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Feature Friday: Marrakech

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Marrakech

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Morocco draws visitors from around the world for it’s gorgeous tile work, intricate tapestries, and uniquely inspiring culture! Marrakech is the economical center of Morocco and home to some of the most beautiful mosques, gardens, and palaces. But warning, while this city is beautiful, it can be tricky to navigate. How do you get to this Moroccan city? Marrakech has an international airport, but when flying from the US you’ll have to change planes in Casablanca. The airport is only about 15 minutes from the city. Taxis operate throughout the day, but you should make sure that you set the taxi fare before you get in.

Best Times to Visit: The best times to visit Marrakech are from March to May and between September and November. These shoulder seasons are known for their desirable weather (with average daytime temps in the low 70s to low 90s) and affordable hotel rates.

Things to do:

Spend time in the Jardin Majorelle. Created 40 years ago by French painter Jacques Majorelle, the Jardin Majorelle is a lush and beautifully designed garden that is sure to captivate all visitors. Complete with enchanting little lanes, tranquil streams and over 300 species of stunning plants, Jardin Majorelle is perfect for those who need a break from the busy city.

Visit a tannery. Tanning is the process of treating skins and hides of animals to produce leather and a tannery is the place where the skins are processed! Between its overwhelming smell and tourist draw, these are very easy to find across the city. Visitors can watch workers as they hand dye material in preparation for trade in the city. Offering up an alternative to modern factories, the tanneries are an intriguing feast for all the senses.

Stay in a traditional riad. A riad is a type of traditional Moroccan house or palace with an interior garden or courtyard. They are often times tucked away on the narrow streets of the older parts of town. This is the best way to experience a traditional Moroccan stay!

Experience a hammam. A hammam, or authentic Moroccan bath house, where you can pamper yourself with an exfoliating massage, a cold pool dip, or a suana detox. There are plenty of bath houses to choose from and the typical cost is between 50-100 dirhams ($13 – $27 USD).

For more ideas and information, click HERE.

Feature Hotel: Riad Dar Anika, Riad le Clos des Arts, Four Seasons Resort Marrakech

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Things to know before you go…

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  • Weather is unpredictable. The weather alternates between extremely hot to relatively cold conditions so be prepared.

  • Prepare to haggle. Particularly with taxi drivers.

  • Accommodations are very affordable! And luxurious so don’t think its a scam when we see your nightly rate!

  • You will get lost. It is almost a necessity when visiting this confusing city. So don’t get yourself all worked up when it happens – sometimes it even brings you to the very best places. Try to stay aware of your surroundings as Maps does not work here.

  • Take a cab to Bahia Palace. This comes off our previous tip, but because the streets are so confusing it is best to enlist help getting to particular destinations!

    For more information, click HERE.

Follow the adventure!

@explorateurtravel