Sounds Of The Souks

Author: Freebird Tracey

An exploration of The Red City known as Marrakech.

  • RIAD BOHEMIAN JUNGLE.

    The Bohemian Jungle is a beautifully choreographed riad, close to the spice square in Marrakech.

    It exudes charm and authenticity.

    The interior decor is simply captivating, with several tastily put-together nooks and crannies to sit and take in its splendour.

    Interior of the Bohemian Jungle/ Images Freebird Tracey.

    The little pool in the centre of the courtyard is ideal for cooling off in.

    The green tiles and exotic plants make it a stunning focal point of the riad.

    Interior pool/images Freebird Tracey.

    The rooftop is magical. Surrounded by pretty, draping flowers, plants, and lanterns.

    There are several areas to hang out in.

    A balinese bed for relaxing on and a cerise, romantic boudoir area, where the staff play traditional tuareg music.

    There are areas to catch a spot of sunshine and places to sit where you are shaded.

    This is perfect for when the hot morroccan sun reaches its highest temperature in the day.

    Photos of the rooftop at the Bohemian Jungle/image Freebird Tracey.

    The staff are relaxed and friendly, and the vibe is laid back and chilled.

    The riad is run by three professional, yet charismatic young men from the Sahara region.

    Their knowledge of the area is invaluable, and they enjoy sharing a little piece of their fascinating culture with guests.

    The breakfasts are varied and wholesome, consisting of a mix of traditional pancakes, honey, and jam.

    Fresh bread, fruit, yoghurt, and eggs.

    Fresh orange juice and coffee.

    Image Freebird Tracey.

    When you arrive at the riad, you are treated to the complimentary mint tea and biscuits, whilst you are given useful advice and a map to help you navigate the souks.

    This is helpful for finding your way back to the riad.

    The fragrance inside is intoxicating.

    Orange blossom and cinnamon oil gently floats on the air, the lamps glow, and  Berber music plays subtly in the background.

    I never wanted to leave..

    I was so happy sitting in the riad, taking in the beauty and experiencing the wonder of such a magnificent place..

    Riad Bohemian Jungle gets booked up quickly.

    If you are looking for TVs and a modern approach to your trip to Marrakech, you won’t find it here.

    Riad Bohemian Jungle is all about experiencing true, authentic riad culture, lost in time with the distant echos of camel traders and a strong spirit of the past.

    It is close to the Madrasa Ben Youssef, Marrakech museum, and several nice shops and restaurants.

    The address is;

    Derb al Maada

    Hay azbezte

    39 Medina, Medina 40030

    Marrakech, Morrocco.

    Excursions to the Sahara desert and other popular places of interest can also be arranged by this riad.

    They are good value for money and well organised.

    Enjoying a moment of tranquillity at the Bohemian Jungle.
    Sunrise from the rooftop of the Bohemian Jungle/image Freebird Tracey.
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  • IS MARRAKECH SAFE FOR SOLO FEMALE TRAVELLERS?

    I would say that Marrakech is perfectly safe for women who travel alone.

    The overall crime rate is relatively low, and most female travellers have a wonderful experience.

    There are certain things to consider, however.

    Morroccan women dress modestly.

    How you want to be treated will depend on how you present yourself.

    Marrakech is liberal, but showing too much flesh would be considered inappropriate.

    Whilst you’re not expecting to adopt the hijab, you will certainly be regarded favourably if you dress slightly more conservatively.

    Long, silk, or cotton dresses are perfect and keep you cool at the same time.

    Palazzo trousers are comfortable and elegant.

    I wore turbans, and I loved that my hair was tucked away, keeping me from feeling too hot whilst feeling sophisticated.

    The people in Marrakesh are friendly and helpful.

    There may be an occasional situation where you may be asked if you need help to find your riad or the main square.

    Simply decline the offer politely and go about your business.

    Stand your ground when negotiating a price for something. Show you are confident and don’t be afraid to walk away if you’re not happy.

    Some men may cat call or make comments, which may be slightly intrusive.

    Ignore them and move away. If anyone follows you, find a shop vendor or restaurant to sit in or threaten to find a police officer.

    It’s rare that this happens, though..

    Knowing a few words in Arabic or French is always useful.

    ‘Non merci’ or ‘La Shukran’ for ‘no thank you’ should suffice.

    On the whole, I have never felt uncomfortable as a solo female traveller in Marrakech.

    There are plenty of us about wandering through the souks and enjoying the tourist hot-spots.

    Consider using a tour guide or joining a guided tour of the medina if you’re slightly anxious about exploring yourself or it’s your first time.

    There are night tours, street food tours, and registered guides when visiting the local attractions.

    In summary, Marrakech is a great place to visit as a solo female traveller.

    Most people can’t wait to tell you all about their fascinating city.

    Educate yourself on the cultural norms and differences and respect the local customs and traditions, and you will be perfectly safe.

    You will have a truly wonderful time.

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  • DOES MARRAKECH CATER FOR VEGETARIANS AND VEGANS?

    Whilst it’s true that Marrakech is a meat eaters’ paradise, there are plenty of great restaurants and cafes serving vegetarian and vegan food.

    Not being a meat eater myself, I was initially concerned that I’d spend my time in Marrakesh living off the delicious olives on sale in the souks.

    I was pleasantly surprised.

    There are a number of restaurants popping up that serve only vegetarian and vegan food.

    One I highly recommend is La  Famille.

    Run solely by women,and in an outdoor setting, the food was incredibly good.

    Lunch at La Famille.

    There are also plenty of choices for non meat eaters on the menu in most eateries around the medina.

    Sumptuous vegetable tagine, vegetable couscous, salads, and pasta dishes, to name just a few.

    I never had a problem sourcing tasty and beautifully prepared meals whilst staying in Marrakesh.

    The little cafes tucked away in the souks were slightly less accommodating, but if it’s a quick snack you’re looking for, the fresh olives and delicious pastries are a wonderful treat.

    The abundance of seasonal vegetables, freshly cooked, were mouth wateringly delightful.

    Vegetable tagine with olives and egg plant.

    Harissa soup was also a favourite, deliciously tasty, served with traditional Morroccan bread.

    Harissa soup.

    I highly recommend trying the soup.

    Some restaurants serve healthy brunch, I loved the avocado toast at La Ferme.

    Avocado toast beautiful presented at La Ferme Medina.

    Please don’t be put off visiting Marrakech because you consider it to be a meat eaters paradise only.

    By doing a little bit of research before travelling, you will find a good selection of fine restaurants and cafes serving authentic and traditional Morroccan cuisine that don’t include animal products.

    A few I recommend are;

    La Famille

    La Ferme

    Enjoy your meal, veggie lovers.

    Mandala Society.

    Broc The Kasbah.

    Palais Donab also does a lovely vegetable tagine, and it’s a beautiful place to have lunch or dinner.

    NB. See my separate post about Palais Dar Donab.

    Write down the restaurants you wish to try before travelling, including the address and opening times to save wandering around in the heat and getting tired.

    Bon appetite.

    Colourful, healthy salad in the medina.
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  • POTENTIAL SCAMS TO BE AWARE OF WHEN VISITING MARRAKECH.

    Marrakech is a safe place for travellers with a relatively low crime rate.

    However, like any other destination, there are several things to be mindful of.

    There are a few scams which visitors for the first time to Marrakech should know about.

    .The road is closed.

    This is a regular scam that can leave tourists confused.

    You’re trying to locate your riad or a point of interest, and someone (usually a young male) tells you that the road ahead is closed.

    He asks you your destination and offers to escort you via an alternative route.

    Before you know it, you’re wandering endlessly through the souks until you arrive at his friends shop.

    You’re still lost, and now you’re being offered mint tea whilst his friend brings out a multitude of exotic spices or rugs.

    The male who took you there gets a commission if you cave in and buy something in order to get away.

    If you’re approached in this way, a firm no thank you or La shoukran usually does the trick.

    If he is very persistent, head to a nearest trader, and ask their advice about whether the road is closed or not.

    Make your boundaries clear but remain polite and try not to get too impatient.

    It can be difficult if you’re tired or overwhelmed, but showing your weakness will only show how vulnerable you are feeling, and you may become a target for more opportunists.

    . I can take you to your riad.

    When you first arrive in the medina, you are faced with a maze of alleyways and tunnels.

    Often, your riad will be tucked away inside the souks or down one of these alleyways, hidden from view.

    A tourist who looks as though they’re lost will invite the so-called ‘ helpful guide’ to your side who can show you exactly where you need to go.

    He will escort you, taking the long route to your riad, and then demand a payment from you.

    He may become quite persistent and insult you if you refuse to cough up.

    I was taken off guard seconds away from my riad.

    A young male basically nudged me along the narrow alleyway shoulder to shoulder. He demanded a payment, holding his hand out as I knocked on the door of my riad.

    I told him I wasn’t lost and knew where I was going and that I hadn’t requested his help. He was quite cross with me and began insulting me in Arabic.

    I stood my ground and ignored him until I was let inside my riad.

    This can feel somewhat intimidating, but don’t give in.

    Marrakech has a good police presence, and, in the worst case scenario, threatening them with this often does the trick.

    .Over inflated prices for tourists.

    There is a price for the attractions around the medina for tourists and a price for Moroccan residents.

    This happens in many countries nowadays and you can’t protest much about it.

    On the other hand, prices for street food and things you might wish to purchase in the souks are often much higher than they should be.

    Learn to bargain with the salesperson, try dropping around 25%, and eventually, the pair of you will reach a price you’re both happy with.

    Haggling is an art form, and it takes time to feel confident, but it’s a way of life in Marrakesh and can be quite a rewarding experience when you think you’ve managed to buy something for a fair price.

    If you’re not happy, shop around. There are plenty of places selling the same goods around the souks.

    . Gambling games in Jamaa El Fna.

    During the evening, when the square comes to life, there are a few pockets of entertainment where gambling games take place.

    These are scams that involve the winners working with the person in charge of the game.

    They impersonate curious onlookers and ask to take part. They win and a prize is exchanged.

    These are not genuine participants, and the likelihood of you winning a cash prize is virtually nil.

    . Unofficial tour guides.

    Some tourists mentioned being approached by unofficial tour guides whilst visiting some of the attractions around the medina.

    Males who begin by asking where you’re from, then following you around telling you a brief history of the place.

    After a short while, they ask for a fee for their time.

    If you want a genuine tour guide, check the website of the attraction you’re visiting or Get Your Guide. Booking. Com also offers attractions with a guided tour and transport. Payment is upfront, and guides are very knowledgeable.

    Marrakech is an amazing destination with so much to see and do.

    I have pointed out a few negatives that you should be aware of.

    You may not experience any of these things.

    Locals are very friendly, and tourists are accepted and made to feel very welcome.

    My advice is to make your boundaries clear from the start, get yourself some data with an Orange SIM for negotiating your way around the medina, and learn a few words of Arabic or French to help you say no thank you.

    Like anywhere else in the world, keep your wits about you in crowded places, and stay calm.

    You will have an incredible time in Marrakesh..

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  • WHAT DOES A PERFECT DAY IN MARRAKECH LOOK LIKE?

    For myself, the perfect day in Marrakech begins by waking up early to watch the sunrise from the rooftop of my riad.

    View from the rooftop of Riad Zouhour

    Listening to the birds chirping and the sound of the medina waking up.

    Watching cats prowling along the rooftops and hearing the clatter of plates as staff in the riad prepare for breakfast.

    The first glass of freshly squeezed orange juice hits the spot perfectly.

    I enjoy a breakfast of pancakes with homemade jam and honey, bread, yoghurt, and fresh fruit.

    Traditional riad breakfast.

    After a refreshing shower, I head out into the medina for a nice coffee in a cafe on the main square.

    Sat outside, I observe the vendors setting up for the day. The entertainers get ready to entice the crowds of tourists and the local ladies on their way to the market for fresh spices.

    The medina waking up.

    My next destination is the souks for a browse around before they get too busy.

    I suggest just after 9.00 am. is the perfect time to go.

    Vendors are eager for their first sale of the day, and bargaining is much easier.

    The colourful array of beautiful things on offer is a sight to behold.

    The cats gather for a few morsels off the butcher.

    Cats are well looked after in the medina.

    I check out the wonderful Amazigh jewellery, the argan oil, and the beautiful ceramics and mirrors.

    Amazigh jewellery in the souks.

    I buy one or two keepsakes and then decide it’s time for a snack.

    A colourful outdoor cafe calls out to me, and I choose some delicious pastries with a mint tea.

    It’s magical watching the world of Marrakech go by.

    The motorcycles, the donkeys, all competing for space in the narrow streets.

    Tourists wandering about, looking in awe at the beautiful colours around the medina.

    After recharging my batteries, it’s time for some sightseeing.

    I head towards Madrasa Ben Youssef and get some amazing photos of the stunning architecture.

    The incredible Islamic architecture in the Mederssa Ben Youssef .

    The medina is beginning to get rather busy, so I make my way to the gardens of the Koutoubia Mosque to sit quietly for a while.

    Enjoying the stunning gardens of the Koutoubia Mosque.

    Afterwards, I treat myself to a sugarcane juice from a vendor outside.

    Sugar cane vendor.

    The heat is now quite intense, so I return to the riad for a rest.

    I head upstairs onto the rooftop for a rest from the busy medina and a spot of sunbathing.

    Enjoying the peace and tranquillity in my riad.

    The call to prayer echos across the medina.

    I read a book and order myself a glass of mint tea and a dish of olives.

    Soon, it’s time to get ready for the evening.

    I decide to go to La Pergola rooftop bar for a couple of cocktails.

    It’s a lively atmosphere, and there’s a jazz band playing downstairs in the courtyard of  Le Bistro Arabe.

    I stop and listen for a while before heading towards Jamaa El Fna.

    The energy is electric, food vendors touting for business, dancing, drumming, and crowds of people everywhere.

    The smell of food makes me hungry, so I decide to find a nice place to dine.

    I choose a place overlooking the square and observe the action from above, sat on the rooftop.

    I enjoy a traditional tagine, flavourful and aromatic. I’m tempted by the exotic sounding smoothies on the menu and treat myself to one containing dried fruit.

    I watch the beautiful sunset and everywhere has a golden glow.

    Once dinner is finished, I nip into The Clock, situated in the square to listen to some traditional storytelling.

    After an interesting time immersing myself in the culture of Morrocco, I decide to head back to my riad.

    I pick up a few souvenirs along the way.

    Back at the riad, I sit in the courtyard reflecting on my day.

    The staff in the riad are happy to help me decide where to go the following day.

    We chat about possibilities, and they help me put together the perfect plan for another day sightseeing.

    I have had a perfect day…

    I have experienced a different culture, tasted delicious food, watched a magnificent sunset, chatted with the locals, and navigated the maze of the souks successfully.

    I have made a mental note of some of the things I want to buy to take home with me, and I look forward to haggling for a fair price before the end of my trip.

    I fall asleep, happy and content, ready to do it all again tomorrow..

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  • LE JARDIN SECRET

    Le Jardin Secret is located inside the medina.

    It’s a hidden gem, a peaceful retreat from the madness of the souks, and Jamaa el Fna.

    It is a little oasis with exotic plants and flowers where you can sit and enjoy the calm and beautiful surroundings.

    There is a beautifully painted pergoda in the centre.

    It comprises of two large gardens and one of the highest towers in the medina.

    There is a museum, boutique, and two coffee shops on site also.

    Le Jardin Secret dates back 400 years ago to the Saadian dynasty and was left to decay before being discovered and renovated in the nineteenth century.

    It is the perfect example of Islamic art and architecture, and you can read all about its history inside the museum.

    The beautiful gardens of Le Jardin Secret

    The gardens are simply beautiful with Cacti, palm trees, and other floral plants and shrubs.

    The sound of birdsong and toads in the little pond feels like a world away from outside the walls.

    As you wander around the tranquil gardens, you forget you are inside the busy medina, dodging motorcycles and donkey carts.

    The stunning tilework on the floor.

    There are plenty of benches dotted around the gardens to sit peacefully and enjoy the tranquillity and beauty surrounding you.

    Sat observing the peace and quiet inside Le Jardin Secret.

    Le Jardin Secret is located at,

    121 Rue Mouassine

    Marrakech 40030 Morocco.

    Opening times vary depending on the time of the year.

    It costs 100 dirhams to enter.

    It is wheelchair user-friendly.

    The cafe has a nice selection of sandwiches, pizzas, and salads with fruit and vegetable smoothies, hot and cold drinks, and homemade cakes.

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  • BAHIA PALACE

    Bahia Palace is a stunning, 19th century palace in Marrakesh.

    It’s definitely a must-see if you’re visiting the city, and it’s quite spectacular.

    The rooms are decorated with stuccos, paintings, and mosaics to capture the essence of Islamic architecture.

    The word Bahia means  ‘brilliance’ in Arabic, reflecting the splendour of Islamic art and architecture.

    It is necessary to book tickets prior to visiting the palace as queues can be extremely long.

    They cost 70 dirhams each, and the palace is open from 8.00am-5.00pm daily.

    The courtyard is stunning, and all the rooms open out onto it.

    It is rather grand and very spacious with a fountain in the centre and intricate tile work typical of Morroccan culture.

    There is also a 2-acre garden surrounding the palace.

    There are orange trees lining the route up to the entrance of the palace.

    When Morocco gained independence from France in 1956, the Bahia palace was used as a royal residence. This was until King Hassan II transferred it to the custody of the Moroccan Ministry of Culture.

    The building then became a cultural icon and tourist attraction.

    Bahia Palace is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Marrakech.

    It is best to arrive as close to opening time as possible to avoid the crowds.

    That way, you can spend time reading about the history of the palace and enjoying the experience.

    I would recommend visiting Bahia Palace.

    It’s gives you a good understanding of Islamic culture and the fine craftsmanship that defines it.

    If you enjoy looking at Islamic architecture, you could also visit Badi Palace in the Kasbah area of the city.

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  • HEALTHY JUICE AND SMOOTHIES IN MARRAKECH.

    Marrakech is a smoothie lover’s dream come true.

    One of the most refreshing, healthy drinks in and around the medina, smoothies can be found everywhere in Marrakesh.

    Using the freshest fruit from the local market and packed with nutritional goodness, smoothies are the perfect start to the day.

    I regularly choose the detoxifying smoothie for its positive health benefits and as a pick me up after a long, hot day exploring the medina.

    Literally, everything goes into making a perfect smoothie, and in Marrakech, they seem to have perfected the art.

    Fresh fruit, dried nuts, spiralina, cucumber, avocado, berries, banana, and spinach are just some of the ingredients that go into making the perfect smoothie.

    Pomegranate juice is refreshing in a hot climate like Marrakech.
    Fresh strawberries for sale in the medina.

    Fresh juice is also a popular choice amongst tourists who need something to quench their thirst in the heat of the day.

    Freshly squeezed lemon juice is tangy and exhilarating.

    Served with fresh mint, it’s both aromatic and tasty.

    Orange juice made from the oranges on the trees around the medina is a breakfast staple.

    It is sunshine in a glass.

    My absolute favourite juice was the freshly squeezed pomegranate juice.

    It was a refreshing tonic and gave me a burst of energy. 

    I was flagging in the heat during a hike around Ouzoud Waterfall, and it instantly hit the spot.

    Making pomegranate juice at Ouzoud Waterfall.

    The fruit juice vendors in the main square call you over to sample their mango and pineapple juice.

    They offer a selection of different fruits to try, and it’s exciting watching them make it for you.

    They are constantly trying to get your attention and offer you their service. There is so much competition.

    Juice vendors in Jamaa el Fna.

    There are a few places I can recommend…

    Pikala Cafe has an excellent choice of delicious, healthy juices and smoothies.

    ( See my separate post about Pikala Cafe).

    Detox smoothies in Pikala Cafe.

    Also,

    Le Ferme Medina.

    Henna Art Cafe. 

    La Famille (vegetarian restaurant)

    There are also plenty of rooftop restaurants around the main square to enjoy a well-deserved rest whilst sipping a refreshing cold juice or fruit smoothie and watching the action from above.

    It is important to stay hydrated whilst out and about in the medina.

    The temperature is very warm and humid.

    Whilst I can not underestimate the power of a bottle of water and it being a necessity, it’s worth trying the fresh juice as a healthy alternative.

    The vitamins and minerals are necessary to function for the hectic, busy schedule you may have planned.

    Smoothies are a perfect way to give you a boost, and they taste delicious.

    It’s all about balance.

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  • WHAT CLOTHING SHOULD I PACK FOR VISITING MARRAKECH?

    Marrakech can get very hot in summer, and temperatures can exeed 40° Celsius.

    Even the cooler months can feel very warm and humid, especially walking around the souks and popular points of interest.

    Marrakech is also a conservative city with a majority Muslim population.

    So, what should you wear to feel comfortable and respectable?

    For female visitors, I would suggest palazzo trousers.

    These are baggy and flowing, keeping you nice and cool.

    They pair well with smart cotton blouses and can be worn underneath a maxi dress.

    Lightweight cotton trousers also look smart, and neutral colours give a sophisticated, modest appearance.

    Silk (including recycled sari silk) maxi dresses are very versatile and keep you cool. They can be worn with a lightweight pair of palazzo trousers underneath for extra  modesty if the dress is thin.

    Linen is perfect and always looks polished. It may get slightly creased, so I would suggest bringing along a portable steamer. They’re a life-saver and take up very little space in your suitcase.

    However, most accommodations have an iron and laundry service.

    Cotton tee-shirts and blouses, paired with a maxi skirt or loose-fitting trousers, are ideal and can look flattering with the right accessories.

    Yoga pants are also perfect for a day exploring.

    Headscarves are fashionable at the moment and can be used as a head covering whilst visiting some of the religious sights or as a convenient wrap for around the shoulders.

    I like to wear turbans to cover my locs.

    They keep my head and neck cool at the same time.

    Silk scarves roll up really small and fit perfectly in your bag.

    Marrakech is definitely more liberal than other morroccan cities. However, exposing too much flesh is definitely frowned upon.

    You may attract unwanted attention from males and disapproval from local females spoiling your overall experience and making you feel uncomfortable.

    How you present yourself will determine the kind of experience you have in Marrakesh.

    In your hotel or riad, it’s perfectly fine to wear shorts and clothing for sunbathing, so pack something for those occasions also.

    Males can wear knee-length shorts with linen or cotton short-sleeved shirts to look smart yet casual.

    Many restaurants don’t accept men wearing sandals, but smart leather sliders are deemed to be acceptable.

    Linen or cotton long trousers for men are ideal and keep the body cool.

    Regarding men’s clothing choices, it’s definitely less important than the females.

    I wouldn’t advise a male to walk around without a shirt on. That is best left for beach holidays.

    So, staying comfortable and cool is the only thing they need to consider.

    On the other hand, women are expected to respect the cultural norms of the country unless they’re going to the clubs in the Gueliz or Hivenage part of Marrakech.

    This is where the clubs and bars are, and it’s acceptable to dress more glamorously here.

    You can still look good in the appropriate clothing.

    It’s about choosing nice accessories.

    Regarding footwear, there is a lot of walking around the medina, so comfortable footwear is essential.

    Trainers, pumps, or sandals are all acceptable.

    I took a couple of outfits in my travel bag, and once I arrived, I bought the rest of my clothing in the souks.

    It wasn’t too expensive, and I felt as if I blended in with the locals better.

    I enjoyed wearing the traditional Moroccan dresses and ethnic style tops and trousers.

    Finally, I have never needed to take a warm coat to Marrakech.

    I usually take a shawl or cardigan, and it’s always been adequate, even in March.

    Depending on what time of year you travel to Marrakech, you may be better thinking in terms of layers.

    In winter, the evenings can get chilly.

    A trip to Agafay desert can be  very blustery, sitting watching the sunset.

    A shawl or lightweight hoodie or jumper is perfect to enjoy the experience in the open air.

    A thin skin underneath a long dress or trousers is usually enough.

    I wore long sleeved tee-shirts underneath my dresses during the evenings.

    Keeping your eyes on the weather forecast before travelling will help you to plan accordingly for your trip.

    So to sum up,

    Wearing comfortable clothing suitable for a day exploring the medina and tourist hot spots is the most important thing to consider.

    You will walk a lot, and it can get humid.

    To discourage unwanted attention and negative vibes from the locals, female travellers should refrain from dressing too provocatively.

    Unless they’re in the bars and clubs, which are more liberally minded.

    Choosing natural fibres is the best way to stay cool, and long, loose-fitting garments are ideal because they look modest and feminine.

    Turbans are elegant and modest.

    Lastly, don’t forget to bring the sunscreen.

    You don’t want to walk around looking like a lobster.

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  • CAFE ARABE

    In the heart of the medina.

    Open air seating inside café Arabe

    Cafe Arabe is a popular destination for people looking for Italian and Morroccan cuisine.

    It is open all day serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

    The open-air restaurant has a rooftop overlooking the medina and comfortable seating in the patio area.

    The incredible views of the sunset draw people in to enjoy a cocktail on the rooftop, and it gets booked up very quickly.

    I visited initially for a refreshing smoothie and a break from the intensity of the souks and the heat.

    We were given breadsticks and olives to accompany them at no extra charge.

    A  much needed respite from the heat and a refreshing, healthy smoothie.

    I enjoyed looking out over the rooftops of the medina whilst relaxing.

    There was no pressure to order something to eat, which was nice.

    I decided to book a meal for later in the evening because the vibe was good inside the restaurant and the food looked delicious.

    The view from one side of the restaurant to the other.

    One thing I particularly liked was the decor.

    The exotic green colour leading upstairs to the terrace is absolutely stunning.

    This was my favourite part of the restaurant, I could have sat here happily all afternoon.

    The bathroom is very clean and well maintained.

    The striking green colour on the way up to the terrace is beautiful.

    Returning later for a meal, it was incredibly busy, and the service was slower.

    There were people queuing to be seated and waiters rushing about trying to cope with the demand. 

    We ordered pizzas, which were very tasty.

    They took a long time to arrive, and we ended up having a few beers with olives whilst we waited.

    We would have liked a desert, but we didn’t have time to wait for their arrival, so we decided to try again another day when it’s less busy.

    We tried booking a table for the following evening but it was full.

    I would suggest booking a few days in advance as Cafe Arabe appears to be very popular with tourists in the medina.

    The prices are average considering the proximity to Jamaa El Fna, and the food was fairly decent.

    It was a little bit too busy for me, and not surprisingly, the waiters appeared to be slightly under pressure.

    There were a few discrepancies with my bill, which took ages to rectify. However, it didn’t spoil the overall enjoyment of our dining experience.

    I would certainly come back just for a cold beer and to watch the sunset on the rooftop.

    Cafe Arabe  is open daily from 10.00am-12.00am

    The address is,

    184 Rue Mouassine

    Marrakech 40000 Morocco

    I would recommend booking a table for around 6.00pm this is the best time to come before it gets too busy.

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