I finally visited my 6th continent, Africa, with my trip to Morocco. My tour included 4 cities: Fes, Rabat, Marrakesh, and Casablanca. I had my eye on Morocco for a long time, and was drawn to the exotic architecture, delicious cuisine, and layers of history from Roman to Arab to Berber to Andalucían to French. When I spotted an inexpensive all-inclusive tour with Gate 1, I was there. The first stop was Rabat, the capital city of Morocco. If you think Rabat is only the political and administrative center, you are in for a pleasant surprise.
Behind the scenes video:
Rabat is the city where you can get photos with the traditional Moroccan guards, walk the Kasbah, and photograph the ruins of Chellah all in the same day. While it is not as touristy as Marrakesh, it is filled with impressive historic sights. It is one of four Imperial cities of Morocco, and the medina of Rabat is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Here are the top 3 places to photograph in Rabat:
1. Chellah - Walk through the scenic gardens filled with palms, pomegranate trees and friendly cats and discover Roman Ruins and 13th C Mosque.
2. Mausoleum of Mohammed V A richly ornate mausoleum where we photograph the Moroccan Architecture and guards (one of the only places where you can take photos with the guards). The mausoleum looks like a palace, with a traditional Moroccan green roof, marble floors, Islamic calligraphy etched into the facade, and extravagant mosaic tiles. In fact, it was nicknamed the Taj Mahal of Morocco.
3. Kasbah of the Udayas Also known as Kasbah les Oudaias, this is the most picturesque part of Rabat. The Kasbah has beautiful alleyways with whitewashed and blue walls, lines with picturesque shops. With each turn down the alleys, we saw something new: cats, Moroccan doors, pastry shops. It is best to visit with a guide so you don't get lost. There are also scenic views of the Bouregreg River and the Andalusian Gardens. What are your favorite places to photograph in Rabat?
Welcome to Thailand! On this trip, we take the Phuket Ferry to the Phi Phi Islands, a magical group of islands about two hours off the coast. The beaches include Koh Phi Phi Don and Koh Phi Phi Leh islands, which have turquoise waters, sheer green cliffs, and some of the best snorkeling in the world. It looks like paradise. Here's how to photograph these beautiful islands.
Behind the scenes vlog:
First, we board the ferry around 9am which takes us on a scenic ride to the Phi Phi Islands. We dock off coast of Monkey Beach off of Ko Phi Phi Don to go snorkeling. Our boat provided the snorkel gear and I brought my GoPro. We dive into the underwater adventure and see the best coral reefs and sea life, like parrot fish.
Here's what to bring to get those amazing underwater and aerial shots:
View of the longtail boats from monkey beach:
Time to dive in! View from the waters of Phi Phi Islands:
Next, we go to Monkey Beach where we see mischievous monkeys grabbing tourist's items, like sunglasses, beer, and more! Here is the view from the water looking towards Monkey Beach (shot with GoPro).
We get back on the boat to visit Krabi beach, where we go swimming in the warm waters. Then it's time to head back to Phuket! Phuket Ferry Schedule: ► ►https://www.phuketferry.com/ Phi Phi Island Boat Tour: ► ►https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/full-day-phi-phi-islands-tour-with-lunch.a377684.activity-details What are your favorite places in Thailand to go snorkeling? Comment below!
Welcome to Angkor Wat! In this travel vlog, we take a guided weekend trip to the ancient temple of Angkor Wat in Cambodia and photograph the temple. Like most magnificent sights, we were not the only ones there. In fact, crowds can reach the thousands. So be sure to come prepared. Here is how to photograph the temple like a pro during a weekend trip.
Behind the scenes video: When to go: September or March, which are the vernal and autumnal equinoxes. At this time, the sun lines up directly above the central pinnacle of Angkor Wat, a estimate to the genius architecture. Getting there: First, we get up at 4:45 am to buy our ticket to the temple, which is $36 for a one day pass and $62 for a three day pass. At 5 am, we reach the temple. You can get to the temple via tuk tuk, taxi, or bike. Here is the scene when we arrived:
Camera Set Up:
First, make sure your DSLR lens does not fog from the humidity. It took me about 15 minutes for the humidity on my lens to dissipate. I set up my tripod and filmed a time-lapse photo of the glorious sunrise. Be sure to get in the front row for optimal viewing. Where to set up your camera: Set your camera up on the west or north sides of the temple next to the outer moat (see pin drops below). You can also cross the moat and set up next to the "Libraries" where you will find an interior reflective pool. This area is much more crowded, so be sure to get there early. View from the West side of the outer moat. The temple looks more distant, but I got an unobstructed view with no people or scaffolding in the shot.
View from the interior pool near the "Libraries". The temple is closer in view and the colors change every few minutes.
Here is what to bring: |
Published Travel ArticlesWelcome to Run The Atlas!
We are two adventurous young professionals who turned our passion for travel into a blog to help others travel more.
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