We’re Samuel & Eunice , the duo behind The Adventures of S & E.  Our journey together began long before this blog - but travel has always been at the heart of our story. What started as weekend getaways in London and spontaneous adventures in Jamaica slowly grew into a shared love for capturing moments and telling stories from the road. Based in Ireland, we embrace a slower pace of living - finding beauty in everyday adventures and letting our travels inspire the way we see the world. For us, travel is more than visiting new places - it’s about connection . Connection with each other, with the people we meet, and with the cultures we get to experience. This blog is our little corner of the internet where we share our slow, adventure travel stories  - not just the picture-perfect moments, but the real experiences that make travel meaningful. Here, you’ll find thoughtfully crafted travel itineraries to add to your ever-growing a bucket list,   hidden gems , beautiful stays , and incredible food experiences  from around the world. We hope that as you read, you feel inspired to create your own adventures - whether they take you across continents or just outside your doorstep. Because in the end, it’s not about how far you go, but about the memories you make  and the stories you carry with you. Thank you for being here - it means the world to us. We can’t wait to keep exploring, growing, and storytelling - together. With love, Samuel & Eunice 📧 theadventuresofsande@gmail.com drop a question, or just say hello!

Morocco surprised us in many ways, but nothing prepared us for the stillness of the Sahara. While Marrakesh dazzles with colour, sound, and movement, the desert offers the opposite - silence, space, and a kind of calm that feels almost sacred. Our two-night journey into the Sahara with Desert Luxury Camp became one of the most memorable experiences of our entire Morocco trip. This blog shares our full experience travelling from Marrakesh to Erg Chebbi, including the Atlas Mountain drive, Berber villages, luxury desert camping, and what it truly feels like to sleep beneath a sky filled with millions of stars.   The Journey Begins: Leaving Marrakesh for the Atlas Mountains Our adventure began at 9am, when our private driver collected us from Marrakesh in a comfortable 4x4 vehicle arranged by Desert Luxury Camp. Almost immediately, the scenery began to change. The busy streets faded behind us as we climbed into the High Atlas Mountains, following the dramatic Tizi n’Tichka Pass  - one of Morocco’s most spectacular roads. The winding route revealed breathtaking views at every turn: snow-topped peaks, deep valleys, and small Berber villages seemingly carved into the mountainside. We stopped at Col du Tichka , where a small local shop displayed Sahara fossils and minerals - a reminder that this desert landscape was once underwater millions of years ago. Lunch with History: Aït Benhaddou Continuing south, we arrived at Aït Benhaddou , an ancient fortified village famous for its earthen kasbahs and cinematic history. We stopped for lunch overlooking the historic structures, taking in views that felt frozen in time. The landscape was golden and cinematic, with mud-brick towers rising against the desert sky. We also passed the nearby film studios - known for movies like Gladiator  and Game of Thrones  - though we chose to continue our journey rather than tour inside.   Our First Night: Oasis Luxury at Dar Hnini After approximately 6–7 hours on the road, we arrived at our first stop: Dar Hnini . Hidden among palm groves, the hotel felt like an oasis after a long drive. We stayed in a private two-bedroom villa complete with our own pool - an unexpected level of comfort before heading deeper into the desert. We spent the afternoon swimming, relaxing, and soaking in the peaceful surroundings before dinner in the garden restaurant.   Into the Sahara: Journey to Erg Chebbi The next morning began slowly with a beautiful Moroccan breakfast - fresh orange juice, pancakes, fruit, and pastries. From there, we continued toward Erg Chebbi , home to Morocco’s most iconic sand dunes. Along the way, we stopped in a Berber village where we tried Berber pizza , a traditional regional dish resembling a stuffed calzone filled with meat and onions. The village shops displayed handmade carpets and antique jewellery, offering a glimpse into local craftsmanship and culture. As we drove onward, the landscape shifted once again - until suddenly, the first apricot-coloured dunes appeared on the horizon. Seeing Erg Chebbi for the first time felt surreal.   Arrival at Desert Luxury Camp By evening, we reached Desert Luxury Camp, nestled between rolling sand dunes. We were welcomed with mint tea, fresh dates, and nuts - a traditional Moroccan greeting that immediately set the tone for the experience. One of the most special aspects of the camp was its intimacy. During our stay, only one other couple was present, making the vast Sahara feel entirely ours. Sunset Camel Ride Across the Dunes As golden hour approached, we set off on a camel ride across the dunes. Watching the sun slowly disappear behind endless waves of sand was unforgettable. The colours shifted from gold to amber to deep rose, while silence stretched endlessly around us. It was one of those rare travel moments where time feels suspended.   Night in the Sahara: Stars, Music, and Stillness Dinner that evening was followed by a campfire and traditional Moroccan music beneath an impossibly clear sky. The stars felt endless - brighter than anything we had ever seen before. We spent time sitting outside our tent simply watching the sky, absorbing the quiet and peacefulness of the Sahara. The silence wasn’t empty; it felt grounding. Saying Goodbye to the Desert After a peaceful night’s sleep, we woke to sunrise over the dunes and enjoyed breakfast before beginning the long journey back to Marrakesh. Leaving the Sahara felt bittersweet. The desert has a way of slowing you down - reminding you how powerful stillness can be in a world that rarely stops moving. And long after returning to the city, a part of us still felt rooted in that quiet expanse of sand and sky.   Is a Sahara Desert Trip Worth It? Without hesitation - yes. The journey is long, but it becomes part of the experience itself. From mountain passes to ancient kasbahs, Berber traditions to desert luxury, the trip reveals a side of Morocco many travellers never see. If Marrakesh is the heartbeat of Morocco, the Sahara is its soul.   Practical Tips for Visiting the Sahara Best Duration: 2–3 nights minimum (including travel time) Transport: Private 4x4 transfer recommended for comfort What to Pack: Layers (desert temperatures change quickly) Sunglasses & sunscreen Comfortable shoes for sand walking Camera for sunrise & sunset Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable temperatures.   Final Reflections Our Sahara journey wasn’t just a destination - it was a transition. From the energy of Marrakesh to the silence of the desert, the experience reminded us why we travel in the first place: to feel small in the best possible way, to disconnect from noise, and to reconnect with presence. With love, Samuel & Eunice 📸 Follow our journey on Instagram @adventuresofsande_  and YouTube @adventuresofsande

Marrakesh - a city that hums with life, colour, and centuries of history. The moment we stepped into its maze-like Medina, we knew twelve days wouldn’t be nearly enough. From fragrant tagines and rooftop sunsets to ancient palaces and desert escapes, this trip reminded us why travel is about connection - to people, to culture, and to each other. This is our 12-day Marrakesh itinerary  - a story of slow exploration, hidden gems, and unforgettable moments that will help you plan your own Moroccan adventure.   Good Things to Know Before You Go Internet:  Get an e-SIM before your flight - we recommend GOMO World  for reliable data across Morocco, even in remote areas. Get 10% off your first order using code - SANDE10 . Safety:  Marrakesh is generally safe, but stay alert in crowded areas and avoid unsolicited help from strangers. We felt secure throughout our stay. Currency:  The local currency is Moroccan Dirham (MAD) . Exchange at official bureaus or withdraw directly from ATMs for the best rate. Tap Water:  Stick to bottled or filtered water to avoid stomach upsets. Getting Around:  We rented a car from Sovoy Cars  (booked easily via WhatsApp). Pick-up at the airport was seamless - fast, affordable, and convenient. Not sponsored - just genuinely great service. Day 1 – Arrival & First Impressions: A Rooftop Welcome We landed in Marrakesh in the late afternoon, exchanged some cash at the airport, and headed straight to our first accommodation - Riad BE Marrakesh . Stepping through its doors felt like entering a storybook - walls washed in warm tones, the scent of orange blossom in the air, and a quiet courtyard that instantly calmed our travel-weary minds. That evening, we enjoyed our first dinner on a rooftop terrace , watching the sun melt into the pink city skyline. Rooftop dining in Marrakesh is a must - every sunset here feels like the city’s way of saying “welcome.” Days 2-4 – The Soul of the City: History, Family & Adventure A Morning of History After a slow breakfast on the rooftop and some lounging by the pool, we set off to visit Almoravid Koubba  - Marrakesh’s oldest surviving monument. Built in 1117, its delicate arches and domes tell stories of the Almoravid dynasty’s artistry. 💡 Entry: 100 MAD | Hours: 9AM - 6PM.   Family, Riads & Relaxation Later, we spent time with family just outside the city - a peaceful villa retreat that is sure to leave you in awe. The next day, back at our riad, we took it slow - wandering through the tiled courtyards and soaking in the intricate details that make Moroccan design so enchanting. Desert Thrills & Medina Magic Our fourth day began early with a thrilling morning of quad biking and camel riding in the Agafay Desert . The golden dunes, quiet wind, and endless horizon were unforgettable.  We returned to the city to explore the souks of Jemaa el-Fnaa , a vibrant maze of colour and life. Every corner was filled with treasures - handwoven rugs, spices, lanterns, and laughter echoing through the narrow lanes. Days 5-8 – The Luxury Chapter: Where Time Stands Still The Oberoi, Marrakesh Our next stop was The Oberoi Marrakesh  - a breathtaking blend of traditional Moroccan design and modern luxury. Upon arrival, we were upgraded to a Deluxe Villa with a private pool, and from that moment, it felt like a dream. From breakfast by the water to golden-hour reflections on the marble arches, The Oberoi was a sanctuary. Every detail was curated with intention. Afternoon Tea at Royal Mansour We couldn’t resist visiting the Royal Mansour Marrakesh for afternoon tea - a royal experience in every sense. The delicate pastries, mint tea, and timeless ambience made us feel like we’d stepped into a Moroccan fairytale. Sidecar Adventures We booked Marrakesh Insiders  for a vintage sidecar tour , zig-zagging through alleyways and neighbourhoods less frequented by tourists. Our guide, Illias, showed us the Marrakesh beyond postcards - dusty roads, local markets, and children waving as we passed. 📸 Watch Our Sidecar Adventure Private Barbecue Dinner One evening, we booked a private barbecue dinner at The Oberoi - an experience we’ll never forget. Imagine 22 dishes prepared by a private chef beside your villa pool: our favourites were the rosemary rack of lamb, king prawn skewers, truffle mac and cheese, and four exquisite desserts. It was more than a meal - it was art. Day 9 – Gardens, History & Flavours of Marrakesh We dedicated this day to two of Marrakesh’s must-sees: ·       Ben Youssef Madrasa  - a masterpiece of Islamic architecture with intricate carvings and quiet courtyards.💡 Entry: 50 MAD | Hours: 9AM - 7PM. ·       Jardin Majorelle  - the famed blue oasis once owned by Yves Saint Laurent. The vibrant blues, exotic plants, and serenity of this garden are pure magic.💡 Entry: 170 MAD | Hours: 8AM - 6:30PM. Afterward, we headed to L’Mida Marrakesh  for lunch - one of our favourite finds in the Medina. The rooftop views, apricot and thyme chicken teriyaki, L’Mida tacos, and citrus coleslaw were beyond delicious. Our taste buds were totally blown away. Reservation is definitely recommended in peak season. On our walk back, we stopped for a fresh sugarcane juice  from a local stand – it was so delicious! Days 10-12 – Serenity, Sky & Sweet Goodbyes Palais Namaskar: The Art of Stillness For our final chapter, we checked into Palais Namaskar - a sanctuary of palatial design, fragrant gardens, and reflection pools that mirror the sky. This hotel radiates peace; every space feels designed for stillness. We spent our afternoons drifting between the gardens and the pool, letting Marrakesh slow us down one last time. Dinner at Folk Marrakesh That evening, we dined at Folk Marrakesh . The ambience was intimate, the food rich in flavour, though note: smoking is permitted indoors here. Still, it’s a lovely dinner option for those seeking a laid-back night out. A Sunrise Above the City The next morning began before dawn as we were whisked away for a hot air balloon ride . Floating above Marrakesh as the sun rose was one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences. The desert stretched endlessly below us, bathed in golden light. 📸 Watch Our Hot Air Balloon Reel The Final Stroll We ended our journey with a rooftop lunch at Black Chic Marrakesh  - an Afro-fusion restaurant that stole our hearts with its crispy chicken salad, empanadas, and homemade pineapple ginger drinks. Our final evening was spent browsing Menara Mall for Moroccan spices and black soap - small treasures to take a piece of Marrakesh home with us. A Love Letter to Marrakesh As our plane lifted off the next morning, we looked down at the city that had captured our hearts. Marrakesh is not a place you simply visit - it’s a rhythm, a scent, a swirl of colours that lingers long after you leave. Twelve days here taught us that beauty lives in the in-between: in early morning tea, the hum of the Medina, and the stillness of desert sunsets. Until next time, Marrakesh. With love, Samuel & Eunice 📸 Follow our journey on Instagram @adventuresofsande_ and YouTube @adventuresofsande