Author Archives: Rachel Bartkowski

This past month, I’ve been in Ghana studying health systems, services, and education. Last summer I attended this program as a student, so I was thrilled to have the opportunity to return as a TA and revisit many of the same sites I enjoyed so much last year. Throughout the month, our group travels toContinue reading “Returning to Accra, Ghana”

Our Jordan travels from Amman and the Dead Sea continued as we arrived in Petra! Petra is a historic and archaeological city and one of Jordan’s most popular tourist attractions. In the 4th century, the Nabateans (an ancient Arab people group) flourished in Petra, massively developing the city. They established Petra as a major regionalContinue reading “Petra to Wadi Rum: Jordan Part 2”

After months of texting, calling, and planning, I finally embarked on a trip to Jordan with two of my good friends Jada and Annie! They first flew into Morocco where we spent about a week exploring Marrakech, Ouzoud, Essaouira, and Casablanca. It was incredible to have close friends visit, and I had a great timeContinue reading “Journeying through Jordan”

Being about four months into my time in Morocco, I’ve been able to indulge so many different types of cuisine. Travelling around the country, attending different events, and even just exploring around my neighborhood has allowed me to sample so many new types of foods, dishes, and spices. I love trying new foods and I’veContinue reading “The Vibrant Culinary Experience of Morocco”

Due to Morocco visa policies, it was necessary for me to leave the country at some point this month. I decided to plan a trip to Barcelona because of the cheap flight and close proximity to Morocco. I spent a few days in Barcelona about five years back in high school, so I was reallyContinue reading “Break in Barcelona”

I spent this past weekend in Chefchaouen, a small city up north in the the Rif mountains of Morocco. Nicknamed, “the Blue Pearl of Morocco”, Chefchaouen is known for its stunning blue-washed alleys and buildings – an atmosphere I was thoroughly excited to be completely immersed in. I traveled with four of my other coworkersContinue reading “The Blue Pearl of Morocco”

Here is truly a piece of paradise on Earth! I spent this past weekend soaking up the sun, sitting by the water, and wandering around the streets of Essaouira – one of the most wonderful places I’ve ever traveled to. I had heard from many people that Essaouira was a hippie, beach-lovers dream, and theContinue reading “An Escape to Essaouira”

Every single time I’ve read a travel website or blog about Morocco, it ALWAYS describes the endless maze that is the Medina of Marrakech – infamous for its winding streets, aggressive haggling, and overstimulating nature. While initially intimidating, I was determined to explore the Medina and see if I could really master the shopping andContinue reading “Mastering the Medina”

My first few days in Marrakech were a blur of jet-lag, apartment hunting, and adjusting to a new environment. Despite the busyness, we were able to enjoy a morning of touring around Marrakech and seeing some of the popular sites! We started out at the Jardin Majorelle which was created by French artist Jacques MajorelleContinue reading “First Taste of Marrakech”

To end my time in Kenya, my family and I enjoyed a 5-day game drive in two of the most beautiful reserves in the country. Maasai Mara is located in Narok, Kenya and is mainly populated by the Maasai people. It is a largely important region for wildlife conservation and an incredible ecosystem of lions,Continue reading “3 Days In Maasai Mara”