From the modern airport, it’s a 2-hour drive south to your first stop, El Jadida. The sleepy walled citadel built during the age of exploration is your introduction to Morocco. Built by the Portuguese on the trade route to India the old city remains relatively untouched. Stroll the ramparts overlooking the Atlantic, walk the streets, and breath in the history that surrounds you as you make your way to the underground cistern. As you descend the stairs under the walled city, you’ll enter another world hidden for centuries and now made famous in several movies (admission included).

Then it’s a 4-hour drive further south to Essaouira. On arrival, you check into the Riad Mimouna deep in the heart of the old city just as the denizens promenade along its narrow streets and alleys. Stop into a restaurant, or dine at any of the food vendors whose cooking smoke fills with air with a feast for the senses. When you’ve had your fill, head back to the riad and the rest of the evening is yours to enjoy.