Sonia is a retired finance professional, a proud grandmother of two, and a devoted wife to her very fortunate husband. She embraces life with a passion for travel, staying active, and discovering new adventures at every turn.
I'm grateful for the opportunity to share the story of how I met my fellow Sole Sisters. It all began with Betty, whom I met at a Sole Sister Ramblers event over a year ago. Since then, our group has grown to include Soan, a friend of twenty years, and Cheryl, whom I've known for almost two years. Together, we've formed a supportive and inspiring friendship that not only loves to ramble through our neighborhoods but also explore the world together.
Casablanca
Touchdown! As the plane wheels screeched against the tarmac, we could already smell the salty Atlantic air. Casablanca felt like a buzzing metropolis — wide boulevards, tall white buildings, and the distant sound of car horns. Betty, Soan, and Cheryl made their way straight to the Hassan II Mosque, standing proudly against the sea, where the intricate tile work left them speechless.
I ventured out solo, letting curiosity guide me through downtown’s hidden gems, vibrant street corners, and local rhythms. It was the perfect way to begin our journey together, while also embracing our own styles of exploration.
That night, jet-lagged but giddy, we wandered into an authentic Moroccan restaurant for mint tea and dinner, feeling the first spark of adventure.
Tangier: The Gateway to Africa
Early the next morning, we took the shuttle north to Tangier. The ride itself was a window into Moroccan countryside life — fields of wildflowers and clusters of goats. Tangier was a dreamy mix of old and new. We stood where the Mediterranean meets the Atlantic at Cap Spartel, feeling small against the vastness. Later, we took a guided tour of the city’s highlights, including the medina, kasbah, the Grand Socco (a bustling square at the entrance to the medina), and the Petit Socco, a charming square in the medina perfect for people-watching and sipping mint tea.
The Blue Streets of Chefchaoun
The drive to Chefchaouen wound through the scenic Rif Mountains. When we first caught sight of the town — a sea of blue cascading down the hillside — we were mesmerized. We spent the day blissfully getting lost in its cobbled lanes, photographing every shade of blue imaginable.
Fes: The Ancient Labrinth
Next stop: Fes, the cultural heartbeat of Morocco. The Fes el Bali medina was overwhelming — a swirling maze of smells, sights, and sounds. Leather tanneries, spice markets, bustling souks... I nearly needed a trail of breadcrumbs to find my way back. We toured the ancient Al-Qarawiyyin University, marveled at the Bou Inania Madrasa, and spent an afternoon sipping sweet mint tea while sketching the intricate tilework. Fes felt alive — chaotic, but beautifully so.
Into the Dunes of Merzouga
We traded city life for the desert, heading east to Merzouga, on the edge of the Sahara. Riding a camel at sunset over the golden dunes felt like stepping into a dream. As the sun dipped below the horizon, the sand turned a fiery orange. That night, we stayed at a resort-like hotel called Auberge De Charme Les Dunes D’Or, which exceeded our expectations. It had two swimming pools, and our room balconies faced the desert, offering breathtaking views of golden sunsets and sunrises.
The Mighty Todra Gorge
Leaving the desert behind, we drove toward the towering cliffs of Todra Gorge. The sheer rock walls soared high above us, glowing pink in the afternoon light. We took a long walk along the cool river at the gorge’s base, watching climbers inch their way up the vertical rock faces. Everything felt vast, quiet, and humbling.
Aït Ben Haddou: Stepping into History
Onward to the legendary Aït Ben Haddou, a fortified village straight out of a movie set (and yes, it’s been in many!). Wandering the dusty paths between ancient earthen buildings, I half-expected a knight or caravan to appear. We climbed to the top of the kasbah and watched the sunset ignite the clay village in golds and reds. Pure magic.
Across the Atlas Mountains
The drive over the Atlas Mountains was a twisty, breathtaking adventure. Snow still dusted the peaks, even as spring warmed the valleys below. We stopped in tiny Berber villages, savoring fresh bread and strong coffee. The air smelled of wild herbs and pine. Every turn revealed another gasp-worthy view.
Seaside Serenity in Essaouira
Descending from the mountains, we arrived in Essaouira, the breezy, artistic coastal town. The ocean air felt like a blessing after the heat of the desert. We strolled the bustling port, watching fishermen haul in nets of sardines, wandered the mellow medina full of art galleries, and even tried our hand at bargaining for silver jewelry. Windswept beaches stretched on forever. Essaouira’s pace was slower, softer—exactly what we needed.
Marrakech: A Colorful Finale
Finally, Marrakech! The city hit me like a whirlwind — colors, music, scents. Jemaa el-Fnaa square was alive at every hour with snake charmers, storytellers, food stalls, and crowds of people. We explored the stunning Majorelle Garden, visited the serene Bahia Palace, and haggled (with much laughter) for spices and rugs in the endless souks. As the sun set behind the Koutoubia Mosque, we sat on a rooftop sipping fresh orange juice, reflecting on the incredible journey. Morocco had given us deserts, mountains, oceans, history, and heart. I already knew: I would be back.
Final thoughts…
We began as travelers, but ended as sisters. This adventure through Morocco was more than a journey across landscapes—it was a celebration of sisterhood, laughter, and shared dreams. To my Sole Sisters—Betty, Soan, and Cheryl—thank you for the memories. Until the next ramble!
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