Morocco

Marrakech is bustling, noisey, dusty North African trading city. The old town is the hub of activity and the most interesting part of town from a tourist perspective. It is worthwhile spending an hour or two sitting in one of the cafes over-looking square mulling over a tagine and a mint tea watching the chaos below.

Arrive

I flew British Airways from London Heathrow to Marrakech (via Casablanca) and back direct to London Gatwick. The times of the flights weren't very convenient - particularly the one coming back which arrived at 1am and made it difficult to get back from the airport. My BA flights were approx �80 each way.

At the time I went Atlas Blue was the only budget airline that flew London - Marrakech and the best flight prices were similar to the lowest prices on BA. I see that Easyjet now flies there too.

Getting to Morocco is definitely the most expensive part of your trip - accomodation and food are very cheap.

Explore

Djemaa el-Fna -The heart of Marrakech, the main square offers henna tatoos, snake charmers, freshly-squeezed orange juice and a cacophany of noise at all hours of the day and night.



The Souks - The souks are amazing. A labyrinth of alleyways spreading out from the main square filled with leatherware, pottery, jewellery, shoes and almost anything else you can think of. Make sure you take notice of the way back home because it is easy to get lost. Once you do there will be many offers to show you the way back for a price - no all of which will be well-meaning.

Koutoubia Mosque -Built in 1162, the Koutoubia Mosque is one of the largest Mosques in the westen Muslim world. The minaret is visible across Marrakech.
Jadin Majorelle -Is the garden created by French painter, Jacques Mojorelle, surrounding his Marrakech villa. The villa now houses a small Moroccan art museum.

Rest

Riads are where it's at for Marrakech accomodation. There is a huge range - from luxurious residences owned by the likes of Richard Branson to more humble abodes. Riads are Moroccan guest houses that have rooms built around open air courtyards. �30-�50 per night should get you a comfortable riad, including breakfast in the morning and sweet mint tea when you return exhausted from a day in the souks. There are some beautiful riads filled with Moroccan patterned tiles tucked away in the corners of the city. It would be a scarilege to stay in the Holiday Inn.