Marrakech, Morocco
A city most famous for its souks and central square
Marrakech is one of those places you will either love or hate. Either way, you should explore everything this city has to offer and you could stay here for a few weeks!
For most people the name Marrakech brings up memories of popular movies. Think “The Mummy”, “Raiders of the Lost Ark”, “Prince of Persia”, and many more. These movies have unquestionably made Marrakech famous for its bustling copper and leather souks, its villains, snake charmers, street performances, mint-tea-sipping tourists, and many more.
It is hard to describe Marrakech. In fact, once you arrive in Marrakech you will be so overwhelmed that you will not know in which direction to go! But let’s go and walk in any direction, as you will swiftly get lost and that is perfectly fine. Fear not, as you will find yourself, and hopefully your hotel, by the end of the day.
The medina, the old walled part with its countless narrow and maze-like streets, is rather unnavigable. Try out your smartphone’s Google map as you get lost in the medina. While not perfectly accurate, it will give you a sense of where you are. Better yet, put away your digital map and just let the medina suck you in. There is no better feeling than to get lost in one of Morocco’s medinas such as in Marrakech or Fes. You will be amazed with most everything you will discover.
The attractions in Marrakech are numerous. For a culture shock, walk around the famous Djemaa El Fna central square. Here you will come face-to-face with musicians, storytellers, fortune-tellers and snake charmers. In fact, in the late afternoon and early evening the entire spectrum of Moroccan life will enfold right in front of your eyes.
Watch out for the local mafia who ensures that all onlookers pay their dues of appreciation before leaving a performance, in particular those of the snake charmers, monkey handlers, and the African drum beaters. Don’t resist making a small payment as these people are ferocious.
Before long you will want to escape the madness of the square, so head out to one of the many rooftop cafes and restaurants from where you can safely survey the crazy scene from above.
THIS ARTICLE CONTINUES ONLINE IN
Globerovers Magazine July 2017
THIS ARTICLE CONTINUES ONLINE IN
Globerovers Magazine July 2017
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