Marrakesh Travel Forum

Just found out Iam to be sent to Marrakech on Monday, for a week. Will have a few days on my own staying at "Les Jardins D'Ines" which, I believe, is on the outside of the city walls? Any quick ideas on touristy ideas.... oh and no I dont want to buy a rug *grin*.... Thanks all.

Thanks for that will take ur details.... the hotel offers that service but would rather "do it myself" Regards. S

Hi
You don't really need a guide if you are only there for a few days. The main place to visit is Djemma el Fna, the main square in the city. Just pick up a petite taxi and remember to haggle in French. As is well publicised, the square and adjoining souks are just out of the Arabian nights. The whole city is like Naples on speed with petites taxis and mopeds speeding in all directions - there is no clear delination between machine and man- so do look out. That said, the experience is magical and whilst initially intimidating, be firm and polite when badgered and you will enjoy your stay. On the main square,Djemma el Fna I feasted on soup, dates and tea with locals for 9 dm - -50 pence uk -Tourists tend to eat from the kebab stalls which were more expensive. On advice, I stayed away from meat products and thus avoided any tummy aches. On my second and last night I joined the locals in the square for
1- spiced potato and egg bap with tea 7 dm - I was the only non local
2 - lentils and tea 7 dm
3- Ginseng tea and spicy gateau 4 dm
You should really try these before eating at the more western touristy kebab stalls. Inevitability you will get lost in the Souks so it is a good idea to explore them in early morning.Unfortunately, you will get hassled if you show any serious intent to purchase so look around first. Secondly, do venture further into the souks from Djemma el Fna where you will see everything from local craftsmen and hamans.

Shodul you have a bit more time consider taking a day trip into teh Atlas mountains. It is not too expensive and you will find bona fide tourist agencies on the streets leading from Djemma el Fna. Also consider a couple of nights in Essarouira if you enjoy surfing.

regards

SK

Get yourself to Djemaa El Fna and go from there... On to the souks for a nice bowl of snails and to pick yourself up a funky pair of leather slippers,then head round to Ben Youssef Medersa for a bit of culture and a drop of mint tea :)

Lovely!

My tip

Go to 'angiebabe' Morocco pages - there is loads of great info for you there.

:)
Iris

Hi! Marrakech has a lot to offer- depending on what Your interests are- Plenty of museums, Shopping opportunities, cultural things, nightlife etc.

Djemma el Fnaa isn't to be missed at night for eating and entertainment - a tourist attraction, and an attraction for the locals too.

If You get a free day I'd recommend a trip to Essauara, 3 hours away by bus- seaside/ harbour- great seafood, Gnoa music, artists etc.

Other touristy things to do - caleche ride from Djemma el Fnaa to Majorelle Gardens, afternoon tea at the Mamounia Hotel, Chez Ali at night, A Hamamm - steam bath, scrub and massage.
Gueliz for the pavement cafes,cinema, shopping.
Palmieries for quad biking, camel riding.

Please read mine and other VTers for more tips of things to see and do in Marrakech. Feel free to contact me for more info.
Happy Travelling,
Sue X

i have travelled quite a bit in my life and visited more than 60 countries and i seriously think djamaa el fna is one of the 10 most exciting places i have seen, so i would certainly recommend that.
especially in the evening.
it's pure magic.

Marrakesh is a great city just to wander about. And, if you are very determined, not buying a carpet can be a very entertaining way to spend a day or so.

Yes enjoy a read around VTers pages written specifically to help you with your sort of question! theres some excellent pages loaded with tips and photos here at your VT fingertips!

I think I know what you were after, sorry I didn't get back in time before your trip but I hope you found what you wanted *grin*
The club scene is quite good in Marrakech but quite exspensive. Still makes a change and is a good alternative to the traditionel stuff.
Plente of bars & clubs on Mohammed V.
Still for anyone else reading this, it's not the same scene as back "home", it's still a muslim country & for women especially a certain dress code applies.
Going out and getting pissed is not the rule of the day!
But if you know how to read between the lines, you can have a fab time!

Erm.... the "Point" of my posting was to find things to do whilst I have a bit of down time in Marrakech that I cant find in a guide book which, thanks for the "Advice", didnt actually revolve around clubs and bars or any type of "scene".... Cheers

Would still recommend having a look at my pages with tips made and information given to help have a good visit. If you have a week id still recommend going out to Telouet for a night or an overnight, or even as well as, to Essouira. Ive had short trips and done heaps in even only 4 days - eg with a car Marrakech, Essouira and Telouet.

my pages cover these areas and my Morocco page a bit on the route along the way to Telouet.

bye for now

Back in London now guys but thanks to all that offered helpful advice. Will be travelling with work back and forth so will have more time to get to know it and take up suggestions.
Thanks

but please tell us a bit about how it was the week you were there!