What a trip for the extended family!
Often, it's hard enough to find dates that work for everyone - let alone find a trip that appeals to 3 generations of a family. I think we managed it this time...so thought I'd share in case you are looking for some inspiration.
If, like our wider family, you have 4 teenagers to think about when planning a holiday, then a tour specifically for them may be something to consider. In July we visited Morocco on an 8 day tour with my mum (aged 78), my brother and his 3 teenage kids and partner along with the 3 of us.
For those of you that know us, none of us, including my mum, are very good at sitting around.
Despite initial, and unfounded, concerns that it may be too hot in July, our 8 day trip to Marrakech and the Sahara was perfect; we got to see a fair amount of the country - both a major city and lots of different landscapes.
Having spent some time in countries like India, Venezuela, Tanzania, Egypt over the years, one of main things that struck me was how relatively safe I felt travelling as group in both the local villages and the center of Marrakech; even when we got lost (see more below).
Activities in Morocco For Teenagers
Each day the duration of our private bus journey varied, but it meant that we were able to visit somewhere new each day. If we didn't want to do any of the extra activities, there was always a pool for us to hang out in, recharge or just read a book.
We have a wonderful guide that gave us plenty of information about our destinations and what is going on within the country itself. One thing that struck me was the various languages used throughout the country- depending on where you are; from English, French, Spanish, Arabic to Berber.
At each location there were opportunities to purchase local souvenirs - though at the end of the trip there are plenty of opportunities to find a momento for your trip.
Some Highlights from our tour
- Atlas Film Studio, Ouarzazate where block busters like Gladiator and Games of Thrones was filmed
- Quad Biking over rough terrain along with getting up close to some of the bigger film sets (think fortes featured in Game of Thrones)
- Camel safari and camping in a Berber camp in the Sahara Desert in Merzouga
- Surfing the Sahara - a few attempts on boarding down the dunes - certainly something i want to do again!
- Visiting Todra Gorge and exploring the local village
- Visiting 'Kasbah' Amridil - local forts (trying reading Kasbah without starting to sing the song)
- Exploring UNESCO World Heritage site Ait Bebgaddou - of both Game of Thrones and Gladiator fame (the small stadium where Maximus started his gladiatorial fighting)
- Taking a hot air balloon to see the sun rise over the Atlas Mountains
- Getting lost and exploring Marrakech and medina
Getting Lost in Marrakech
On our first evening back in Marrakech we found a Bendir Roof Top Terrace online. Taking a taxi we unfortunately were not aware that there was no way they could drop us off at the entrance. 600 m away from the final destination, without any clear directions we were let loose by our drivers. What could possibly go wrong?
Yes, there were some nerves and maybe some cross words as group were herded to the restaurant. It really was the blind leading the blind. For me this was probably one of the most worthwhile experiences of the trip. The activities were great - but it was good for the teenagers to really push their comfort zone.
Yes - we were in a strange place and
Yes - we were certainly lost
Yes - it was starting to get dark
But what I think it really did was to show them that there is nothing wrong with getting a bit lost (and the phones didn't work and couldn't help us). In fact, the whole occasion made the arrival to the roof top bar all the more special.
I loved it and think the experience will be one that will stand them in good stead for future travels in unfamiliar surroundings. Personally, I think it was the fear of the unknown creates fear. Fortunately the back streets of Marrakech's medina feels a pretty safe place to get lost.
Travelling to Morocco
Despite our bags not arriving in Marrakech until after we had left, this one bump certainly didn't spoil our holiday. We were able to buy the bare essentials for the trip; which in fact showed how you travel on the bare minimum. (Wish us luck for trying to claim back the expenses for the clothes from the Airline). One thing I would suggest is flying direct rather than having a change over (this was not our preferred choice but BA cancelled our outbound flights from LHR at short notice leaving us little choice).
Morocco - A Great Place To Explore
In summary - yet it was hot in the middle of July, but we spent probably the hottest part of the day travelling in the bus, so that when we got to our next location it was more comfortable to explore.
Both the location and the activities available were highlights - as was the chance to do new things with the family. My mum became slightly obsessed with finding ATM's to withdraw money, whilst we were also constantly on the hunt for a pharmacy; both of which were accommodated by our understanding guide...
Thanks to Nomadic Tours for organising such a great trip - we all loved the experience and the time to hang out as an extended family - not something we get the opportunity to do all that often.
Certainly both a tour and a location to consider if you are wanting to explore somewhere new combined with plenty of things to do.
