Everything about Marrakech, Morocco — old city walls, Riads, crumbling palaces, noisy souks, skilled artisans — is unique. The ambience lends it a distinct character, different from most African and European capitals. Moroccan people are warm and the food is delicious. This melange makes Marrakech stand out. What's more, if last year's International Film Festival which celebrated 100 years of Indian cinema was anything to go by, Morocco's love for Bollywood is rather apparent — Shah Rukh Khan was not given the Moroccan medal of honour last December for nothing. Here's your guide on what to expect.
See
Start by exploring the Bahia Palace, an elaborate architectural wonder. Built in the 19th century, it is a stunning example of Arab and Islamic architectural styles. The elaborate ceilings, colourful tiles, and stained glass lamps are gorgeous. Its peaceful courtyard is the perfect antidote to Marrakech's chaos.
Spend a quiet afternoon exploring the ruins of the El Badi Palace, commissioned by the Saadian King Ahmad al-Mansur in 1578. The bare ruins, left-over mosaics, and stark walls have such tales to tell.
Once you have had your fill of royal residences, head to the Menara Gardens. They are located towards the west of the city, at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains. The artificial lake is surrounded by fruit orchards and olive groves.
You must try to fit in at least one-day trip on your itinerary. During summer months, a trip to the Atlas mountains provides an ideal reprieve from the heat. For the culturally inclined, the fortified city of Essaouira is 2.5 hours away by bus. It is also possible to do a desert safari in the Sahara if you have three days to spare. Don't book your side trips in advance — get to Marrakech, find a travel agency, and bargain (it is the norm) to get the cheapest deal.
Shop
The souks (markets) of Marrakech are its primary attraction. Here, the air is rife with cries of gypsies, snake charmers, wandering minstrels, magicians, and folk singers. There are tanneries on pavements, street artists in every corner, and vegetable vendors popping out of alleys. If you're not paying attention, you could end up with a monkey on your shoulder or snake wrapped around your arm.
The souks are overwhelming but they are also the perfect amalgam of colour, energy, and vibrance. There is nothing that isn't sold here — perfumes, spices, bags, clothes, baskets, shawls, carpets, shoes, even safety pins.
Take time to explore Marrakech's bamboo-covered souks. Savour the smell of spices drifting up your nostrils, follow colour, go where your eye takes you, turn into little alleys, and duck into the tiniest of shops.
Walk from the olive souk, packed with different kinds of olives, to the potters' souk, crammed with brightly-coloured pots, pans, and tagines. There is a surprise at every corner — brightly-coloured glassware, sheesha pipes, embellished kaftans — you name it, they have it.
Wine & dine
Marrakech is an assault on the senses like no other place in the world. Walk to the Djemaa-El-Fnaa (the central square) and you will see what we mean. You will be offered snails, sheep's head, and fried aubergines in the same breath, all followed by scrumptious Moroccan dates. It is no wonder that food is the highlight of a trip to Marrakech — it's cheap, cheerful and tasty.
Make sure you try the classic tagine. It is served with bread at street-side cafes. Use the bread to scoop the curried, zesty gravy — just like the locals do.
Spend your evenings sipping Moroccan mint tea at a streetside cafe facing the Djema El Fnaa as you watch people go about their day.
Getting there
The best time to visit is between September and April as the city can get very hot during summer months (May-August). Flights are available from Mumbai to Marrakech.
Where to stay
The number of hotels in Marrakech continue to increase with the city's popularity as a tourist destination. But nothing beats the feeling of staying in a Riad — a traditional Moroccan house within the Medina (Old City). Checking into a Riad is probably the easiest way to familiarise yourself with Morocco.
Expect walls embellished with traditional Moroccan rugs, shelves adorned with ethnic glassware, and breakfasts served in intimate central courtyards. Irrespective of what you're looking for — romantic getaway, luxurious weekend, or backpacking holiday — it is easy to find a Riad to suit your budget.
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