Tag Archives: Morocco

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Off the Grid, Bucket List, Nature Travel, Adventure Travel

A Travel Guide To Sahara Desert With 8 Pro Tips

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The Sahara Desert has always been a center of attraction for the tourist who visits Morocco. It is impossible to resist the beauty of orange sand around you.

You could feel the ancient culture of Morocco by riding the Camel in the Sahara. I bet when you ride camel you would feel like Aladdin searching for Jasmine!

Note: You may think (based on the movies or books) that Sahara is just about riding a camel or walking barefoot in the sand. Let me tell you, it’s much more than that. Also, I will share some really interesting ideas which you can do in Sahara and make your trip more memorable.

Must-Do Things In The Sahara Desert

The beauty of Sahara is very unique and it is different from many pieces of nature that you have ever seen in your life.

To experience the place where there is no civilization, no buildings and no signs of footprints because the sand will cover your footprint is a treat in itself. In this short guide, I will give you some tips to enjoy your Sahara tour to the fullest.

A native desert girl

Camel Trekking

Many people think that camel riding is a very tiring and uncomfortable thing but most of them do not know that in the evenings they are padded with blankets and supplies. You could easily ride and enjoy the journey in the evening.

Have fun with Sand boards

Sand boards will be provided by your hotel. Ask the staff they will give you the sand boards to enjoy. If you are with family, they will give separate boards to kids. What you can do is slide down the dune.

Look for highest dunes with good slopes and you will have a time of your life. Trust me!

Enjoy the beauty of Sahara

Most people waste a lot of time taking pictures of different places. I recommend enjoying the tour fully. See the beauty around you with your own eyes, not by the eyes of the camera.

Sitting alone outside of your camp and gazing the sky full of stars is an experience which you will never forget.

Watch Sunrise & Sunsets from the sand dunes

Wake up early and see the sunrise. See how the sun rays turn the sand into Golden. You could find orange sand dunes in the western part of the Sahara near Morocco.

Marrakech is very popular because of its Sahara Desert Tours. If you want to enjoy a 3 days desert tour from Marrakech then follow the link as they offer some really good tour deals to the Sahara Desert.

Go on a desert safari

Similar to camel tours and walking tours, you can also do a desert safari. These desert safari drivers (a 4×4 jeep or other SUVs) are experienced and you’ll have one thrilling experience of a lifetime. It’s a ‘must try’.

Set up a desert tent

No trip to the Sahara is complete without having spent a night in the desert in an open (or covered) tent while laying down directly under the night sky and cold sand.

All of the above can be either self-organized or booked as a tour.

Do not rush

Enjoy the trip in its deepest sense. A lot of people try to explore the Sahara Desert very quickly and when their time gets over, they usually said they did not explore even half of the desert. You must plan your desert tour for at least 3 days.

8 Pro Tips Before You Embark on the Sahara Adventure

Before you go to Sahara make sure you should know what to pack and I will show you the necessary item which you should not leave behind. Leaving these would cause unnecessary pain in the Sahara. So, without further ado here is the list.

Don’t forget sunglasses

This is the most obvious thing to pack because there would be strong UV rays which can damage and may even burn your eye’s soft tissues. According to the American Optometric Association if you do not wear sunglasses in that kind of area where the sun is at its peak then you risk of macular degeneration.

As a bonus, glasses will also protect your eyes from any sand that might get into your eyes with the breeze.

Sun protection

Speaking of strong and hot sun, do not forget to bring sunscreen. Moreover, wear full sleeve shirts to protect your arm and wear a hat is also highly advised to protect you from sunstroke.

Carrying a water bottle is also highly recommended because when you ride the camel you will dehydrate very quickly.

Wear comfortable shoes

You might watch in the old movies like in Aladdin in Lawrence of Arabia where the main protagonist walks in Sahara with no shoes or in sandals. But please do not make this stupid mistake in the afternoon when the sun heats up the sand becomes very hot.

Believe me, you do not want to be out in the dunes without proper protection for your feet. If you are with some good travel company, they may provide you with some extra pair of shoes which you can use in your desert excursion.

Pro Tip: You will get a chance to walk bare feet on the sand in the morning and evenings when the sand is cool.

Magnificent desert sunset in the Sahara

Carry a light scarf

You should buy a scarf before going to Sahara. It will help you when you are going to sleep outside of your camp at night.

Although most of the times you should not have to worry about the sandstorms if there is a little wind, you could cover your face with the scarf

Pack a jacket

Many people thought that Sahara would be very hot then why should we buy jackets? You should know that Sahara will not be hot every time. It would be cold in the mornings and evenings.

If you are coming in winter then you should definitely pack a pair of jackets with you.

Carry a chapstick

The air in the Sahara is very dry and will take a toll on your lips for sure. Couple of time I have seen men wearing their wife’s lipstick to keep their lips from peeling.

So, protect yourself from this kind of embarrassing situation and keep lip balm or Chapstick with you.

Pack a great camera

Sahara is considered as a heaven for photographers. There is an unlimited number of interesting photos in Sahara like sunrise, changing colors of sand dunes in the morning, sunset, Camel riding, Clear sky with thousands of stars, etc.

If you bring digital Camera then I recommend bringing its bag to protect it from dust also do not forget to bring its batteries or charger.

Book your tour with a credible travel agency

My final tip would be to book your Sahara Tour with some credible travel agency. Last year before going to the Sahara Desert, I have found that there are a plethora of travel companies out there making false claims.

You should book your extrusion with some specialists and with locals who knew the place very well.

I booked my Sahara trip with Marrakech Desert Trips. I have found them very professional and they guided me very professionally throughout my trip. They told me the accurate expenses before and did not charge me with any extra dime.

Best Time To Visit The Sahara Desert

A morning walking tour exploring the sand dunes

Sahara is open for almost all year. You could plan the tour any time any day. But according to me, the best time is from October to early May. During these months’ temperatures would be not that much as in June to September.

You may encounter some sandstorms in January to April but they are just mild sandstorms and you could easily get away with them by putting the light scarf as I mentioned above and you would be fine.

Author Bio

Sheraz Shahzad is a part-time travel blogger, part-time digital marketing specialist, and full-time dreamer. He loves the photographic medium for expressing what he loves about life. He always finds himself lost during travel.

Aside from his taste for adventure, he loves doing two things while traveling: meeting new friends and trying new food. You can contact him on LinkedIn to work on your travel website.

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Spring Travel, Trip Ideas, Top 10 List

10 Stunning Images of Spring Trips

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Spring is here folks! As Percy Shelley, an English romantic poet, said, “If Winter comes can Spring be far behind?” 

That is what we all think when the winter freezes us off, but as soon as we see the first blooms of spring, we only want to bask in the sun.

Read: Top 9 Spring Destinations You Must Visit

Spring Trips

Here are the 10 stunning and soulful photographs from 10 different destinations to visit this Spring.

SRI LANKA

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The sun glides over the horizon leaving a crimson reflection on the Pottuvil lagoon, Sri Lanka. If you want to enjoy the sunset as much as the fishermen in the image are doing then you can take canoe tours through the lagoon and see lizards, crocodiles, macaques and even elephants.

In Sri Lanka, you can indulge in all kinds of boating activities. You can sail from a beach to beach and you can also ferry yourself to Pigeon Island which is famous for snorkeling.

You can paddle through the waters of lagoons and watch the diverse wildlife. And you can also get a suntan at the Pasikuda beach. Sri Lanka offers you a relief from the winter blues and is one of the sunniest places you can opt for in Spring.

Related: Travel Bucket List

FOGO ISLAND, CANADA

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A dream looks exactly like the Fogo Island Inn where you get a floor to ceiling views of the ocean. In Fogo Island in Newfoundland, Canada, the night views are adorned with the glittery Milky way above your head. A whole new world comes alive around you, pulsing with serenity.

Fogo Island Inn offers Luxury at its best. It is not just the Canadian Whiskey we are talking about or the rooftop hot tubs, but the magnificent views of the landscape around it.

Newfoundland’s Fogo Island Inn is surrounded by quaint fishing villages, along which you can take bike rides and go on boats to go whale-watching as well. The delights which this places offer are too big a temptation. If you have got the cash, then we recommend you go for it.

 

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NAMIBIA

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When the sandy shore of the Namib desert kisses the turquoise blue ocean, you get this surreal image of two worlds meeting. Want to see Ocean and Desert going hand in hand then a trip to Namibia is what you need to do.

As soon as spring touches the ground here, Rain leaves Namibia. There are abundant wildflowers and pastures from the previous showers to get you through your spring delight. At this time of the year, the travel costs are pretty low and you can get better access to hotels and basic amenities while traveling.

But you are not going to Namibia just to lounge in a hotel, right? The Namib-Naukluft National Park is rich in wildlife such as giraffes, rhinos, elephants, and lions, who come out of their hiding during summer. It’s not just about the wildlife, who wouldn’t love to surf through the sand?

Read: Adventure in Namibia (Trip Report)

PERU

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Into the wild, I go, to lose myself and find my soul. Embark on the wild journey through the upper Amazon, and let the river enchant you. Live in the treehouses and sail on wooden boats- like a local. Find your tribe.

Till May, Peru’s Amazon River receives rainfall. That means cooler temperatures and easy navigation through the river. You can beat the winter cold with the boat rides on this ancient river.

You might feel like you are in the middle of nowhere when you are here, but it is exactly the heart of nature you are in. The golden sunsets, the pink dolphins and the nights spent on boats and tree houses are worth a lifetime of experience.

SVALBARD

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Nothing is more breath-taking than watching the blind fury of nature. The 100-mile long ice wall of Svalbard crashes in the springtime. You can watch it if you are lucky enough – with some timing and a bit of patience.

 

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Svalbard is just 620 miles from the North Pole, which means it is the place of eternal sunshine during summers. In spring you can bath in the polar glow of the sun.

It is not just you who craves the sunlight, but the polar bears, walruses, and seals also come out of their hibernation. So, you can see their summer bodies. Spot the wildlife while you are off hiking or kayaking.

JAPAN

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All of us love that blush pink color and we always wish we could bottle it up. Such is the charm of the cherry blossoms you see in this picture. The golden lights and the pink reflect in the water of the Meguro River in Tokyo giving it a twinge of sunset.

Spring in Japan brings with it a season of cherry blossoms. People flock to places where there are these blossoms like Nakameguro canal, sakura hot springs where you can watch the bloom in all its glory.

There is also the Takayama Spring Festival in the Hida Mountains where there is an exquisite lantern parade every year. The blossoms continue till the month of May in Hokkaido.

And there are many ways for you to enjoy these cherry blossom sessions in sspring, may it be boating down the Kitakami river surrounded by cherry trees or dipping in the hot springs of Kawazu.

PANAMA

 

The turquoise blue water meets the sandy white beach in the Coiba National Park, Panama. A day on the beach is magical when you spend it doing boating or snorkeling.

Most of the tourists prefer traveling to Costa Rica, which leaves Panama less-crowded and serene. This Caribbean island has a variety of fun things to do – like from diving in with sharks and manta rays, to pampering yourself in a swanky cabana in Pearl islands.

It is a bit rustic compared to its neighboring islands. It has got a weak Wi-Fi connection, which is good if you want to get lost. And the chief mode of transportation are still horses, and you can have a clear sky for star gazing.

 

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COLUMBIA RIVER, CANADA

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This image looks nothing less than a painting. The Columbia River in British Columbia, Canada winds through the deep gorges, and the gentle colors of sunrise grace the sky. Anybody would kill to have a view like this as soon as they wake up. 

Besides, the river live many indigenous tribes who have lived there for centuries. Yakama, Nez Perce, Umatilla – all these tribes are masters at living in the wild.

You can Learn many things from them like nest-fishing or basket weaving. You can even find few touristy places around here to visit the Western Antique and Automobile Museum and Fort Clatsop.

SEYCHELLES

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Vitamin Sea is all anyone needs after a long winter. And what better way than to witness the deep blue waves crashing against the rocky beaches of Seychelles. This image is of the La Digue beach in Seychelles, one of the popular beaches.

There are about 115 islands along the coast of Tanzania which make up Seychelles. It is a dream holiday to fly over any one of these islands and enjoy your spring amidst the cool blowing trade winds and cute tortoises making their way into the moonlit ocean. 

These islands are not limited to coastal vegetations and aquatic animals, but you will find that the shores of the beaches are rocky. There are granite cliffs rather than the sandy beaches, and quiet dinners rather than loud crowds – its Nirvana.

MOROCCO

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Go offbeat, while visiting Morocco and visit this little town of Essaouira as an alternative to Marrakech. It is more of a quaint fishing village rather than a loud tourist town.

The Berber villages of Atlas mountains are cooler options to visit in spring, cooler as in literally. The village of Essaouira is cooled with the Azilee trade winds.

There is another city of Chefchaouen which also has a great outdoor market like Essaouira selling oriental rugs, aromatic spices, and Moorish lanterns. Explore these Moroccan delights in spring to take a break from the winter blues.

 

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Trip Ideas, Travel Inspiration, Itineraries, Religious Pilgrimages

The Route of Santiago in The Alchemist

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There are very few stories that echo throughout generations to come. “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho is a tale of wanderlust, resilience, self-discovery, and finding true love. It is the journey of a young boy named Santiago who has the courage to follow his dreams.

While many of us wait for things to get right before we start traveling, this boy embarks on an epic adventure, beats all odds, and finds his treasure. Are you ready to follow your heart?

“People are capable, at any time in their lives of doing what they dream of.” ~ The Alchemist

The Route Of Santiago Alchemist

Santiago’s journey is not only a spiritual discovery of his potential but also a travel saga. He covers three countries in his wake. He crosses Spain, Morocco, and Egypt to get to his destination.

As it is indeed said, “It is not the destination that matters, but the journey.” Let us now give you a glance of the journey that Santiago takes in The Alchemist.

ANDALUSIA, SPAIN

This young boy gave up a sheltered life of family to become a humble shepherd, just because he wanted to see the world. In a cold night, he lies in an abandoned church, with is sheep. Besides him is a sycamore tree whose significant role reveals at the end.

He is now in a part of Andalusia, guiding his sheep through pastures and finding the water in the warm temperate region. It is in the dilapidated church that he has dreamed of his treasure. Now, he embarks on his journey.

TARIFA, SPAIN

Santiago comes to Tarifa to sell his sheep’s wool. He wants to test his fate. So, he goes to a gypsy fortune teller. She tells him about his dream of treasure near pyramids and asks him to follow it.

The gypsy strikes a deal with him, that if he finds his treasure, he should share it with her.

Another encounter is due to the Old King. Paulo Coelho draws the similarity from High Priest in the Bible to the Old King in the novel.

He has a breastplate which has glittering stones of Urim (good) and Thummim (bad). The king lends him the stones which will guide his path as omens.

TANGIER, MOROCCO

Sadly, the boy’s money gets stolen. He does not have the means to make his journey to the pyramids. So he stays back at the mountain, working for the glass merchant. He saves all the money from work, planning on buying sheep.

After betrayal from the world, he does not want to follow his dream. But when he has enough money to buy sheep, he sees the stones which the King gave him. He again sets forth on his journey from Morocco to Egypt.

THE OASIS

Nobody knows, which Oasis Santiago stays at during his journey. We do know however that the Oasis mentioned here is either in Morocco or in Egypt.

One of the important twist in the story takes place here. Here, Santiago meets the Alchemist who inducts him to the universal language. From here he sets forth with confidence and his next stop awaits another great move.

AL PAYOUM, EGYPT

Finally, when he reaches the land of Pyramids, he meets the love of his life. In this desert, Santiago finds a kindred soul who encourages him to follow his dreams. Despite his heart’s dilemma, he goes ahead on his journey promising to come back.

THE DESERT, EGYPT

On his way to The Pyramids Santiago does something legendary. When he and the Alchemist are in clutches of the kidnappers, the Alchemist promises that the boy can turn himself into the wind.

The universal language now culminates in the boy’s soul. He turns to the wind and communicates with all natural elements.

THE PYRAMIDS, EGYPT

His ultimate destination is the Pyramids. In his dreams, a big Pyramid was his treasure home.

He digs and digs but finds nothing in the sands. When he meets a man, who exchanges Gold for Santiago’s life, then Santiago realizes that his treasure was in the Old ruined church beside the Sycamore tree.

THE OLD RUINED CHURCH 

In the last scene, we see Santiago digging his treasure under the dark blue sky of night. He chides the wind for not telling him the secret. But it was the journey that should matter to all travelers like it did to Santiago.

Do not wait for a fat bank account or winning a lottery. Imagine like a child, and embark on your dream journey. An adventurous journey has transformation power.

Once you begin, everything will start coming together. As it says in the Alchemist, once you set your heart on a particular mission, the whole universe will conspire together to help you achieve what you seek.

Bon Voyage!

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Food & Cuisines, Top 10 List

13 Best Destinations To Enjoy A Unique Tea Experience

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There are only a few places around the Earth where the Tea plantations thrive. And most of the Tea plantations are in the East. If you want to taste something exquisite, these 13 unique tea destinations will live up to your expectations.

A Tea Plantation is not just about the green leaves sprouting, but the surrounding valleys (and the methods used to make it) play a significant role in luring travelers.

DARJEELING, INDIA

When the word tea is on the tip of my tongue, I can’t help but think of Darjeeling. The mighty views of Mount Kanchenjunga offer a stunning backdrop for the Tea Valleys in Darjeeling. Some of the popular tea plantations are Happy Tea Valley Estate, Glenburn Tea Estate, and Tirrihannah Tea Garden.

SRI LANKA

Ceylon Tea is one of the world’s finest tea that is grown in Sri Lanka. The humidity, cool temperatures, and rainfall of the country’s central highlands provide a climate that favors the production of high-quality tea.

These tea is popular in England and the Middle East. The tea industry was first introduced in 1867 by James Taylor, a British tea planter who arrived in Sri Lanka in 1852.

ASSAM, INDIA

North Eastern India abounds in valleys, and the weather here is conducive for nurturing tea plants. Assam is one of the seven sisters which has numerous Tea Plantations like the Rajmai Tea Garden (which has a beautiful pond), Socklatinga Tea Garden, and Baruah Tea Garden.

MUNNAR, INDIA

When we are talking about India, it is not just the North Eastern states that are rich in tea plantations. But the Southern States have enough hilly regions to support vibrant tea gardens.

Kolukkumalai Tea Estate is one of the best places not only to experience the Tea plants but also to see the sun rise behind the hills. There are small tea stalls on the way up the hill, do taste a cuppa tea here in the early morning.

KYOTO, JAPAN

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In the little town of Wazuka, there are about 300 families who come together to take care of the Obubu Tea Farm near Kyoto. There are many ways to tweak up your tea experience here.

If you want you can take up tea internship, or you can visit during spring when the Geisha Dance Festival – Miyako Odori takes place.

MAINLAND CHINA

Green Tea in Mainland China

The Yunnan, Fujian, and Zhejiang tea tours are some of the best you get in China. You will find plenty of tea houses and shops to entertain your tea passion. Yunnan Tea Market and Jinan tea Wholesale market are places which follow Chinese tradition.

It means you can walk into any shop and take a free sip of tea. And if you like it, then buy some.

DA YU LING, TAIWAN

The tea plantations in Taiwan are closing up rapidly. And Da Yu Ling area is a must visit for every tea lover. You see the Taiwanese high mountain teas up close and also get an enchanting view of the mountains. But you ought to keep up your energy as hiking and trekking will drain your energy.

MALAYSIA

Malaysia has some world class and award-winning tea estates that you should visit if you are a true tea connoisseur. Tea was likely introduced to Malaysia by Chinese traders and it has been since enjoyed by Malaysians for hundreds of years.

The majority of Malaysian tea is produced in the Cameron Highlands region, sometimes referred to as Malaysia’s “Green Bowl”. It’s located about 3.5 hours from Kuala Lumpur by a car and is situated on the scenic Titiwangsa Mountain Range, which is also a popular destination for it’s scenic beauty.

HAWAII

 

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Hawaii offers you a tropical tea experience. There are some classy hotels here which have a brand name that revolves around tea. The Modern Honolulu and The Halekulani provide a power-packed three-course meal which heroes tea.

Be it tea sandwiches or scones, everything served has a taste of tea.

ENGLAND


Even though Europe is not great in the production of tea, The British have inculcated a 5’o clock tea habit. There is a myriad of hotels which bring you a Typical 5’o clock British Tea Experience.

One such place is Tea and Cake London by Zena Alkayat where there are 80 rooms to make your tea visit formal and perfect.

MOROCCO


Morocco never fails to surprise me, and in the Tea Department also it has got a secret weapon in its arsenal. Tea in Morocco is generally a man’s duty. The man of the house prepares the tea, and that custom runs in most of the families.

Mint Tea is like water to the Moroccans. It is customary to drink 2-3 cups of Mint tea before having a meal.

AUSTRALIA

Unlike Europe, Australia has a long history related to Tea. And there are loads of farms for you to visit. You can take a tour of the factory in Nerada Tea plantation or join in the Devonshire Tea feast.

Another place on your list should be Tea Estate Madura which is the one and only Tea Estate in Australia.

VANCOUVER, CANADA

It is hard and nearly impossible to grow tea in the freezing temperatures of Canada. Still, there is a farm in Vancouver called just the “Tea Farm.”

Growing tea plants is in an experimental phase. But you can visit, and see history made before your eyes as it is the first such place in Canada.

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Trip Ideas, Did You Know, Film & TV Travel

Game of Thrones Real Filming Locations You Can Visit

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With the fantastic progression of season 8 (thus far) of Game of Thrones, we thought of creating this summary page to refresh your memories.

Below are some images of real-life filming locations of Game Of Thrones. Yes, these sites are real and very much as magical as you see on the screen.

Must see: Game Of Thrones World Map of Seven Kingdoms

The Dark Hedges – Kingsroad

The Dark Hedges is a popular Northern Irish tourist attraction. Two lines of stately beech trees planted by the Stuart family in 1775 to line the entrance to their Gracehill House mansion.

But this is better known to Game of Thrones fans as the Kingsroad, as seen when Arya and Gendry first meet.

Photo by The Art of Travel Partners

Bardenas Reales – Dothraki Sea

 

Who would have thought that The Spanish Badlands of clay, chalk, and sandstone would become the favorite of so many viewers!

This out of the world location is the Bardenas Reales near the Town of Tudela, Spain, where the Khaleesi meets another Dothraki Tribe in the sixth season. One of the stunning real-life locations of Game of Thrones.

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Seville – Arena of Meeren

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The most expensive scene shot in the entire series of The Game of Thrones as well as the history of Television is in Plaza de Toros, Osuna, Spain.

Photo by The Art of Travel Partners

It is the set for the first meeting of Tyrion and Daenerys. Aside from the vibrant shrines, you can enjoy the first GoT themed Restaurant in Osuna Cassa Curro.

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Essaouira & Marrakech – Astapor

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This city is 100 Km west of Marrakech (Morocco), and its Red Walls make it a believable Red City of Astapor, one of the breathtaking real-life locations of Game of Thrones.

It is here that Daenerys buys the army of world-famous unsullied soldiers, “Slay the masters, Slay every man who holds a whip, but harm no Child.”  These are the exact words of the Dragon Queen when she frees the slaves.

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Grjotagja – Jon & Ygritte’s Love Nest

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In North Eastern Ireland lies the Love cave of Jon Snow and Ygritte. The small volcanic cave has a spring where the temperature escalates till 100 degrees Fahrenheit. It is no doubt that Jon Snow and Ygritte were getting hot in this cave. *Winks*

If you wanna get as hot as them, then you can visit this sizzling real-life filming site of Game of Thrones.

If you wanna get as hot as them, then you can visit this sizzling real-life filming site of Game of Thrones.

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Vatnajokull – North of the Wall

Wonder what lies beyond the wall (except the White Walkers of course!) The largest glacier in Europe sweeps across this frozen landscape in Iceland. You can play dress up as a GoT fan and snap some “really cool” pictures here.

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Dubrovnik – King’s Landing

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King’s Landing is shot in the Old Town, Dubrovnik, Croatia. We all know that Cersei had that walk of shame a long time coming, but if you would like to know her path of Walk of Shame, then take the steps of Church of St. Ignatius Loyola.

It is where one of the most hated characters of GoT suffered humiliation. That is how close you get to find real-life Game of Thrones Locations.

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Minceta Tower – House of the Undying

Every Game of Thrones fan remembers how the tiny Drogon and his siblings fried the Undead who tried to lure and trap Daenerys and her dragons.

The House of the Undying is nothing other than the highest point of the Dubrovnik City Walls in this old Croatian City. Or to be precise, it is called the Minceta Tower.

No better Real Life Game of Thrones location than the place where the Mother of Dragons fried her enemies, is there?

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Lokrum – Qarth

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In the season 2, we see a lot of Daenerys in Qarth. The real-life locations of the Game of Thrones’ Qarth is Lokrum (also in Croatia).

It is a small island just a 10 Minutes boat ride from the coast of Dubrovnik. The fortress in which Daenerys stays is one of the highest on the Island which gives you a panoramic view of the Protected National Park.

Sibenik  – Braavos

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All Arya’s fans know well that her internship at the House of Black and White wasn’t a child’s game. But Braavos is such a city which brings to life the inner wildness of Arya’s character.

Even though most of the House of Black and White scenes were shot on a made-up stage, nevertheless, the real-life locations of The Game of Thrones’s Braavos is Sibenik, Croatia.

It is here, in the alleys and plazas of the old town of Sibenik that Arya does most of her wanderings.

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Castle Ward – Winterfell

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It is in Castle Ward that Robert Baratheon made his entry to Winterfell. The real-life location of Game of Thrones, Winterfell is Castle Ward in Ireland which is a sprawling land of 820 acres.

This gothic and classical architecture, the woodlands, and sunken gardens make you think that you are seriously in the North.

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Also, the Doune Castle, a medieval stronghold near the village of Doune in central Scotland, was used as the set for Winterfell in the pilot (pictured below).

Photo by Otter CC BY-SA 3.0

Dragon Skull – Jurassic coast

A spectacular dragon skull the size of a double-decker bus appeared to have been washed up on Charmouth beach on Dorset’s Jurassic coast in England.

Photo by TaylorHerring CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

Azure Window – Dothraki Wedding

The Azure Window at Ras-id-Dwerja, on Gozo (in Malta), was the site of the Dothraki wedding in season one of Game of Thrones.

Photo by Felix König CC 3.0

Any fan theories you have got on how the Game of Thrones might end? If so, let us know in the comments! You have one month to figure this out!

Trip Ideas, Bucket List, Cultures & Customs, International Travel

Top 7 Moroccan Attractions for Architecture Lovers

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Even though it was officially founded in 789 by Idris I, Morocco’s history began centuries before. Morocco retained its independence until the French and Spanish colonization in 1912. In 1956, Morocco regained independence from France, and the Alaoite Dynasty currently rules. 

Due to Morocco’s colored past, we can see a variety of influences in the architectural styles throughout the country.

Colorful mosaics and carvings of Moroccan palaces and city walls demonstrate a unique blend of Islamic and European styles. This blended style leaves a legacy of what life was like all those years ago.

Medersa Bou Inania, Fes

The Medersa Bou Inania, Fes’s religious college, is a must-see for design and architectural lovers. The beautiful artwork, including geometric tiles and huge engraved wooden doors, are fabulous examples of Islamic architecture. The most striking feature is the marble courtyard. Carved stone trellises surround the magnificent marble structure.

Glaoui Palace & Dar al-Makhzen, Fes

The beautiful, albeit badly in need of repair, Glaoui Palace, is a great place to visit. Visiting Glaouiu Palace is like stepping into the past. The gracious family will be only too happy to provide a tour of the palace’s rooms.

Amazing mosaics and colorful tiles decorate many of the rooms. On your tour, you will also get a rundown of the history of the Glaoui family. It’s a pleasant and interesting way to spend an hour. You will gain insight into long-lost times in what feels like a hidden part of the city.

While you are in Fes, also check out Dar al-Makhzen.

Entrance of Dar al-Makhzen by Reibai CCBY2.0

Note: Although the capital of Morocco was moved to Rabat in 1912 and never returned to Fes, the palace complex in Fes is still frequently used by the King of Morocco. The palace is thus not open to the public.

The gates at the Old Mechouar and at Place des Alaouites (see above) are the closest that most members of the public can get to the palace grounds. The gates are considered an excellent piece of modern Moroccan crafstmanship and are lavishly decorated with elaborate mosaic tilework, carved cedar wood, and doors of gilt bronze covered in geometric patterns.

Ben Youssef Madrasa, Marrakech

Ben Youssef Madrasa was the largest Islamic college in Morocco, and today it is open to the public as a historical site. The Madrasa is a magnificent example of Islamic art and architecture.

Visitors can admire the baroque designs and vivid colors of the mosaics and carvings on the walls. There are also many narrow corridors to wander through if only to escape the heat. The upper levels provide pleasing views over the central courtyard.

Ramparts, Marrakech

 

A different way to see the old and new parts of the city is to take a walk around the ramparts. Built in the 12th century to defend Marrakech, they remain standing as a symbol of the city.

The ramparts cover some 19 km, so if walking in the heat feels like too much you can always ride in a caleche (a horse-drawn carriage) for a more romantic excursion. Shrubbery, neat gardens and benches line the wall, making it an ideal place for locals to sit and chat in the evenings.

As with most places in Marrakech, there are local guides available if learning the local history and myths surrounding the ramparts is of interest to you.

Dar Jamai Museum, Meknes

The Dar Jamai Museum has an intriguing collection of Moroccan artifacts, jewels, crafts and artwork. It’s a fabulous place for history lovers.

Historically accurate plush floor coverings furnish some of the rooms. It really gives visitors a slice of history as they imagine the grandiose lives of former owners. A beautiful mansion, a stunning sight in its own right, surrounds the museum.

With ornately tiled walls, mosaics, and stained glass, it really shows off the workmanship and thought that has gone into its construction. The Dar Jamai is a quiet place away from the hubbub of the streets. You can bask, surrounded by orange trees, in the gardens as you listen to the chirping of the birds.

Ancient City of Volubilis, Meknes

A short journey outside of Meknes is the Berber and Roman city of Volubilis, a well-preserved, partly excavated site which dates back over 2,300 years.

Visitors can revel in a past life as they wander around the grounds. Enjoy the beautiful mosaicked floors and the remains of the once noble Roman villas. In the shadow of Zerhoun Mountain, beautiful green valleys stretching on for miles surround the ancient city.

Kasbah of the Udayas, Rabat

The Kasbah of the Udayas has been home to Arab tribes, Andalusian immigrants, and powerful Sultans. Thus, it has a very interesting history.

Photo by Davide Cesare Veniani CC-BYSA 3.0

Wander through the narrow lanes and have a chat with the people who live there now. The blue and white colors of the walls are very picturesque, which adds to the charming feel of the place.

Enjoy Moroccan tea and cake in one of the cafes in the kasbah or just sit for a while and watch the splendor of the ocean. Outside, the Andalusian gardens offer a relaxing and peaceful place to read a book or simply watch the world go by.

In a country which is full of historical and architectural delights, visitors flock every year to enjoy everything Morocco has to offer. It is not only a country for history and architecture lovers but rather for all to enjoy. Be transported back to lost times.

Indeed, anyone that travels to Morocco will be left captivated and seduced by the country’s exoticism.

Author’s Bio

This article was written by Gill Morris, savvy travel blogger at asabbatical.com, a personal travel blog of Adrian Sameli. To connect with Gill, follow her on Facebook.

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Travel Tips to Use When in Morocco

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A land of deep sea breezes. Morocco is nestled between the Mediterranean and the North Atlantic. It has one of the gorgeous coastlines. It is an African country which attracts tourists. Don’t mistake it for being a cheap destination, though. Before traveling to Morocco, you need to know some tips. It will help you while you are on your trip.

PRICES ARE EQUAL TO EUROPE

We said you not to mistake Morocco being a cheap country. It is not as expensive as Paris or Fiji but is costly than Macedonia or Greece. Tourism flourishes in Morocco.  But if you are buying something from smaller shops, have some cash. Not all stores here accept cash. The ATMs are unreliable. They run out of cash very fast. So, whenever you exchange, do it in loads. Heaven knows when you will get another chance.

MAKE HAGGLING YOUR BUSINESS

No matter where you travel, this tip will help you. Whenever you try to buy from a local vendor, don’t give the quoted money. You will always be in loss. Try to lower the price by haggling. You can even get the good in twenty-five percent of the quoted money. Trust yourself to do the job. Do not trust the tour guides.

They might say they are helping you lower the price but in truth have dealings with the shop keeper. Cab drivers might also demand more money from you. Just give them the required fare and walk away. Tourism is the line of the economy here. Locals want to earn more out of it. But you should never get fooled.

FRIDAYS ARE OFF DAYS

Morocco is a Muslim country. You will find that all shops and hotels are mainly closed on Fridays. They take leave on a holy day. Whenever you visit, plan it ahead of time. So that, you don’t find it difficult to find hotels.

There are Muslim holidays all throughout the year. Check the national calendar and arrange your date. You might reach on Eid-al-Adha. Let us warn you; you will not like that sight. Keep in mind Fridays and Holidays and you will be okay. Your trip can go smoothly.

LEARN A BIT ARABIC

Languages are a medium of communication between people. You can get around easily if you know the native language. Many of us are don’t know a single word of Arabic. You can learn some important phrases required for you on the trip.

Eg- Hello is called Salam a leikum, No thank you is called La Shokran. If you are in the major cities of Morocco English will help you. But if you are in rural areas you need to learn a bit Arabic. It will come in handy.

KEEP LOT OF CHANGE

As mentioned earlier tourism is a central part of the economy in Morocco. The tourists spend a lot here. When you are hiring a cab, or you are in a restaurant, you need to have “change”. It is important because if you give the drivers total cash, they might not return it to you.

 

A standard cab drive costs roughly around 30 Dirhams. Keep that amount of change with you. In hotels, you can tip from 1-5 DH according to the service. But bear in mind to spend all the change before you head home. The change cannot be exchanged. You need to be wise about the amount of change you want to make. Because you have to spend all of it.

 

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