Destination Morocco Podcast
Destinations Morocco is a direct ground operator based in Houston, Texas, with an office in Marrakech — offering custom private tours, small-group departures, and white-label itineraries for travel advisors and agencies.
On our podcast, host Azdean Elmoustaquim — born and raised in Marrakech — takes you on an exploration of his country's distinct culture, vibrant history, and stunning attractions, alongside co-host and producer Ted.
Azdean prepares you for the real Morocco: where to go, what to expect, real costs and prices, safety (including specifically for female travelers), the kinds of scams to watch for in the bazaars, useful local phrases, and so much more.
New: a dedicated series built for travel advisors and agencies, digging into commission structures, client objections, seasonality, and everything else you need to sell Morocco with confidence.
New episodes every 1st and 15th. Whether you're planning your own trip or building one for a client, our podcast unpacks the mystery and opens up discovery of an amazing land. We invite you along for the journey.
Learn more or request a custom quote at destinationsmorocco.com.
Destination Morocco Podcast
Discover Essaouira, Morocco's Coastal Gem
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Welcome to the stunning oceanside city of Essaouira, located southwest of Casablanca, due west of Marrakesh, and midway down the Atlantic coast of Morocco.
In this episode, Azdean welcomes Xavier Panadés, owner of the riad "Riad Zahra," which sits but one block from Essaouira's stunning beach and oceanfront promenade. Xavier has Moroccan roots, but grew up in Barcelona, before returning to Morocco, settling in Essaouira and opening his Riad about 16 years ago.
Essaouira has many claims to fame, perhaps none more important or poignant than as a melting pot of cultures and religions. Arabs, Jews and Christians have lived together harmoniously for hundreds of years, a source of pride for the locals, known as swiriyin and swiriyat.
Xavier gives us some background on things to see and do in Essaouira, local dishes, spices and markets, and the story behind his beautiful riad, which combines Moroccan and Spanish cuisine and influences.
You're about to learn:
- About Essaouira's Game of Thrones connection. Orson Welles too.
- About Riad Zahra, just 2 minutes' walk from the beach.
- Check out the amazing Live Webcam!!
- The Gnaoua International Music Festival, one of the largest music festivals in the world.
- The Hiloula Jewish festival, commemorating Rabbi Haim Pinto.
The special tagines of Essaouira:
- eel tagine
- octopus tagine
- Useful, valuable tips for buying Argan oil, Olive oil and even Moroccan honey. Look for the new official government label to ensure quality control.
- How Essaouira is a haven for Thuya wood and Argan trees.
Resources Mentioned in this episode:
Essaouira map
Join me for an 8-Day Boutique Moroccan Experience!
https://trips.destinationsmorocco.com/Morocco-2026
Step inside the hidden Morocco on this first-of-its-kind, 12-spot journey, hosted personally by Azdean.
November 8-15, 2026, $1995 USD Per Person
Book Your Spot Today!
Learn more about Azdean and Destination Morocco.
