Maartje

Maartje's enthusiasm and curiosity knows no bounds. She loves museums, nature, food, walking, architecture, history, animals. Writing and photography is a big passion and she has been writing about cooking, minimalism, food, hotspots and travel for many years. Above all, she has a special place in her heart for castles, royal jewels and ancient Egypt. Maartje gave up her job as a lawyer to bring more balance to her life: less work and more life. Besides to The Orange Backpack, she works as a legal entrepreneur.

Recent Posts

On our second trip to Fez, discovering Palais El Glaoui was a delightful surprise. This palace, hidden away from the UNESCO-protected Fez medina, is a treasure most Morocco travelers miss. Our curiosity was sparked when Google Maps showed this historic spot with a special icon. Following this

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Exploring Southern Spain on two wheels? One adventure you shouldn’t miss is the Via Verde de la Sierra. This unique cycling route winds through breathtaking landscapes along an old railway track. For us, it was a highlight of our months-long journey through Portugal and Spain with our

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If you’re itching to explore Spain on two wheels, now is the perfect time to discover the Via Verdes de España! These extraordinary cycling routes will guide you through Spain’s most stunning landscapes, offering easy access and a unique riding experience, thanks to their intriguing history as

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Rugged terrains, snow-draped mountain summits, picturesque Berber villages, captivating desert fortresses, and towering waterfalls? Welcome to the heart of Morocco, the Atlas Mountains! This majestic mountain range serves as a colossal backbone for Northwest Africa, traversing Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. Spanning about 2,500 kilometers, this formidable range

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At first glance, Ouarzazate in Morocco might not catch your eye as a place brimming with attractions – at least, that was our initial impression. However, after two in-depth visits, our perspective has taken a complete turn. Now, we see Ouarzazate as a destination not to be

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Did you know that the largest film studio in the world is tucked away in Morocco? In the charming town of Ouarzazate, at the base of the Atlas Mountains, you’ll find the sprawling grounds of Atlas Studios. This cinematic paradise has been the backdrop for a slew

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Immerse yourself in the enchanting hues of Chefchaouen, Morocco’s famed Blue City, where every corner is painted in mesmerizing shades of blue. This hidden gem invites you on a journey through its ancient medina, a dreamlike maze that feels like stepping into a living canvas. From exploring

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