Marrakech

[shivvy]

Have just booked a 4 day break to Marrakech in mid January. Will be staying in Medina.
Looking for peoples own experience of what to do when there.
Thanks.

[MallyJ]

Buy a guide book and see what you really like...in the meantime - the main square Jeema el Fna....wander round early evenin and then eat at whichever stall takes your fancy, The souks but don't haggle over stuff that is really cheap already such as fridge magnets, Cafe Arabe...fab views, Marjorelle gardens, tootle into the main town, drink coffee at any cafe that takes your fancy and make sure you sit outside and watch the world go by. The English cemetary is interesting, take a bus to Essouaria (spelling??) On the coast and lovely. So much and so little time...I lived there for a couple of years...and miss it. Wander round and see sights ...btu do get a little guide book and see whatelse you fancy having a look at....

[shivvy]

Ah that's great info MallyJ - thanks. I bought a guidebook online last night so will have a good nosey at it. But my google searches so far have made me think that we will need to go back again another time to see everything!
I have read that although it is warm enough during the day, it gets cold at night and early morning. How cold is it likely to be? Cardigan or proper coat and hat?
Also, re clothing what is appropriate re showing shoulders? I will wear trousers or long skirt. And do I only need to cover my head in mosques? I don't want to get that wrong.

[MallyJ]

Take a shawl..not too heavy and it will do you for modesty when needed. Bare feet in Mosques but put your shawl over your head and shoulders and you will be deemed to be respectful. During the day people are not fond of those who dress for the beach in their cities ... and really people do....Western Europeans of course. I was often embarassed by others. It is warm during the day so light clothes but big jumpers at night...because in comparison it is freezing! I am sure you will love it and will want to go back..but make time to sit and watch...there is a craft market on the main road which should be in your book..real artisan place....brilliant for real gifts both for yourself and...oh well yes..yourself! Take every opportunity to get on roof terraces...the views are spectacular! There is a really posh hotel that has an Indian restaurant on the roof...name escapes me for the moment. As an aside I always felt perfectly safe no matter what time I was out...mind you I do in central London too...is safety a state of mind? Anyway do take your time, don't run from place to place and if you need to then go back....I hope you love it...oh and forgot ...my skirts are all almost ankle length and my shorter sleeved tops reach my elbows...I was told this was fine!! Very hygienic in every place I ate and lavatories pristine...just in case you are concerned! Don't wear heels ....flats are best..more for your comfort.

[naomi24]

Book transport from the airport to your hotel and back before you go - otherwise you could find yourself paying £100 for the 20 minute journey. I use this company.

www.marrakechairporttransfer.com/

[MallyJ]

meant to add that you may not be allowed in the mosques...I never went in one...women seem to be generally discouraged.....they aren't even allowed at funerals/burials in many places

[MallyJ]

And there is a bus from airport to town!

[shivvy]

Ah thats all great info. Thanks Mally and Naomi :o)

[naomi24]

Yes, there is a bus if you don't mind buses. Not knowing the city though, a taxi will take you right to your hotel.

[237SJ]

Sorry to interrupt - am thinking of going there in May. Would you stay 4 or 5 nights? Can't decide.

[CrapAtCryptics]

I always go here first - my wife and her friend loved the place and the people.
https://www.tripadvisor.co.uk/Attractions-g293734-Activities-Marrakech_Marrakech_Tensift_El_Haouz_Region.html

[naomi24]

May will be warm so if you stay longer and find yourself all cultured out sooner than expected there’s always the hotel pool ;o)

[237SJ]

Thanks naomi.