Marrakesh

The name Marrakech comes from the Amazigh (Berber) phrases mur (n) akush, which means “go and stop,” and was used to direct people and camels in traffic many years ago. It is Morocco’s third biggest city, after Casablanca and Rabat, and is located on the foothills of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains and just a few hours from the Sahara Desert’s edge. Its ideal position and varied nature have made it a sought-after Moroccan resort.

The city is separated into two different parts: the Medina, which is the medieval city, and the Gueliz, or Ville Nouvelle, which is a new European contemporary area. The Medina is full of interconnecting tiny passages and character-filled local stores; it also features the enormous plaza Jeema el fna, where visitors, residents, and merchants assemble. Gueliz, on the other hand, is home to contemporary eateries, quick food franchises, and big-name retailers.

In Marrakesh, a hot semi-arid climate (Köppen: BSh) prevails. The average temperature in the winter is 12 °C (54 °F), while in the summer it is 32–45 °C (90–113 °F). Marrakesh’s precipitation pattern, which is rainy in the winter and dry in the summer, is similar to that of Mediterranean climates. The city, however, gets less rain than a Mediterranean climate would, resulting in a semi-arid climatic categorization.

“The region of Marrakesh is frequently described as desert in nature, but to someone familiar with the southwestern United States, the region suggests a seasonal rainfall area, where moisture moves underground rather than through surface streams, and where low brush replaces the forests of more heavily watered regions. Marrakesh’s location on the north side of the Atlas, rather than the south, prevents it from being classified as a desert city, but it remains the northern hub of Saharan communication, and its history, inhabitants, commerce, and arts are all linked to the great south Atlas spaces that extend further into the Sahara desert.”

Marrakesh is 580 kilometers (360 miles) southwest of Tangier, 327 kilometers (203 miles) southwest of Rabat, 239 kilometers (149 miles) southwest of Casablanca, 196 kilometers (122 miles) southwest of Beni Mellal, 177 kilometers (110 miles) east of Essaouira, and 246 kilometers (153 miles) northeast of Agadir by road. The city has grown to the north with suburbs such as Daoudiate, Diour El Massakine, Yamama, Sidi Abbad, Sakar, and Malizia, to the southeast with Sidi Youssef Ben Ali, to the west with Massima, and to the southwest with Hay Annahda, Berradi, and beyond the airport. Large villages such as Douar Lahna, Touggana, Lagouassem, and Lahebichate may be found on the P2017 road going south out of the city, ultimately leading through desert to the town of Tahnaout at the edge of the High Atlas, North Africa’s highest mountainous barrier. The snow-covered High Atlas has an average elevation of nearly 3,000 meters (9,800 ft). Jurassic limestone makes up the majority of the structure. The mountain range stretches along the Atlantic coast before rising to the east of Agadir and stretching northeast through Algeria until vanishing into Tunisia.

The valley of the Ourika River lies approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) south of Marrakesh. In this spot, one can see the “silvery valley of the Ourika river curving north towards Marrakesh” and the “red heights of Jebel Yagour still topped with snow” to the south. Marrakesh is described as Morocco’s capital by David Prescott Barrows “”The city sits some fifteen or twenty miles from the foot of the Atlas mountains, which here rise to their greatest dimensions,” says the author of “The Strangest City.” The mountains provide a breathtaking view. The craggy features of the range may be seen for vast distances to the north and east through the pure desert air. The winter snows blanket them in white, and the turquoise sky provides an unequaled backdrop for their grey boulders and shining tops.”

Marrakesh is an oasis of abundant plant diversity, with 130,000 hectares of vegetation and over 180,000 palm trees in its Palmeraie. In Agdal Garden, Menara Garden, and other gardens across the city, fragrant orange, fig, pomegranate, and olive trees exhibit their color and fruits throughout the year. Giant bamboos, yuccas, papyrus, palm trees, banana trees, cypress, philodendrons, rose bushes, bougainvilleas, pines, and many types of cactus plants may all be found in the city’s gardens, along with other species that have been brought throughout the years.

Marrakesh is an important part of Morocco’s economy and culture. Improvements to the motorways connecting Marrakesh and Casablanca, Agadir, and the local airport have resulted in a significant growth in tourism in the city, which currently draws over two million visitors every year. Because tourism is so important to Morocco’s struggling economy, King Mohammed VI has pledged to bring 20 million tourists to the country by 2020, more than tripling the number of visitors from 2012.

The city is popular among the French, and several celebrities, including fashion moguls Yves St Laurent and Jean-Paul Gaultier, have purchased property there. Few foreigners resided in the city in the 1990s, but real estate development has exploded in the following 15 years; by 2005, over 3,000 foreigners had bought homes in the city, drawn by its culture and comparatively low property costs. “No longer only a destination for a sprinkling of daring aristocrats, bohemians, or travelers seeking Arabian Nights dreams, Marrakech is becoming an attractive stopover for the European jet set,” according to French weekly magazine Le Point. Despite the tourist boom, the bulk of the city’s residents remain impoverished, with 20,000 families without access to water or power as of 2010. Many businesses in the city are crippled by massive debt.

Despite the global economic crisis that started in 2007, real estate investments increased significantly in 2011, particularly in the tourism and social housing sectors. With investments of 10.9 billion dirham (US$1.28 billion) in 2011, the primary developments have been in tourism amenities such as hotels and leisure centers such as golf courses and health spas. In recent years, the hotel infrastructure has expanded rapidly. There were 19 new hotels set to debut in 2012 alone, a construction boom that has been likened to Dubai. One of Gulf Finance House’s major projects in Morocco is Royal Ranches Marrakech, a 380-hectare (940-acre) resort in the suburbs that will be one of the world’s first five-star equestrian resorts.

The resort is intended to contribute significantly to the local and national economies, producing numerous employment and drawing thousands of tourists each year; it was around 45 percent complete as of April 2012. Avenue Mohammed VI, originally known as Avenue de France, is a significant street in the city. It has witnessed the fast growth of residential complexes as well as a slew of high-end hotels. Pacha Marrakech, a popular club that plays house and electro house music, is said to be Africa’s biggest nightclub, located on Avenue Mohammed VI. It also contains two huge movie theaters, Le Colisée à Gueliz and Cinéma Rif, as well as a new retail center, Al Mazar.

Marrakech-Menara Airport. Marrakech has an international airport with direct scheduled flights from several major European cities, including flights run by a number of low-cost airlines. Connections through Casablanca (45-minute flight) are also feasible.

• Easyjet. Flies to Marrakech from Manchester, Stansted and Gatwick Airport (and also from Madrid, from Lyon, Amsterdam and from Basel)
• Ryanair. Direct flights from Oporto (Portugal), London Luton, and London Stansted to Marrakech. They also fly from Frankfurt-Hahn (Germany), Alicante (Spain), Girona (Spain), Eindhoven (the Netherlands) Madrid and Reus (Spain) to Marrakech.
• Thomson Airways. Travels from London Gatwick and Manchester.
• British Airways. Fly from London Gatwick.
• TUIfly. Fly from Cologne and several other European destinations.
• Transavia.com is a new Low cost airline from Air France-KLM group coming to Marrakech from several cities in Europe like Paris.
• Norwegian. Offers direct flights from Copenhagen, Oslo and Stockholm.
• Iberia. Offers two non stop flights from Madrid.
• TAP Portugal. Offers direct flights from Lisbon

From inside the nation, Royal Air Morocco offers daily flights from Agadir, Casablanca, Fez, Ouarzazate, Al Hoceima, and Tangier.

MONEY EXCHANGE AND ATM IN THE AIRPORT

In the arrivals area of Terminal 1, there are at least two money changers and three ATMs. There is one money changer in departures, but no ATMs on the ground. Terminal 2 had ATMs but is now being rebuilt from the ground up (as of March 2012). To ensure that an ATM accepts international credit cards, look for the Maestro, Cirrus, or Plus logos. Be aware that certain ATMs only function in French. If your card is stolen at an ATM, notify airport security so that they may assist you in retrieving it.

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

The airport is roughly 9 kilometers (6 miles) south of Medina and 6.6 kilometers from the Jamaâ El-Fna plaza.

A single ride on the No 19 Airport express bus costs Dh 30 and a circular trip costs Dh 50. (if the return trip is within 2 weeks of initial purchase). It provides service to all of the main hotels and is an excellent means of getting from the airport to the hotels. Its departure stop is located on the left of the road directly outside of Terminal 2’s Arrivals Hall, following the taxis. Between 7 a.m. and 9:30 p.m., the bus departs the airport every half-hour. Except for Jeema El Fna, the bus has no fixed stops and may stop anywhere along the route. The driver will provide you a tiny map, and you may tell him the hotel you are going to. You may alternatively take the No 11 city bus from M’Hamid neighborhood to Bab Doukkala’s long-distance bus terminal, which stops at Jeema El Fna. It comes to a halt on Avenue Gnassa, a major thoroughfare near the airport, 500 meters from the terminal. This is just an option for those who do not have a lot of baggage, but it is the cheapest – the bus costs Dh 3.50.

The city core is around a 10-15 minute “petit taxi” journey from the airport. Petit taxis are little hatchbacks that travel inside a city and are less expensive than bigger “grand taxis” that travel between cities. If you’re taking a petit taxi from the airport, be sure to settle on a fee ahead of time, or better yet, have the driver use his meter (a taxi ride to Ville Nouvelle or to the Medina from the airport should be Dh 40-70, more at night). An organized gang controls the cabs just outside the airport, demanding far higher fees than the official ones shown there. They’ll attempt to charge as much as Dh 200 for a journey to the city, and since they’re all in on it, it’ll be hard to obtain a better deal from another driver. They may attempt to lock you inside the car before revealing the charge, and they will always require upfront assent to the high cost. Complaints to the airport police are pointless since they are complicit and will do nothing. Passengers arriving at the terminal should avoid the stand entirely. You can locate a more honest driver and negotiate a fair fare in the parking area across from the airport. You may hail a cab and pay just the metered fare if you walk out of the airport to the main road.

Grand cabs are a relatively affordable choice for getting to the airport from the city. Rather of taking a cab to the airport, take one in the direction of M’Hamid and ask to be dropped off at the airport exit on the road, from which it is just a 200-300 meter walk to the terminal. This alternative is just Dh 5 per person, however you should confirm the pricing before entering. Unfortunately, this approach cannot be used to go from the airport to the city.

If you’re flying from the airport to a destination farther away (such as Essaouira), your hotel or guest house may be able to arrange for a grand taxi to pick you up at the airport and charge you a set fare. Grand taxis are more costly than petit taxis, but they are more comfortable, particularly when carrying goods. It also saves time, since haggling with a taxi driver after a lengthy airline flight while half-asleep is not usually simple.

A shuttle service is available from several hotels and riads for about €15. The benefit is that you save the inconvenience and that they will accompany you all the way to your hotel, even if your automobile is unable to do so. You may, however, have to wait for all of your fellow travelers to exit the airport.

A number of foreign rental vehicle firms have offices at the airport.

If you do not have a lot of baggage, you may walk from the airport to the Medina, albeit it will take you between an hour and a half and two hours. There is a walkway that runs beside the road the whole distance, and the Koutoubia mosque’s tower serves as a great marker to aim for. If you have enough time, stop at the Menara gardens, which are located halfway between the airport and the city.

Most internal rail routes in the country are connected by trains from Casablanca (2nd class Dh84/ 1st class Dh150, 3 hours), Rabat, and Tangier, with Marrakech being the southernmost stop. Between Marrakech and Casablanca, trains travel frequently (including the International Airport). They come every two hours and on a regular basis from other cities such as Rabat. There are eight direct 7-hour trains to Fez through Casablanca Voyageurs station every day, as well as two direct trains to Tangier.

It’s roughly a 10-hour drive from Tangier. You have the option of taking a day or night train. During the day, you will need to change trains halfway through the trip for a connection, which will provide a delightful 30 minute respite. The night train from Tangier to Marrakech runs directly to Marrakech, eliminating the need for a transfer. Sleeper carriages are available on the night trains, but you will have to pay extra for them if you want a bed (around Dh 350). If you want to save money and travel the night train in standard second-class seats (and sleep…), you’ll be awakened by other passengers and the ticket conductors many times during the night. It’s a fantastic mode of transportation, but don’t expect to sleep on the train, particularly if you’re traveling alone.

There are presently no railway lines running south of Marrakech, so you’ll have to take a bus, hire a vehicle, or take a grand taxi to travel to the desert, Atlas Mountains, Agadir, or Essaouira on the coast.

There are no restaurant carriages on Moroccan trains. A snack cart selling sandwiches, soft drinks, and coffee makes the rounds, but having food for the voyage isn’t a terrible idea. Stops at Casablanca and Rabat are frequently long enough to have a bite of eat at the station.

Some taxi drivers may offer their services near or inside the railway station; they will generally not use their meters and charge at least MAD50 to Jeema el Fna. Ignore them and grab a cab on the major thoroughfare. The metered fare to Jeema el Fna is about MAD12; if you want to avoid any arguments, give MAD20 in advance and pick the first cab that accepts.

Within Morocco, there are several long-distance bus companies that service Marrakech and other towns.

CTM, Pullman du Sud, and Supratours are the bus operators suggested for travelers. Other firms exist, but these three are typically the safest bets.

The long distance bus station (gare routière) in Bab Doukkala, a 20-minute walk (Dh 15 – 20 by petit taxi) from Djemaa El-Fna, is where most ALSA (local destination bus company) and private bus lines leave and arrive. From here, Supratours and Eurolines buses run. It’s where you may get a bus from a tiny company that goes straight to a little location.

Agadir, Safi, Casablanca, El Jadida, Essaouira, Fez, Meknes, Ouarzazate, Rabat, and Taroudant are among the locations served by the long-distance bus station, CTM, and private bus companies. Cab touts will frequently congregate at the bus terminal to persuade you that a bus to your destination is ‘full,’ and then try to sell you products while your taxi is being readied. If there are no ticket counters open, the best alternative is to go out of the station and to the coaches, where a ticket may typically be obtained from a conductor on board. For trips to Meknes (6h, 120 Dh), be aware that while the mountain route via Beni Millal appears to be shorter on the map, it takes at least 2 hours longer than the highway route via Rabat and Casa. Traveling by train (612h, 174 Dh) is the most comfortable option, though buses may be slightly faster.

One block south of the Supratour station, near to the railway station, CTM maintains a fresh modern bus terminal called “Gare Voyageurs.” It is preferable to travel the buses since tickets may be purchased in advance. Furthermore, the CTM offices there are superior, and no one will attempt to persuade you to use their bus company. The Zerktouni Street office and station are no longer in operation. If you merely want to purchase tickets in advance or check the timetable, CTM maintains an office at the long-distance bus terminal (see above).

If you take a metered cab from the CTM station to the main plaza, it will cost you about MAD12. A group of dishonest taxi drivers are waiting in front of the station, charging up to MAD100 for a ride. You may either ignore your employer and offer MAD20 loudly – typically someone will accept – or you can go 50 meters up or down the road and hail a cab.

Everything can be viewed on foot after you’ve arrived in the medina, albeit you’ll be walking a lot. Brown, red, or green signs placed to poles or buildings indicate several tourist spots. Remember that many of these signs do not travel the proper path, and others seem to bring visitors via numerous marketplaces or other sites where money may be spent.

Alsa operates the city buses and maintains a website with maps, fares, and a frequency guide.

Almost every bus stops at Djemaa El-Fna and Place Youssef Ben Tachfine, with tickets ranging from MAD2 to MAD5 depending on the distance. The following are important municipal bus lines:

• No 1 – Towards Gueliz
• Nos 3 and 8 – Stops at the central train station, and bus station (Gare Routiere Voyageurs Marrakech)
• No 10 – Stops at the long distance bus station
• No 11 – Will drop you off at the gardens of Menara
• No 18 – Outside of Airport to Djemaa el-Fna.
• No 19 – Airport express to Djemaa el-Fna (one way Dh30/return for Dh50)

Starting at 6:15 a.m. and ending at 9:15 p.m., Bus No 19 departs Djemaa el-Fna every half-hour. It takes roughly 25 minutes to get to the airport.

An open-top City Sightseeing bus will drive you around the city’s outskirts, with commentary in any of eight languages offered through headphones (included with your ticket). The best spot to catch it is at the Square de Foucauld coach stops. Each ticket costs Dh 145 and is valid for 24 hours from the moment of purchase, regardless of how many times you board or disembark. A 48-hour ticket is available for a little fee, and since there are two separate excursions, this might be a good value. Check the schedule carefully, since buses may end service sooner than you anticipate.

If you don’t ask to use the meter (compteur in French), you’re just contributing to a culture of ripping people off. However, if you insist on utilizing the meter, the great majority of drivers will refuse to transport you. It’s the way it is in Marrakesh, even residents have problems with driving. Even if you utilize the meter, the driver may attempt to charge you more for luggage or may not have enough change to give you a greater fee.

The only way to entirely avoid this is to use the buses, which go to most popular tourist locations (see above). If you accept the fact that you will have to pay a little penalty for being a tourist, give 50% more than the metered fare up front.

The maximum number of passengers in a petit taxi is three (including the driver), therefore one fare covers a single individual or a party of two or three persons.

The meter begins at Dh 1.70 before 8 p.m. and goes up to Dh 2.40 after 8 p.m. There is no need to haggle over the pricing. Even though it is midnight, they are required to use the meter.

Before 8 p.m., the minimum price is Dh 7, and after that, it is Dh 10.

Dh 20 is a reasonable fare for a 10-minute journey, and it is frequently accepted if paid in advance. If not, politely decline and catch the next cab.

There are no meters in large taxis (ordinary Mercedes cabs). The standard fare from Marrakech Airport to the Medina or the Jemaa el fna (Main Square) is Dh 150. They also seem to have no limit on the number of individuals they’ll try to cram in! If you are a party of more than three people outside of the airport, the limit for a Petit Taxi, negotiate your fare before entering the Grand Taxi.

Caleche, a miniature horse-drawn carriage, is an alternative and romantic mode of transportation. They are available for hiring at Square de Foucauld (the small park to the south of Djemaa El-Fna). Before leaving, it’s a good idea to settle on a fee. As a rough estimate, expect to spend roughly DH 80 per hour each carriage.

The following are some of the city’s neighborhoods: Bab Ghmat, Arset El Baraka, Arset Moulay Bouaza, Djane Ben Chogra, Arset El Houta, Bab Aylan, Arset Sidi Youssef, Derb Chtouka, Bab Hmar, Bab Agnaou, Quartier Jnan Laafia, Toureg,Kasbah, Mellah, Arset El Maach, Arset Moulay Moussa, Riad Zitoun Jdid, Kennaria, Rahba Kedima, Kaat Benahid, Zaouiat Lahdar, El Moukef, Riad Laarous, Assouel, Kechich, Douar Fekhara, Arset Tihiri, Sidi Ben Slimane El Jazouli, Diour Jdad, Rmila, Zaouia Sidi Rhalem, Kbour Chou, Ain Itti, Bab Doukkala, El Hara, and Arset El Bilk.

Tourist (Backpacker) – 35 $ per day. Estimated cost per 1 day including:meals in cheap restaurant, public transport, cheap hotel.

Tourist (regular) – 93 $ per day. Estimated cost per 1 day including:mid-range meals and drinks,transportation, hotel.

• Djellaba, long coat with hood for men, made of cotton/wool. Low quality: Dh 90. Good (thick) quality: Dh 300.
• Paintings, depends on the quality and size but no more than Dh 50 for a 70x50cm.
• Shisha, Dh 150 for the smallest ones. Prices then vary with size and quality.
• Tobacco for shisha, Dh 20. There are many flavours and decent prices at the duty-free store at the airport in Marrakech.
• Shoes, for home, no more than Dh 50 for a good one, for the street no more than Dh 90 for a good quality one.
• Lamp, no more than Dh 60 for a medium size lamp.
• Woven beanie, Dh 15.
• T-shirt, no more than Dh 50 for a large.
• Small wooden snake toys, Dh 5.
• Small teapot (2-3 cups), Dh 90-100.
• Medium size cooking tagine Dh 40. (Choose carefully, glazed tagines have a risk of releasing unsafe levels of lead.)
• Dress for women, poor quality, not wool, Dh 30.
• Carpets: Dh 1,000 for a white wool carpet that is 8ft x 12 ft
• Dates, almonds, nuts: Dh 80-120 per Kg, depending on the quality.
• Henna tattoo: medium-sized design should cost no more than Dh 50 (Ask for brown henna if you are allergic to PPP black henna, the brown henna is natural and safe)
• You can order special gold jewellery items like a chain with your name on it or using a customised design but ensure you have agreed on the price beforehand.
• Bananas, Dh 8 per kilogram, in season.
• 250g of gunpowder tea, Dh 30. Although best bought at a supermarket.
• Round piece of bread, Dh 1,5.
• Spice Mixes 80 Dh/Kg
• Cumin, Curcuma, Cinnamon, Ground Ginger etc. 40-60 Dh/Kg

MARKET / SUPERMARKET

RESTAURANTS

ENTERTAINMENT

PERSONAL CARE

CLOTHES / SHOES

TRANSPORTATION

In terms of sights and activities, Marrakech has a lot to offer. A whole day may be spent scouring the several souks for the best bargains. The city has a number of historical and architectural sites, as well as numerous famous museums.

Djemaa El-Fna

A must-see on every Marrakech night. This plaza in the center of the medina is packed with musicians, dancers, and storytellers, filling it with a cacophony of drum beats and enthusiastic cries. Hundreds of kiosks serve a broad range of Moroccan cuisine (see the Eat section), and you will almost likely be approached by ladies who want to apply henna to your skin. Enjoy the different performances, but be prepared to part out some dirhams in order to see them. During the day, snake charmers and persons with monkeys, as well as some of the more frequent booths, populate the area.

Maison de la Photographie

46, Rue souk Ahal Fès (200 m behind Ben Youssef Medersa – Koranic School). 

A small photographic museum, it has one of the Medina’s highest roof terraces. MAD 40.

The Souks

(suuqs)

Marrakech’s markets, located off Place Djemaa El-Fna, are where you can purchase practically anything. Spices to shoes, jellabas to kaftans, teapots to tagines, and much more. Obviously, being a foreigner means you’ll have to pay more than a local would, but don’t be afraid to haggle. If you run out of dirhams, there are lots of individuals in the souks who will gladly convert your dollars or euros (though a fair rate here is less likely than at an official exchange). All of that being said, the merchants here are much less pushy than in, say, Egypt or Turkey, so have fun!

Koutoubia Mosque

(right besides Djemaa El-Fna). 

Named after the former location of the booksellers market. According to legend, the Koutoubia mosque’s minaret is to Marrakech what the Eiffel Tower is to Paris. Gueliz, which is linked to the Medina through Avenue Mohammed V, can see the minaret. The mosque is beautifully lighted at night. Non-Muslims are not permitted to enter.

Tanneries

Visiting the tanneries may be an educational and entertaining experience. Even if some claim the area is exclusive to residents, it is possible to enter the Tanneries without paying a child. After locating a Tannery, get permission from one of the employees to visit and photograph it.

Saadian Tombs

The graves were not found until the early twentieth century. They have been kept exactly as they were during the reign of the Saadian monarchs. Unlike the El Badi Palace, they were not demolished, most likely due to superstitions. Because the entryway was sealed, they remained unchanged for hundreds of years. Inside, there is an abundance of Zelij (Moroccan tiles) and some lovely ornamentation. It does not take much time to investigate, yet it is well worth a visit. While you’re here, search for the Jewish and Christian graves; they’re distinguished by their various markings and the orientation of the tomb. MAD 10.

Majorelle Gardens

“Rue Yves Saint Laurent, 40090 Marrakech” (“In Gueliz, Rue Yves Saint Laurent is off), e-mail: info@jardinmajorelle.com.daily, Oct-Apr: 8-17:30, Mai-Sep 8-18, Ramadan: 9-17. 

It’s a great place to get away from the rush and bustle of the city streets, providing it’s not too busy with visitors, which it may be at times. The park was created in the 1920s and 1930s by artist Jacques Majorelle. Yves Saint-Laurent and Pierre Bergé have owned the garden since 1980. It has a collection of plants from all around the world, including what seems to be every cactus species on the earth. Arrive early to avoid crowds. The Berber Museum, which is located inside the gardens, has a little larger and more contemporary presentation than the Dar Si Sad. 70 MAD, plus 30 MAD for the Berber Museum.

Dar Si Saïd Museum

(on Rue Riad Zitoun Jdid, is a museum 5 mins away from Djemaa El-Fna.). 9-16:30 (upd. in winter 2016). 

Set in a historic palace with magnificent grounds, it is worth a visit and contains many various treasures from Morocco over the years, such as wood carvings, musical instruments, and weaponry. It is devoted to the Moroccan woodcraft sector, and it has a stunning collection of popular art, including carpets, clothes, pottery, and ceramics. All of these items are regional, originating from Marrakech and the surrounding areas, particularly the Tensift, High Atlas, Soussthe, Anti Atlas, Bani, and Tafilal. MAD 10, minors under the age of 12 MAD 3.

Ben Youssef Madrasa

Kaat Benahid (in the old Medina). 9:00-18:00, closed for religious holidays.. 

One of North Africa’s biggest Madrassas. It is a school connected to the Ben Youssef Mosque that has great art and architecture. Built around 1570. Dh 40, Dh 60 when coupled with the Marrakech Museum.

El Bahia Palace

daily 9-16:30 (updated in winter low season), old content (may be applicable in high season) Mo-Th, Sa-Su 8:30-11:45 and 14:30-17:45; Fr 8:30 -11:30 and 15:00-17:45. 

An elegant and majestic palace built towards the end of the 19th century for the Sultan’s grand viziers. Guided excursions and stray cats are popular. The palace is definitely worth a visit since it depicts what it may have been like to be a 19th century aristocrat in Morocco. There is a magnificent garden with banana blossoms, peaceful courtyards, and other beautiful flora. MAD 10, minors under the age of 12 MAD 3.

El Badi Palace

Ksibat Nhass.08.30-11.45, 14.45-17.45. 

A ruined castle populated by storks and stray cats. There are a few subterranean tunnels to investigate. The view from the balcony is breathtaking. Sultan Ahmed al Mansour erected the palace to commemorate the Portuguese army’s victory in the Battle of the Three Kings in 1578. This minbar comes from the 12th century and is on exhibit in a single chamber with some explanations. A preaching chair is referred to as a minbar. The Marrakech Museum for Photography and Visual Arts (abbreviated MMP+) is also housed here, a tiny museum that exhibits excellent works of visual art. This museum’s admission charge is included in the Palace admission ticket, and it is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission to the palace is MAD 10, with an additional MAD 10 fee to visit the historic Kotoubia Mosque minbar.

The Menara gardens

(west of the city in walking distance). 5:30-20:00 in the winter. 

A variety of orchards and olive trees surround the water reservoir, which has the center pavilion, which is a major tourist attraction. It’s not a pretty garden, and it’s become fairly run-down. The pavilion was established under the Saadi dynasty in the 16th century and rebuilt in 1869. It has a tiny café, however it is not always open. When the café is closed, there are no restrooms available. fee.

The following are some of the city’s neighborhoods: Bab Ghmat, Arset El Baraka, Arset Moulay Bouaza, Djane Ben Chogra, Arset El Houta, Bab Aylan, Arset Sidi Youssef, Derb Chtouka, Bab Hmar, Bab Agnaou, Quartier Jnan Laafia, Toureg,Kasbah, Mellah, Arset El Maach, Arset Moulay Moussa, Riad Zitoun Jdid, Kennaria, Rahba Kedima, Kaat Benahid, Zaouiat Lahdar, El Moukef, Riad Laarous, Assouel, Kechich, Douar Fekhara, Arset Tihiri, Sidi Ben Slimane El Jazouli, Diour Jdad, Rmila, Zaouia Sidi Rhalem, Kbour Chou, Ain Itti, Bab Doukkala, El Hara, and Arset El Bilk.

Marrakech Museum

+212 24 44 18 93. 09:00-18:30. 

MAD 40, MAD 50 including the Ben Youssef Madrasa.

Musée de la Palmeraie

Dar Tounsi, Route de Fès (“Located in the south of the Palmeraie, it is considerably off the major tourist pathways; travel time is around an hour in either direction. You must take a cab or the bus 17 to Palmeraie (which does not run often).

In old agricultural buildings in the Palmeraie, made out of rammed earth. If you haven’t seen it before, the architecture is fascinating. It has a limited collection of modern art, including a space devoted to Moroccan painters (also renowned), although the foreign ones aren’t very good. The grounds are well-kept and a pleasant spot to unwind. 40 MAD.

Musee Farid Belkahia

Dar Tounsi, Route de Fès 

(As to writers knowledge, the museum is located at the seat of the Fondation Farid Belkahia, which is off Route de Fès, Dar Tounsi, walking past Musée de la Palmeraie for further 500m-1km), e-mail: museepalmeraie@gmail.com. closed on Sun. 

A museum devoted to the acclaimed modern artist Farid Belkahia, displaying works from various eras of his career.

Tiskiwin Museum

Derb El Bahia 8 (Between El Bahia and Museum Dar Si Said). 9:00-12:30;14:30-18:00. 

About the people in the Sahara. Created by Dutchman Bert Flint. Dh 20.

The city’s historic area.

Djemaa El-Fna is the Medina’s central plaza. It is encircled by an infinite maze of souks (bazaars) and alleyways that encompass the whole Medina. Djemma El-Fna is a must-see due to the constant presence of snake charmers, acrobats, soothsayers, as well as musicians and food booths. At night, the area comes alive with people navigating their way to the unique aromas and interesting sights. As nightfall falls, the rush and bustle of activities continues. The unusual music becomes increasingly audible and captivating.

Additionally, the Medina is where you may stay in a Riad, a Moroccan home with an interior courtyard. The majority of windows face inward toward the central atrium. This kind of home is compatible with Islamic tradition since it makes no evident wealth statement outwardly and has no windows to gaze through. In juxtaposition to its unassuming façade, entering a Riad is like to uncovering an Aladdin’s Cave. They are excellent lodgings that provide an exclusive and soothing refuge.

Rue Bab Agnaou is located just south of the Djemaa El-Fna. A five-minute stroll will bring you to the iconic Bab Agnaou gateway to the Medina’s Kasbah neighborhood. Bab Agnaou’s rampart entry is by far the most spectacular of all medina rampart entrances.

In compared to the Derbs (streets) that surround the Djemaa El-Fna, the Kasbah has a more tranquil, less aggressive environment. It is also home to the historic El-Badi Palace and the Saadian Tombs. This naturally results in increased security, cleaner streets, and an air of exclusivity inside the medina. For travelers’ enjoyment, the Kasbah has its own little bazaars (Souikas), food stalls, restaurants, hotels, and riads.

Les Bains de Marrakech

2 Derb Sedra, Bab Agnaou (same building as Riad Mehdi) (Just inside Bab Agnaou),  +212 438 1428, e-mail:mghedira@lesbainsdemarrakech.com. 09:00-19:30. 

In a positive way, it is tourist-oriented: couples may enjoy hammam together in a separate room. A comprehensive menu of massages and spa treatments ranging from 30 minutes to a whole day. While the receptionists and attendants are fluent in English, the scrubbers and massage therapists have a fairly limited vocabulary. You must make reservations two days in advance. Between Dh 170 and Dh 1400.

Hammam Bab Doukkala

Rue Bab Doukkala (southeast corner Bab Doukkala Mosque). women noon-7PM, men 8PM.  

Thai marrakech

Résidence Les Jasmins Apt N° 13 4ème étage Angle Av. Mohamed v et Rue Oum Errabia Guéliz, +212 524 433 304. 

Bann Thai institution is a Marrakech-based beauty facility. His squad is comprised of graduates from Bangkok’s renowned Wat Po school. The clinic provides a variety of Thai massage relaxing treatments in addition to a traditional Moroccan hammam using natural ingredients.

Hamam Essalama (traditional Hamam)

Rue Moulay Abdellah (walking on Rue Moulay Abdellah, coming from Rue Bata or Rue Khalid Ben El Qualid, head towards Boulevard de Safi, the hamam is in the last block (just before Bvd Safi) at the near corner). till 5PM. 

Staff is kind, however there is no English or French available (other locals helped without any problem) MAD 12 for the entry.

Surrounded by lemon, orange, and olive groves, the city’s cuisine is rich and heavily spiced but not hot, utilizing various preparations of Ras el hanout (which translates as “Head of the shop”), a blend of dozens of spices including ash berries, chilli, cinnamon, grains of paradise, monk’s pepper, nutmeg, and turmeric. Tanjia marrakshia, a local tajine made with beef flesh, spices, and “smen,” and slow-cooked in a traditional oven over hot ashes, is a municipal speciality and an emblem of its cuisine. Tajines may be made with chicken, lamb, beef, or fish, and flavored with fruits, olives, and preserved lemon, as well as vegetables and spices like as cumin, peppers, saffron, turmeric, and ras el hanout. The dish is cooked in a tajine pot at low heat using steam. Another variation on tajine combines veggies and chickpeas with flower petals for seasoning. Tajines may also be basted with “smen” moroccan ghee, which has a blue cheese-like flavor.

Briouats packed with shrimp, chicken, and lemon are another famous Marrakesh delicacy. Saffron, raisins, spices, and almonds are added to rice, while vegetables may be put to couscous. Pastillas are filo-wrapped pies filled with minced chicken or pigeon and seasoned with almonds, cinnamon, spices, and sugar. In Marrakesh, harira soup is often made with lamb, chickpeas, lentils, vermicelli, and tomato paste, and is seasoned with coriander, spices, and parsley. Kefta (minced meat), crépinetted liver, merguez, and tripe stew are often served in Jemaa el-vendors. Fnaa’s

Marrakesh delicacies include chebakia (sesame spice biscuits often cooked and served during Ramadan), filo dough tartlets with dried fruit, and date cheesecake.

Marrakesh is a mecca for Moroccan tea culture; green tea with mint is served with sugar from a curving teapot spout into tiny cups. Orange juice is another popular non-alcoholic beverage. Alcohol drinking was widespread during the Almoravids; historically, hundreds of Jews made and sold alcohol in the city. Alcohol is now available in several hotel bars and restaurants.

• 16 cafe. Moroccan cuisine. 16 coffee is a wedding and event caterer.
• Cafe Alhamra,  +212 6504 7411. Place Djemaa El-Fna, just across from Café de France. It provides salads, pizza, and spaghetti, as well as a daily tagine. Their rooftop is an excellent spot for a late-night coffee and croissant while watching the activities unfold below in the plaza.
• Cafe Arabe, 184 mouassine (medina near dar el bacha),  +212 2442 9728. Due to the fact that they employ both a Moroccan and an Italian chef, they provide two distinct menus. There are three levels, including a nice patio on the ground floor. The balcony on the top level boasts amazing views; relax on their couches while drinking a beverage and watching the sun set over the medina.
• Cafe Mabrouk (off Djemaa El-Fna). Serves the same regular menu as the rest of the restaurant in a small courtyard or patio setting.
• Chez Chegrouni (near the main entrance to the market.). Their vegetarian couscous is allegedly the only authentic vegetarian couscous in town; it’s also somewhat bland, although they serve it in copious quantities. Prices increase if you want to sit on the patio. Usually brimming with good-time vacationers. 30 dh.
• Chez El Bahia, 206 Rue Riad Zitoune (50m SE from Djemaa El-Fna on Rue Riad Zitoune (that starts at Wafa Restaurant)). It is a peaceful location. Try the tajine with chicken and olives, as well as the tajine with prunes, almonds, and mutton. Additionally, taste the Moroccan salad while the remainder of the dinner is being prepared. around Dh 100.
• Chez Yassine, 70 Avenue Fatima Zohra (5 mn north from the Koutoubia mosque, 70 Rue Fatima Zohra Rmila (next to the Bacha hamam)). There is a limited selection, however it is served by really nice individuals. Tajines) and pizzas are excellent, and you may even get off-menu skewers. Tagines for Dh 30.
• Earth Cafe, Number 2, Derb Zawak, Riad Zitoun Kedim (in the Medina), +212 6054 4992, +212 6128 9402. Vegetarian-friendly. Additionally, vegan alternatives and a variety of fruit and vegetable-based beverages are offered.
• Henna Cafe, 93 Arset Aouzal Souikat, bab Doukala (Go to the taxi rank at Dar El Basha and walk 100 yards up towards Bab Doukala. Henna Cafe is on the right side),  +212 656566374, e-mail: info@hennacafemarrakech.com.11:00-20:00. If you want to travel ethically, you’ve come to the right spot. In November 2011, a charming three-story café with an orange sign on the berber hand-carved wooden front debuted. You may have a cup of tea or coffee, as well as a simple meal complete with dessert or simply a sandwich. The Henna Cafe also provides safe henna body ornamentation, with prices ranging from 50 dirham for a tiny motif on your hand to 500 dirham for a full arm intricate design for a wedding. Profits are donated to local charities. Henna café was founded by the proprietors of Riad Cinnamon and Riad Papillon, as well as Vivid Trading, in order to begin ‘giving back’ to Marrakech and assist people in need. Currently, the café provides free English classes to Moroccan women in order to help them find work outside the house. 40 dirhams for the mains.
• Maison de la Photographie, 46, Rue souk Ahal Fès (200 m behind Ben Youssef Medersa – Koranic School). A small photographic museum, it has one of the Medina’s highest roof terraces. You may enjoy magnificent views of the city and the High Atlas mountains while dining on a fixed-price menu (75DH as of 2012).
• Le Marrakchi (opposite the market and adjacent to the newspaper stand.).With two main meals and wine priced at roughly Dh 300, this is one of the square’s more upscale eateries. While the cuisine is not necessarily superior than at other restaurants, it is one of the few that offers alcohol. Additionally, it has an entirely covered upper terrace, which is great for viewing the plaza during inclement weather.
• Diaffa (Rue Jbel El Akhdar just off Av. Mohammed V, across from Club Med), +212 44 38 68 98. An elegant restaurant located in one of the Medina’s oldest buildings, offering Moroccan food in an environment reminiscent of the Orient at its most enchanted and glorious. The cuisine, the architecture (whether the tables around the central courtyard and fountain or the second-floor balcony), and the smart and elegant entertainment are all outstanding.

To find more upmarket restaurants (and particularly those serving non-Moroccan cuisine), one has typically go beyond the Medina to Ville Nouvelle.

• Dar Najat’s Kitchen, Douar Groua, derb lalla chacha, N.18 (Five min walk from Jema el Fna),  +212 524375085. 20/23. In a Boutique Riad, daily fresh cuisine is served. EUR 23.00 per person
• Cafe Kabash, 47 Boutouil, Kasbah (on Rue Kashbah near Bab Agnaou),  +212 524 382 625, e-mail: contact@kasbahcafemarrakech.com.Possess a roof terrace with an excellent view. Moroccan daily meals served with tea and juice.
• Riad des Mers, 413 Derb Sidi Massoud (Just inside Bab Yacout), +212 662265030. Restaurant serving seafood. There is no alcohol offered. Menu MAD 300.
• Al Fassia, 55, boulevard Zerktouni, +212 524 43 40 60. We-Mo.Traditional Moroccan cuisine served at a little restaurant managed by ladies (except the doorman). Wine by the bottle is available.
• Le Bistrot Loft, 18 Rue de la Liberté, +212 524 434 216. Steaks, bistro fare, and excellent wines. Beer, aperitifs, and cocktails are served at this bar. 200 MAD.
• Pepe Nero, 17, Derb Cherkaoui, Douar Graoua (Follow the signs from Rue Zitoun El Jedid. Note the metal arrows.),  +212 524 389067, e-mail:pepenero.marrakech@gmail.com. Tu-Su: 12:00-14:30, 19:30-23:00. Fine Italian and Moroccan cuisine in a stunning Riad. Make a reservation since it is often filled. Dh 400 for a three-to-four-course meal, plus Dh 200 for wine.

• Café du Livre, 44 Rue Tariq Bnou Ziad, Guéliz (located near Place du 16 Novembre, Rue Tariq Bnou Ziad is more or less parallel to Ave Mohamed V (to the East), the Hotel is located between the crossroads with Rue de la Liberté and Rue Sourya),  +212 5244-46921. 9:30-21:00. In the villa nouvelle, a western-style bookshop-café with medium-priced sandwiches. MAD 40-60.
• Associacion Amal (situated at the intersection of Rue Ibn Sibna and Rue Allal Ben Ahmed),  +212-5-24-44-68-96. Lunch: daily noon-4PM, 7, dinner: groups of min. 10 people by reservation only. This women’s assistance organization gives education in return for food, which is then sold to fund the concept, so you may have a lunch comparable to what Moroccans eat at home.

• La Villa des Orangers, Rue Sidi Mimoune 6,  +212 524 384638.19:30-late. In a very tranquil and pleasant ambiance, French culinary food is served. Dine on comfy recliners surrounded by dark woodpanels, bookshelves, and artwork. Start with a drink by the fire in the winter. The three-course meal costs MAD 700. A bootle of wine costs MAD 500.
• Le Grand Café de la Poste, Boulevard El mansour Eddahbi and Avenue Imam Malik, +212 24 43 30 38, e-mail: resa@grandcafedelaposte-marrakech.com. In the old post office, a French brasserie with Moroccan influences has opened. For three courses, MAD 300 is required.
• Le Grand Salon, Djnan Abiad, La Palmeraie B.P. 12478 (in the Ksar Char-Bagh outside of the city), +212 524 32 92 44, e-mail:resa@ksarcharbagh.fr. French food served at an upscale restaurant. Organic veggies and olive oil from the restaurant’s own gardens are served. For three courses, MAD 600 is required.
• Dar Yacout, 79, derb Sidi Ahmed Soussi, Bab Doukkala,  +212 5 24 38 29 29. Moroccan gastronomy in its purest form. There is a patio with views of the Medina. Menu for the MAD 700.
• Le Foundouk, Rue Souk Hal Fassi,  +212 5 24 37 81 76. Tu-Su.Cuisine from Morocco and Europe. Rooftop bar and terrace. A three-course supper costs MAD 300.
• Les Jardins de la Medina, 21 Derb Chtouka (in the hotel of the same name), +212 5 24 381 851, e-mail: info@lesjardinsdelamedina.com.19:30-late. Moroccan food, both traditional and contemporary. Moroccan wine is available in both bottle and glass form. With towering white columns, this is a stylish restaurant. Menu for MAD 450.

Rows of street booths are put up each night on the Djemaa El-Fna beneath enormous white tents. Tourist huts provide comparable meals and have menus written in French, Arabic, and, in most cases, English. Tajine, couscous, brochette, and a variety of soups are also available. Offal, egg sandwiches, and unique tajines are some of the specialties. Be careful that most eateries employ obnoxious “greeters” who are pushy in their attempts to attract consumers to their stall. The remark “we already ate” seems to be effective in getting them to quit.

Eat at the food vendors in the plaza as the natives do if you want to eat good in Marrakech. These booths are sometimes misunderstood as being just for visitors. They have existed even before Marrakech became a popular tourist destination. All of the food vendors are completely safe to eat at. They are highly regulated and regulated by the government, particularly now that it is a major tourist attraction. Locals dine at the less expensive booths that don’t have greeters and provide more intriguing cuisine, such as snails, sheep heads, lentils, and beans…

• Prices are subject to change. You may spend anything from Dh 10 for a baguette packed with freshly grilled sausages or a bowl of harira soup to Dh 100 for a complete three-course dinner that includes salad, bread, appetizer, main dish, and tea, depending on how hungry you are.
• Try the harira (a delicious soup made with lamb/beef, red lentils, and veggies) and the fried aubergines. Don’t be frightened to taste the lamb head: it’s delicious. In the same way, the “bull stew” (beef stew) should be given a chance.
• Don’t forget about the tea! Along the front of the food vendors, there is a row of tea dealers who sell tea for Dh 1.5 apiece. The majority of the tea at these vendors is ginseng tea with cinnamon and ginger… quite tasty and pleasant. They also provide cake, which is baked with the same spices and may be a little overbearing.
• All food vendors in Djemaa El Fna post the price on their menus, making it less likely that you’ll be overcharged, however many will offer you appetizers without asking and then charge you for them at the end.
• Drinks are seldom on the menu, therefore it is best to inquire about the pricing before ordering, since it is common for them to be comparably pricey. Some booths, on the other hand, provide complimentary mint tea to entice you to chose them.
• Look for folks frying riifa in the covered area opposite the Koutoubia in the early mornings. Riifa is a Moroccan form of a pancake or crepe that is stretched, flattened, and folded over before being baked in a frying pan.

For Dh 4, street sellers sell fresh orange juice (jus d’Orange) by the glass. Attempt it with a pinch of salt, like the natives do, but be aware of merchants who try to dilute the juice with tap water. Also, take careful when you purchase since they have two sorts of orange juice…the blood orange juice costs Dh 10 each glass and there may be a misunderstanding about what you want to drink.

Confirm the cost of your orange juice and pay for it before you consume it. Untrustworthy sellers may sometimes attempt to charge you Dh 10 for a Dh 4 glass of jus d’Orange, so don’t take your drink until you’ve paid the proper amount.

Be aware that they do not always wipe the glasses well, thus the juice may cause an upset stomach.

Along with the big souk (Arabic for “market”) close to the Djemaa El-Fna, there are several smaller souks around the city where a wide variety of things may be found. In most of them, you’ll have to haggle. Look for a broad variety of handcrafted candle-holding lanterns, as well as magnificent displays of local spices.

Most stores offer the same few things. However, if you go a bit farther out from El Fna, you will discover modest workshops staffed by true artisans producing handcrafted things. You will then be able to speak with the craftsmen who made the item you purchased. If you purchase shoes or clothing, you may get them altered. And there are a few shops that manufacture one-of-a-kind items that you won’t find anyplace else.

Argan oil, which is solely produced in Morocco, is utilized in Moroccan cookery as well as aesthetic treatments. If you appreciate its distinct nutty taste, look for it in the souks. Cooking oil costs about Dh 70 per 100 ml at your local supermarket, whereas real cosmetic oil costs over Dh 200.

Marrakech has a thriving tanning industry, and high-quality leather items may be purchased at a reasonable price. Camel leather products, such as coats, circular poufs, and purses, are very appealing.

Always ensure that there is no paper within the plate (sole in French) of the shoes since this is extremely frequent. Do not be deceived by demonstrations of how they bend the shoe and return it to its original place; test it yourself by feeling and hearing how the paper bends. You should not spend more than Dh 40 for a bad quality one and no more than Dh 90 for a decent one; look around and discover the difference between the two.

Items made of the native cactus silk, which is really rayon, a natural fabric formed of plant cellulose and manufactured in Morocco, would also be of interest. Rayon retains chemical dyes effectively, resulting in a brilliant variety of genuine colors (natural dyes cannot produce a “true” color). Scarves, purses, tablecloths, bedspreads, and blankets in vibrant hues are available. Some merchants attempt to demand a premium for this “cactus silk.” Check carefully since there are many fakes out there, and vendors will generally tell you any untruth to get you to pay a high amount.

Wander around the potters’ souk, looking for brilliantly colored platters and bowls, as well as tagines of various sizes.

With a little haggling, you can also get lovely cashmere scarves for less than a fiver.

If you don’t want to haggle, there are two government-run stores where you may purchase handicrafts at predetermined rates. Look for handmade boutiques. The first is near Djemaa El-Fna, while the second is in Ville Nouvelle.

In the Medina, there is a fairly restricted range of locations that offer alcohol.

Chesterfield Pub

(Bar Anglais), 115 Avenue Mohammed V (In the Hotel Nassim). 09:00-01:00. 

An unique experience, purportedly a ‘English bar,’ it drinks Moroccan beer and features an outdoor pool in a courtyard with palm palms, not totally English. It’s not as touristic as it sounds, having a mostly local clientele. It has a good pint size.

Le Salama

40 rue des banques (On Jeema el fna, facing Cafe de France, take the road to the left of Cafe de France (as in walking behind it). After 100m on the left hand side.), e-mail: reservations@lesalama.com. 11AM-1AM.

On the upper level, there’s a happy hour from 5 p.m. till they shut, with largely western pop hits. Shishas, belly dancers, and waiters wearing fez are all quite touristic, yet the general ambiance is somewhere between casual and party-like. Traditional Moroccan delicacies are also available. Ideal for smaller gatherings of up to ten individuals.

Hotel Grand Tazi

Rue Bab Agnaou

The hotel features a public bar that serves beer and wine and is reasonably priced.

Narwama

Hay Zefriti 30, Rue Koutoubia.,  +212 6 7250 8700.

A restaurant and bar with a fire fountain in the center and an open roof that wraps around the terrace. The environment is quite relaxed, and the cuisine is excellent although rather pricey. Excellent for pre-dinner beverages. The mains are 150 Dh.

Festivals, both national and Islamic, are celebrated in Marrakesh and across the country, and some of them are honored as national holidays. The National Folklore Festival, the Marrakech Festival of Popular Arts (at which a range of prominent Moroccan singers and artists participate), and the Berber Festival are all notable cultural events hosted in Marrakesh.

The International Film Festival of Marrakech, which strives to be the North African equivalent of the Cannes Film Festival, was founded in 2001. The festival, which features over 100 films from across the globe each year, has drawn Hollywood heavyweights such as Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, Susan Sarandon, Jeremy Irons, Roman Polanski, and numerous European, Arabic, and Indian cinema stars. Vanessa Branson founded the Marrakech Bienniale in 2004 as a cultural event including the visual arts, film, video, literature, performing arts, and architecture.

Marrakech is a secure city with a strong police presence. However, like with anything, remaining aware of your surroundings and adopting normal safety measures is always a good idea.

While violent crime is seldom a serious issue, thefts sometimes occur. Secure and conceal your money, and avoid poorly lit streets and alleyways at night.

Local tourism authorities require that guides who provide their services show an official credential.

Morocco is being threatened by international terrorism. When you’re out, be attentive and notify police if you spot anything odd.

Take extra precautions to avoid being drugged, particularly if you are traveling alone. GHB, a popular and easy-to-make drug, has a three-hour half-life and becomes undetectable in the body after seven hours, so if you are assaulted, take fast action.

If you are traveling alone, use caution when ordering room service, since even elderly ladies might become targets of robbery. Do not request that the waiter visit your room.

Allow one of the merchants to outfit you in a berber style scarf; it will conceal your face (leaving just room for your eyes) and you will stay unnoticed and unharmed by the shopkeepers; but, one or two beggars may notice that you are still a tourist due to your attire, so keep that in mind.

DRINKING WATER

Marrakech’s tap water is good for bathing. While natives consume it without issue, outsiders often have difficulty digesting it. To be on the safe side, get bottled mineral water from one of the countless marketplace kiosks and food booths. Ascertain that the cap seal is intact, since merchants are known to save money by refilling plastic bottles from the tap. Request beverages without ice at restaurants, which are often produced with tap water.

SCAMS

If you seem to be a tourist, it is usual for individuals to volunteer to assist you with directions or even take you to your destination. Although it may not be obvious at first, these individuals demand to be compensated and will often take you in circles in order to raise the amount. Additionally, folks may claim that the location you’re searching for is closed, but they’ll direct you to a more suitable location. Almost invariably, this is a fabrication. The ideal individuals to ask for directions are those behind counters, since they are unable to guide you due to their aversion of leaving their stall. If you are really lost, hiring a guide is a possibility, but you should always agree on a fee in advance (MAD10 to MAD20 are reasonable).

Without a license, Moroccans are not able to act as guides for tourists. Typically, police officers (undercover) patrol to apprehend Moroccans who annoy visitors or attempt to earn money.

In Djemaa El-Fna, there are often vendors giving henna tattoos, which are popular with both residents and visitors. However, amid the many real merchants, there are one or two con artists. They look to be very lovely and trustworthy when you are selecting a design, but will subsequently deceive you by diverting your attention. Without realizing it, you’ve created the beginnings of a really bad henna tattoo. Even if you are not interested in a design, keep your hands away from them as they will grab your hand and begin one. Later on, the con artist would demand enormous sums in whatever cash you own (dirhams or not). After emptying your pockets, they will demand that you visit a nearby ATM if they believe you can pay more. Always settle on a fixed pricing prior to beginning work. If you are unable to do so, insist on the operator immediately ceasing work and then transferring your design to another (hopefully more dependable) operator. If they claim it’s free up front or while they’re doing it, they’ll always charge you afterwards. If this occurs to you, you may walk away without paying; however, they will continue to harass you for a short period of time before giving up and moving on to another tourist. Additionally, there have been reports of these con artists mixing henna with harmful chemicals such as PPD (this is often done to give the tattoos a black appearance), which may result in skin damage or serious allergic responses.

Some tourists come across an elderly lady selling henna in the main square – she welcomes you to her stall and then summons her friends (who usually arrive on motorbikes) to provide you with very attractive tattoos – but beware – they will not agree on a price upfront and will charge exorbitant amounts – for example, a 50Dh tattoo will cost 450Dh – or they will promise you free tattoos and then charge equally exorbitant amounts. They will shout at you if you argue the value – so remain cool, give them what you believe the item is worth, and go away. If they attempt to stop you, draw attention to yourself – but avoid physical aggression, since these artists operate in gangs and you will soon find yourself surrounded by other con artists.

Because the majority of Moroccans are tourist-friendly and non-aggressive, raising a scene in public may occasionally draw unwelcome attention to a scam artist and humiliate them into backing down.