Bryan Boomba Okoye is a versatile and widely travelled Nigerian Nollywood actor, recording artiste, model, and polyglot whose steady rise in the entertainment industry has marked him as one of the most promising talents to watch.

The award-winning performer, who recently received two international honours in the United States for his role in the socially conscious film For Ikemefuna, speaks about his favourite holiday destination — Marrakech — and shares what draws him to the timeless charm and cultural richness of the ancient city.

How many countries have you been to and which is your favourite?
I’ve visited 12 different countries, and I hope to visit many more. But so far, my favourite its Marrakech City in Morocco!

Why Marrakech?
Marrakech feels like stepping into a living painting. The colours of the Souks, the intricate Riad architecture, the call to prayer echoing at sunset: it’s layered, textured, and deeply cultural. I love destinations that feel cinematic, and Marrakech has that timeless, almost mystical energy. Every corner tells a story. And I also love the fact that there are so many activities to do there; for example, you’ve got air balloon, camel riding, archery, paintball, and many historical sites to visit. Also, the fact that I speak French made it easy to communicate and commute. The nightlife and fine dining were also interesting there. So many nice restaurants with exotic entertainment. The language was not a barrier and that made my stay much easier and enjoyable.

Which of their delicacies did you enjoy most?
Lamb tagine was unforgettable; slow-cooked until tender, infused with saffron, cumin, ginger, and dried apricots. The balance of sweet and savoury was beautiful. I also enjoyed freshly baked Khobz dipped in olive oil and zaalouk, and of course, Moroccan mint tea — poured from a height which is quite thrilling, rich, sweet, and symbolic of their hospitality.

What’s your advice to anyone who wishes to visit?
Go beyond the photos. Wander through the medina without rushing — get lost in the Souks, explore the spice stalls, and take time to learn about the different oils, especially argan oil. Many of the traders will actually explain how it’s produced and the difference between cosmetic and culinary grades. It turns a simple purchase into a cultural lesson.
Stay in a Riad for the full experience — the intimacy and design tell you a lot about Moroccan craftsmanship. Wake up early to explore before the crowds.

And if you can, visit the Agafay Desert just outside Marrakech. The rocky landscape at sunset is breathtaking — calm, expansive, almost meditative. Spending an evening there, under the stars, gives you a completely different perspective of Morocco’s beauty. It balances the energy of the city with stillness.
Marrakech rewards those who slow down and immerse themselves.

Which tourism sites in Nigeria do you think the Nigerian government should improve?
I’ll be honest, I haven’t explored as much of Nigeria as I would like to yet. Apart from places like Jos Wildlife Park and Olumo Rock, my experience is still limited.

Jos Wildlife Park, especially, holds a lot of childhood memories for me. In the ’90s and early 2000s, it was such an incredible place to visit — vibrant, well-kept, with so many different species of incredible animals, and it was exciting for families, for school excursions, and weekend picnics. It truly felt like an experience.

Unfortunately, over time, it has declined in structure and maintenance, which is disheartening considering the potential it once showed.

Nigeria is naturally blessed with remarkable landscapes and cultural landmarks. What we need is more intentional management — consistent maintenance, improved infrastructure and access roads, stronger security, trained tour guides, and strategic global marketing. Places like Obudu Mountain Resort, Yankari Game Reserve, Erin Ijesha Waterfalls, and the Osun-Osogbo Sacred Grove deserve to be rejuvenated because of the potential they hold.

When these sites are properly managed, clean, safe, and structured, they don’t just attract tourists; they stimulate the economy and preserve our heritage.

The raw beauty is already there. With vision, care, and accountability, many of our tourism destinations could thrive again and compete on a global scale.