Morocco

Just a short hop from the UK is Marrakesh, an enchanting ‘must see’ city like no other, the gate away to the Sahara desert and incredibly photogenic! I visited in July of 2019.

Marrakech is home to mosques, palaces and gardens. The old town’s medina is a densely populated walled medieval city dating back to the Berber Empire. The labyrinth like alleys contain bustling souks selling traditional textiles, pottery and jewellery, much of which is made on site. The 12th century Koutoubia Mosque is a symbol of the city and visible for miles. On the horizon, you’ll notice the snow capped Atlas Mountains.

By contrast, the modern part of the city, Ville Nouvelle (or Gueliz), boasts modern restaurants, shops, and larger resort style hotels as you find in coastal resorts.

Embrace the culture and Marrakech is an ideal cultural city break or family holiday, where you can either relax in ultimate luxury or experience staying in a converted Arabic mansion (Riad).

In our experience, this destination is popular with groups for big birthday celebrations, hen & stag weekends and golf breaks.

• Think about who you’re travelling with and choose your accommodation accordingly. This decision could make of break your trip. There are different styles of accommodation – one size does not fit all!
• The flight time from London is just 3 hours 30 minutes and the city is just 15 minutes from the airport. Marrakech is perfect for a short 3 or 4 night break. The time zone is GMT+0.
• Be sure to visit Jamaa el Fna (the main square). Go in the evening when it really comes alive!
• Join a cookery class. It’s great fun and you’ll get to eat what you make!
• Stay in a Riad style hotel for the best of both worlds. Larger than a traditional Riad with more facilities yet still with traditional Moroccan charm.
• Pack your camera! This city is insane for street photography. Budding photographers, take note!!
• Break up your stay with either a night or day trip to the Atlas Mountains. Just an hours drive outside the busy city you’ll find serenity, fresh air and space.

• A guided tour of the medina. Go prepared for a culture shock and bring your best haggling skills. Late morning/ early afternoon is quieter than the evening but for full effect be sure to visit at night!
• Book a treatment or just kick back and relax at your accommodation! Behind that unassuming door stands a hidden oasis – beautiful garden, sun trap, small pool, rooftop terrace perhaps. Your accommodation is your sanctuary!
• The food! Wow! Big flavours, grilled meats, salads, home cooked style. Hope you like couscous! Be brave and try a sheep’s head or stick to a hotel buffet – everyone is catered for.
• There really is nowhere else like Marrakech. You can make your break your own. Go for the sunshine and a modern hotel and you could be anywhere OR, go for the culture and crazy! It’s totally up to you. I found the hoteliers extremely welcoming and had no problem using public taxis.

July and August are the hottest months – temperatures average 30 degrees. Due to the inland location, this can be uncomfortable for lots of walking/ sightseeing. The best time to visit is just before or after then – from late March – early June and September – October are ideal. The winter months are mild with a lowest average of 13 degrees, meaning this vibrant city can be visited year round.