Morocco – From Casablanca’s timeless sophistication and Chefchaouen’s dreamlike blue alleys to the artistic soul of Fes, the endless golden sands of Merzouga and the Sahara, the rugged beauty of Ouarzazate and the intoxicating energy of Marrakech, TheGlitz journeys through Morocco… a land where every road whispers history, every landscape inspires wonder, and every moment becomes a story worth telling.

Invited by the Moroccan National Tourist Office (MNTO) on an exclusive familiarisation trip, TheGlitz was represented by our young and intrepid teammate – photojournalist, cinematographer, visual storyteller, adventurer and passionate traveller Josh Chakraborty, who went on an immersive journey across the Kingdom of Morocco.

Over eight memorable days, every destination revealed a different facet of a country that effortlessly blends ancient traditions with modern sophistication. Join Josh as he recounts his extraordinary journey through his eyes, capturing the colours, cultures, landscapes and unforgettable moments that make Morocco unlike anywhere else in the world.

Morocco, The Kingdom of Light

There are destinations you admire, and then there are those that quietly capture your heart. Morocco belongs firmly in the latter category… a land where history, culture, luxury and breathtaking landscapes come together to create an unforgettable travel experience.

Day 1: Casablanca – Where Morocco Unveils Its Soul

There could not have been a more spectacular introduction to Morocco. Fresh from the airport, the journey began in Casablanca, the country’s vibrant commercial and cultural gateway, where old-world charm effortlessly blends with contemporary elegance.

Our introduction to Casablanca began with a scenic drive along the elegant Corniche waterfront, where the Atlantic Ocean sparkled beside stylish cafés and palm-lined boulevards, before exploring the charming Habous District, a fascinating blend of traditional Moroccan craftsmanship and graceful French colonial architecture.

The first stop was the magnificent Hassan II Mosque, dramatically perched on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. One of the largest mosques in the world, it is an extraordinary architectural marvel that inspires awe from the very first glance. Every intricate detail reflects exceptional craftsmanship… from its soaring minaret and beautifully carved marble interiors to the spectacular retractable roof that opens to the sky, allowing worshippers to pray beneath the heavens.

Equally fascinating are its monumental titanium doors, specially engineered to resist the corrosive sea air, while discreetly concealed sound systems within the grand pillars amplify the call to prayer across the vast prayer hall. It is a breathtaking fusion of timeless Islamic artistry and cutting-edge engineering, offering visitors an unforgettable first glimpse into Morocco’s rich architectural and spiritual heritage.

From this monumental masterpiece, we then travelled to the vibrant heart of Casablanca’s bustling souks where I had a lovely time learning and meeting people. …Where every winding alleyway seemed to awaken the senses. Colourful stalls overflowed with handcrafted treasures, intricate ceramics, gleaming brass lanterns, richly woven textiles and aromatic spices, while friendly artisans welcomed visitors with genuine smiles and stories behind their craft. It was far more than a marketplace; it was a living tapestry of Moroccan culture, where centuries-old traditions continue to thrive in the hands of master craftsmen.

Lunch at the iconic Cabestan Ocean View was the perfect finale, with delicious Mediterranean cuisine served against the backdrop of uninterrupted ocean views, before we checked into the luxurious Casablanca Marriott Hotel to relax and soak in the city’s sophisticated charm.

As dusk settled over the city, the day concluded at the charming Dar Dada, where dinner evolved into an unforgettable cultural celebration. Exquisite Moroccan cuisine, soulful music, mesmerising traditional dance performances and the infectious warmth of the hosts created an atmosphere filled with joy and authenticity. Before long, I found myselves clapping along, joining the performers and embracing the exuberant spirit of Morocco… an enchanting finale to a day that perfectly encapsulated the country’s warmth, hospitality and timeless charm.

Day 2: Rabat – Grace, History and Timeless Elegance

We then travelled to Rabat, a gorgeous city with friendly people, beautiful sights and lots to do for tourists. Indeed, Morocco’s political capital immediately charms with its tree-lined avenues, immaculate gardens, whitewashed homes and picturesque blue doors that evoke memories of Andalusian Spain. Along the Bouregreg River, locals gathered by cafés while others enjoyed leisurely boat rides, giving the city a wonderfully relaxed rhythm.

The day’s highlights included the iconic Hassan Tower, the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and the historic Kasbah of the Udayas. Every monument carried a fascinating story. The unfinished pillars surrounding Hassan Tower stand as reminders of interrupted ambitions after a change in power, while ancient walls damaged during a sixteenth-century earthquake continue to narrate Morocco’s resilient past.

Luxury also found its place in Rabat with the towering Mohammed VI Tower and the Waldorf Astoria, showcasing Morocco’s growing reputation as a refined luxury destination.

A delicious lunch was at the elegant Fairmont La Marina Rabat-Salé after which I went for a heavenly stroll through this gorgeous place to soak in the ambience and meet the lovely locals who were extremely friendly and nice.

The day ended with a fab dinner at the picturesque La Maison Arabe, Tour Hassan – I really enjoyed Moroccan food especially the Tagine.

Day 3: Chefchaouen – Morocco’s Blue Dream

From Rabat, we travelled for five hours to the picturesque blue city. Nestled within the Rif Mountains, Chefchaouen feels almost dreamlike. Every winding alley, staircase and doorway is painted in mesmerising shades of blue, creating one of the most ‘Instagrammable’ towns in the world.

After a delightful lunch at Triana, I checked into Dar Echchaouen, a charming hotel that perfectly reflected the city’s serene character. Tucked away amid the mountains, the riad was a peaceful oasis, with its beautiful Andalusian-Moroccan architecture, tranquil courtyards and warm hospitality setting the tone for the afternoon ahead.

Stepping into Chefchaouen’s iconic, blue-washed medina felt like walking into a dream. I found myself slowing down as I wandered through its narrow, winding lanes, where every blue doorway, flower-filled balcony and cobbled street seemed more enchanting than the last. The bustling local markets were alive with artisans crafting handmade treasures, colourful woven textiles and intricate souvenirs, while the aroma of freshly prepared local delicacies drifted through the air. There was something incredibly calming about the city; it encouraged me to forget the map, lose myself in its maze-like streets and simply soak in its timeless charm. Every turn revealed another picture-perfect corner, making it impossible to resist reaching for my camera.

As the day gently slipped into evening, we travelled to a myriad of breathtaking panoramic views that unfolded across the Blue City and the majestic Rif Mountains. Watching the sun cast a warm golden glow over the sea of blue houses was one of those unforgettable travel moments that remain etched in your memory long after the journey ends. Back at Dar Echchaouen, the day concluded with a delicious traditional Moroccan dinner, the perfect ending to a day immersed in one of the world’s most captivating and photogenic destinations.

Day 4: Fes – A Living Museum of Craftsmanship

Fes touched me in ways I hadn’t expected. There was something wonderfully familiar about its earthy shades of brown and beige. Everywhere I looked… at the houses, riads, schools and universities… the city seemed wrapped in these warm desert colours that instantly reminded me of the majestic palaces of ancient India. It was almost as if history had painted both cultures with the same brush. Walking through Fes felt like stepping into another era, where every weathered wall, carved doorway and narrow lane had a story waiting to be told.

Later, we drove to a panoramic viewpoint overlooking the city, and the sight simply took my breath away. Spread before us was the timeless beauty of Fes… the ancient medina, the newer quarters and the historic Jewish district, all existing side by side like chapters of a living history book. We also visited another beautifully restored riad, climbed to its terrace and stood quietly, soaking in yet another mesmerising view across the sea of rooftops.

Our culinary journey began with lunch at ISHQ Restaurant, where contemporary Moroccan cuisine was served with elegance and flair. I relished every bite… from the melt-in-the-mouth meat and perfectly cooked fish to the delicious vegetable tarts and wholesome black quinoa. It was a meal that beautifully balanced tradition with modern creativity.

After a fab lunch, we spotted the Al Quaraouiyine University, the world’s oldest continuously operating university, founded in 859 AD.

From there, we checked into the magnificent Palais Faraj Suites & Spa, and I have to admit, I was completely enchanted. The moment I stepped through its grand entrance, I felt as though I had wandered into my own Moroccan palace. The intricate mosaic tiles, soaring carved ceilings, graceful arches and exquisite craftsmanship transformed the hotel into something far beyond a luxury stay. It was regal, elegant and utterly magical. Even my room felt like a private royal suite, where every detail celebrated Morocco’s rich artistic heritage. For a while, I forgot I was a traveller…I simply felt like royalty.

After which, we visited Chouara Tannery. Standing above the famous Chouara Tannery was like watching history at work. From the colourful dye pits to the artisans meticulously handcrafting leather using age-old techniques, it was fascinating to see a tradition that has remained virtually unchanged for centuries. The smell was strong… but the experience was unforgettable.

No visit to Fes is complete without losing yourself in its legendary medina, and that’s exactly what we did. The labyrinth of winding lanes opened up a fascinating world of artisans who continue to practise crafts that have been handed down through generations. I watched potters shape clay with incredible precision, admired colourful ceramics, handcrafted plates, intricate tables and beautiful decorative pieces, all lovingly made by hand before being shipped to homes across the world. What struck me just as much as their artistry was their warmth. Every artisan welcomed us with genuine smiles, eager to share not just their creations but their stories too.

As evening approached, I wandered through the bustling souks, where every turn revealed something new. There were handcrafted leather jackets made from sheepskin and camel leather, colourful souvenirs, fragrant spices, bustling grocery stalls and butchers, all woven together into the rhythm of everyday Moroccan life. It was authentic, vibrant and wonderfully alive.

As the sun dipped below the skyline, we headed to the Jungle Rooftop at Hotel Sahrai for dinner, and it turned out to be one of the most memorable evenings in Fes. Surrounded by lush greenery, soft ambient lighting and breathtaking views of the city, I savoured every bite while soaking in the relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere… it was the perfect way to end a day immersed in Fes’s rich culture and history.

Day 5: Merzouga – Beneath a Million Stars

No journey through Morocco feels truly complete without surrendering to the timeless magic of the Sahara Desert. Our tryst with the sandy dunes began with an early departure from Fes for Merzouga, a journey of nearly 460 kilometres that took us through ever-changing landscapes over eight memorable hours. We paused for lunch at Hotel Taddart in Midelt, where the crisp mountain air offered a refreshing break before the scenery gradually transformed into vast desert plains.

Along the way at a stop at IFRANE, we spotted many monkeys and some beautiful horses. I couldn’t resist stopping to pet a few beautiful horses and even pose with them… a simple, spontaneous moment that made the long drive all the more memorable. After stopping for lunch at Hotel Taddart, by late afternoon, we reached Erfoud, the gateway to the Sahara, where our coach gave way to powerful 4×4 vehicles that carried us across rugged desert terrain towards Merzouga.

Waiting for us were fragrant glasses of traditional Moroccan mint tea and colourful desert scarves, instantly making us feel like explorers about to embark on something extraordinary. Soon, our adventure slowed to the gentle rhythm of camels, our silent companions across the towering dunes. As I swayed atop my camel, watching the endless sea of sand stretch towards the horizon, I felt an overwhelming sense of calm.

Then came the sunset… one of those rare moments that no photograph can ever truly capture. The golden dunes glowed as though they had been dusted with liquid gold before slowly melting into shades of amber, crimson and finally deep blue as twilight embraced the desert.

Our home for the night was the magnificent Xaluca Bivouac Royal, a luxurious desert camp where we were welcomed into traditional chilabas and kaftans, making us feel wonderfully immersed in Morocco’s rich culture.

Dinner was a feast of fragrant tajines and local delicacies, accompanied by rhythmic Moroccan drums, soulful music and infectious laughter beneath the open sky. Yet the most unforgettable moment arrived long after the music faded. Standing outside my tent in complete silence, I looked up to find millions upon millions of stars sparkling above me, brighter than I had ever seen before. The Sahara stretched endlessly into the darkness, and in that magical stillness, I realised that some places don’t simply become cherished travel memories… they quietly become a part of your soul.

Day 6: Ouarzazate – Valleys, Mountains and Cinematic Landscapes

After an early breakfast, we set off on yet another unforgettable road trip, this time from the golden sands of Merzouga to Ouarzazate, a scenic drive of around 400 kilometres through some of Morocco’s most spectacular landscapes. Every bend in the road revealed a different surprise. Ancient abandoned medinas appeared like forgotten kingdoms rising from the barren earth, while far in the distance, the snow-capped peaks of the Atlas Mountains shimmered against the brilliant blue sky… a striking contrast that perfectly captured Morocco’s incredible diversity.

One of the highlights of the journey was our stop at the breathtaking Todgha Gorge, where towering canyon walls rose dramatically on either side of us. After the warmth of the desert, the cool mountain air and crystal-clear stream felt wonderfully refreshing.

Lunch at the beautiful Xaluca Hotel in the lush Dades Valley was another welcome pause before we continued towards Ouarzazate, fondly known as the ‘Gateway to the Sahara’ and Morocco’s famous film capital.

By evening, we arrived at the elegant Le Berbère Palace, a luxurious oasis where traditional Moroccan charm meets understated sophistication. After days of adventure across bustling medinas, majestic mountains and endless dunes, it felt wonderful to unwind over a leisurely dinner before retreating to my room, already looking forward to discovering what the next day in magical Morocco had in store.

Day 7 & 8: Marrakech – Morocco’s Vibrant Finale.

After an early breakfast, we bid farewell to Ouarzazate and set off for the legendary city of Marrakech, a drive of around four to five hours that unfolded like a cinematic journey through Morocco’s extraordinary landscapes.

It felt fitting that our first stop was Atlas Studios, one of the world’s largest film studios, where blockbusters such as Gladiator, The Mummy, Prince of Persia and even Prison Break were brought to life. Walking through the sets, it was easy to see why filmmakers from around the world are drawn here… every corner seemed to tell a different story.

Not far away stood the magnificent Ait Ben Haddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Morocco’s most iconic fortified villages. Its honey-coloured earthen architecture, winding alleys and centuries-old kasbahs transported me to another era, making it feel less like a tourist attraction and more like stepping into a living history book.

After a leisurely lunch at the beautiful Ksar Ighnda, we continued towards Marrakech, arriving by evening at the elegant Mövenpick Hotel Marrakech, where a relaxed dinner provided the perfect ending to another unforgettable day.

But the real magic of Marrakech revealed itself the following morning. Before dawn had even broken, we found ourselves gently floating high above the Moroccan countryside in a hot-air balloon. Watching the first rays of sunlight bathe the landscape in soft gold while dozens of colourful balloons drifted silently across the horizon was one of those breathtaking moments that words can barely do justice to. I admit, I was a bit nervous – I’m allergic to heights but the guide and my other team mates made me feel very comfortable.

Back on solid ground, the city unfolded in all its vibrant splendour. The intricate beauty of Bahia Palace, the lush serenity of the Majorelle Garden, and the timeless elegance of the Yves Saint Laurent Museum each revealed a different side of Marrakech’s rich cultural soul.

Wandering through the bustling souks was a feast for the senses, where every narrow lane overflowed with colourful lanterns, handcrafted leather, spices, textiles and the lively sounds of artisans at work.

For one final thrill, I climbed into a vintage sidecar that whisked us through both the old and new quarters of the city, offering a wonderfully unique perspective of Marrakech’s energy and charm. As night fell, our farewell dinner at Dar Soukkar was the perfect finale… a dazzling celebration of Moroccan music, dance, acrobatics, cabaret and exceptional cuisine. Surrounded by laughter, applause and the warmth of newfound friendships, I realised that Marrakech isn’t simply a city you visit; it’s a city that captures your heart, leaving behind memories that linger long after the journey ends.

A Journey That Never Truly Ends

As the journey back to Casablanca Airport began, there was a quiet sense that Morocco had become far more than another destination on a map.

It was the warmth of its people, the beauty of its architecture, the aroma of mint tea, the artistry of its craftsmen, the silence of the Sahara and the infectious energy of its cities that lingered long after the bags were packed.

I honestly don’t know where those eight days disappeared. Every sunrise, every winding medina, every conversation, every flavour and every breathtaking landscape felt like a page from a story I never wanted to end.

Morocco gave me memories that will stay with me forever… from the beauty of Rabat, the tranquil blue lanes of Chefchaouen, the timeless charm of Fes to the golden silence of the Sahara and the vibrant energy of Marrakech.

No journey is complete without the people who bring a destination to life, and Morocco was no exception. Throughout the trip, our wonderful guides transformed every monument, medina and mountain into living stories. Our lead guide, Hicham Dhaibi, with his immense knowledge, wit and infectious enthusiasm, made every destination fascinating, while Oussama Sayed from the Moroccan National Tourist Office (MNTO) ensured the journey unfolded seamlessly with warmth, care and impeccable hospitality.

Equally instrumental were Neeti and Royston from Intrepid Marketing, whose meticulous planning, constant support and warm camaraderie ensured the trip ran seamlessly from start to finish. Their kindness, professionalism and love for their country didn’t just help us discover Morocco… they made us fall in love with it.

In Marrakech, the ever smiling and affable Edris from Escapes & Co. shared the city’s hidden gems and rich history with genuine passion, making every stop all the more memorable.

As I boarded my flight home, I realised I wasn’t leaving empty-handed. I was carrying home a heart full of unforgettable moments, genuine friendships and countless smiles. In fact, I think I left a little piece of myself behind in Morocco. And perhaps that’s the country’s greatest gift… you don’t simply return with photographs, souvenirs or stories; you return with a little of Morocco woven into your soul, quietly calling you back long before you’ve even unpacked your suitcase.

Photographs: Josh Chakraborty