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

Seeking an extraordinary place to stay in Meknès? Indulge in the unique experience of residing in one of Meknès’s riads. These traditional Moroccan homes, meticulously designed around serene central courtyards, stand as tranquil sanctuaries within the dynamic atmosphere of the Imperial City. They offer an impeccable fusion

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Are you contemplating a brief getaway to Morocco and eager to immerse yourself in the African desert? Do you wish to swap the bustling energy of Marrakech for a day or even a night, in exchange for the serene tranquility of endless landscapes? Discover the Agafay Desert,

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Wish to lose yourself worry-free in the winding Moroccan medinas and seeking the best internet options in Morocco? We’ve just navigated this maze and are eager to pass on what we’ve learned. Most SIM cards in Morocco offer very limited data and are, even by European standards,

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Are you envisioning an ancient medina, beautifully preserved and overlooking the sea? A hidden gem seldom included in standard Moroccan tours? Or perhaps an unexpected coastal town where contemporary art meets historic ambience? Then you’re picturing Asilah in Northern Morocco. This unique destination merges an authentic medina

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Do you remember the opening scene from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, in which Belle wanders through her medieval village with books in her arm? Passing cobble-stoned village streets, along half-timbered houses with their traditional look of wood and plasterwork.. On the internet, many villages are claimed

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Staying overnight in Gjirokastër is essential to fully appreciate the authentic vibe of this quaint mountain town. Once the day-trippers have departed, you can experience this exceptional destination in tranquility, leisurely wandering through its picturesque streets. Additionally, Gjirokastër serves as an excellent starting point for exploring other

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When thinking about palace visits in Portugal, Sintra often comes to mind. However, did you know there’s another breathtaking palace often overlooked? The Mafra Palace, once home to Portugal’s royal family, boasts an immense size. The palace, a mere 28 kilometers from Lisbon, offers a grand alternative

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