It’s a 3 hour flight from London Luton Airport to picturesque Marrakesh. We had never been to Africa before and we didn’t know what to expect, hence there were many doubts and hesitations before we took the flight.
As soon as we arrived we were exploited by a taxi driver who charged us £30 for a 15 minute drive from the airport to Medina where our riad was located.
The streets of Medina resemble a maze or a labyrinth and they are bordered by a wall. GPS does not pick up all the streets which look very similar to each other, but hey isn’t that part of the adventure? Marrakesh is not a typical luxury destination that Europeans are used to. It’s wild and raw, which personally won me over. The streets of Medina are always busy, loud and colourful. There are also controversial aspects to it, such as pieces of meat, including a cow’s head, hanging from shop ceilings. Be prepared for lots of flies and motorbike fumes.
Things to do.
Marrakesh Medina – Souk(market).
This is located in the centre of the old town. It is surrounded by a wall which separates this unique place from the rest of Marrakesh. It is a maze of traditional houses called riads. It is always busy and you can find almost everything that you associate with Marrakesh, such as spices, carpets, lamps and a great variety of hand crafted accessories. You will also find many restaurants with panoramic views of the city. My favourites are Cafe Arab and Nomad
Le Jardin Majorelle and Yves Saint Laurent Museum.
These two attractions are located next to each other. Le Jardin Majorelle is a botanic garden created by French orientalist artists.You will find fine exotic plants, singing birds and many water features which help to create a unique atmosphere for you to experience.
These two attractions are located next to each other. Le Jardin Majorelle is a botanic garden created by French orientalist artists.You will find fine exotic plants, singing birds and many water features which help to create a unique atmosphere for you to experience.
The Yves Saint Laurent Museum is dedicated to the work of the legendary designer. The building itself captures the essence of Moroccan style with contemporary influences. It is absolute genius. Go inside and you will find paintings, designs and original sketches of famous fashion items. There is also a bookshop, a restaurant and a small auditorium.
Ben Youssef Mardassa.
This is an historical Arabic school where you can visit classrooms and the main hall. This is one of the top attractions in Marrakesh.
This is an historical Arabic school where you can visit classrooms and the main hall. This is one of the top attractions in Marrakesh.
Le Jardin Secret
Modern garden located in the center of Medina, 5 min walk from Ben Youssef Mardassa and Museum of Herritage. There is a contemporary restuarant where you can try Mint tea, known as "Morrocan Whiskey".
A night in the desert.
This is definitely an adventure that you ought to experience. First of all you will be driven through the Atlas Mountains, over 2000 metres above sea level. It will feel like a 3 hour bungee jump because you will be on the edge of mountains and all that you will be able to see will be the precipice. It’s absolutely beautiful. However, if you are scared of heights you will need to seriously consider your fears. When you arrive at your destination you will be able to ride on a camel and that will be one hell of a ride. Camels are harmless and so cute, but be aware that they like to spit! If you visit the desert make sure that you wear thick clothes as the temperature drops to zero degrees.
This is definitely an adventure that you ought to experience. First of all you will be driven through the Atlas Mountains, over 2000 metres above sea level. It will feel like a 3 hour bungee jump because you will be on the edge of mountains and all that you will be able to see will be the precipice. It’s absolutely beautiful. However, if you are scared of heights you will need to seriously consider your fears. When you arrive at your destination you will be able to ride on a camel and that will be one hell of a ride. Camels are harmless and so cute, but be aware that they like to spit! If you visit the desert make sure that you wear thick clothes as the temperature drops to zero degrees.
Casablanca
It’s a 3 hour train journey from Morocco to Casablanca. Right on the coast there you can find the popular Hassan II Mosque, beautiful beach, restaurans ans shisha bars.
Useful tips
Take a copy of your passport. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
You can only exchange currency in Morocco due to their law.
Be aware of street gangs who offer to guide you to places and then demand money from you.
Always barter, prices often start at 300% above actual value.
Look out for motorbikes, there are no apparent traffic rules, especially in Medina.
Morocco was a French colony so many locals speak French.
