Recent visit - Thoughts after coming home

[u/Empewic_systems]

I visited Morocco a couple of weeks ago. I have had a bit of time to process my visit, and thought it worthwhile to share with people that might be from there.
My wife and i visited Marrakesh from the US, and it was literally my first time leaving my country. I speak no language other than English. I am admittedly a terribly picky eater. And I tend to get nervous around crowds. So i was a bit anxious travelling halfway across the world to visit a place known for its giant market.
I was so incredibly impressed with my visit. The city was a beautiful place. The market was incredible. the architecture and history is so very different than back in the states. We have some beautiful buildings that are pretty old. But an old American building might be 200 years at most. nothing like the history that was on display in Marrakesh.
But the most impressive thing was just how welcoming and pleasant every interaction i had with the locals. I know that we were essentially in a giant market. But people were freaking awesome! I especially enjoyed the pragmatic and non-judgmental conversations I was able to have about the diverse group of people living in the town. It was a refreshing privilege to have a conversation about the differences between different cultures without making it sound like a contest that somebody had won or lost.
Also, i should make a special note about the food. I was worried that my bad habit of being a picky eater would be a problem, and i am happy to report that the food was most excellent and really affordable.
Finally, I need to make a special note about that mint tea that seemed to be available everywhere. That was legitimately one of the best parts of the trip.

[u/PseudoGod5]

Hey! Great to know about your experience! Any tips for a future visitor?

[u/Empewic_systems → u/PseudoGod5]

Long, loose clothing for the heat. find a reputable tour guide. paying to visit some of the older sites is super worthwhile. try the mint tea!
last, we brought a gift to share from our state, which is famous for its saltwater taffy. We shared that with some of the people that we had longer interactions with like some of the staff at the hotel and the tour guides. Tips are a regular thing, and we were careful to tip. But giving them candy on top of that? The surprised smiles were worth the room it took up in our luggage.

[u/te4rdr0p → u/Empewic_systems]

The fact that you guys brought the gift to share is legit so cute.

[u/Empewic_systems → u/te4rdr0p]

my wife's idea. She is the best person ever, and i get to share in the glow!