Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech is a captivating city found in the northwest side of Morocco, north of the foothills of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains. It is proud to be included in the Four Imperial Cities of Morocco alongside Casablanca, Fes and Rabat. Like most of the Moroccan cities, Marrakech has a feel of an old fortified city packed with colorful stalls. Morroco’s largest traditional Berber market, or souk, is found here, that is why tourists never dare to miss the city.  With a constantly-soaring economy and a strong promotion in tourism, Marrakech has become one of Africa’s busiest cities.

Marrakech has never paused in welcoming tourists ever since it caught the world’s attention. Visitors are served by Ménara International Airport and those with time to spare take the Marrakech Railway Station via Casablanca-to-Marrakech connection. From there, easy routes take the tourists to their chosen destinations—door to door transfers can be arranged by the hotel, and taxis can be hired as well. The best way to go around the tourist spots, in Medina most especially, is by foot, but riding the traditional calèches or horse-drawn carriages complements the rustic feel the city exudes. Visitors may also hire private cars especially if going to remote areas and provinces is part of their Marrakech tour.

With Marrakech’s exceptional beauty, no visitor ever wishes to leave right away. Most of the large hotels classified as four or five stars are found in every turn in Guéliz, a modern stretch where luxurious shops and fine establishments are also sighted. To stay in a riad, beautifully restored palace from the 16th century, is equally luxurious.  The service, facilities, amenities, and overall experience make riad accommodation worth every penny. For the always-on-the-go tourists who have no use of high-end services, there are modest Moroccan-inspired accommodations available in every corner of Marrakech. From budget accommodation like Caravan Serai in The Palmery to the upscale hotels such as La Mamounia in Medina, there is a home that fits every traveler’s budget and lifestyle.

Traditionally, eating out is not a practice here and even the wealthiest families would prefer to dine in their own homes. It is such a treat for tourists to dine in one of the riads to have a feel of the old-style Marrakech dinner.  Fashionable, trendy restaurants serving Moroccan and international cuisine are mostly found in Gueliz, while the traditional ones are located in every corner of the city. It is always best to book in advance to avoid disappointment and to bring a little extra because the prices of food, either local or international, can be fairly pricey.

Truly a traveler’s paradise, the “Red City of Marrakech” is peppered with traditional markets, lush gardens, and breath-taking mosques and palaces. Touring Medina takes much of the time as it is packed with intimate courtyards and winding alleys that give a feel of the old times. The square of Djemaa El-Fna may serve as the highlight of the Marrakech tour and the best way to cap off the night. Shopping is a favorite activity here as the city is filled with souks and high-end malls. With all these features, it cannot be denied that Marrakech is a city where the past meets the present, a gem polished by its history and culture, tradition and beliefs that endear everyone to come and experience Marrakech.