Hi All, I've booked a trip to Marrakech. If you have visited can you offer reviews or advice. I'm not really the type for sitting by the pool all day so I'm hoping to get out and see some sights. Are there any places I should definitely head for or avoid? I'm also interested to hear about your experiences there and any advice you would have for a first time visitors. Thanks.
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sorted byEssaouira was beautiful. worth a day trip if nothing else. very laid back place, nice beach.
They are an assault on the senses so not for a relaxing trip (unless you spend all your time inside one of the stunning Riads or Daars), but culturally they are hard to beat.
They are very non-western destinations so if you want your western luxuries and familiarities, I wouldn't recommend going. However, Marrakech is probably the most Western-friendly part of Morocco.
Locals are very adept at spotting new arrivals, especially when you first arrive in the main square. Wife had her hand Henna tattooed within 30 seconds of stopping and we then had a 2 minute heated debate about not paying for it (we didn't). People will offer to act as your guide and take you via different places to sell you things. Just be firm and say no.
Rather than standing on the edge of the square taking in the sights, head confidently to a cafe/restaurant and get your bearings and catch your breath. Can be overwhelming but thoroughly enjoyable. The Riad we stayed in was a little oasis of calm
Sukran - Thank you
La Sukran - No thank you
majnoun - Crazy
Halas - Enough
Emshi - Go Away
(Although not nice I was advised to use the last two for any beggars etc that wouldn't just stop. They don't see it as an insult but know you've had enough)
My mother went with some friends a few months back and someone had their backpack slashed with a knife whilst it was being worn.
Sorry to sound so negative, but my advice would be to go somewhere else. The food and stuff is lovely, but i'd never feel safe there again.
Just to add, The hotel was fantastic, Food was spot on. Was 40c around the pool with tortoise freely roaming which was nice. Sadly outside of the hotel the people made me and my wife feel really uncomfortable. (edited)
Cant remember the name of either but there's plenty of sellers,had one every night when we went. (edited)
used to walk back with my OH very late at night through the narrow streets, never ever felt unsafe. I loved my time there personally.
If the above 2 aren't your style then cancel and rebook elsewhere as its a dump.