Final Morning in the Riad
We woke at a normal time today and had breakfast in the Riad’s courtyard before spending a couple of hours relaxing around the splash pool. I read my Kindle for a while before packing my travel bag and getting ready to leave. When we checked out midmorning, we asked what we owed for the extra mint tea we’d had during our stay. They told us it was complimentary and said that if we returned, we should book directly with them so they could give us a better room and a better price than we’d get through a third party.
Taxi Troubles & Airport Drop-Off
We waited in the square for our pre-booked taxi, but it never arrived. While I looked around for it, Lisa spoke to a nearby taxi driver who offered to take us to the airport for less than the price we’d already paid. We climbed in, and he dropped us right outside the departures area.
Inside the airport, things got a bit confusing. One sign pointed us one way, but staff sent us back to check-in even though we had no bags to check. We were seen quickly, and the lady at the desk offered to get a wheelchair to take me to the gate. I waited while Lisa used the bathroom, but after about 15 minutes with no wheelchair in sight, we gave up and slowly walked back to departures. We passed through several security checks, customs and immigration before reaching the terminal, where we found somewhere to sit and get a drink.
Boarding the Flight
The Ryanair app told us one gate, but the airport signs told us another. Luckily, we were sitting right next to the gate the airport signage indicated, and from where we were, we could see the plane and the queue forming. Once most people had boarded, we joined the back of the line and were soon seated on the plane, ready to fly back to Murcia.
Stormy Arrival in Spain
We knew there was a chance of bad weather in Spain, but we didn’t realise how bad it would be. As we flew over the country, I saw huge black clouds out of the window. We landed in Murcia without any issues and were quickly through customs and immigration. Archie met us outside to drive us home, and we had barely left the airport when the heavens opened. The rain was torrential, and lightning was striking close by. We managed to stay ahead of the worst of it, and by the time Archie dropped me at my apartment, the sky had cleared, but it didn’t look like it would stay that way for long.
Back Home in Los Alcázares
Once inside, I unpacked, put my clothes in the washing machine and sat down for a drink. As soon as I did, the storm hit again, even heavier than before. The lightning lit up the sky, and the rain was so intense I couldn’t see beyond the edge of my balcony. The square outside disappeared behind a grey curtain of water, and the thunder rolled across the town as if welcoming me home.
Summary
I had a fantastic time in Marrakech with Lisa. We loved exploring the medina, riding camels and quad bikes in the desert, and the hot-air balloon flight was unforgettable. The Moroccan people were incredibly friendly, and I never felt unsafe. I’d recommend Marrakech to anyone, and the Riad was far more personal and comfortable than a busy hotel. Lisa was great company, and we’re already planning another trip together.
I received a full refund for the taxi that never turned up, and now that I know how much taxis cost, I’d happily negotiate a fare at the airport next time rather than booking in advance. And one final lesson: never trust the Ryanair app, always follow the airport signs.
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