Marrakech

Also listed on maps as Marrakech, the busy city of Marrakech is located inland, compared to some of the other famous Moroccan cities which are on the coast of the Mediterranean Sea or Atlantic Ocean. There are several rivers in the area, and also waterfalls. The Waterfalls of Beni Mellal are popular with visitors as they watch the water drop from a great height. A famous part of Marrakech is Jemaa el-Fnaa. This large square is a lively market selling many types of products as well as traditional local food and drinks. Many restaurants and other attractions are located near Jemaa el-Fnaa.

Marrakech Travel Secrets

One of the most popular visitor destinations inMorocco, Marrakech retains its traditional charm and unique character. The hustle and bustle of the medina and souks can be intimidating to some visitors but fascinating to others. One of the main secrets to enjoying theRedCityis to have a few techniques and insider knowledge to hand before arriving.

Arrivals and Orientation

MarrakechAirportcan be a chaotic place and the arrivals process happens a lot faster if you make sure you complete the immigration form on the plane before landing. There are a number of taxi companies outside the airport offering lifts into the city; however by crossing the road and looking in the main car park the prices for a car journey to the Medina are a lot less expensive. Always remember to negotiate the price of the taxi journey before getting into the cab as many drivers do not have a meter. If your hotel is in the medina itself you should be aware that cars cannot get into the old streets and there may be a short distance where you need to carry luggage or a porter may do this for you but will require a tip.

At your hotel get a map of the city and ask the receptionist to mark the location and write the name of the hotel on it. If you do become lost in the souk this helps in finding your way back as can the hotel phone number keyed into your cell phone.

Enjoying the Marrakech Souks

Many people feel overwhelmed by the frenzy and chaos in the medina and souk area of Marrakech. It is very important to go in with a positive attitude. If you feel you will have an awful time, chances are you probably will. One of the unwritten rules of the souk areas in Marrakech is to always walk on the right hand side of the alley. This allows the mopeds and carts that terrorise the tourists to keep out of your way as they hurtle round the narrow streets. There is a lot to see in the souks and don’t be afraid to ask the stallholders about the items they are selling as this breaks down a lot of barriers.

Taking a Hammam

In the medina each quartier has a madrasa, a mosque, a water fountain, a communal bread oven and a hammam or public bath. Men and women bathe separately and it is possible to join the bathing ritual which is an excellent way to see another side of Marrakech. Some hotels have a hammam where all equipment is provided, but if you choose to go to a local one which is much cheaper it is best to buy your own hammam kit which is very inexpensive and more hygienic. These are sold at most hardware or general stores in Marrakech. When you go to the hammam find out the correct time for men and women. Men bathe with a cloth around them and women are usually topless but follow what the locals do. As you go in agree to either be washed by an attendant or do it yourself. You will start by undressing and moving into the heated room where your pores open. When you move to the warm or belly stone an attendant will scrub you all over and can also massage those aching muscles from travelling. It is a fabulous way to get cleaner than you have ever been and to get an insight into a Moroccan tradition.

Marrakech is a very interesting city to explore and has a lot of very enjoyable and unique experiences, write a review below of your experiences in Marrakech.