Marrakech

[keyplus90]

OK, I am off to Marrakech in the beginning of May, but only for 3 days. Any suggestion about what to visit, what to eat and what to drink etc will be appreciated. Also what to avoid?

Thanks.

[MallyJ]

I lived in Marrakech for a couple of years. You must see the souks...and haggle (but not for cheap things like fridge magnets)for things you wish to buy..there are 2 (possibly more now) artisan markets that make shopping a lot easier.... They are generally found taking up small areas in much larger buildings and will be found in any guide book. Do eat at least once in the Place Jama el fna.....as the sun goes down it is lovely (very clean and a great variety of cooked food) oh and the freshly squeezed orange juice is lovely there. Worth a wander during the day too. Le Jardin De Marjorelle is cool and calm and very beautiful. Make sure you wander along the main shopping streets and have a look at what is on offer...and stop regularly for coffee, tea or coca. It is beautiful and will be warm but ensure you have a warm jacket for the evenings....Lots of places around but probably plenty to keep you going...I loved living there. We used to live near Cafe Arabe.....it was gorgeous..good for snacks and dinner....make sure you go to the terrace at dusk...

[Flonska]

This link gives one or two recommendations:-

https://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/africa/morocco/marrakech/articles/marrakech-restaurants/

[atalanta]

Eat lots of tagines, won't you. Best grub in all North Africa.

[keyplus90]

Thanks for your responses. Mally, how easy it is to get to city center from the airport? Is public transport good or taxi will be better?

[MallyJ]

I always used the bus... (you will need local currency but you have to get it in Morocco it is not available through usual banks here) Cabs are fine too... I used them to get back to the airport! Your choice..the buses can get a bit busy and crowded. If you are based in the Medina cabs may well get you nearer to your hotel.

[jno]

my recollection is that tourists get hassled a bit, when taking photos etc, but if you're able to respond in Arabic you may be left alone.

[MallyJ]

jno that is about treating people with respect...you don't go round taking pictures of people here so I wouldn't expect people to do it elsewhere. People are not happy with the lack of clothing some people think it is fine to wear in a city...I don't mean skirts, tee shirts etc..but tiny shorts and halterneck tops for women and the equivalent flesh exposing clothes for men....it is disrespectful. Ok by the pool but not out and about.

[naomi24]

Keyplus, drat! You just missed me! I’ve just returned from another trip to Marrakech. Don’t let the taxi drivers rip you off because they will do it big time if they can (arrange a pick up from and back to the airport before you go - and agree a price before you step into any cab going anywhere). Barter for anything you’re buying outside of the big shops - don’t drink the water – and don’t be surprised to see pork products and alcohol on sale in the major supermarkets. Restaurants are plentiful and food is generally quite reasonable but the square - Jemaa El Fna - and the adjacent Souk are the heart of Marrakech especially at night when street food (albeit that some, like sheep’s lungs and brains, is not particularly appetising, to me at least) abounds. A working knowledge of French or Arabic is an asset. I hope you enjoy the experience.

[jno]

not just taking pictures of people, Mallyj. Just having a camera makes you look like a rich tourist. But that may have died down now that everyone and his dog has a camera.

[naomi24]

Just a bit, jno. I'm guessing it's quite a while since you've been there.

[jno]

to Marrakech, yes, early this century. From memory, phones had already acquired cameras but they weren't yet ubiquitous as they are now.

[Theland]

So envious. Saving up for a day trip to Southport. Well done you.

[naomi24]

jno, guessed that.

[nailit]

//Saving up for a day trip to Southport. Well done you//
Hope you wernt planning for a dip in the sea?

[Theland]

Never. It's full of poo.

[nailit]

Well, I was thinking that its a bit far out.....
You might be thinking of Blackpool?

[naomi24]

Here you are, Keyplus.

Airport transfers:

www.marrakechairporttransfer.com/

You can pay before you go (approximately £20 I think) and they will collect you at the airport at the appointed time and from your hotel for return to the airport. If you don't book and just get a random taxi at the airport you could be asked for something like £100 for the 20 minute journey.

[keyplus90]

Thanks to all of you. Naomi, how did I miss you! you went a bit too early. Anyway, thanks and I know, even I don't really like cow stomach, brain etc. I can understand a bit or Arabic and can also speak a few words. As for bartering of haggling, after all I am originally from a country where you have to do that day in day out. Although not used to it now anymore.

I was planning a trip on my own but my eldest son (22 years old) decided to give me company. So lets see.

[naomi24]

Keyplus, I know you're used to bartering - and it's sheep's stomach and brains, not cows' - but do please take my advice on ordering a taxi before you go to meet you and to take you back to the airport. It really will cost you dearly otherwise. I hope you and your son enjoy it.