Marvelous Morocco - From Casablance to Marrakesh

By Sharon Ritter, The Hive Overland Park Member

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Traveling Solo but Never Alone!

What do you do when your husband doesn’t share your thirst for global adventure? You embrace the unknown and embark on a journey with like-minded explorers! That’s exactly what I did when I signed up for a women-only tour of Morocco - a group promising not just an itinerary but an inclusive, unforgettable experience.

Ten fun-filled days of shifting landscapes, from lush rolling hills to golden deserts, from ancient ruins to vibrant medinas, all framed by the snow-capped Atlas Mountains. Morocco is a treasure trove of colors, textures, and history.

Casablanca – Where Fantasy Meets Reality

Our adventure began in Casablanca, a name forever immortalized by Hollywood. Naturally, we couldn’t miss lunch at Rick’s Café—a charming homage to the film, though not an exact replica. The true highlight of Casablanca, however, was the breathtaking Hassan II Mosque, Africa’s largest. Rising over the Atlantic, the mosque dazzled with intricate tilework, golden ceilings, and lotus-shaped ablution fountains. The blend of artistry and spirituality made it a mesmerizing experience.

Ancient Ruins and Timeless Traditions

Heading toward Fez, we paused at Volubilis, a UNESCO-listed Roman city nestled among olive groves. It was surreal to walk through the remnants of a civilization that once thrived here—mosaics still vivid, the triumphal arch still standing against the sky.

Fez itself was a sensory overload in the best possible way. The medina was a maze of narrow alleyways bursting with life—donkey carts navigating tight corners, the scent of fresh spices in the air, and the sound of artisans hammering copper into intricate designs. It was incredible to think that carpet weavers and potters working at their wheels were using century-old methods.

Sahara Nights – A Dream in the Dunes

A highlight of the trip was our overnight stay in the Sahara Desert near Merzouga. We traveled by four-wheel-drive jeeps over towering sand dunes before arriving at our luxury desert camp, where handwoven rugs, plush cushions, and soft beds awaited. But the real magic unfolded at sunset, as we trekked by camel through the golden sands, as sunset transformed the sky into fiery hues. That night, as we lay beneath a canopy of stars, the tranquility was interrupted by a fierce sandstorm—a raw and thrilling reminder of nature’s power. The tents, deeply anchored, withstood the storm, leaving us with an unforgettable tale to tell.

Hollywood in the Heart of Morocco

The adventure continued in Ouarzazate, Morocco’s cinematic capital. Standing in the very landscapes that had set the stage for Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, and even Star Wars, we felt as though we had wandered onto a movie set. We learned that Tom Holland and Zendaya had been there just the week before, filming The Odyssey, set to release in 2026.

Nearby, we explored the Kasbah Taourirt, an ancient fortified residence now home to shops and restaurants. It was a stunning reminder of Morocco’s architectural grandeur and its deep-rooted history.

Marrakesh – A Feast for the Senses

Our journey reached its climax in Marrakesh, where the beating heart of the city, Djemaa el Fna, pulsed with energy. The square was a spectacle—snake charmers swayed to hypnotic flutes, fire-eaters dazzled onlookers, and fortune tellers whispered secrets of destiny. Wandering through the labyrinthine medina, we lost ourselves among stalls overflowing with saffron, handwoven rugs, ornate lanterns, and fragrant mint tea.

A Farewell to Remember

On our last evening, we escaped the city’s bustle to a stunning villa in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains. Our host, a former New York executive chef who had returned to his Moroccan roots, welcomed us with a communal feast. In a beautiful tradition, we combined our individually prepared couscous and vegetables into one large dish, symbolizing unity and shared experience. As a final touch, a henna artist adorned our hands with intricate designs—a lasting memento of this extraordinary journey.

Reflections on Solo Travel

Did I miss traveling with my husband? Not for a second. Traveling with Women Traveling Together exceeded my expectations—the camaraderie, the laughter, and the shared moments of awe made it an experience I’d gladly relive. Morocco, with its mesmerizing landscapes, rich history, and warm people, was nothing short of magical. And as I looked at the henna on my hands, I knew that a part of this enchanting country would stay with me forever.