A Dinner Under the Stars

By Claire Taylor

Florence

Studying abroad offers some of the most unforgettable experiences of our lives, and last week, my friends and I shared a moment we’ll be talking about for years to come. We spent half of our break exploring the beautiful country of Morocco—known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Around every corner, Morocco offered a new adventure.

One of the most memorable days took place on the northwest rim of the Sahara Desert. We spent the day riding camels, channeling the spirit of ancient explorers, and zooming across golden dunes on dirt bikes. But it wasn’t just the adrenaline that made the day unforgettable—it was what came after: a traditional desert dinner at sunset.

As we arrived at the dinner site, wooden lanterns flickered with soft flames, casting a warm glow across our faces. Disconnected from the modern world—no internet, no running water—we stepped into a space that felt completely timeless. We sank into gold-embellished pillows arranged around a long, low table, and the evening began.

First came the mint tea, perfectly warm and served in a golden kettle. Then, fresh fluffy bread—warm from the oven—arrived, paired with flavorful red and green chili sauces. Just as we began savoring those first bites, the main course was served: traditional chicken tagine, surrounded by slow-roasted carrots, zucchini, eggplant, and couscous, all marinated in savory Moroccan spices. The chicken was so tender it fell off the bone with the slightest touch. Each bite was rich with flavor—spiced, vibrant, and impossible to resist until we cleared the plate completely.

Then came dessert: juicy oranges, their freshness cutting through the spices of the meal and leaving us completely satisfied. But the night didn’t end there.

Soon after, music began to rise in the air—drums, voices, rhythm. We were invited to join a special tradition around a roaring fire pit, its flames dancing against the desert sky. The space was framed by rocks, and while the landscape around us stood still and quiet, the energy in that moment was electric. Traditional Moroccan music pulled us in, and before long, we were dancing beneath the stars. Surrounded by strangers, we swayed and spun in rhythm, the lines between us fading with each beat of the drum. The desert no longer felt vast and empty—it felt alive, full of connection.

Studying abroad teaches you quickly that it’s about so much more than classes and textbooks. It’s about moments like this—experiences that reshape your view of the world. Traveling isn’t about checking boxes off a bucket list; it’s about immersing yourself in cultures, letting go of familiarity, and stepping into the unknown.

That desert dinner was exactly that: a moment when time seemed to pause, and we were all connected by music, food, and a shared sense of adventure. It’s one of those memories I’ll carry with me long after I leave Florence.