I loved Marakkech. Even though it is a different way of life, and not something familiar to an american, there was something about this city that got to me and makes me want to return.
Nites
There are quite a few places to stay in Marakkech and I’ve read that there are some amazing riads within the medina, I opted to stay outside of the city walls at a resort where I could tan, relax, and unwind.
The Es Saadi (http://www.essaadi.com/) is amazing. If you go only once, you must stay here! The grounds are amazing, the pool divine, and the breakfast in the morning absolutely outstanding and enough to get this traveler through the day! The rooms are gorgeous and all come with a balcony that looks over the grounds or the pool. Stunning! And if there is one negative to be shared, it is simply that the wireless internet connection is rather weak. But really, when on holiday, one should not criticize an internet connection because they cannot work
Sites
The souqs are amazing and you really must go! I spent a day wandering around and getting lost. And yes, you will be harassed by people trying to get you to buy things but as long as you know it will happen, you should be fine. And if you are interested in something, negotiate! Apparently, shop owners are actually offended if you don’t try to negotiate with them.
If you can believe it, there is a hop-on, hop-off bus in Marakkech. I did it because, to be honest, I spent one day too long in Marakkech and had run out of things to do and see. And if you can believe it, the hop-on, hop-off bus went everywhere I had walked on my own. So don’t do it. It really isn’t worth the money or your time.
There are quite a few ruins outside of the medina and all can easily be reached on foot. And be sure to have your camera ready: there are lots of things to see and photograph along the way, wherever you are going!
Oh yeah, and beware of the snake charmers in the square outside of the souqs. They are quite aggressive if they reveal the snake – they want money for this show – and not only might you be surprised by the snakes and a bit shaken up, but their aggressiveness won’t help!
Bites
The restaurant at Es Saadi is divine and although I’m not a fan of hotel restaurants, this one was absolutely amazing and should not be missed.
Another restaurant that I found and loved is that at the Red House Riad (http://www.theredhouse-marrakech.com/). When I first went, this was just a restaurant but in the last few years, it appears that they are a small hotel now as well. It might be worth a stay because if it’s anything like the food, you won’t be disappointed!
Marrakech is divine and a place that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Like much or Morocco, the people are nice, the food amazing, and the sites just absolutely breathtaking.