Market Data 
I was eager to visit Morocco during my semester abroad, as it marked my first visit to Africa. The popular Saharan country is known for its colorful cities, bustling medinas, mosaic architecture, and sandy dunes of the Sahara Desert.
I crave authentic experiences when traveling, especially when immersing myself in an entirely new culture. So, I tried to embrace haggling with vendors at Marrakech’s Jemaa el-Fnaa market, navigating the maze-like alleys and tasting the bold, unfamiliar cuisine.
Unfortunately, my trip felt overshadowed by some of the extra-persistent vendors’ sale tactics and the unwelcome advances of some locals, which left me overwhelmed.
For instance, one vendor grabbed my arm and applied henna tattoos to it, unprompted, only to demand money afterward. At one point, two men also tried to steal my purse, which further dampened my visit.
Looking back, I wish I’d set more realistic expectations and better prepared myself to safely and confidently navigate the busy markets.
Even though parts of my visit to Morocco caught me off guard, it was also the backdrop to unforgettable memories with my now-husband, such as riding camels together at sunset.
I’ve never visited anywhere else in the world like it, which is really cool even if I’m not planning to return.
