Dispatch from Marrakech

I kicked off a 10-day tour of Morocco with my family in Marrakech this week. We’ve had a marvelous stay at the new Four Seasons Marrakech, but otherwise the highlight here is without a doubt the exotic medina, the largest of its kind in North Africa. More on that soon!

As I begin my coverage of Morocco on the Ciao Bambino blog, I want to acknowledge that we are not impervious to feelings of uncertainty in coming here so soon after April’s horrific terrorist attack in the heart of the city in Jemaa el-Fnaa square.

As we’ve all learned over the past decade, terrorism can happen any time and any place. As a consequence, my motto is that we might as well go to the destinations of our dreams (within reason).

We stood in front of the site of the bomb, the Argana restaurant, pictured here with the scaffolding. Until the facade is repaired fully, the construction (and views of the destruction) are a grim reminder of lives changed and lost.

It’s one thing to read about a terrorist incident across the world, it’s another to stand in front of it’s remains. Although this image will stick with me for months and years to come, I feel safe amongst the Moroccans who care deeply about the health of their country. They want and need tourists.

I’m certainly happy to be here and will cherish every minute. I can already share that Moroccan people love children and being here with kids is a rewarding in every way.

Stay tuned for my complete Morocco with kids series from planning to our destination highlights beginning next week.