Page 40 - Sunny Marmaris Issue 5 (2025)

40 2024 TRIPS TO MOROCCO & TUNISIA 2025 TRIPS TO PRAGUE & KRAKOW 41

As a dad who lives for a good plate of food and a cracking family We also visited a steakhouse that had a BBQ ranch feel straight out of the US. The food was tasty, and the
getaway, my wife Rochelle, our lad Teddy, and I have been on prices were incredibly cheap, making it a memorable dining experience. However, the trip wasn’t without
some unforgettable adventures. From the bustling souks of its quirks. Ordering Ubers often turned into a negotiation with drivers asking us to cancel the app booking,
Morocco to the charming streets of Prague, each trip has left us and we had a surreal experience at a small restaurant near El Jem. After waiting too long for food, we had
with memories (and meals) to savour. Some were pure magic, to leave for our bus, only for the owner to tear up the money we tried to pay! That aside, the busy markets
others a bit of a mixed bag—but they all taught us something were a joy to explore, and taxis were incredibly cheap using Uber.
along the way. Here’s the lowdown on our recent travels.
Krakow, Poland:
Marrakech, Morocco: Krakow was meant to be a foodie’s dream, but illness had other plans. I spent most of the four-night trip
November saw us basking in the sun in Marrakech, and what a bedbound with flu-like symptoms, no energy, and just wanting to get home and rest. The weather was a
trip it was! Staying at the Labranda Targa Club Aquapark (£798 for little chilly, but no worse than back in Teesside—a jacket and scarf were more than enough to stay
seven nights all-inclusive, with Teddy free), we had no complaints comfortable.
about the food, drinks, or the hotel’s family-friendly vibe. Teddy
loved the slides, and the staff couldn’t have been more We stayed at Aparthotel Karmel in the Jewish Quarter (738 PLN for three nights) before moving to Platinia
welcoming. Premium Apartments near the Old Town (240 PLN for the final night). The latter was a gem, even if I could
only appreciate it from bed! I relied on hotel food deliveries during my stay, which kept me going while I
Zac, the go-to guy for excursions in Marrakech, was a lifesaver. He rested.
organised everything for us, including Abdul, our guide for a few
hours in the city centre. Abdul walked us through the souks, sharing From what little I saw, Krakow was stunning—Wawel Castle, lively bars, and zapiekanka stalls gave me a
the rich history of the area while navigating the chaos of scooters and bustling crowds. Zac also arranged glimpse of its charm. Next time, I’ll be sure to visit the coal mines and Auschwitz, as I’d originally planned.
a hot air balloon ride over the Atlas Mountains, which was absolutely breathtaking. Watching the sunrise Prague, Czech Republic:
from the balloon was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Prague in January was nothing short of magical. Staying at
Hotel Harmony (£450 for four nights for two adults via
We also tried camel trekking, quad biking, and a buggy ride, which Teddy couldn’t get enough of. The Now Let’s Travel Stockton), we were perfectly placed to
souks were a feast for the senses—tagines bubbling away, mint tea being poured, and the smell of spices explore both the New and Old Towns.
and grilled meat filling the air. The markets at night had a completely different vibe, buzzing with energy
and colour. Be sure to haggle and keep an eye out for pickpockets, and don’t forget to spend your The architecture in Prague is breathtaking—every street
Moroccan Dirhams before heading to the airport—it’s a closed currency, and any leftover cash will be feels like stepping into a fairytale. The Gothic spires, colourful
confiscated at security, as we found out the hard way! facades, and cobbled streets create a unique charm that’s
hard to describe but impossibleto forget. Charles Bridge at
Sousse, Tunisia: dusk is a sight to behold, with the city lights reflecting on
December took us to Tunisia, and while it wasn’t quite what we hoped for, it had its moments. We started the Vltava River and the surrounding scenery steeped in
at the Riadh Palms in Sousse, booked through Love Holidays, but quickly realised it wasn’t for us. Between history.
the dodgy vibes and a less-than-stellar hotel, we made a swift exit to the Iberostar Selection Diar El
Andalous (€225 for four nights). This switch saved the trip, with the new hotel offering a much better The food scene in Prague is just as impressive. Traditional
experience. Czech dishes like goulash are a must-try, and I had some of
the best near Charles Bridge after picking up some football-
The highlight was visiting the amphitheatre of El Jem— themed Russian dolls. Outdoor BBQs with hams roasting over
an awe-inspiring sight that felt like stepping straight open fires are everywhere, but make sure to check prices beforehand to avoid paying over the odds.
into Gladiator. The markets, bustling with vendors
selling everything from clothes to furniture and For variety, Prague has it all—traditional restaurants, bustling local bars, and westernised options like Hard
souvenirs, were another highlight. Even in December, Rock Café, McDonald’s, and KFC, all conveniently located in the city centre. Across the road from our
the weather was warm enough for sunbathing, with hotel, we even found a beautiful Turkish restaurant run by staff from eastern Turkey. The food was
a pleasant breeze. incredible, and the hospitality was second to none.

Zack Marakesh Excursions
Zack Marakesh Excursions We used Uber and Bolt throughout Prague, depending on which was cheaper, and found both reliable
+212 658-849585 and affordable. The Steel Museum was a surprising highlight, breaking up the day from all the eating and
+212 658-849585
drinking. Another fun stop was the Illusions Museum, perfect for snapping some hilarious photos for social
media.

Getting around Prague was a breeze. You can easily walk between the New and Old Towns, or use public
transport or Bolt taxis, which are cheap and reliable. The locals in the bars and restaurants were full of life
and character, making the trip even more memorable.

Travel Tips and What’s Next:
Apps like Glovo, Uber, and Bolt were lifesavers for food deliveries and transport—download them, trust me.
February has been a quieter month for me, focusing on resting up and gearing up for a busy year of travel
ahead. Next on the horizon? Phuket, Thailand, Dubai, and a return to U.S. for Vegas, San Francisco, and LA.