Sounds Of The Souks

Tag: Best time to visit

An exploration of The Red City known as Marrakech.

  • Winter In Marrakech.

    Visiting Marrakech During The Cooler Season

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    December in Marrakesh can still be warm and sunny, making it the perfect destination for people who don’t particularly enjoy the stifling summer temperatures.

    If you want to avoid the huge crowds of tourists, you might prefer the months of December and January.

    It’s worth noting that there is a possibility of more rain during the winter months, and evenings can be chilly, but packing the right clothing will ensure that you still have a wonderful experience.

    In Gueliz and Hivenage, modern hotels and apartments have heating.

    In the medina, riads have air conditioning and will supply their guests with extra warm blankets.

    Wearing light layers and carrying a lightweight weatherproof jacket and umbrella will make visiting the city’s attractions more enjoyable.

    I went in December, and it was still sunny most days, turning chillier after sunset.

    I still had a brilliant time and found that vendors in the souks were easier to haggle with because of fewer tourists.

    I even managed to bag a few really good deals to take home with me.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Another thing worth mentioning is that the price of flights and accommodation are significantly cheaper too.

    Regarding day excursions, the Atlas mountains do get snow, so if you’re considering a day trip to Ourika Valley or Imlil, check if travel is safe before booking.

    The train to Casablanca is operational, and buses to Essaouira still run, so that’s an alternative day trip if it’s too dangerous or cold to go hiking in the more remote areas.

    I was pleasantly surprised at how often I was able to sit outside and people watch in Jamaa El Fna in December.

    Some days were bright and sunny, and some were cloudy with marginally cooler temperatures.

    I never felt cold and was able to walk around the medina comfortably.

    Marrakech in December/image by Freebird Tracey.

    Some of the restaurants I visited, such as The Clock in the Kasbah, had roaring fires during the evenings, creating a nice cosy atmosphere.

    Occasionally, Marrakech can experience more rainfall than usual, so this is something to bear in mind.

    If  you don’t want to get caught out, take an umbrella out with you or a lightweight jacket.

    There is still plenty to see and do, so don’t be too upset if you’re caught in a storm.

    Tailor your itinerary to suit the climate and keep an eye on the weather forecast daily.

    There are so many exciting museums such as the Museum of Photography and Berber Carpet Museum to keep you entertained.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    I would definitely go again during winter.

    It helped me to cope with the gloomy grey days in the UK and broke up the long winter.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    For more about visiting Marrakech, subscribe to my blog.

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Is Marrakech Safe For Solo Female Travellers?

    What every female should know before arriving in the red city.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    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.

    However, there are certain things to consider to help you feel confident and fit into Moroccan society.

    Women in Marrakech dress modestly.

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

    Although Marrakech is a Muslim city, it is quite liberal and used to tourists, 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.

    Many tourists wear the same style of clothing that they would back at home, so it’s really a matter of choice.

    I would certainly encourage dressing appropriately if you’re visiting religious sites, though.

    It’s a matter of respect.

    You’ll notice how happy a small gesture like this makes the locals happy.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The people in Marrakesh are friendly and hospitable.

    There may be situations where you will 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 feel 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, and police are everywhere around Marrakech, making sure that tourists are not hassled.

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

    ‘Non merci’ or ‘La Shukran’ for ‘no thank you’ will automatically bring a smile to the locals’ faces.

    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 by yourself or if it’s your first time.

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

    Marrakech is a great place to visit as a solo female traveller if you treat it the same way as you would any other country wandering around by yourself.

    In some ways, I would consider it safer than some European countries.

    Most local 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 could carry a personal alarm with you if it helps you to feel less vulnerable.

    Overall, you will feel perfectly safe.

    Marrakech is very touristic, and there’s always crowds of people around.

    Just be extra vigilant in busy, congested areas with your belongings.

    The same way you would be anywhere else in the world.

    Relax and trust that the people of Marrakech are friendly, kind, and caring.

    You will have a truly wonderful time.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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