For the more adventurous students among us who are looking to become immersed in a completely different culture and way of life, this gorgeous city is definitely the spot for you. From the beautiful architecture of the buildings (perfect for an instagram post) to the markets for cheap but amazing shopping located throughout the historical medina, it’s the last place I traveled to on a student budget and although it’s very different, it’s definitely an experience I will never forget.
Recommendations:
Try to be aware of the culture and various rules within the country, Marrakech is in a Muslim county so the people tend to dress quite conservatively. It is not essential to dress this way as it is now a popular destination for tourists but it is however a sign of respect towards the Islamic culture. My advice would be to pack light, loose-fitting clothing for Morocco’s warm climate, that covers your arms and knees when heading out in public in order to avoid any unwanted attention. A scarf/shawl also often comes in handy. Another important custom to keep in mind is that people tend to use their right hand when eating as the left is considered unclean.
For those of you struggle to get their bearings when in a new city, the medina can be daunting. Hotels often offer a tour guide to help bring you around the tricky labyrinth that the city can appear to be at first. We found a guide helpful for the first day, they are relatively cheap and once you get to know your way around it’s easier to explore the city without getting lost. The guides are known for giving great recommendations of what parts of the city to visit and what parts to avoid as well.
Accommodation:
The are many hotels in Marrakech which are very reasonably priced, but the city is famous for its beautiful Riads, many of which are dotted along the winding streets of the medina (and are often a lot cheaper than the hotels). They are often hidden away and don’t look like much from the outside but the minute you step inside you are surrounded by some of the most beautiful interior design.
We stayed in the Riad Camilia, just a short walk from the town centre. As the location was located in the middle of it all it was one of the more expensive Riads but if you are looking to save some money there are hundred located all through the city so I would recommend finding one a bit further out from the centre for a cheaper price.
Transport:
When exploring Marrakech, we found it was best to do so on foot or by taxi. Taxi prices must always be negotiated beforehand in order to avoid a hefty bill at the end of your journey. Make sure to book a taxi to and from the airport with your hotel/Riad as they can normally provide one for the best price.
Would not recommend:
Don’t accept directions from strangers. Some of the locals/false guides tend to try and offer to bring you places for money but unless they are one of the city guides, its best to politely decline and use a map or download one to your phone in advance to navigate your way.
Food:
Moroccan food is packed with flavour and spices of many kind. Although you do have to watch where you eat and avoid drinking the tap water at all costs (stay away from salads as they are often washed in it), there is a rich variety of foods to choose from. The markets tend to be some of the best places to find food, so make sure to sample the delicious pastries, couscous and tagines on offer. Drinks wise, try the various flavours of tea (they make for a good pic even if you’re not a fan of the taste)
Night life:
Marrakech is not known for nights out and is why I wouldn’t suggested going for those of you looking for a boozy holiday. However, the main square in the town centre comes alive at night time with games and performances from the locals. There are fire breathers, dancers and a variety of exotic animals like pythons and monkeys. And if you don’t fancy getting among the crowds there are rooftop bars and cafes that have amazing views of it all and relax in.
Tourist spots:
The main square, Jama el F’na
Le jardin secret, a gorgeous garden hidden away in the medina
The dyers district, full of brightly coloured textiles hung out to dry
(The Bahia palace and Koutoubia mosque are also popular destinations for most tourists)
Price:
Morocco uses dihrams as its currency, 1€ equates to just over 10 of these. Everything is quite inexpensive in Morocco in general and it is not a place people tend to struggle with saving their money in. Food and drinks are cheap and when shopping in the markets, bargain with the seller to get the price down as it almost always works. The accommodation is cheap as I mentioned above and the flights should be no more than €200 for a round trip if booked in advance.