Hoboken resident and local real estate agent Michele Farrell has been going to Marrakech for over 10 years. Like many people after the pandemic, Michele did some soul-searching to determine what lights her up and brings her joy. For Michele, the answer was Marrakech, Morocco. In 2022, Michele decided to share her love for the city and the culture by starting Wanderlust Marrakech: Insider Retreats. Each trip is personally planned and curated by Michele. She selects the most experienced guides, luxurious accommodations, and excursions – all with comfort and safety in mind. If you’ve always wanted to explore Marrakech but don’t know where to start, The Hoboken Girl chatted with Michele to learn all about her, the trips, and the city she loves. Read on for more about Michele Farell of Wanderlust Marrakech: Insider Retreats.
The Hoboken Girl: How long have you lived in Hoboken + what is your favorite aspect of living and working in the area?
Michele Farrel: I’ve been a resident of Hoboken for over 30 years and consider it to be my home. My favorite aspect of living and working in Hoboken is the small neighborhood feel. You can easily walk to your favorite restaurants and boutiques. I also love the close proximity to New York City.
HG: What inspired you to get into this business? What were your first experiences with the travel industry? Specifically Marrakech?
MF: What inspired me to start this was I found a place that captivated me unlike any place I had been to before and it changed my life in an unexpected way. After returning many times, I realized I must share this amazing experience with others and introduce them to a culture that is so warm and welcoming.
HG: Tell us about Wanderlust Marrakech: Insider Retreats.
MF: Wanderlust Marrakech: Insider Retreats are individually planned and curated by me. I work with the most experienced guides, the most luxurious accommodations, and the most exciting adventures. The mission is to provide an immersive experience, giving guests an insider look into the people and the culture. Not only is it a passion of mine but there is also a purpose behind my trips.
Read More: Fall Weekend Getaway Guide to New Paltz, NY
My guests will learn about a dynamic organization that helps empower teen girls to become leaders of today and prioritize their education. The program helps them know and understand their value, their voice, their body, their rights, and their path.
HG: What would you say makes your business special?
MF: I think one of the most surprising things about the trips for my guests is they realize some of their concerns about traveling there go away as soon as they arrive. They see it’s such a warm and welcoming culture. Also, many people are surprised how easy it is to travel there. The flight from New York to Casablanca is less than seven hours.
(Photo: Becky Drayton)
HG: Who or what is your biggest source of inspiration?
HG: What are your goals for this year?
MF: My goals for this year are to continue working locally in real estate, plan more Wanderlust Marrakech trips, and to surround myself with other empowering women. I am currently getting my Women Entrepreneurs Group up and running again (it took a hiatus after COVID).
HG: What has been the highlight in your career/life so far?
HG: What are some of your favorite local businesses?
HG: What advice would you give to someone who wants to start their own business?
MF: My advice would be if there is something tugging at your heart just go for it, set goals, and surround yourself with others who will support your vision. Starting a business isn’t easy but it’s a chance to make a difference and inspire others.
(Photo: Kelly Flannery)
HG: Anything else you want to share about Hoboken, Marrakech, your business, or yourself?
MF: I love the connections guests make with the people and the culture and also with each other on the trips. Some have found lifelong friends. The mission is to provide an immersive experience, giving guests an insider look into the culture and the people. Some of my guests have shared their favorite experiences on the trips have been riding sidecars through the streets of Marrakech and the luxury hammam treatments.
The small group trips are perfect to come alone or with friends. I can also customize trips for a private group or special celebration. There are two upcoming trips planned for February 2024.
HG: What is the best way for people to get in touch?
MF: You can visit my website at Wanderlustmarrakech.com, Instagram @wanderlust.marrakech, or even call me at (201) 310-4489.
Presidents Who Have Visited Hoboken + Jersey City
While Hoboken and Jersey City are just small pieces of land when it comes to the United States' geography, we're no strangers to having presidents visit our area. In honor of President's Day, we're taking a trip down memory lane to share the various presidents who have visited Hoboken and Jersey City to show their love for our neck of the proverbial woods — and maybe eat some delicious food, too. Read on to find out more about presidents who have visited Hoboken and Jersey City.
Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, + George W. Bush in 2017 + Donald Trump (Date unknown)
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In 2017, former Presidents George Bush, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama joined forces at The President’s Cup at Liberty National Golf Club in Jersey City. The three former Presidents were seen embracing each other in a photo taken with JC Mayor Steven Fulop. The camaraderie shown in this picture restores our faith in politics and reminds us that at the end of the day, we are all just human. The NJ State Golf Association details that Liberty National is one of four golf clubs in the United States to host The President’s Cup, an international golf competition. President Donald Trump has also been reported to have visited a course in Jersey City on a separate occasion.
Read More: How These Three Hobokenites Made History in Honor of Black History Month
Joe Biden in 2012
After the devastation of Superstorm Sandy, former President Joe Biden visited the Mile Square to tour the Hoboken Terminal after suffering severe water damage from all of the flooding. While here, former President Biden made sure to stop by the iconic Benny Tudino’s for a slice and even sat down to talk with pizzeria owner, Bari “Benny” Drishti, for a bit — may he rest in peace.
President Biden also made it a point to swing by the now-closed Hudson Tavern to visit bar owner Tom Brennan (brother of Former President Obama’s National Security Advisor). In a YouTube video, He was spotted walking outside, interacting with Hoboken residents, and even squeezing in a few selfies at the Hoboken PATH train.
Ronald Reagan in 1984
Ronald Reagan made his debut in Hoboken at — what better than — the St. Ann's Italian Festival in 1984 as part of his campaign. As he ate with other Hoboken residents and parish members, he spoke about what led him to Hoboken (if the answer wasn't zeppoles, then he was duped).
The invitation to the festival looked so appetizing, however, that he just couldn’t turn it down. Sources say his wife even said to him at one point, “Honey, I think you ought to go to Hoboken.”
And although Sinatra already preached about his hometown to Reagan, he felt compelled to pay the Mile Square visit, especially to try one of our famous zeppoles.
Woodrow Wilson in 1919
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During World War I, Woodrow Wilson and his troops were based out of Hoboken. The Mile Square served as the main port for major shipping and passenger lines. Being a city right on the water was incredibly helpful during this time and Hoboken became a military town. According to The United States World War I Centennial Commission, former President Woodrow Wilson declared that all enemy aliens were not permitted to “live, work, or even travel within 100 yards of docks, piers, and waterfronts,” which left a thousand German families without homes. Hoboken even went through a Prohibition in order to prevent soldiers from drinking, closing 278 of 338 saloons throughout the town.
See More: Presidents Who Have Visited Essex County
Teddy Roosevelt in 1909
Teddy Roosevelt traveled a lot throughout his lifetime. A photographer captured a blurry photo in front of an Abercrombie & Fitch sign on the Hoboken waterfront before him boarding a ship departing for Africa in March 1909.
If that’s not enough history for you, do not fret. Hoboken's history can be truly appreciated by visiting the Hoboken Historical Museum at 1301 Hudson Street — as this short article is just the tip of the iceberg. Read more about the museum here.
