Mark had some strong reservations before joining our tour to Morocco last May. He had never traveled with Zoom Vacations before, but Morocco was top on the list of places his husband, Chris wanted to visit, and he chose Zoom. So, he packed his bags, along with his reservations, and joined our tour. We knew our work was cut out for us to help Mark have a great experience, and the challenge was on.
Zoom: Our tour to Morocco wasn't a trip that you actually wanted to take, and you were coming because your partner wanted to go. What was it that gave you reservations about Morocco?
Mark: Morocco was not on my list of places to go to. My husband really wanted to go so, I went along. I had read that Morocco was not a “gay-friendly” place and that gave me concern. But, Morocco proved to be very welcoming. We were met with warmth and kindness from everyone.
Zoom: Did you have any other concerns about the trip?
Mark: In the past, I had never traveled as part of a tour group. My favorite vacations were ones that I either planned for myself or went with a group of friends. I had reservations about being on a tour. That said, I felt that Morocco was a destination that required inside information and I think that the team at Zoom did a great job at planning the logistics of the trip and working a balance of culture, leisure, and social/recreational time. I really think that our experience was enhanced by our Moroccan guide and Bryan’s knowledge and enthusiasm for the country. It was definitely a plus to have inside knowledge and experience.
Zoom: I do member one concern of yours was that you hoped that you would still have time to yourself. Did you find that you had this?
Mark: I appreciated that the schedule was loose enough that each day had time for rest and relaxation. We could peel off from the group and do different things and then meet for dinner or drinks.
Chris and Mark, at our kasbah in Skoura, Morocco
Zoom: How were the hotels on the trip?
Mark: The hotels that Zoom selected were great. Each one was better than the last. The La Sultana in Marrakech was a stunning finale. One of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen. We took advantage of the spa and the hammam, it was a wonderful experience.
Zoom: What was your highlight of the tour?
Mark: A highlight. There were many. Definitely, the night in the Sahara. The dinner and entertainment at the camp was really fun and the stars at night were spectacular. Marrakech was also a highlight. The hotel and dinners and Jardín Majorelle, I would love to go back again.
Zoom: How would this trip have been different had you not come with Zoom Vacations?
Mark: By the end of the trip I became a Zoom-believer. I don’t think I could have planned this trip on my own. Zoom did a great job of making sure all the details were covered. Things we take for granted that are not easy to pull off. Like; a group of 16 shows up a hotel and everyone is in their room with luggage within a few minutes.
Zoom: How was it, traveling as part of a gay group?
Mark: We really clicked with the group and we definitely made new friendships. A really fun and diverse group.
Camel selfies in the Sahara
Zoom: Where would you like to go next with Zoom Vacations?
Mark: I’m so glad that my husband pushed me a bit out of my comfort zone and we took this trip. We were really impressed and we have decided to join Zoom Vacations to South East Asia, along with some other friends of ours.
