MARRAKECH HOLIDAY REVIEWS
Marrakech
Morocco’s most visited city, Marrakech is a cosmopolitan metropolis with an ancient heart. Life centres on the Djemaa el-Fna square in the old city, where tourists rub shoulders with desert nomads, Berbers from the mountains, veiled women, modern young locals and a host of weird and wonderful characters from snake-charmers to fire-eaters. Radiating from themore
Morocco’s most visited city, Marrakech is a cosmopolitan metropolis with an ancient heart. Life centres on the Djemaa el-Fna square in the old city, where tourists rub shoulders with desert nomads, Berbers from the mountains, veiled women, modern young locals and a host of weird and wonderful characters from snake-charmers to fire-eaters. Radiating from themore
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Buying in Marrakesh - Williams Anna. Date of travel: Dec 2008
Just be aware of the real hasslers that roam in marrakech to lure you in their shops, they would sell their moms to sell you anything...
Just be aware of the real hasslers that roam in marrakech to lure you in their shops, they would sell their moms to sell you anything...
Marrakech - a sensory overload - Karen Peters. Date of travel: Jan 2008
Loved everything about Marrakech except Riad Amssafah. Friendly people, great food.
Loved everything about Marrakech except Riad Amssafah. Friendly people, great food.
Chill out while you heat up! - Suzie Jones. Date of travel: Nov 2007
Marrakech is hot right? Turns out that those gorgeous postcard pics of snow capped Atlas mountains duplicated in detail from your hotel balcony are not only for show. To my enormous surprise it gets really cold in this part of Morocco. Luckily help is at hand. Fireplaces, a serious steam in the hammam, black tadelakt baths and my number one warmup favourite - the specially blended teas - all make coming to Morocco in winter seem like a very good idea indeed! Tour Operator: Hotelscombined.com
I had to leave to realise how much I had enjoyed it! - Kris Marshall. Date of travel: May 2007
The Souks are tremendous and the atmosphere in the Jaad el Fna in the evening is unparallelled. I love the smells and the colours and the food is divine!
The Souks are tremendous and the atmosphere in the Jaad el Fna in the evening is unparallelled. I love the smells and the colours and the food is divine!
Morocco is great - Peter Rossi. Date of travel: Feb 2007
Marrakech is a wonderful cultural adventure! My eyes were wide open in this place. I expected a poor city, and instead we got rich colours, rich smells, and wonderful food. I think 4 days is enough time - and find somewhere to stay that is chilled out as the old town is pretty fast moving....
Marrakech is a wonderful cultural adventure! My eyes were wide open in this place. I expected a poor city, and instead we got rich colours, rich smells, and wonderful food. I think 4 days is enough time - and find somewhere to stay that is chilled out as the old town is pretty fast moving....
Mount Toubkal Hiking - Oubraim. Date of travel: Jan 2006
The High Atlas is North Africa’s greatest mountain range and a lovely excursion from Marrakech. Populated by Berber tribesmen, it has always been an area culturally removed from the rest of Morocco, A barrier between the northern plains and the pre-Sahara. We drove to the village of Imlil, sitting in the foothills of the Toubkal Massif and spent the next few days taking advantage of the numerous walks available to nearby villages, in the company of a local guide. The Toubkal Massif is an area surrounding the highest peaks of the High Atlas range. Even limiting yourself to the lower slopes opens up a world of discovery. The villages seem precariously balanced on the slopes, with houses seemingly growing from the very rocks. Mule tracks follow the very contours of the mountains and the unique flora and fauna of the region is available to even the most reluctant walkers.
The High Atlas is North Africa’s greatest mountain range and a lovely excursion from Marrakech. Populated by Berber tribesmen, it has always been an area culturally removed from the rest of Morocco, A barrier between the northern plains and the pre-Sahara. We drove to the village of Imlil, sitting in the foothills of the Toubkal Massif and spent the next few days taking advantage of the numerous walks available to nearby villages, in the company of a local guide. The Toubkal Massif is an area surrounding the highest peaks of the High Atlas range. Even limiting yourself to the lower slopes opens up a world of discovery. The villages seem precariously balanced on the slopes, with houses seemingly growing from the very rocks. Mule tracks follow the very contours of the mountains and the unique flora and fauna of the region is available to even the most reluctant walkers.
Best of Morocco - John. Date of travel: Dec 2005
MARRAKECH: Location: 144 mls S of Casablanca and 222 mls NE of Agadir by road. 100 mls from the Atlantic coastline at Essaouira. Marrakech's international airport lies about 4 mls SW of the city; most international flights arrive via Casablanca, which is Morocco's main international hub. Postal code: 40000 Position: In an oasis in a level, arid desert plain; the mountains of the High Atlas rise in the distance. General Description: From humble beginnings as a mere crossroads on the trans-Saharan caravan routes, Marrakech today is the administrative and commercial capital of the Moroccan south, as well as the region's prime tourist destination. Modern Marrakech, which measures some 6 by 4 mls, comprises two parts, the old Moorish city (or "medina") and the "new city", which was planned and executed by the French from the early years of the 20th century until 1956 (when local administration resumed). As for the medina, most of tourist interest lies in the area around Place Jemaa el Fna and its nearby souks (markets), where there is an abundance of local atmosphere, with acrobats, storytellers and assorted market stalls at all times of the day and night. The medina itself is best navigated on foot with the aid of a reputable local guide. The "new city", with its wide boulevards, tasteful, traditional-style architecture and vast gardens, forms the complementary other half of the city. A tourist area (with the focus on golfing holidays) has developed in the Palmeraie circuit, 7 mls N of the medina. Driving in the city is a nightmare, and tourists should think twice before hiring a car. Market/Suitability: For a wide range of travellers looking for something a bit different; virtually all budgets. It is a prime choice in terms of winter sun, sports facilities, exotic shopping and dining, street entertainments and fascinating excursions to the home of Morocco's ancient civilisations. Accommodation: The hotels, with the full range of categories available, are high quality and good value for money compared with the competition in other popular Mediterranean holiday spots. In Marrakech alone, there are some 400 original "riads" that have been transformed from old palaces and villas to provide romantic, stylish, upmarket guesthouses for the more discerning traveller seeking true Moroccan flavour. Shopping: The souk of Marrakech must be one of the most fascinating shopping spots in the world, offering visitors a mind-boggling array of handicrafts, rugs, perfumes and spices, exotic fashions and fabrics. Berber blankets, jewellery, wrought iron, leather goods, ceramics and hammered copper and brass are of particularly good value and quality. Shoppers should be aware of the local customs in terms of bargaining, and the expression "buyer beware" should be borne well in mind. City Tours: By Charif Arrangement [starstour@hotmail.com] Entertainments: Daytime: the storybook Place Jemaa el Fna at the entrance to the medina, with dancers, storytellers, troupes of acrobats, snake-charmers and musicians. The 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque with its 220-foot minaret; the 16th-century Sa'di Mausoleum; and the 18th-century Dar el-Beida Palace. A visit to a traditional hammam (bathhouse) is an experience in itself. Nightlife: after Place Jemaa el Fna, the rest is pretty tame stuff ? nightclubs, hotel folklore shows, cinemas with programmes from India and Egypt. The week-long Folklore Festival of Marrakech (June), staged in the ruins of the El Badia palace, features folk troupes from all over the country. Eating out: Again, the most exotic place to eat is the Place Jemaa el Fna, where improvised tent restaurants are set up in the evening, offering everything from fried fish to traditional Moroccan dishes like cous cous, tagine and pastilla (pigeon pie). The French influence here is reflected in the high cooking standards in most of the hotels and restaurants. Hygiene in many of the more humble (and more interesting) spots is not up to Western standards and guests with delicate tummies might be advised to avoid dairy produce, peel all fruit and drink tea or bottled water. Never eat lukewarm food and always be scrupulous about hygiene. Public transport: In the city by far the best way of getting about is the horse-drawn carriage; there always seems to be one available and prices should be negotiated beforehand. The network of buses and taxis, though wholly adequate, pales by comparison. Taxi drivers will overcharge tourists, of course, so visitors should negotiate fares clearly before getting in. The train station is situated in the new city and there are reliable services to other key centres. Local excursions: The colourful Majorelle Gardens may be visited by horse-drawn carriage. Palmeraie has 10,000 trees spread over 37,000 acres ? a 15-mile drive. S of town, towards Taroudannt, is Tameslouht, with fascinating examples of the kasbah fortress architecture left by the former Lords of Atlas. Farther along that same road are the Cavagnac Dam and its artificial lake, where local potters gather on Tuesday market days. Farther S, now well into the Atlas, lie the villages of Asni and Ouirgane, both well known for their hearty rustic cuisine. Visitors can even ski at the Oukaimeden ski-area (which, at 8,500 feet, is still well below nearby Mt Toubkal's 13,664 feet). On the coast is Essaouira, a pretty fishing port with tiny winding streets and colourful houses.
MARRAKECH: Location: 144 mls S of Casablanca and 222 mls NE of Agadir by road. 100 mls from the Atlantic coastline at Essaouira. Marrakech's international airport lies about 4 mls SW of the city; most international flights arrive via Casablanca, which is Morocco's main international hub. Postal code: 40000 Position: In an oasis in a level, arid desert plain; the mountains of the High Atlas rise in the distance. General Description: From humble beginnings as a mere crossroads on the trans-Saharan caravan routes, Marrakech today is the administrative and commercial capital of the Moroccan south, as well as the region's prime tourist destination. Modern Marrakech, which measures some 6 by 4 mls, comprises two parts, the old Moorish city (or "medina") and the "new city", which was planned and executed by the French from the early years of the 20th century until 1956 (when local administration resumed). As for the medina, most of tourist interest lies in the area around Place Jemaa el Fna and its nearby souks (markets), where there is an abundance of local atmosphere, with acrobats, storytellers and assorted market stalls at all times of the day and night. The medina itself is best navigated on foot with the aid of a reputable local guide. The "new city", with its wide boulevards, tasteful, traditional-style architecture and vast gardens, forms the complementary other half of the city. A tourist area (with the focus on golfing holidays) has developed in the Palmeraie circuit, 7 mls N of the medina. Driving in the city is a nightmare, and tourists should think twice before hiring a car. Market/Suitability: For a wide range of travellers looking for something a bit different; virtually all budgets. It is a prime choice in terms of winter sun, sports facilities, exotic shopping and dining, street entertainments and fascinating excursions to the home of Morocco's ancient civilisations. Accommodation: The hotels, with the full range of categories available, are high quality and good value for money compared with the competition in other popular Mediterranean holiday spots. In Marrakech alone, there are some 400 original "riads" that have been transformed from old palaces and villas to provide romantic, stylish, upmarket guesthouses for the more discerning traveller seeking true Moroccan flavour. Shopping: The souk of Marrakech must be one of the most fascinating shopping spots in the world, offering visitors a mind-boggling array of handicrafts, rugs, perfumes and spices, exotic fashions and fabrics. Berber blankets, jewellery, wrought iron, leather goods, ceramics and hammered copper and brass are of particularly good value and quality. Shoppers should be aware of the local customs in terms of bargaining, and the expression "buyer beware" should be borne well in mind. City Tours: By Charif Arrangement [starstour@hotmail.com] Entertainments: Daytime: the storybook Place Jemaa el Fna at the entrance to the medina, with dancers, storytellers, troupes of acrobats, snake-charmers and musicians. The 12th-century Koutoubia Mosque with its 220-foot minaret; the 16th-century Sa'di Mausoleum; and the 18th-century Dar el-Beida Palace. A visit to a traditional hammam (bathhouse) is an experience in itself. Nightlife: after Place Jemaa el Fna, the rest is pretty tame stuff ? nightclubs, hotel folklore shows, cinemas with programmes from India and Egypt. The week-long Folklore Festival of Marrakech (June), staged in the ruins of the El Badia palace, features folk troupes from all over the country. Eating out: Again, the most exotic place to eat is the Place Jemaa el Fna, where improvised tent restaurants are set up in the evening, offering everything from fried fish to traditional Moroccan dishes like cous cous, tagine and pastilla (pigeon pie). The French influence here is reflected in the high cooking standards in most of the hotels and restaurants. Hygiene in many of the more humble (and more interesting) spots is not up to Western standards and guests with delicate tummies might be advised to avoid dairy produce, peel all fruit and drink tea or bottled water. Never eat lukewarm food and always be scrupulous about hygiene. Public transport: In the city by far the best way of getting about is the horse-drawn carriage; there always seems to be one available and prices should be negotiated beforehand. The network of buses and taxis, though wholly adequate, pales by comparison. Taxi drivers will overcharge tourists, of course, so visitors should negotiate fares clearly before getting in. The train station is situated in the new city and there are reliable services to other key centres. Local excursions: The colourful Majorelle Gardens may be visited by horse-drawn carriage. Palmeraie has 10,000 trees spread over 37,000 acres ? a 15-mile drive. S of town, towards Taroudannt, is Tameslouht, with fascinating examples of the kasbah fortress architecture left by the former Lords of Atlas. Farther along that same road are the Cavagnac Dam and its artificial lake, where local potters gather on Tuesday market days. Farther S, now well into the Atlas, lie the villages of Asni and Ouirgane, both well known for their hearty rustic cuisine. Visitors can even ski at the Oukaimeden ski-area (which, at 8,500 feet, is still well below nearby Mt Toubkal's 13,664 feet). On the coast is Essaouira, a pretty fishing port with tiny winding streets and colourful houses.
Mike. Date of travel: Oct 2004
The night food market in the main square Djemma el-Fna was great, where you can sit down at any table where the type of food offered takes your fancy and have a cheap meal. There are definitely some stalls more orientated towards tourists, but lots of others where the food was simple, tasty, eaten with the hands and could be washed down by a glass of mint tea in true Moroccan style. It was a breath of fresh air to be sitting shoulder to shoulder with the locals on a narrow bench scooping up spicy lentils with bread and no-one paying me any special attention because I was a tourist. Tour Operator: none
The night food market in the main square Djemma el-Fna was great, where you can sit down at any table where the type of food offered takes your fancy and have a cheap meal. There are definitely some stalls more orientated towards tourists, but lots of others where the food was simple, tasty, eaten with the hands and could be washed down by a glass of mint tea in true Moroccan style. It was a breath of fresh air to be sitting shoulder to shoulder with the locals on a narrow bench scooping up spicy lentils with bread and no-one paying me any special attention because I was a tourist. Tour Operator: none
Sam Boyes. Date of travel: Sep 2004
When I arrived at the main hub of the old city, Djemaa el-Fna, I almost wanted to turn and run back the way I had come – nothing of what I had read about the city prepared me for the sight of so many tourists and the noisy chaos of the square. There were huge groups of French speaking tourists everywhere and most of them dressed in total disregard to the Muslim/Arabic sensitivities with women in tiny shorts or skirts and revealing vests, pointing their cameras intrusively at everyone and everything. The “exotic� nature of the square was totally lost on me: the snake charmers were handing over their snakes to tourists so they could pose for pictures with them slung around their necks; henna artists were busily “tattooing� foreign men and women alike, and cruelly-chained monkeys were being pushed at tourists for more paid photograph opportunities. And the hissing and calling of the orange juice sellers and night market stalls got a bit wearying too. After a few days of being in Marrakech I got used to the frenzy, but had to dig deep to find an authentic experience of the old city not tainted by tourists. Tour Operator: independent travel
When I arrived at the main hub of the old city, Djemaa el-Fna, I almost wanted to turn and run back the way I had come – nothing of what I had read about the city prepared me for the sight of so many tourists and the noisy chaos of the square. There were huge groups of French speaking tourists everywhere and most of them dressed in total disregard to the Muslim/Arabic sensitivities with women in tiny shorts or skirts and revealing vests, pointing their cameras intrusively at everyone and everything. The “exotic� nature of the square was totally lost on me: the snake charmers were handing over their snakes to tourists so they could pose for pictures with them slung around their necks; henna artists were busily “tattooing� foreign men and women alike, and cruelly-chained monkeys were being pushed at tourists for more paid photograph opportunities. And the hissing and calling of the orange juice sellers and night market stalls got a bit wearying too. After a few days of being in Marrakech I got used to the frenzy, but had to dig deep to find an authentic experience of the old city not tainted by tourists. Tour Operator: independent travel
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