Arabian Nights: A Moroccan Dream

Have you ever seen a city that's completely blue? Chefchaouen, located in the northern part of Morroco, is completely blue—how stunning!

The word magical doesn't begin to explain the experience one has when visiting this beautiful city.

This city is filled with beautiful history, having been built in 1471. The blue hue of this beautiful city gained its' color in 1492 when the Jewish escaped from the Spanish Inquisition. It may be a very small city but I assure you, it's not like any you've seen before. Now are a few reasons why you must visit this travel destination.

1. Locals

Although it is a very small city, there are many people who live here. You definitely stand out but you're never the only tourist there. People stare: this is one thing you've got to get used to before going, as tourism is still fairly new in this stunning city but don't be discouraged. The locals, in the shops and restaurants, are very kind and helpful. They love to have conversations and speak many different languages including French, English, Spanish, and Arabic! I went on a tour and was given a Moroccan tour guide for the few days of my stay, as a birthday present to myself. On my birthday, my tour guide brought out a cake during dinner and gave me a birthday gift to always be reminded of Morocco and their locals.

2. Currency

The Moroccan currency is the Moroccan dirham, which is equivalent to $0.11 USD, which means you get a lot for your foreign money. They also accept the euro, as there are many tourists in the northern part of Morocco from Spain! I exchanged my dollars in the city center and not by the airport, which helped me not pay any fees.

3. Photography

If you love landscape and photography, this city is the one for you! Hiking up mountains, or if you're like me—you'll take a taxi, you'll find the most beautiful you've ever seen. The city isn't just one shade of blue: there are many! Different tones and different shades everywhere you look. Different part of the city has different historically built doors, buildings, and shops, which allow for gorgeous snaps!

4. Colors

If you enjoy looking at colors, you'll love to be on top of the mountain during the sunset to view the most beautiful you've ever seen. The beautiful reddish-orange hue looks absolutely stunning over the beautiful blue city. My friends and I decided to sneak on the roof of our hotel, where we sat and watched the sunset. You'll love watching the sun disappear behind very distant, yet equally beautiful, mountains.

5. Location

It's in the perfect location, where you'll be tempted to visit many other beautiful northern cities Morocco has because there is no airport in Chefchaouen. This is a great opportunity—and excuse, to go sightseeing in other cities around Morocco. Some of these must-see cities include Fes, Asilah, Tangier, Tetouan. It's very culturally educational: whether you're meeting people, learning their language, or religion!

6. Authenticity

There are so many different authentic shops that sell local garments. They’re cute little clothing that shows the Moroccan culture. There are also other shops that offer touristy merchandise. There are restaurants that only have authentic Moroccan food—no franchises. There are no foreign foods since it is a fairly new tourist attraction.

7. Walking

Yes, you’re going to be very active in this small little city. Although it’s fairly small, to see the beautiful shades of blue, you have to keep walking. There are mountains for hiking, from which you’ll see a lot of nature. The views from up there are absolutely stunning: so bring a fully charged camera!

You will not regret going—but will further be intrigued with the other beautiful cities of this gorgeous country.