent years. Its magnificence inspired La Giralda in Seville, and the Hassan Tower in Rabat.

There are too many historical and cultural sites to mention! Marrakesh is a city for wandering, getting lost, and discovering the unexpected. It's an excellent spot for relaxation, fine dining, and world class entertainment.  You can dress as you like! As a highly touristic city, Marrakesh is accepting of all traditions; however to enter religious buildings, women will need to have their hair and arms and legs covered, and for fine dining you would dress as you would in any respectable establishment.

Marrakesh Voyage is a Morocco ground tour operator specialized in FIT and exotic escorted trips throughout the mystical Kingdom of Morocco, representing Guests and Tour Operators from all around the Globe. Our headquarters are in New York, and we have offices all over Morocco.

We will help you design and customize the trip of a life time according to your interest, passions, and desire for you, your guests and for your company.

 

Music Festivals in Morocco

Music is a very important part of Moroccan culture, and because of the exotic beauty of this ancient country, it has become a real hotspot for music festivals. 

All summer long, there are absolutely fantastic opportunities to hear world-class music, in the beautiful backdrop of the Kingdom of Morocco. Here's a sampling of the most popular music festivals in Morocco:
 
The Fes Festival of World Sacred Music

The aim of this Festival is to harness the arts and spirituality in the service of human and social development, and the relationship between peoples and cultures. Early to Mid-June  

Essaouira Festival of Gnaoua and World Music

A music festival based on the traditions of Gnawa music has grown to include musicians from all over the world. This successful annual festival has been around for a decade and venues are dotted all around the picturesque coastal town of Essaouira.

Gnawa music is a combination of acrobatic dancing, music and ceremony. Its origins lie in a unique mixture of Berber, African and Arabic songs, religious rites and dance. Mid to Late-June

Marrakesh Popular Arts Festival

The Marrakech Popular Arts Festival attracts folk singers, dancers, fortune-tellers, acting troupes, snake charmers, fire-breathers and more, from all over Morocco. Since 2000, the festival has also attracted many artists and entertainers from Europe and Asia.

The main events take place in the ruins of the 16 century Badi Palace and the Djemma el Fna. Late June, Early July

Timitar Music Festival

Featuring over 40 artists with 500,000 in attendance, Timitar Festival in Agadir, Morocco, has established itself as one the premiere African music festivals.  The goal of the festival is to set up a cultural project for the meeting between Amazigh (Berber) artists, other traditions from Morocco, and world musicians.  Late June.

Montreux Jazz Festival Morocco

An offshoot of the wildly popular European festival, the Montreux Jazz Festival in Morocco is held in Marrakesh at the stunning Bahia Palace. It includes workshops, acoustic concerts, and the famous "Montreux Club." As with the main festival in Switzerland, there is a mix of pop and rock, and the Moroccan event is growing steadily in prestige. Early to Mid-July

Marrakesh Voyage is a Morocco ground tour operator specialized in FIT and exotic escorted trips throughout the mystical Kingdom of Morocco, representing Guests and Tour Operators from all around the Globe. Our headquarters are in New York, and we have offices all over Morocco.

We will help you design and customize the trip of a life time according to your interest, passions, and desire for you, your guests and for your company.

What are the Best Hotels in Morocco? Part 3: La Tour Hassan, Rabat

Ancient Elegance, Modernized. Sumptuous, Traditional, Untroubled.

La Tour Hassan, a palatial hotel in the Moroccan capital of Rabat, is an exquisite blend of the best Moroccan design with world-class comforts. As the stopping point for international diplomats and VIPs, it's designed with the intimate feel of a Riad but includes all the perks of a grand hotel, including gardens, a traditional "hammam" (steam/spa), a fitness center, pool, lounges, restaurants and conference facilities.

The hotel and its staff seek to pamper guests, who enjoy world-class service and comforts as well as a peaceful and tranquil environment. It's has excellent banquet & meeting facilities, and guests can enjoy a Moroccan culture night on Fridays, including an Andalusian orchestra.

La Tour Hassan has 142 rooms and suites. There are 3 restaurants, offering traditional Moroccan cuisine, French, and International. There are two bars - one a piano bar, the other with a DJ. Each bar serves tapas and/or sushi.

Whether you're relaxing at the hotel, meeting with royalty or touring the beautiful city of Rabat, La Tour Hassan is a beautiful and comfortable place to rejuvenate.

Rabat was awarded second place in "Top Travel Destinations of 2013" by CNN. It lies on the Atlantic Ocean, at the mouth of the river Bou Regreg, close to Casablanca, also near to Meknes and Fez.

 

Marrakesh Voyage is a Morocco ground tour operator specialized in FIT and exotic escorted trips throughout the mystical Kingdom of Morocco, representing Guests and Tour Operators from all around the Globe. Our headquarters are in New York, and we have offices all over Morocco.

We will help you design and customize the trip of a life time according to your interest, passions, and desire for you, your guests and for your company.

What are the Best Hotels in Morocco? Part 2: Hotel Palais Jamaï Fes

Fez is an ancient spiritual, intellectual and creative capital, referred to as the "Athens of Africa" and its magnificent history emanates from the cobbled streets and ancient walls like the scent of a thousand roses. 

As a key location in the trade and migration route between Europe and Africa, Fez has played a major role in history, and continues this day as the cultural capital of the Kingdom of Morocco.

With its amazing culture and history, you're sure to be overwhelmed. What better way to enhance your enjoyment than to experience a few nights at the Hotel Palais Jamaï Fes, one of Morocco's Grand Hotels, built as a residence in 1879 for the Grand Vizier and renovated for Sofitel. It's sprawling grounds and gardens are located in the heart of the ancient medina (a UNESCO world heritage site); it is an oasis amidst the bustling souks and crafthouses.

As a bastion of the most elegant Moroccan traditions, Hotel Palais Jamaï Fes offers breathtaking views over the medina, patios, and a lush Andalusian garden, all which make this Sofitel Legend 5* hotel an ideal spot for relaxation and rejuvenation. 

With two restaurants, a hammam/spa, a bar, expansive gardens, tennis, golf, a pool, lounges and a mini palais for the kids, it is perfect for the whole family, or any business trip.  Take a day trip to Meknes, or Volubilis and enjoy the landscape of ancient grape and olive groves, or explore the medieval labyrinth of streets of Fez by day. Come back to your luxurious suite and relax before tasting the spectacular Fezzi cuisine at night in any of the restaurants.

Hotel Palais Jamaï Fes offers rooms, suites and villas, decorated in the traditional Fezzi style of intricate tilework and stained glass, with comfortable, high quality fixtures throughout. 

It's an ideal spot for family reunions, meetings, corporate events, weddings and other group journeys.

Located in the heart of the Fez medina, which is the largest car-free zone in the world, you might not need your car for days! If you shop in the medina, you can hire a man and cart to bring your acquisitions back to the hotel with you.

A trip to Fez with a stay at the Hotel Palais Jamaï Fes is always an unforgettable journey, and that is our specialty at Marrakesh Voyage. We would be honored and delighted to help you design a private, guided journey in the Kingdom of Morocco. 

What are the Best Hotels in Morocco? Part 1: La Mamounia Hotel & Spa

Where in the world does history tango with opulence, imagination pirouette with fantasy, and luxury embrace artistry? Why La Mamounia, of course.... the legendary grand hotel from the jazz age, set amidst the lush palm oasis of Marrakesh, which Winston Churchill referred to as "the most lovely spot in the whole world."

Opening its doors for the first time in 1923, during the time of the French Protectorate, La Mamounia is an exquisite, perhaps divine mix of Arab-Moorish architecture and Art Deco. With great fanfare, it re-opened in 2009 after a 3 year renovation and has subsquently been pinned the absolute top of every list, earning accolades for "hotel of the year," "best resort," "best international spa," "best hotel spa," "best hotel for service," "best urban hotel" and the "Grande Dame" by Fodor's 100 Hotels Award.

In times of yore, La Mamounia became Winston Churchill's retreat, where he would spend winters painting the majestic High Atlas Mountains and surrounding countryside. It was here that he relaxed in private with FDR just after the Casablanca Conference, (where he and FDR, Charles de Gaulle et al had outlined the strategy for ending WWII). The painting of the High Atlas Mountains that he gave to President Truman sold for almost $1 million.

Movie stars, rock stars, royalty and political leaders have all stepped through these doors into the mythical fortress of luxury and privacy to release themselves into the feather embrace of glamor, discretion, refinement and leisure. Marlene Dietrich was here, and Charlie Chaplin, and Alfred Hitchcock, and Charlton Heston, Mick Jagger, Tom Cruise, Nelson Mandela, Ronald Reagan.... the list goes on and on and on.

It is even rumored that Alfred Hitchcock got his inspiration for The Birds, from a flock of pigeons that he startled of his balcony one morning while filming The Man Who Knew Too Much.

La Mamounia is a World Heritage Site. With an unbelievable selection of beyond-star-rating restaurants and bars, an absolutely gorgeous pool filtered with ozone, and what has been called the world's best spa, you can arrive, luxuriate in this most exquisite blend of Europe and Arab ambiance, and have a most wonderful experience without having seen anything of Morocco except what's visible from the balcony. Or, you can use it as your base to explore the labyrinth tunnels of the nearby souk, bartering for ancient carpets, cheetah pelts, or a traditional silk kaftan..... or enjoy joy a day of  World class golfing, skiing, hiking, car races, hot air ballooning, or ATVing, all of which are available close by.

The hotel itself offers indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis, squash, spa, fitness center, golf driving range, billiards, and a casino.

A quick word about La Mamounia's spa: it covers 27,000 sf, and patrons can lie on couches on a platform propped by gilded columns over the indoor pool. The marbled hammam comes with a high-tech power gym, with red leather sofas and black walls that lead to whirlpool baths, saunas, a beauty parlor and a high-end Paris coiffeur. Massage, facials, mani-pedis, and a wide assortment of wraps are available.

Although the newly renovated hotel does not allow people to wander in off the street, if you book a dinner reservation you can meander through the fabled lounges and bars. 

La Mamounia is not a part of a greater chain; it is locally owned and operated and chooses not to "compete" with other hotels around the world. There are very few hotels in the world with this level of quality, service and luxury, although some critics have given it an honorary "7 star" rating.

Here, at La Mamounia, is an amazing opportunity to live a fantasy, touch history, dance with ghosts of a world gone by... and emerge with a wealthier spirit as you journey onward in your life!

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Our team of experienced travel professionals at Marrakesh Voyage would be delighted to help you design a private, guided journey in the Kingdom of Morocco.