Marrakech, the pearl of Morocco, is a city that enchants and fascinates with its vibrant culture, rich history, and extraordinary beauty. During my trip, I stayed in a private riad called Riad des Fragrances, an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the medina, and to explore the surroundings with two breathtaking excursions: one to the Agafay Desert and another to the cities of Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Haddou.

My stay at Riad des Fragrances was a unique experience. Located in one of the charming alleys of the medina, the riad offers a perfect mix of Moroccan tradition and modern comfort. The rooms, tastefully decorated with attention to detail, emit a delicate fragrance of local spices and flowers, which helps create a relaxing atmosphere.

What Not to Miss in Marrakech

Marrakech is a city rich in history and culture, with numerous places of interest that deserve a visit. Here are some of the main attractions not to be missed:

• Jemaa el-Fnaa: The main square of Marrakech is a true open-air theater, with snake charmers, street performers, spice vendors, and a lively atmosphere that changes from day to night.
• Medina: The historic heart of the city, with its narrow alleys, bustling souks, and fascinating artisan shops including the famous Maison des Babouches.

• Bahia Palace: A 19th-century palace, famous for its splendid gardens, painted ceilings, and intricate stucco decorations.
• Majorelle Gardens: An oasis of tranquility created by French painter Jacques Majorelle and later restored by Yves Saint Laurent. The gardens are known for their vibrant colors and collection of exotic plants.

• Koutoubia Mosque: The minaret of this mosque is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Although the mosque’s entrance is reserved for Muslims, the surrounding garden is open to everyone.
• Saadian Tombs: These 16th-century tombs, discovered only in 1917, are an extraordinary example of Moroccan architecture.

Excursion to the Agafay Desert

Our first adventure took us to the Agafay Desert, a rocky landscape a few kilometers from Marrakech. Unlike the sandy dunes of the Sahara, Agafay offers a rugged and wild panorama, perfect for a quad excursion.

Driving quads through the rocky hills allowed us to explore otherwise inaccessible areas. Afterwards, we had the opportunity to enjoy tea at a local farm and take a leisurely camel ride. Then we moved to a small farm to taste various culinary and cosmetic oils still prepared using traditional methods.

The sunset in the Agafay Desert was one of the most evocative moments of the trip, which we enjoyed with a dinner and a traditional music show.

Trip to Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Haddou

The second excursion took us south, crossing the Tizi n’Tichka pass through the Atlas Mountains, until we reached the cities of Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Haddou. This route offers spectacular views: lush valleys, Berber villages perched on hills, and snow-capped peaks in the distance.

Ouarzazate, often called the “Gateway to the Desert,” is famous for its film studios. We visited the Atlas Studios, where famous films like “Gladiator” and “Lawrence of Arabia” were shot, and explored the Kasbah of Taourirt, one of the best-preserved in Morocco.

Ait Ben Haddou, an ancient ksar (fortified village) and UNESCO World Heritage site, was an unforgettable stop. Walking through the narrow streets of the village, with its red earth towers and breathtaking views of the surrounding valley, felt like stepping back in time.

My trip to Marrakech was a perfect mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation. Staying at Riad des Fragrances made the experience even more special, offering us a tranquil retreat after intense days of exploration. The excursions to the Agafay Desert and the cities of Ouarzazate and Ait Ben Haddou added a touch of adventure and discovery, making the journey truly memorable.

If you are planning a visit to Marrakech, I highly recommend staying in a traditional riad and taking the time to explore the surroundings: a journey full of emotions and unexpected beauties awaits you.

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A journey to the Seychelles is an experience in a tropical paradise where white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and a vibrant culture come together to create an unforgettable experience. Comprising 115 islands, each with its unique charm, Seychelles offers diverse activities, from relaxing on pristine beaches to exploring ancient forests and indulging in luxurious vacations.

With so many wonderful places to visit in the Seychelles, where to go? I stayed in Mahé (at Bliss Hotel) and Praslin (at Le Duc) and finally chose to take a day trip to La Digue, a small island to explore by bicycle.

1 Mahé Island: Everything Under the Sun of Seychelles

Mahé is the largest of the Seychelles islands with a scattering of sandy bays, including the popular Baie Beau Vallon. It could easily be considered one of the best beaches in Africa, with its coastline stretching for kilometers, good swimming, fantastic diving and snorkeling, and many restaurants to choose from.

There are many points of interest in Mahé that you will want to visit, so I recommend renting a car, hitting the road, and exploring! Take a drive past tea and vanilla plantations, along narrow roads winding through forest-covered hills, and down to Victoria – one of the smallest capitals in the world.

Savor Seychellois flavors with dishes such as fish curry, grilled fish with coconut sauce, Ladob (sweet and savory dish), and coconut desserts. Pair your meal with local Takamaka rum or fresh fruit juices for a complete culinary experience.

2 Praslin: Fantastic Beaches and Fresh Forests

Although one of the most visited islands in the Seychelles, Praslin is slightly quieter than Mahé, and its secluded cove-lined coast makes it easy to find a crowd-free beach to lay your towel on. And when you tire of the sand between your toes, visit the ancient forests of Vallée de Mai – a UNESCO World Heritage site famous for its giant palms, rare black parrots, and erotically shaped Coco-de-Mer seeds (nicknamed “love nut”).

The main tourist center is Anse Volbert (also known as Côte d’Or), where a series of hotels, restaurants, shops, and bars give this safe swimming beach a lively atmosphere – at least by Seychelles standards!

While in Praslin, indulge in the unique flavors of Seychelles with dishes like octopus salad, breadfruit-based dishes, and coconut desserts.

3 La Digue: Postcard-Worthy Beaches

If you’ve ever wondered where those perfect photos of the Seychelles were taken, it’s likely on the enchanting island of La Digue. The traditional Seychellois way of life continues as always on this relaxed small island, and the best way to explore it is to travel as many locals do: by bicycle.

Pedal to the fringing shores like the famous beach of La Digue hidden among towering boulders, swim in warm and clear waters and sunbathe on Anse Source d’Argent, considered not only one of the best beaches in Africa but also one of the most beautiful in the world.

After a day of exploration, treat yourself to Seychellois delights such as octopus curry, sesame banana fritters, and coconut-based desserts.

Forget flat and featureless dunes; the Seychelles archipelago is a beach destination like no other. From cultural explorations in the fascinating capital of Victoria to island-hopping adventures and the enjoyment of the rich flavors of creole cuisine in this gem of the Indian Ocean, Seychelles invites you to discover a paradise where adventure and relaxation harmoniously coexist. Explore the chaotic mix of giant granite rocks, protected forests, and spacious beaches, letting your senses marinate in the spicy flavors of Creole cuisine in this gem of the Indian Ocean.

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The Rhineland region, located in the western part of Germany, is a destination rich in nature and history. Among its main gems are the cities of Essen, Cologne, and Düsseldorf. In this article, we will guide you through places to visit and activities to do during a weekend getaway.

Essen is a city rich in industrial and cultural history. Here are some of the main attractions not to be missed:

• The Botanischer Garten Grugapark is a municipal botanical garden located in the Grugapark. The garden was founded in 1927 for recreational, educational, and research purposes. Parts of the park were destroyed during World War II but were gradually rebuilt and redesigned for the Essen Bundesgartenschau in 1965.
• Villa Hügel: This majestic residence was the home of the Krupp family, one of Germany’s most influential industrial families. Today it is open to the public and offers a fascinating insight into luxury living in the 19th century.
• The Folkwang Museum: If you are an art lover, this museum is a must-see. It boasts a vast collection of artworks ranging from paintings to sculptures, with masterpieces by artists such as Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso.

Cologne, with its majestic cathedral and lively atmosphere, is a must-see destination. Here’s what to do during your visit:

• Cologne Cathedral: The Gothic cathedral is one of the city’s most important landmarks. You can climb the tower to enjoy a breathtaking panoramic city view.
• Imhoff-Schokoladenmuseum Chocolate Museum: a paradise for the sweet tooth! This museum will guide you through the history of chocolate and you can also enjoy fresh chocolate delicacies.
• Walk on the Rhine: Take advantage of Cologne’s location on the banks of the Rhine River. A walk along the riverfront will allow you to admire beautiful views and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere.

Düsseldorf is a cosmopolitan and fashionable city with a lively atmosphere. Here’s what you can do during your visit:

• Altstadt (Old Town): this historic district is famous for its bars, pubs, and restaurants. Explore its cobblestone streets and stop to enjoy a local beer or try the region’s culinary specialties.
• Königsallee: also known as “Kö,” this is one of Düsseldorf’s most exclusive streets, ideal for luxury shopping. Admire the fashion boutiques and designer stores along this elegant street.
• Kunstpalast Museum: if you are an art lover, this museum will delight you with its vast collection ranging from the Renaissance to contemporary works. Be sure to admire masterpieces by artists such as Rubens, Rembrandt, and Beuys.
• Little Tokyo: Don’t miss this small neighborhood of the city that makes you travel straight to Tokyo, including food, manga, and typical stores!

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Here we are in the series, where should I spend my weekend this time? Find out what you can do on a weekend in Majorca!

Majorca, also known as Mallorca in Spanish, is the largest of the Balearic Islands and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Mediterranean Sea and famous for its heavenly beaches. Along the coast are fine white sandy beaches, hidden coves, and inlets with crystal clear waters. Some of the most famous beaches include Playa de Palma, Magaluf, Cala Millor, Alcúdia, and Es Trenc. The latter is one of the island’s most spectacular beaches, with its turquoise waters and unspoiled nature.

In addition to beautiful beaches, Majorca also offers a wide variety of landscapes. Inland are spectacular mountains, such as the Serra de Tramuntana, a mountain range that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. These mountains offer spectacular hiking trails, scenic views, and charming mountain villages, such as Valldemossa, Deià, and Sóller.

The island’s capital is Palma de Mallorca, a fascinating city that combines a rich historical heritage with a vibrant cosmopolitan atmosphere. Here you can visit the majestic Palma Cathedral, Bellver Castle, and the old town with its picturesque narrow streets.

Majorca is also known for its delicious cuisine. You can enjoy local specialties such as sobrasada (a traditional sausage), ensaimada (a spiral cake), tumbet (a kind of ratatouille), and pa amb oli (bread with olive oil, tomato, and other tapas).

I arrived at the Majorca airport and from there, to get to the small apartment I had rented (Alborada Apartments in Cala Millor), I used the TIB bus (which you can pay by cash or credit card directly on board). The transportations are well organized, with precise schedules and routes that cover the entire island well, despite this the timings are very long, from experience I highly recommend renting a car, to have more freedom and more time to explore the island!

Other advice, understand well where you want to stay. In high season the island is crowded and full of life, so if the type of vacation you want to take is to relax look for small beaches in the northeast or northwest part.

Day 1

Head to Porto Cristo beach, which is a short distance from Cala Millor. Enjoy a relaxing day on the beach and admire the beautiful crystal clear sea.

From there you can visit the Cuevas del Drach. These incredible caves are a popular tourist attraction on the island. Explore the underground caverns and admire the stalactites and stalagmites that form a breathtaking scenery. During your visit, you can also enjoy a musical performance on the underground lake, making the experience even more magical.

On the way home I then stopped in the town of Manacor, where I visited the town’s church and drank lemonade (iced) from El Palau Restaurante.

Day 2

Start the day by visiting the Miró Foundation. Located in Palma, the Miró Foundation houses an extensive collection of artwork by Spanish artist Joan Miró. Explore the different works on display and immerse yourself in Miró’s artistic world.

Next, head to Cala Major, one of Majorca’s most popular beaches. Here you can relax on the golden sand and take a swim in the crystal clear waters. Enjoy the sun and breathe in the relaxing atmosphere of this lovely beach with a nice bowl poké takeaway from Natur Kitchen.

After a day at the beach, visit the city of Palma. See Palma Cathedral, a magnificent Gothic structure located on the waterfront. Stroll along the historic streets and stop at the Arab Baths, Moorish thermal baths dating back to the 10th century. End the day with a tasty ice cream at Claudio’s, a renowned ice cream shop in Palma, or a stop at the Forn del Santo Cristo.

Day 3

Spend the day exploring the beauty of the Cala Millor area. Visit Cala Bona, a picturesque fishing village located nearby. Stroll along the harbor and enjoy the authentic atmosphere of this charming place.

If you are looking for a quieter, more secluded beach, you can opt for a hidden beach at the top of the island. There are several remote and wild beach options, such as Cala Torta or Cala Mesquida, that offer a feeling of isolation and tranquility. I stopped at Costa dels Pins where in peace and quiet I had a good fish dish at Bar Playa.

Day 4

For the last real day of my stay on the island, given the bad weather, I moved to the west coast where I visited Valldemossa, a charming village located in the mountains of Majorca. Valldemossa is famous for its monastery, the Real Cartuja, where composer Frédéric Chopin and writer George Sand lived for a short time. Explore the monastery and Valldemossa’s picturesque streets, immersing yourself in its beauty. Make a stop at Forn Croissanteria and try their chocolate ensaimada!

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Where to spend a weekend where you will feel like you have stepped out of fairy tales? The answer is the Borromean Islands archipelago at Lake Maggiore. An archipelago of five islands-three of which can be visited-that chronicle centuries of Italian nobility, pomp, and true luxury. Only an hour and a half from Milan, you find yourself immersed in an incredible setting of sumptuous palaces, beautiful gardens, and the magic of water.

The archipelago consists of: the Isola Madre, Isola Bella, Isolino di San Giovanni, Isola dei Pescatori, and Scoglio della Malghera. Just think that in 2019 The New York Times listed the Borromean Islands among the ten most fascinating places in the world.

In the 14th century the Borromeo family, aristocrats of Florentine origin, and later lords of Lombardy became owners of the islands and thus began their transformation. The family still owns Isola Bella and Isola Madre and the three emerged rocks known as Castelli di Cannero because of the ruins of medieval fortifications.

How to visit the Borromean Islands?

The first thing to check is whether the islands can be visited and book your ticket that allows you to enter the island and visit its palaces and gardens.

The advice is to take a tour between the main islands (Bella, Madre and Pescatori), aboard a boat. Ferry departures take place both from Stresa and from the other side of the lake, Pallanza-Verbania. But there are also companies that run tours from Arona, Angera, and Baveno. One can choose between passages from the public company (Navigazione Laghi) or a private boat if in a group, or private companies that allow more freedom of schedule.

I preferred to start the boat tour from Stresa (I stayed for 2 nights at this very nice B&B in Arona) by choosing the public line company, which I paid for on the spot to get a good understanding of their operation and schedule).

What to see

The Borromeo Islands are linked to the Terre Borromee, estates and palaces of the family distributed between Lombardy and Piedmont. This immense historical, architectural, and natural treasure is composed of the Borromean Islands; Pallavicino Park in Stresa; Mottarone Park along the slopes of the mountain of the same name; Rocca di Angera, on the Lombardy side in the province of Varese; and the Castles of Cannero, located in upper Verbano.

Isola Madre is the largest of the three islands and was the first to be inhabited. The gardens (a whopping 8 hectares) are home to rare plant species from around the world and animals such as white peacocks and parrots, which frolic freely in the greenery. Not to be missed is the majestic Borromeo Palace, a 16th-century building with period furnishings, portraits, and porcelain, and the spectacular Venetian Hall with trompe l’oeil decorations.

The fairy-tale beauty, in my opinion, is found in Isola Bella, where, in addition to the palace and botanical garden, there are some narrow alleys overlooked by small stores and restaurants. Also here you will find the Borromeo Palace where Napoleon also stayed with his wife Josephine of Beauharnais. The building is an imposing Baroque-style complex, built and expanded over three centuries.

Inside is the Berthier Gallery with more than 130 paintings by authors such as Raphael, Correggio, and Titian, and how can we forget the rooms on the ground floor, which reproduce caves of the marine environment? The highlight (especially in full bloom) are the Italian gardens that surround it. The most important monument is the Teatro Massimo, an amphitheater consisting of statues, obelisks, and ten terraces.

Isola dei Pescatori, also known as Isola Superiore is the only one inhabited year-round. The ancient village was home to fishermen so it still has the original architectural structure, which was used to dry fish. The Island boasts excellent trattorias and every year celebrates the folklore of the traditional Ferragosto, as well as Carnival.

Where to eat?

Finally, a little list of nice restaurants worth a try, with local cuisine and fair prices:

• L’Osteria d’Asti in Arona
• Amici, Bar Pasticceria Jolly and Pasticceria Marcolini in Stresa.

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Of the many European capitals I have visited, I have yet to see one of the most beautiful: Madrid. Besides being the capital of Spain, it is also the seat of government and the residence of the monarchy.

I would not have imagined a city so majestic and imposing. The treatment of the buildings hints at details of imperial constructions. It may be that I have a soft spot for Spain and its inhabitants but Madrid will remain, for me, one of the most beautiful and perfect capitals for a four-day weekend.

I leave you with the small itinerary I followed during my weekend with places to visit and places to eat not to be missed. I stayed at the Soho Boutique Congreso which I recommend as value for money. I then recommend that you book museums in advance that allow free admission on certain days and time slots!

Day 1

I landed at the Madrid-Barajas airport, in no time at all I picked up my transportation card (which in my opinion you don’t need, everything is easily accessible on foot and without transportation), and on the metro, I headed downtown to Plaza Mayor with its arcades and numerous bars and restaurants, it almost felt like a typical square in Italy. To get there you go through Puerta del Sol the city’s living room and the cradle before every commercial, cultural, and administrative activity in Madrid. Since it was lunchtime, I headed to the Mercado San Miguel via the magnificent Plaza del Sol and Plaza Mayor. This traditional indoor market, founded in 1916, offers more than 70 stations with Spanish culinary delicacies. I tried tapas from La casa del bacalao (codfish)!

From there I headed straight to Madrid’s main attraction, the Royal Palace also called the Palace of the Orient, which is still the official residence of the Spanish royal family. Today the palace is used exclusively for ceremonies, conferences, and official acts, as the monarchs live in the Zarzuela Palace, located on the outskirts of Madrid. The palace was built on the same site as the Alcázar, a 9th-century Muslim fortress. On Christmas Eve in 1734, the palace was destroyed by fire and rebuilt under King Philip V from 1735 until 1761. The palace consists of 3418 rooms making it the largest royal residence in Europe.

Just in front is Almudena Cathedral, Madrid’s main Catholic place of worship. After a quick visit, you can head to Plaza de España, a large square in the center of which is a fountain dedicated to Miguel de Cervantes. Two important buildings overlook the square: the Torre de Madrid and the Edificio España.

To end the day, the first restaurant I recommend is Botìn, a historic restaurant with typical Madrid cuisine!

Day 2

The second day’s itinerary seems almost more “boring.” I started by passing through the Puerta de Alcalá, one of Madrid’s most significant monuments. It was ordered by King Carlos III and was put in place by architect Francesco Sabatini and is located near the main entrance to Retiro Park. I then headed to the Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía, a museum of modern and contemporary art in Madrid, dedicated to artistic production from the early 20th century to the present. The museum’s big attraction is Pablo Picasso’s Guernica. The Reina Sofía also has works by Salvador Dalí, Joan Miró, Vassilij Kandinsky, Georges Braque, René Magritte, Lucio Fontana, and other significant artists.

After visiting the museum (usually, large museums point directly to the rooms with works that interest me) I went to see the famous Atocha Station, the city’s central station, dating from the mid-19th century. The station is a complex consisting of two different stations: the old and the new, and it also features a magnificent tropical garden that houses 7,000 plants of 400 different species.

Before relaxing at Retiro Park go to Casa Julio and try its tapas. A very small place (smaller than our taverns) but super typical. You hope to find a place so you can eat a lot and well while spending little! After this, you need to go to Retiro Park, a park that covers 118 hectares and is one of the main sights of the Spanish capital. From 2021 it forms part of the World Heritage properties.

Finally, as a restaurant for dinner, I recommend La Posada de la villa, dating back to 1642 always presents typical and excellent cuisine!

Day 3

Having visited Retiro Park quickly I returned to enjoy it on a beautiful sunny day. In addition, a visit to the Palacio de Cristal de la Arganzuela was a must. Once popularly known as the Potato Shed, it retains its large rectangular structure with steel profiles, now used as a botanical museum with plants from different places around the world.

Not to be missed is the Prado Museum where works by major Italian, Spanish, and Flemish artists are on display, including Andrea Mantegna, Raphael Sanzio, Hieronymus Bosch, Pieter Paul Rubens, Titian, Caravaggio, Diego Velázquez, Rembrandt and Francisco Goya! I visited almost every room here, in fact, I recommend lots of patience and comfortable shoes!

A must-see treat is the Church of San Jerónimo el Real, popularly known as Los Jerónimos, which is an early 16th-century Catholic church. The church, which has undergone numerous renovations and restorations over the centuries, is the remaining structure of the Jerónimos monastery that stood next to the Buen Retiro royal palace. Its proximity to the royal palace also underscores a connection to royalty, as it was for centuries the church used for the investiture of the Prince of Asturias.

Another unmissable and historic place is the Chocolateria San Gines with its delicious hot chocolate and dipping churros. To work off some of this calorie bomb, relax by taking a long walk through the center and enjoying the relaxed air of the city. If by doing so, you arrive at least slightly hungry at dinner time, the last restaurant I recommend is La Barraca where you must try the paella and the baked rice with Cocido (too good!).

Day 4

Last day in Madrid and fortunately there were few “essential” attractions left to visit! Not to be missed is the Church of St. Anthony of the Alemanni dedicated to St. Anthony of Padua. An obvious example of Madrid Baroque, low-cost materials such as brick and plaster were used in its construction, with a sober facade. The main novelty of this church is its elliptical plan, one of the few in Spain, as well as the ceiling, which is entirely frescoed, including the dome, and likewise the walls. The facade is crowned by a statue of the saint.

My favorite museum in Madrid turned out to be the Thyssen-Bornemisza Museum, a major art gallery, and cultural center. The approximately eight hundred works currently housed there range from Italian Renaissance to modern painting, from a private collection of the family of the German-Hungarian steel magnate Thyssen-Bornemisza.

Having then decided to relax and enjoy the strange calm air one can breathe in this capital city, one can stroll along the famous Gran Vía, founded between 1919 and 1929, which is the most famous street in Madrid. It connects the Salamanca district with the Argüelles district and offers a plethora of stores and restaurants. And it is there that you can admire the symbol of the city, the Metrópolis, which is a five-story Beaux-Arts building. At the top, you can notice the Corinthian-type columns. There are allegorical statues representing agriculture, industry, and commerce; the top is concluded by a slate dome with gold leaf trim.

Finally, delving into the side streets you can discover the Longoria Palace, a Spanish Art Nouveau building from the early 20th century. A fantastic gem that almost runs the risk of being lost in the anonymity of the surrounding buildings.

Ps: for shopaholics, I recommend a quick trip to WOW Concept!

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