In February 2023, I returned to Morocco for the second time – a country that has quickly become one of my favourite destinations for photography. The journey began in Jakarta and continued across two continents before I finally arrived in Casablanca, landing in the late afternoon at Mohammed V International Airport (CMN).
For our first night, we stayed at Hotel Boutique Odysee Center, located in the heart of Casablanca’s district. The hotel sits just 800 metres from the Old Medina and approximately 1.2 kilometres from the grand Hassan II Mosque, offering an ideal base to explore the city’s historic surroundings.
The following day, we travelled to Essaouira, a charming coastal town on Morocco’s western edge. Accommodation was arranged at Riad Palais De Remparts, situated within the old town area. Riads, often hidden within narrow alleyways, feel like treasures tucked inside labyrinth-like streets. Without a guide, it would be very easy to lose one’s way among the winding passageways.
Because of the small lanes, our luggage had to be transported by handcart; our rented Land Cruiser simply could not navigate roads so narrow. We spent the afternoon photographing around the maze of alleyways – an enjoyable experience, though it required us to stay close to the guide to avoid getting separated from the group. Morocco truly is a paradise for street photography, although many locals are not always comfortable being photographed.
Unfortunately, we only had one night in Essaouira. The weather was unexpectedly chilly, and at times my jacket alone was not enough to keep out the cold. Coastal winds from the Atlantic Ocean – known as alizee, or talas in the Berber language – sweep through the town, helping preserve its traditional culture and character. Essaouira sits at a historical crossroads between two cultural groups: the Arab Chiadma tribes to the north and the Berber Haha tribes to the south.
Brief though it was, the experience left a lasting impression. Essaouira’s coastal charm, its maze-like old town, and its vibrant yet guarded street life continue to call photographers back, offering endless stories waiting to be captured.
