Morocco is a vacation spot that stirs the creativeness – conjuring photographs of huge deserts, ornate Kasbahs, bustling souks, and even perhaps a sure smoky piano bar from the films. However for individuals who enterprise there, Morocco affords a lot extra.
Ben Dickmann traveled on Magic of Morocco in November 2024 along with his spouse Karen and her mother and father Dave and Linda. After his journey, Ben reached out to share his photographs and reflections, providing a heartfelt and insightful perspective on this fascinating vacation spot.
On this Q&A, Ben delves into the distinctive experiences Morocco affords, dispels some widespread misconceptions, and divulges what makes this lesser-known vacation spot so unforgettable.










What shocked you most about Morocco?
Ben: Earlier than visiting Morocco, I assumed I had a good suggestion of what to anticipate – deserts, camels, colourful markets, and spicy meals. And sure, these issues are a part of the expertise, however they don’t even start to scratch the floor.
Morocco is a lot extra. It’s wild seaports with fishermen casting their nets and promoting their catch in vibrant markets. It’s countless stretches of farmland with olive groves so far as the attention can see. It’s bustling cities with world-class museums and artwork galleries. It’s historical Medinas with a labyrinth of alleyways and souks promoting the whole lot conceivable.
What actually stood out to me, although, was the heat and hospitality of the Moroccan folks. From the second we arrived, I felt genuinely welcomed. There’s a deep-rooted sense of generosity and kindness right here that’s not like something I’ve skilled elsewhere.
Did you may have any misconceptions about Morocco earlier than your journey?
Ben: Undoubtedly, and I believe lots of people may share these identical misconceptions.


- Some folks suppose Morocco isn’t secure, however I couldn’t disagree extra. I felt safer strolling the streets of Morocco – day or evening – than I did in some European cities. In fact, you need to all the time concentrate on your environment, as you’d wherever, however Morocco felt very secure. And with Tauck Administrators and native guides by your aspect, you’re all the time properly taken care of.
- Morocco is a devoutly Islamic nation, nevertheless it’s additionally open and welcoming to folks of all faiths and backgrounds. Actually, Morocco has an extended historical past of non secular tolerance. Jews and Muslims lived peacefully collectively for hundreds of years right here, and lots of cities nonetheless have Mellahs, or Jewish quarters. You’ll additionally discover Christian church buildings all through the nation. Experiencing the decision to prayer is one thing I’ll always remember. It begins with one voice from a mosque and shortly others be part of, creating this lovely, echoing refrain. It’s not only a sound – it’s a second when the world appears to decelerate, and everyone seems to be conscious of one thing larger than themselves.
- I assumed all Moroccan meals can be intensely spicy. It may be, nevertheless it doesn’t must be. From contemporary bread at each meal to couscous, lamb, beef, and seafood – the meals is wonderful and has flavors you’ve by no means skilled. It’s a part of the tradition of hospitality. The Moroccan folks need to be an ideal host, and meaning meals, tea, and almond cookies… on a regular basis. In the event you depart Morocco hungry, you probably did one thing mistaken.
- Some folks fear that it’ll be tough to speak. Most everybody in Morocco speaks their native dialect of Arabic and French, however many additionally know sufficient English to simply talk. They’re additionally extremely affected person and admire even small makes an attempt to say “please” or “thanks” in Arabic. Once more, the native guides are all the time there to assist, and a smile goes a great distance.
What makes Morocco a must-visit vacation spot?
Ben: The journey is a real immersion. It’s not only a look-and-point tour. Morocco has pure magnificence, gorgeous landscapes, heat folks, nice meals, good climate, and eons of historical past. It’s a bombardment of the senses… sights, smells, tastes, and sounds. It has vibrant coloration and peaceable shadows, spicy condiments and elegant sweets, chaotic markets and really tranquil backyard retreats. It’s not like something you may expertise in America, and that’s why you need to go, as a result of once we open our minds and share experiences with different cultures, the world will get somewhat smaller and much more peaceable.
Prepared to find extra of Morocco?
To see this unbelievable vacation spot by means of Ben’s eyes, discover his Picture Journal, which showcases much more unforgettable moments from his household’s journey.