5 Lessons I Learned From My First Vacation to Africa

Earlier this year, I was able to vacation in Morocco which is in North Africa. That was my first time experiencing the continent of Africa. Because traveling is something I love to do and have made a vow to make it part of my lifestyle, I was extremely excited about this vacation. Going from only taking 1-2 vacations a year to now taking over 35 getaways in the last 3 years, it’s accurate to say travel is a must and will always be part of my life. It wasn’t until I started my business that I was able to travel the world as much as I have been, which is completely transforming my lifestyle. Now that I’m aware that travel is part of the things that make up my total lifestyle, it’s non-negotiable. I always “wanted” to experience what Africa was like but I had no idea that I would be visiting sooner rather than later in life. I visited the cities of Marrakech, Chefchaouen, Casablanca, Fez, and Rabat while there. Of the cities I experienced, Marrakech was my favorite with Chefchaouen coming in second. I was able to learn many different things while in Morocco but for this post I will share five of them. I will be sharing another post about the specific things I did while there in the various cities.

1. THE NATIVES ARE FRIENDLY

Many people fear experiencing different parts of the world for various reasons. Crime being the most apparent, with other reasons being language barriers, too afraid to leave one’s comfort zone, the cuisine, can’t afford it, and the list goes on. One thing I noticed right away was the friendliness of the natives to us tourists and their hospitality. Almost everywhere I went, I was greeted with smiles and pleasant exchanges. Being in a foreign area with friendly locals helped make my vacation that much more enjoyable.

2. THE KIDS ARE EASY TO PLEASE AND DON’T NEED MUCH TO HAVE FUN

I saw so many children in small groups playing outside (something I don’t see much of nowadays). Technology and electronics have consumed so much natural energy of the kids in today’s world. Not to mention that many of them have no desire to go play outside which is totally different from the way I grew up. My Grandmother had no problems getting me to play outside. I was the kid that had to be home when the street lights came on but I always found myself pleading for an additional 15 minutes outside. In Morocco, it was normal to see kids in a circle kicking a ball to one another while laughing hysterically at the fun they were having. I saw this happening on several occasions in many different places throughout the various cities.

3. THEY RESPECT ONE ANOTHER’S RELIGION

Everyone must respect one another’s religion. The 3 religions of the Moroccan people are Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, with Islam being the biggest. The women choose for themselves whether or not they wish to wear a hijab to cover themselves. It’s not necessary for non-Muslim women to wear a hijab nor conceal themselves.

4. HAVING A LOCAL PROFESSIONAL TOUR GUIDE WAS PARAMOUNT TO MY EXPERIENCE

As a Travel Professional, I wouldn’t have had it any other way. Because it was my first visit to Africa, having an experienced local tour guide was a personal requirement of mine. When you have a local tour guide for the duration of your stay you are able to learn so much. They will tell you the “must see” places and they will also warn you of the places to stay away from. They truly are the experts. After all, that’s what they do!

5. I WILL BE GOING BACK TO EXPERIENCE MORE OF AFRICA

I never realized how much I would learn about Morocco. I want to go back and experience South Africa now. I experienced my first camel ride in Morocco and I cant wait to experience an African safari when I go to South Africa.

Have you ever been to Morocco? If so, what did you like the most about it? If not, would you go? Leave us a comment below. If you found value in this post, spread the knowledge by sharing it.

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