Because of Covid and being locked in China for almost 4 years I am behind on my goal of having visited the number countries of my age. Last years adventures to Peru got me closer and now at 42 I have visited 41 countries.

So when it came to selecting a destination for this year summer travels, there were two criteria, one a new country and two cheap flights. And the result was Morocco.

After some research we decided on a self drive starting and ending in Marrakech. Our trip started with a ridiculously early flight from Manchester airport with EasyJet.

Marrakesh itself is a bombardment on the senses. People, sounds and smells everywhere in the maze of medina streets. Luckily our Riad was just out of the main area and not only a respite from the craziness outside but also gave us AC’d break from the 40+ degrees heat outside.

Our first day was spent getting over the early start and adjusting to the new food and routines of Morocco. The following two days were spent exploring the tourist sites of Jardin Majorelle (garden) and Saadian Tombs.

Tomorrow we hire a car and start the road trip for real! As good as Marrakesh was I was really looking forward to getting out of city and hopefully a less full on experience.