SHOPPING IN THE MEDINA.

A spot of shopping or browsing around the busy souks in the medina is an exciting experience.

There is everything that you could possibly dream of.

As you meander through the maze of colourful alleyways, be prepared for a complete assault on the senses.

From beautiful jewellery to exotic spices, leather shoes and bags, to Morroccan lamps and ceramics.

The craftsmanship is astonishing, and you can find areas that are dedicated to certain products, such as leather goods and handmade Berber rugs or cushion covers.

It’s a lovely experience watching the locals making their goods to sell, and there is also the opportunity to have a go at making things yourself, such as a pair of babouche shoes to take home.

Berber rugs are beautifully displayed, and the assortment of colours and patterns are a feast for the eyes.

Argan oil and morroccan black soap, orange blossom oil, and gardenia float on the gentle breeze.

Wooden boxes ornately decorated with mother of pearl, chess sets, and traditional toys tempt you for the perfect souvenir to take back for family and friends.

Then there’s the nuts, sweets, and pastries.

The olives and exotic fruits.

The medicinal herbs and spices, a cacophony of colours and fragrances.

Paintings and prints of traditional Morroccan doors and Berber people.

For the person who loves shopping, Marrakech is an absolute delight.

The souks are crowded and busy.

You have to dodge motorcycles and donkeys, vendors with carts, and tourists looking for the perfect gift.

You can expect to get lost, but that’s all part of the experience.

No one went into the souks and was never heard from again…

So, if you’re coming to Marrakech for the vibrant abundance of enticing goods on sale around the medina, fully immerse yourself in the experience and enjoy every minute.

It’s an unforgettable experience, one which will envoke the spirit of camel caravans and ancient trade routes from centuries ago.

A few helpful tips to make the most of your shopping experience:

Pace yourself.

The souks are very busy with motorcycles, donkeys, and tourists. It can feel slightly chaotic at times, especially in the heat.

Stop for a drink and rehydrate.

Rest for a while, try a spot of lunch on the rooftop of a cafe.

Be prepared to haggle. It may seem daunting at first, but you’ll soon get the hang of it.

Stay vigilant, and keep your wits about you.

Marrakech is a safe city, but pick pocketing can happen just like anywhere else in the world.

In crowded, narrow streets, keep your possessions safe in a closed bag at the front of your body.

If you’re lost, try to use Google maps or look for signs above your head pointing you back to Jamaa El Fna.

If you need help or advice, ask a shop vendor or try calling the riad you are staying in.

They may offer to collect you.

Don’t be tempted to accept directions from locals who may lead you to a friend or family members’ shop so they can get commission.

You may struggle to get away, and you may find yourself seated and drinking mint tea before you know it.

Take time to shop around and walk away if you don’t think you’re being offered a fair price.

You will usually find yourself being called back, and a good price reached.

If not, the same items will most likely be found on sale elsewhere in the souks.

Exercise patience.

Remember, this is someone’s livelihood, and it’s a different culture to what you may be used to.

Wages are not very high for most people in Marrakesh, and tourists with money to spend are fair game for boosting the take-home salary of most vendors.

After all, they too have mouths to feed..

Although the souks can be overwhelming, they are an unforgettable shopping experience.

You will be dazzled by the vast number of weird and wonderful items on display.

The sights, sounds, and smells will stay with you a long time after you leave this fascinating city.