Arabian Nights

Disclaimer: I know I haven't posted practically ANYTHING about my travels. In fact, I know I have been MIA for wayyyy too long even though I keep promising to update more often. Well, here's a glimpse at just one story from my trip. This is in Morocco, the second country that Rosemary and I visited way back in March. I hope you like it!

As I sit here on this bustling train going from Milan to Lake Garda, my mind wonders back to the mounds of sand that make up the Sahara Desert I left behind not long ago. Within the span of about 3 days, I’ve traveled tirelessly throughout Morocco ending up in Northern Italy. However, the one night spent in the desert continues to replay itself no matter how far I get. It is an entity that words cannot describe no matter how much I think about it. With the softness of the ground and the cool breeze tickling my face, I remember how still it seemed. While there was always movement all around, the sounds were dampened and time stood still, allowing me to take in the beauty that surrounded me. Stars shone brightly displaying an array of light and patterns. The moon bathed the desert in light, reflecting off of the mountainous piles of sand creating shadows across the land. It was serene - tranquil.

Earlier that evening the G-Adventures group and I had just finished dinner and meandered outside as the sun began to set. Shades of oranges, reds and pinks washed over the sand dunes as we sat outside and chatted. Shortly after, the sun was officially below the horizon, a fire was started and drums began ringing out into the night. We followed the sound and sat around listening, learning, smiling, and laughing. The music was upbeat and cheerful as the musicians encouraged dancing and singing along. Unfortunately, I am extremely unfamiliar with any Moroccan tune, but once Shakira’s “Waka Waka” was sang I joined in and some dancing began. It seemed as though many in my small group weren’t as keen on dancing as I was, but we made with due before the musicians moved on to a campsite not far from where we were. A man named Muhammad stayed behind and began chatting with us and teaching us a beat on the drums they played. His English was the best I had heard so far, so it was easier to have a conversation with him and learn more about his culture and upbringing. Not long after, Muhammad stated he was going to the campsite if anyone wanted to join. Being the adventurous explorer I am, I decided to tag along with a few others in tow. 

​About a mile away people were laughing, dancing, and singing enthusiastically - a large cry from what our group contributed. The people brought an electricity to the once peaceful area. I danced around the campfire with these strangers to the drums and songs of the locals. It wasn’t the most eloquent dance I’ve ever done, but energizing to say the least. Once the music died down and most had returned to their tents, Muhammad and I left the joyous area only to hike up a mountain of sand. While a break was needed a little over halfway up, the strenuous climb was well worth it. The top overlooked the campsite party we crashed and the resort we were staying at. It was cloudy at that time, so the stars were hidden in a blanket of grey, but the moon shone strong, adding to the ambiance. Up on this mountain Muhammad and I basked in the moonlight, talking about anything and everything while sharing a bottle of water. Turns out, the desert isn’t as fun without it. Keeping the cap, though, can be proven difficult apparently…

​As the night turned into early morning hours, I was ready to begin the walk back. I watched as Muhammad floated through the sand dunes, helping me as my clumsiness made it look like i had never walked a day in my life. How he managed to make it look so easy and effortless was beyond me. Making it about halfway, I glanced up to the sky and noticed the clouds had dispersed, leaving behind the Milky Way. The view was so unbelievable it rejuvenated me. I felt enlightened and energetic, ready to stare at the sky all night. Noticing my hesitance, Muhammad sat down, beckoning me to do the same. The best thing about the desert is that anywhere you sit is on comfortable, soft sand. We spent more time talking, but mostly just looking at the beautiful night sky. I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything more beautiful. More endearing. The clusters of stars were brighter than I’ve seen before, and I truly began to appreciate this trip that Rosemary and I were only beginning. 

​It’s crazy what you can discover about yourself by becoming removed from your own reality or normal. By removing myself from my routine I was able to learn more about this wide world and about myself… something I couldn’t say before. It is easy to lose sight of what matters to you and what is best for you with outside influences. Morocco really was just the beginning of a trip that I will always remember, reflect back on, and hold dear to my heart. It helped me to gain confidence, reflect on certain aspects of my life, and make decisions that overall were difficult to make. It showed me different cultures and ways of living, not to mention different ways to pack. I can’t recommend traveling enough to people, young and old. If not for yourself, to broaden your knowledge about other people and cultures. 

​Until next time, stay in touch, stay in mind, and broaden your horizons.