Best of Both Worlds
All too often I fear that people travel the way they think they’re supposed; or rather they don’t travel at all because they feel like they can’t afford it. After my 10 days in Morocco I proved to myself that it is indeed possible to have the best of both worlds – for me, both style and afforability, and of course, the experience.
My first week involved staying in at Equity Point, a 15 Euro/night hostel in the heart of the medina, and even surprised myself with what a joy it was (check out this video to check out the winding maze to get there!). Several years ago my friend Michelle and I were in London and we swore off hostels for life. But I’m glad I gave it another shot this time around. Not only was the space beautiful and spacious, people were friendly and I met wonderful travelers who like me were looking to explore a new place. In fact, these fast friends because my best resources in what to do/see/try in the city. Maybe my standards have changed after living in 10m2, but really, it was a lovely experience.
After 5 days (and my day trip to Essaouira), I felt like I had my fair share of city life and moved out to the countryside of the remainder of my trip. I’d wake up in the morning to roosters crowing and go to bed with frogs croaking and sheep bahhh-ing, and views of the snow-covered Atlas mountains. While I quickly learned that Peacock Pavilions was a very special place, I also realized by the nature of the project I was working on, I had an extra special experience. I wish I could reveal the gorgeous bedroom I stayed in with the amazing hand-painted mural on the back wall, or the accessories that made the space like no other place I’ve ever been, but that will have to come later, as my project unfolds and comes to fruition. Peacock Pavilions is set to open September 15, 2010, and in the meantime you should check out my hosts Maryam’s beautiful blog, My Marrakesh to get a small idea about what my life may have been life for the past week.
And with that, I’m off to catch my flight back to Paris!
Catherine
March 12, 2010 at 4:50 pm //
interesting comments about the hostel – sounds great and look forward to seeing more about Peacock Pavillions – I love going to Morocco – thanks for all the reminders about what makes it so special
Marty
March 12, 2010 at 7:24 pm //
Great set of posts!
Roni Faida
March 12, 2010 at 8:31 pm //
I love the video! We stayed in a hotel when I was in Morocco but I would have loved to stay in a quaint place such as this. You’ve given me something to think about for my next adventure, I might just look into a hostel! Thanks so much!
trilingualdiva.blogspot.com
Barbara
March 12, 2010 at 9:30 pm //
I have come to your blog via Maryam. I have enjoyed your posts on Marrakesh.
Jamie
March 12, 2010 at 10:55 pm //
Oh how I’m jealous! Your days in Morocco sound fantastic, and did you know that Lara Dunston (of Cool Travel Guide) was just there as well? They’re doing a “Grand Tourismo” sponsored by HomeAway that I found last night:
http://www.grandtourismotravels.com
I think you’ll enjoy it!!
LizzyB Loves
March 12, 2010 at 11:55 pm //
Wow…Peacock Pavilions looks amazing! I didn’t check out the entire site yet, but I can just imagine how the rooms are, lovely.
~ Lizelly
boatx2
March 13, 2010 at 5:42 am //
You know, ever since I stayed @ “Refill Now” hostel in Bangkok, I swear by them. Some hostels have been the most luxurious places I have (been enough $$$ to have) stayed. Hahaha, but I don’t know if that’s because I’m a recent college graduate used to small space/communal living or it really is true luxury. Eh.
The Moroccan countryside you stayed in sounds like absolute heaven. I can’t wait to see your pictures and thank you for all you’ve shared so far!
jen laceda
March 15, 2010 at 5:41 pm //
So you did go to Peacock Pavillion!