Morocco was a fam trip that my husband was invited on where I was able to go to – perfect result, and a great long weekend away in somewhere I hadn’t before considered. Ever since – I’ve been trying to get back there, but we just haven’t managed it so far sadly.
We had a fantastic time – visiting with someone that knows the place well is definitely a good way to see it at its best! The first few nights we were staying in a Riad in town, goodness only knows how our taxi driver found it! Down and alley and behind a tiny wooden door, there is a gorgeous space that opens up into the Riad, complete with small pool, lovely rooms and a roof terrace.
We did of course spend time at night in the souk and eating in the main square – happily we saw no snakes (I almost didn’t go for fear of serpents) and didn’t get any food poisoning. The souk experience was great – fortunately I was with my husband and 2 other gentlemen so was well shielded, but 2 ladies we knew visited at the same time and had a really hard time of it. We bought a carpet – Mr P had a great old time bartering, but I really just enjoyed browsing – the lights and mirrors were stunning, on another visit I think I would definitely make a purchase.
Morocco – November 2007
After a day in town we then headed into the foothills of the Atlas and had great fun learning how to drive 4*4 – I surprised myself in what I was actually able to drive up, down and through – all very competitive! After our day in dust we were staying in the city’s Intercontinental. Given that we were shedding dust and sand every time we moved it was particularly impressive to see that they didn’t begrudge us settling down for some drinks before heading to our rooms to shower! This hotel was lovely but was what I would normally avoid, nothing local about it. Much as it was nice to lie by the pool and drink wine, a riad is a better place to stay and experience Marrakech.
We dined well while we were there – and totally against my local preferences, but sometimes it is worth going with the flow! A banquet at Dar Yacout and Thai at Narwama. Both I would definitely recommend!
The more I read about other peoples’ experiences in Morocco, the more guilty I feel about my ignorance aged 17/18 when I went to Tangiers. I would like to go again, and would definitely choose to stay in a Riad. I could also see myself getting competitive in a 4×4 in the Atlas foothills. What fun!
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I think even since we visited it has got much easier to visit, easier to research and know what’s safe etc. I hope you go soon, we are toying with an April visit!
I went to Tangiers when I was 17, too, Jackie, and spent a month in Morocco… in fact, I had my 18th birthday in Casablanca. I haven’t been back since, but will be going to Marrakech in a few weeks so am looking forward to that. I’ll be staying at Palais Namaskar which looks… well… very comfortable! 🙂
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Perfect time to visit and yes that hotel does look comfy, a bit of an understatement! 18th birthday with no drinking!!
I would definitely also favour the riad option – I stayed in a lovely one in Marrakech earlier this year and not only did the whole experience feel very local but the staff were lovely and full of helpful tips and suggestions. I’m surprised you didn’t see any snakes in the square since they were out in force when were were there, and we had the obligatory photos & handed over the obligatory large tip
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I think I had tunnel vision to avoid it, thank goodness!
I’ve longed to stay in a raid in the centre of Marrakech for a very, very long time. The photos I’ve seen look enchanting places, the perfect retreats from the hustle and bustle of the market. I’ve heard people describing finding them as you have before but somehow they always seem to stumble upon the right alley and the right door to the right riad. Sounds magical!
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I can’t imagine being able to find the riad and be snake free without local assistance though 😉
I stayed in a wonderful riad in Marrakech just outside of the market. Unfortunately, I was very sick and spent 2 days stretched out on the roof deck reading in absolute silence except for the occasional call to prayer. It was an unusual experience for someone who usually hits the ground running when traveling, perhaps a gift my body was giving me for a change. I hope I get the chance to return.
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Thank goodness for such a quiet place to recover, you must definitely go back!!
We definitely need to go, but the experiences of your lady friends puts my husband off, and worries me slightly. It’s a shame as it sounds so very exotic!
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If you have your husband with you it’s fine, it’s getting used to not smiling at people like one would here – head down or deep in conversation and striding with purpose is key!!
I love to travel and want to travel the whole world. I visited Morocco once in my life and it was a great experience for me to visit different places in Morocco. I also recommend others to visit Morocco once in their life.