Last updated on September 25th, 2023 at 06:22 am This summer, I had the privilege of leading a travel writing retreat based in Marrakesh, Morocco – a city that held a special place in my heart as it was where I lived for two years. The devastating earthquake that struck the Atlas Mountains last week has left thousands of lives lost and thousands more Moroccans homeless, leaving me with a heavy heart for families who are struggling to cope. Thankfully, friends and fellow travelers who live in Marrakesh and the Atlas Mountains are safe, but former students and friends I've spoken to are still reeling from the shock. As I reflect on the experience, I'm reminded of the resilience and strength of the Moroccan people. My friends who have reached out to me on social media have shown concern for the affected areas and asked how they can help. I'm grateful to be able to connect them with reputable organizations that are providing vital relief efforts. Amal Center, Project SOAR, and Education for All are just a few of the organizations that are making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by the earthquake. One way to support Morocco during this difficult time is through tourism. The country has faced significant challenges in recent years, including pandemic border closures, lockdowns, and now an earthquake. Despite these setbacks, Marrakesh is once again open for business, and I'm excited to announce that it's the perfect destination for an epic adventure of a lifetime. If you're looking for inspiration, start planning your trip for 2024. I'd be happy to help you plan your dream getaway – just message me at cindylmccain1@gmail.com. In fact, if you book a stay at Riad Mur Akush, our home base for the retreat, within the next four weeks, the riad is donating 20% of all bookings to Amal Center's Earthquake Relief Fund. To support this effort, simply use this link: https://www.amalcenter.org/earthquake-relief-fund. By booking your stay at Riad Mur Akush through this link, you'll be directly supporting the relief efforts and helping to make a difference in the lives of those affected by the earthquake. For those who are interested in joining a community of like-minded creative explorers, I'd love to invite you to join me on a writing workshop online, in Morocco, or beyond. My last summer's retreat was an incredible experience that inspired artists with beauty, rest, and adventure. One of the highlights was our visit to Jnane Tamsna, where we enjoyed lunch, played in multiple pools, and even rode camels under the sun-kissed sky. It was truly an unforgettable experience that I'm eager to share with others. Morocco has been a source of inspiration for artists for centuries, and it's no surprise why. The country's rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality make it the perfect destination for anyone looking to tap into their creativity. Whether you're a writer, artist, or simply someone who loves to explore new places, Morocco is sure to captivate your senses and inspire your soul. In addition to supporting tourism, there are many other ways to help with earthquake relief efforts. One of the most effective ways is through donations to reputable organizations like Amal Center, Project SOAR, and Education for All. These organizations are on the ground, providing vital services and support to those affected by the earthquake. By donating to these organizations, you'll be making a tangible difference in the lives of those who need it most. Project SOAR is one organization that I've had the privilege of working with in the past. They provide critical support to survivors of natural disasters, including education, healthcare, and economic empowerment programs. Education for All is another organization that's doing incredible work in Morocco, providing educational resources and support to marginalized communities. Amal Center is a community-based organization that provides emergency response, food, shelter, and medical care to those affected by the earthquake. As we move forward, it's essential to remember that every donation counts, no matter how small. By supporting organizations like these, you'll be helping to provide vital relief efforts and support to those who need it most. Whether you're able to donate a few dollars or hundreds of thousands, your contribution will make a difference. In the meantime, I'd love to invite you to join me on a writing workshop online, in Morocco, or beyond. My last summer's retreat was an incredible experience that inspired artists with beauty, rest, and adventure. If you're interested in joining us next time around, please don't hesitate to reach out. We'll be sharing more information soon about upcoming workshops and events. As I look back on the past few weeks, I'm reminded of the power of community and connection. The earthquake that struck Morocco has left thousands of lives lost and thousands more Moroccans homeless, but it's also brought people together in a way that's both heartbreaking and inspiring. As we move forward, let's continue to support one another, whether through donations, volunteering, or simply by being a listening ear for those who need it most. In conclusion, the devastating earthquake that struck Morocco has left an indelible mark on our hearts and minds. But even in the face of tragedy, there is hope – hope that we can come together as a global community to support those in need, to provide relief efforts, and to help rebuild a nation that's been shaken to its core.
