City Escapes & Beach Breaks

Why we loved our visit to Marrakech, Morocco!

We had heard so much about Marrakech, the good and the bad, so we decided to spend a week there in February to decide for ourselves. When we told people we were visiting Marrakech, we were warned about others’ experiences of being scammed, harassed, pickpocketed and getting food poisoning. However, what people didn’t tell us is that Moroccans are some of the friendliest, most hospitable people you’ll meet. The country is also home to amazing scenery, vibrant culture and some of the best cuisine anywhere in the world. Being from a rich, developed nation (the UK), we encountered some scams and harassment, however, we didn’t let it ruin our time in Marrakech.

Hospitality

The first thing I’ll say about Marrakech is that it is the best place we have ever visited. Its a vibrant city full of friendly people, wonderful sights and amazing food. As we were staying in the medina which is a labyrinth of narrow streets, the receptionist came to meet us on the main road and showed us to our riad to ensure we didn’t get lost. From the moment we got to our riad, the hospitality was unmatched. We were greeted with Moroccan tea and nibbles before being shown to our room. The hospitable nature of Moroccans is rooted in their Islamic values, which emphasize hospitality and friendliness. Even walking the streets, people would greet us with ‘welcome to Morocco’ and ask where we were from. Never, on any other of our travels, have we felt more welcome in a country.

However, do not be deceived! Not everyone who acts friendly does so in a welcoming way. One evening we were walking through the medina and decided to ask someone for directions to a restaurant. Previously, everyone we bumped into genuinely helped us when we were lost. However, on this one occasion, this guy took us somewhere we didn’t want to be and ask for money. He didn’t let us go until we paid him. This was one of the only times we felt uneasy whilst we were there. However, as this happened early on in the trip, it taught us to be less trusting with people. It never happened again because whist in the medina we didn’t approach anyone for directions. We also acted like we knew where we were going (even if we had no clue) so people didn’t approach us and take advantage of us.

Food

We were skeptical about the food situation in Morocco. Usually if we visit a place where we are unaware of a cuisine, we will simply eat McDonalds and pizza, our comfort foods. However, the country is home to some amazing cuisine. Marrakech itself is a haven for foodies and it is home to some great lunch and dinner spots.

La Trattoria

On our first night, we had booked a table at La Trattoria, a stunning Italian restaurant located in the Gueliz (the new neighbourhood). This place is a culinary delight with great ambiance. When making a reservation you can choose to sit around the candle lit pool or in the lounge. If, like us, you’re looking for a more romantic evening, dining by the side of the pool is a must. They serve some phenomenal dishes, we would recommend the bruschetta for starters and the chicken and mushroom fettucine.

Cafe Arabe

We went to Cafe Arabe a few times for some light lunch when exploring the medina. This place is good as they have two menus, these being traditional Moroccan and Italian. The restaurant is nestled on a rooftop in the heart of the medina, offering stunning views of the UNESCO listed medina. Enjoy the view with a beer, wine or cocktail and be sure to try their Moroccan Briouates and pizzas. They’re to die for.

L’mida

Also located within the maze-like medina is L’mida. We booked this place on a whim. Let’s say, it didn’t disappoint. Serving traditional Moroccan and Mediterranean dishes with a contemporary twist, its dishes are delectable and so well presented. We both got the risotto style mhamsa, a plate that infused both Italian and Moroccan cuisines to create something beautiful. The rooftop at L’mida is really popular, especially on an evening for sunset hour. Booking is essential well in advance if you want dinner on the rooftop.

DarDar

DarDar is undoubtably one of the most popular restaurants in the city. That popular in fact that if you want to sit on the rooftop you have to book weeks in advance. As we only booked the night before, we could only sit in the lounge. However, our visit was still second to none. The service and food were spectacular. We ordered the chicken tagine each and two deserts, the chocolate and pavlova. Everything we ate was phenomenal.

Whilst being in Morocco you’ll come across many food stalls selling street food. We didn’t go anywhere near them and I’d recommend anyone to do the same. We heard so many stories of people with food poisoning when visiting Marrakech so we took precautions. Rule number one, never eat anywhere if you are unsure about the hygiene of the food. We stayed to eating in restaurants and quality establishments and we never got ill once. Yes, it did cost a little more, however, you can’t put a price on good health.

Diverse landscapes

Another reason we loved Marrakech was due to the diverse landscapes there are to explore, each offering their very own unique experiences. From city landscapes to desert and mountainous terrains. The best part about it is no two days are the same here, one day you’re riding camels and quad biking in the Agafay, the next you’re hiking at high altitudes and uncovering Berber villages (such as Sti Fadma) in the Atlas mountains. Even the city centre itself is a polarization of landscapes. There is the contemporary metropolis that is Gueliz (New town). Built by the French, this side of the city showcases stunning water features, shopping malls and high rise buildings.

At the opposite side of the city there is also the vibrant medina (old town). Marrakech’s medina is a UNESCO World Heritage site and was the imperial centre of the city. Today, it is still classed as the historical centre of the Red City. This place is known as the heartbeat of the city, especially on a night when the Jemaa el Fnaa Square becomes a hub socialising and taking in the street entertainment. During the day you can explore the maze-like streets of the medina and shop in the enormous souk.

When exploring the medina and souk, don’t stop and ask for directions as people will demand money for helping you. We were well aware of this, but we still got scammed this way as we stopped to look at google maps on our phone when some guy offered to help us find our way. Do not fall for this as you could find yourself in quite a scary situation. The trick is to be confident about your surroundings and if you are lost, pretend you’re not!

Amazing sights

From the ruins of the El Badi Palace to the beauty of the Jardins Majorelle, we were in disbelief at what sights this city had to offer.

Firstly, standing at 223ft tall, the Koutoubia Mosque is the largest in the whole of Morocco. The mosque which stands today is the second versions which was built in the 12th Century. It’s imposing minaret, topped with four golden orbs, dominates the skyline and is a great example of Almohad architecture. The mosque is also surrounded by some beautiful gardens that are great for relaxing, taking photos and simply a great escape from the chaos of Marrakech.

Designed by Jacques Majorelle in 1937, the Jardin Majorelle used to be the home of the famous fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent. This tranquility and beauty of this place amazed us, its a botanical oasis comprised of cacti and various exotic plants.

The El Badi Palace built in 1578 is a testament to Moroccan history. Although it stands in ruins today, many people visit to learn about the military triumph over the Portuguese as well as economics and politics of the country throughout history. The Palace boasts a large open courtyard incorporating a beautiful pool at the centre surrounded by beautiful gardens and fountains. It is definitely a must see during a stay in Marrakech.

You cannot visit Marrakech without visiting the Madrasa Ben Youssef and immersing yourself in the beauty of the decommissioned Islamic college. Its beautiful mosaics, arches and balconies make it a sight to behold. It’s definitely up there with some of the most beautiful buildings we have ever seen.

In a nutshell!

Although it was chaotic, we loved our visit to Marrakech, and we’re sure you’ll love it also. From the serene landscapes of the Atlas mountains to the lush gardens of the Jardin Majorelle, there’s something that is bound to take everyone’s fancy in this amazing city. If you’re wanting to see unbelievable architecture and sights, or want to go quadding in the desert or hiking in the Atlas, this place must be on your bucket list. Lastly, you’ll fall in love with North African cuisine and come home addicted to Moroccan mint tea!