The Sound Of The Souks

Tag: Culture

Exploring The Red City Of Marrakech.

  • When Is The Best Time For Visiting Marrakech?

    Advice about the climate and tourism.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Marrakech is an all year round destination. It has a high desert climate, so it has pleasant weather most of the time.

    During the summer months, temperatures can reach a staggering 45°C or higher, which a lot of visitors find unbearably hot. The winter months can be moderately warm and sunny, feeling chillier in the evenings.

    The best time to go is during the spring, from March till May or in autumn, from September till November. Springtime sees warm, sunny weather, and you can still dine on the rooftops in the evening. However, I would recommend taking a lightweight jacket or jumper to throw on because the temperature can drop after sunset.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    March is the wettest month experiencing 12mm of rain over a day and the occasional storm. Be prepared by carrying an umbrella and wearing sensible footwear.

    June is the driest month with 1mm of rainfall over one day, but temperatures in June and July do soar, and it can become exceedingly hot. This  makes excursions and sightseeing activities more uncomfortable if you’re not used to walking around in that kind of heat.

    Suncream is essential whichever time of year you decide to visit because you can not underestimate the power of the hot Moroccan sun. Carrying bottled water with you is important too so that you don’t become dehydrated.

    If you prefer going when there are fewer tourists, I would suggest January to February. The climate is still warm and sunny, with average highs of 19°C and lows of 6°C in the evening. This would be an ideal time to visit if you’re put off by huge crowds of tourists and long queues at popular sightseeing destinations.

    Another thing to consider is that Ramadan takes place between February and April, so some stores and restaurants may be closed. Many do stay open, but the vibe can feel different due to the locals fasting throughout the day.

    I choose to visit in March, late September, or early October.

    In springtime, the Jacaranda trees along the main roads in Gueliz look really beautiful, and the air is really fragrant at this time of year. March can be quite hot, and heavy thunderstorms are also frequent. The sky can look very dramatic and holds its own kind of beauty just before a storm breaks over the city.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Springtime can still be very busy with tourists, and the souks are bustling with life. For me, that is part of the fun, but for some people, the crowds can be too much.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    September can be humid. I found it challenging to walk around the palaces and stand in long queues between 3.00pm and 7.00pm, when it becomes particularly warm and sticky, so try to get most of your sightseeing done in the early morning. Afternoons can be a good time to relax by the pool or take a nap until the temperature cools down.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    If you do decide to visit during the summer months, here are a few suggestions to help you cope with the heat.

    Plan to visit tourist attractions in the morning as soon as they open. If you pre book, you will avoid waiting in long queues in the heat, and there will be fewer people around.

    Pace yourself. You don’t have to rush around. Many places stay open quite late in the evening. Alternate between sightseeing and finding places in the shade to have a long rest with a cool drink to avoid too much sun exposure. There are plenty of beautiful spots with banana trees and beautiful tall palms to relax beneath.

    Wear natural fibres like cotton or linen clothing. They are breathable and perfect for wearing in hot weather. Choose loose clothing that covers your arms and shoulders. They allow the air to circulate and help to evaporate sweat, keeping you cooler.

    Remember to stay hydrated. Carry bottled water at all times to keep yourself from dehydrating.There are plenty of little kiosks dotted around the medina selling reasonably priced water. Check the seals before purchasing for peace of mind.

    Plan to do more during the evening when it’s cooler. Some of the tours begin later in the day, and trips to Agafay desert begin just before sunset, and it’s a wonderful experience at this time of evening. The square comes alive at dusk, so most of the souks are still trading until late.

    Wear high factor sunblock and keep your head covered. The sun can be pretty fierce, even as early as March.

    Visit the water slides of Oasiria. It’s a fun activity and the perfect way to stay cool. Visiting the Sahara desert will be blisteringly hot in summertime.  Consider going in the cooler months when days are still warm but not unbearable, but remember, evenings get cold in the desert.

    Marrakech is a wonderful city all year round. If you follow these simple tips, you should have an enjoyable visit whichever time of year you decide to travel. It’s about carefully planning your trip.

    Consider what it is you want from your experience. Are you put off by crowds of tourists all crammed into the souks at the same time as you? Can you handle the extreme heat, or would you prefer cooler temperatures in December or January?

    Whichever time you decide to travel to Marrakech, the locals are always smiling and friendly. There’s always lots do and see, including a day trip to Essaouira on the coast, visiting Ouzoud to see the second largest waterfall in Africa and many other exciting places.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Things To Know Before Visiting Marrakech.

    Helpful advice for first-time visitors.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I’ve put together a few useful tips to help your trip run smoothly.

    Marrakech is a cash society. Although many cafes and restaurants take cards, cash is often the preferred method of payment. In the main square called Jamaa El Fna, you will need cash to purchase almost everything.There are plenty of 🏧 machines located around the city. I use the one outside the post office where the horse and carriages stand, close to the taxi rank. The exchange rate is good, and it is always working.

    You can get cash at the airport, but the exchange rate isn’t great. There are also plenty of places to exchange money around the city. It’s advisable to carry a small amount of cash with you for tipping, small purchases in the souks, and picking up a bottle of water.

    Ask for your accommodation to organise a taxi when you arrive in Marrakech. The cost goes onto your final bill when you check out, and you won’t have to worry about exchanging money in the airport.

    You will probably need a SIM card. I got an Orange SIM in the airport, and they put it into my phone for me. This saved me any hassle, and I had data from the moment I arrived in Marrakech. Having data gave me reassurance as a solo female traveller.I could use Google maps to find my way around the medina, which was helpful if I got lost. It’s worth noting that Google Maps may not work in some of the denser areas of the souks, though.

    Tipping is not customery in Marrakesh, but the food and service are usually very good, so it’s nice to be nice. I leave a small tip of approximately 20-30 dirhams.

    Allegedly, you can drink the tap water in Marrakech, but I  wouldn’t recommend it. Some tourists use a GRAYL water bottle, which takes out the bad stuff, but it doesn’t change the taste of the water. I prefer to air on the side of caution. There are plenty of places selling bottled water around the medina, and riads or hotels also stock some.

    Non Muslims can’t go inside the Mosques, with the exception of Hassan ll Mosque in Casablanca. However, Koutoubia Mosque has the most beautiful gardens, which are well worth a visit. They are open to everyone, and particularly nice in the evening when they’re lit up. They are well maintained and it’s a peaceful environment to spend some time relaxing.

    Image Freebird Tracey.

    Some tourist attractions get incredibly busy, so try to arrive at opening time for the best experience. Places like Bacha Coffee can have up to 2 hours waiting time to be seated, so come early and join the queue outside before they open. The same applies to Bahia Palace and the Madrasa Ben Youseff. If you want the perfect photo opportunity, get there early. Shopping in the souks early in the morning is more favourable. They are less crammed with tourists, and you avoid the mid afternoon heat.

    Although Marrakech is an Islamic city, it’s fairly relaxed and liberal. However,out of respect for the culture, it’s considered appropriate to cover your shoulders when visiting certain religious places. Aim to dress modestly without exposing too much flesh, and you’ll have a great experience. In clubs around the Gueliz area of the city, it’s  acceptable to wear flimsier clothing.

    Marrakech is a dry city. However, there are bars and clubs that cater to Western tourists. There are a few nice bars selling alcohol and cocktails around the medina, such as La Pergola and Kabana rooftop bar. Gueliz and Hivenage is the newer part of the city with plenty of clubs and bars if you want a night out with alcohol and lively entertainment. It’s forbidden to consume alcohol in the medina unless you’re in a place that is licensed to sell it.

    If you get tired of haggling in the souks, there is an artisans market called Ensemble Artisanal Craft Complex. The prices are slightly higher but you can buy beautifully handcrafted items without having to bargain for them. There is also a fixed price store in the Kasbah called Dar Bouchaib.

    People in Marrakesh are often camera shy. It’s best not to take photographs of them unless they specifically say you can. Be prepared to have to pay for the privilege, though.

    Most travellers are discouraged from starting conversations about the King of Morocco. Try sticking to conversations about the history of Marrakech and Amazigh culture. The locals will love telling you all about their heritage.

    There are a few scams going on in the main square, but it’s mainly opportunists trying to make a few dirhams. I haven’t had any problems, but just like anywhere else in the world, it can happen. Just be mindful and keep your wits about you so that you don’t fall prey to anything.

    Marrakech is a safe city. However, exercise caution with your personal belongings in crowded areas. Keep your personal items in front of you, and don’t carry large amounts of money around. Make use of a safe if there is one in your  accommodation or only take out enough money for each day.

    The Souks close at 10.00 pm, so be careful if you’re walking around the medina after that, especially if you’re a solo female traveller. I haven’t experienced anything unpleasant, but it can still feel rather unnerving walking back to your riad through the dark alleyways late at night.

    I hope these nuggets of advice will help you to have the best experience possible during your visit to Marrakech.

    Happy Travels.

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  • Shopping In The Souks.

    A guide to stressfree shopping in Marrakech.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The sound of the souks is something you will never forget. There is everything you could dream of buying in the colourful bazaars around Marrakech medina. As you meander through the maze of winding alleyways, prepare yourself for a complete overload on the senses. You will be dazzled by everything from beautiful Amazigh jewellery to exotic spices, leather goods, Morroccan lamps, and pretty ceramics. It’s all there waiting for you  inside the vibrant souks.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Within each bustling area, skilled craftsmen are busy at work, and there are souks dedicated to creating and selling different items.There is an area for leather goods, a place where metal workers make Moroccan lamps and metal sculptures and areas where handmade wooden things are meticulously created. The art of rug weaving is demonstrated, and you may even get the chance to have a go.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    It’s interesting watching the locals make their wares to sell and seeing silver and copper bangles being engraved with your Arabic name on them. There is also an opportunity to have a go at making a pair of traditional Morroccan shoes known as babouches.

    Berber rugs hang proudly around the medina. Each colour and pattern tells the story of the villagers who worked tirelessly to create them in the Atlas mountains.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    You will find argan oil and morroccan black soap, orange blossom oil, and gardenia.The subtle fragrance floats past you, only shattered by the fumes of motorcycles as they drive through. It’s a heady combination of spices, incense, and day to day life in Marrakech.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Wooden boxes ornately decorated with mother of pearl,chess sets, cuddly toys, and traditional teapots tempt you as you search the souks for  souvenirs. You learn the art of haggling for the best prices.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Cushion covers made from cactus silk are eye-catching. The only problem is choosing your favourite colours, patterns, and textures and wandering how you’ll fit them into your luggage.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Moroccan sweets are a delicacy. You’ll find yourself spoilt for choice with the amount of nuts and pastries for sale around the medina.

    The medicinal herbs and spices are a cacophony of colours and fragrances. You draw closer to look, and a friendly vendor sticks a piece of eucalyptus under your nose. Before you know it, your eyes are watering, and you’re reaching for a tissue.

    Fresh olives pop with colour. Their subtle spice dances on your tongue, and you have to buy some because they’re addictive. One or two is never enough to satisfy.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Paintings of Morroccan doors, Amazigh people and camels crossing the Sahara desert are displayed on walls  and hang strategically outside shop doorways.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    For people who love to shop until they drop, the souks are a dream come true. The lively rhythm and friendly banter  is a magical experience.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    It’s not always a breeze shopping in such a densely packed area, though. The souks get incredibly busy with tourists. You constantly have to dodge motorcycles, donkeys, and vendors with carts. You will probably get lost, but that’s all part of the charm. You eventually find your way out with some effort.

    I recommend fully immersing yourself in the experience and enjoying every moment. It will invoke in you the spirit of camel caravans and their ancient trade routes from centuries ago. After all, the souks are one of the main reasons tourists come to Marrakech. Shopping in them is the perfect way to delve into the fascinating culture of Marrakech and pick up a few treasures along the way.

    Here are a few helpful tips to help you enjoy your shopping experience in the souks.

    • First of all, pace yourself. The souks are very busy and can feel slightly chaotic at times, especially in the heat. Stop regularly for a drink and rehydrate. Rest for a while, and have a spot of lunch on a rooftop terrace. There are plenty inside the souks.
    • Be prepared to haggle. It may seem daunting at first, but you’ll soon get the hang of it. In Morocco, bargaining is a way of life, and although it can get frustrating wondering if you’re being ripped off, it’s also rather gratifying if you manage to procure something at a good price. Take time to shop around and walk away if you don’t think you’re being offered a fair price. You will often find yourself being called back, and a realistic price can be reached. If not, the same items will most likely be found for sale in another part of the souks.
    • Stay vigilant, and keep your wits about you. Marrakech is a safe city, but pick pocketing can happen like anywhere else in the world. In crowded, narrow streets, keep your possessions safe in a closed bag at the front of your body. Don’t be tempted to take out too much cash at once and leave your passport in a safe wherever possible.
    • If you’re lost, look for signs above your head pointing you back to Jamaa El Fna. Having an orange sim is useful but may not always work in the denser parts of the souks. If you need help, ask a shop vendor. They’re more than happy to help, but be aware of opportunists who may try to send you in a different direction.
    • This brings me to don’t accept directions from locals who may lead you to a friend or family members’ shop. They get a commission if you buy something. You may find yourself seated, drinking mint tea, and before you know it, there’s a mountain of Berber carpets at your feet.
    • 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. Marrakech was badly affected by the earthquake in 2023, and people’s livelihoods suffered as a result.
    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Although the souks may often feel overwhelming, they are an unforgettable shopping experience in Marrakech.  The cacophony of colours,  pulsating energy, and bustling atmosphere will stay with you for a long time.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Bahia Palace.

    One of the most visited attractions in Marrakech.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Bahia Palace is a 19th-century palace in Marrakesh. It’s definitely a must-see if you’re visiting the city, as it is quite spectacular.

    The word Bahia means  ‘brilliance’ in Arabic, a reflection of the splendour of Islamic architecture and art. The rooms inside the Bahia Palace are beautifully decorated with sculpted stucco, zellige tiles, paintings, and mosaics to capture the essence and skill of divine craftsmanship. The intricately carved cedar wood ceilings are a testimony to the beauty and precision involved in the creation of such a spectacular palace.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The huge courtyard is one of the focal points of Bahia Palace. It is rather grand and very spacious with a fountain in the centre and intricate zellige tile work typical of Morroccan design and culture. All the doors open out into it.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    There are approximately 150 rooms organised around multiple internal courtyards and riad gardens. The palace covers around two hectares.

    In 1956, when Morocco gained independence from the French, the palace became the residence of King Hassan II until it was later transferred to the Moroccan Ministry of Culture to serve as a cultural icon and tourist attraction. Bahia Palace has now become one of the most significant landmarks and tourist destinations in Marrakech, attracting 1000s of visitors.

    If you’re planning a visit, it is advisable to book tickets as queues can be extremely long. They cost 70 dirhams at the time of writing, and the palace is open between 8.00am-5.00pm daily.

    The gardens surrounding the palace are also impressive, with orange trees lining the route to the entrance. It’s worth having a wander around them after seeing the interior.

    I would suggest arriving as close to opening time as you possibly can to avoid the crowds. That way, you can spend time reading about the history of the palace before it becomes too busy, and you also have a better chance to capture a few photos of the internal chambers and exquisitely decorated rooms.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    If you’re visiting marrakech, the Bahia Palace will give you a good understanding of both Moroccan and Islamic culture and the architecture, art and craftsmanship that defines it.

    If you enjoy looking at Islamic architecture, you should also visit Badi Palace and the Saadian tombs in the Kasbah area of the city.

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  • The Saadian Tombs.

    A testimony to the opulence of the Saadian dynasty.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    One of the most popular tourist attractions in Marrakesh is the Saadian tombs.

    The Saadian tombs have become a historical landmark dating back as far as the late sixteenth century. Built by the Saadian dynasty, they house the mausoleums of Sultan Ahmad al-Mansour and his family.

    The  mixture of Spanish and Moorish architecture is really impressive, with detailed stucco work, intricate mosaic tiles, and Italian Carrara marble.The main mausoleum is quite remarkable, with beautifully decorated ceilings and columns and there are usually very long queues waiting to see it. The Saadian tombs are very decadent with a mixture of Morroccan, Andalusian, and European styles, showcasing the wealth of the Saadian dynasty.

    I recommend arriving early around opening time to avoid waiting too long to see the main mausoleum. Tourists can wait for over an hour in the heat, so make sure you have a bottle of water handy just in case.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The Saadian Tombs were hidden for centuries. They were spotted through aerial photography and are now one of the most visited tourist attractions in Marrakesh.

    Housing over 100 tombs with beautiful zellige tiles and marble columns, this royal necropolis was commissioned by Sultan Ahmed al-Mansour to honour his ancestors. The chamber of 12 columns is where the tombs of Ahmed al- Mansour and his successors are laid to rest. In the gardens lie the tombs of soldiers and servants. There is a smaller  tranquil chamber, which is called the Chamber of Three Niches.

    The Saadian Tombs are an example of Moroccos’ rich history and culture. They are in close proximity to El Badi Palace and Bahia Palace. Both are worth a visit if your you’re interested in Islamic art and architecture.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The Saadian Tombs are in the Kasbah next to the mosque, and the opening times are 9.00 am until 5.00pm daily. The price of entry at the time of writing is 100 dirhams.

    The Kasbah is located to the south of the medina.

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  • The House of Photography.

    See a private collection of 10,000 rare exhibits.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The House of Photography is an important cultural venue in Marrakech. Housed in an old fondouk in the medina, a visit here is a fascinating journey through time.

    It was established by Patrick Manac’h and Hamid Mergani as a place where old photos taken in Morocco could be displayed for the public to view. It opened its doors to the public in 2009 and is now home to thousands of original documents, photographs, postcards, newspapers, and photographic glass plates.

    A private collection of 10,000 exhibits from 1879-1960, including contemporary photos from the present, allows visitors an opportunity to get to know the history of the Berber tribes in the high Atlas Mountains.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The first colour film recorded in the High Atlas Mountains in 1957, called ‘Landscapes and Faces of the High Atlas Mountains’ by Daniel Chicault, is also available for visitors to watch.

    The Museum of Photography is incredibly interesting, and the photos on display are well preserved, giving visitors to Marrakech a detailed account of how Berbers lived. I was fascinated by how the women dressed and their incredible hairstyles. Watching the video has broadened my knowledge about the history of Berber culture and their customs. It’s only as recent as the 1950s, yet they survived without electricity or medical care.

    The displays stay interesting because they changed them periodically, and at the time I visited, there was one about Berber Jews.

    Inside the museum, there is a rooftop cafe serving drinks, including speciality coffee and food. There are views across the rooftops of the medina, and you can see the Atlas mountains in the distance. It can get pretty busy during the lunchtime rush.

    You can purchase copies of some of the photographs in the entrance, and the quality of the prints is good. I bought a copy of Un Charmeur de Serpents – vers 1920, and it looks great in a vintage photo frame.

    The museum is open daily from 9.00 am until 7.00pm.

    The address is 46 rue Ahl Fes, Bin Lafnadek Marrakech 400030, not far from Ben Youssef Madrasa.

    Payment is on entry only, and it’s 80 dirhams for adults, 15 years old and under are free. The ticket also permits entry into the museum of music.

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  • The Hammam.

    An ancient Moroccan bathing ritual.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    One thing that is central to Morroccon culture is the hammam.

    A hammam is similar to a Roman bath and dates back centuries in morrocco. It is a ritualistic cleansing that people do before prayer. This is the reason many hammams can be found near a mosque.

    Before homes had plumbing, a  communal hammam was the place where Moroccan people went to bathe. They were a sacred space where people gathered to socialise and relax, separated by gender.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Hammams are still widely used in Morocco today. They’ve become increasingly popular with tourists who wish to learn more about the country’s fascinating culture.

    The treatment always begins in a dry steam room. Heat opens up your pores and prepares your body for scrubbing. Morroccan black soap is used to scrub your body vigorously. It is a grainy soap made from olive oil and macerated olives, perfect for exfoliating and removing dead skin cells.

    Traditionally, scrubbing is followed by throwing buckets of water over you to wash off the black soap. In a public hammam, buckets of cold and hot water are thrown simultaneously, which can be very invigorating.

    In some of the luxurious private hammams, Rassoul clay from the  high Atlas mountains is used to cover your body. It contains rich minerals such as silica, magnesium, and calcium, which is good for the skin. Next, your body and hair are lathered with a gentle soap or gel to wash off any residue. This is the final part of the cleansing ritual.

    Once your body and hair are thoroughly exfoliated and clean, you receive a massage using  fragrant oils such as rose or argan oil. This is an intensely relaxing experience.

    Once the treatment is over, you are encouraged to relax with a pot of mint tea and morroccan pastries. The fragrant incense filling the room induces a calm and relaxing ambience.

    There are two options for experiencing a hammam in Marrakech. One is a public hammam, and the other is a private one.

    A public hammam is a true taste of Morroccan life, where local people bathe together chatting in darija,the Arabic dialect spoken in Morocco. Sometimes, women take their children in, and the atmosphere is friendly and welcoming. When you use a public hammam, you have to purchase your own soap and oils to take in. Using a public hammam is less expensive and one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the life of local people in Marrakesh. Public hammams are perfect for travellers on a budget, but don’t expect any frills. However, they are up close and personal to the customs and traditions of Moroccan people.

    On the other hand, private hammams provide you with everything you need. This includes soaps, massage oils, disposable underwear, a bathrobe, and sandals. Treatment options will vary, from the length of treatment to which kind of massage you prefer. You also get to choose which oils you would like. Interior decor can be quite luxurious, including exotic plants and comfortable couches to relax on. You are welcome to stay for as long as you want once the treatment is finished and some hammams serve food. Les Bains Kenaria is a prime example of a hammam with tranquil surroundings and good food.

    It’s worth pointing out that the underwear given to women is very flimsy. Some women ask for the male underwear instead. Nubies sometimes feel vulnerable in front of strangers with only a thong hiding their modesty. However, the rooms inside the hammam are dimly lit, and the Kassalas working there are very discreet. Most women soon get over their initial shyness.

    Hammam Mouassine is the oldest hammam in the city of Marrakesh. It opened in 1562 and can be found by the Mouassine fountain, close to the secret garden. Many riads also have a hammam, and this service is available for guests to book.

    Here are a few hammams in Marrakech you might wish to visit,

    . Hammam de la rose.

    . Mamounia Hamman..

    . Les Bains Ziani.

    . Les Bains Kenaria.

    Palm oil is sometimes used when washing hair, so if you don’t agree with the use of it, check beforehand.

    Visiting a hammam has been an ancient ritual that has been part of Morroccan culture for centuries. Experiencing a traditional hammam is a break from the chaotic souks and Jamaa El Fna. It can be a relief from the baking heat in Marrakech and a chance to slow down from the manic pace.  Tourists who visit a hammam come away feeling refreshed, invigorated, and relaxed. Some tourists even become hooked, expressing it’s an unusual experience,difficult to describe in words, but they feel amazing afterwards and can not wait to go again.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    If possible, I recommend paying a bit more for a private hammam, especially if it’s your first time. You feel less self-conscious because they’re similar to spa treatments in the West. It’s possible to book this kind of hammam through Get Your Guide, and they can come and collect you so you know where to go.

    If you want a taste of true Marrakchi life head for a public hammam. They’re budget friendly, and you can buy Morroccan black soap and other items you’ll need in the souks or the spice square. Don’t forget to take a towel, bathrobe and some fresh underwear in with you.

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  • Ben Youssef Madrasa

    Visit a centuries old Koranic school.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Ben Youssef Madrasa was once the largest and most important Islamic college in Morocco.

    It was commissioned by Saadian Sultan, Abdellah al- Ghaleb Assaadi in 1564-65 and named after the adjacent Ben Youseff mosque.

    It’s a fascinating place to visit with invaluable historical and cultural significance. The spectacular architecture inside the Madrasa is simply breathtaking and a testimony to the beauty of Islamic art and craftsmanship.

    Students who studied at the Madrasa would learn many subjects, including religious science, mathematics, philosophy, and medicine.The Madrasa attracted the best scholars and thinkers from the Arab Muslim world.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Ben Youseff Madrasa has been beautifully restored. Zellige tiles decorated with floral, geometric motifs and Arabic scripts adorn the walls. Carved cedarwood doors, ceilings, and intricately crafted pillars showcase the quality of the craftsmanship. It’s a prime example of the skill used to create traditional Islamic architecture.

    There are approximately 130 dormitories and in it’s heyday as a koranic school, the Madrasa housed around 900 students.The small rooms were just big enough for them to roll out their mats to sleep on.The main focus for each student was study and prayer.

    The rooms overlook the large courtyard, and tourists cram inside to have their photos taken standing in the window frames.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Ben Youseff Madrasa is one of the most touristic sightseeing spots in Marrakech. Due to its popularity, you have to get there early to appreciate the serene environment that the students would have lived in. If you arrive later in the day, expect huge crowds to jostle with each other for perfect photo opportunities.

    I visited at opening time, and although there was a small queue of people waiting to enter, it wasn’t too packed with tourists.

    Ben Youseff Madrasa is next to Marrakech Museum. The address is Rue Assoual, Marrakech 40000.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Opening times are 9.00 am until 7.00pm, except on Tuesdays when they close at 4.30 pm. The entrance fee is 70 dirhams.

    There are guided tours available to book online. Some include skipping the line entry. I didn’t bother booking a tour. There is information inside the Madrasa, which gave me an idea of what it would have been like to study there. For a more detailed history, a reputable, knowledgeable guide would be helpful.

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  • Cafe Clock.

    A cross-cultural cafe chain in the Kasbah.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Cafe Clock is a cultural hub based in Fes, Marrakech, and Chefchouen. It was founded by Mike Richardson when he visited Fes in 2006 and fell in love with the ancient city. It was named after the centuries old water clock situated on the facing wall of the Bou Inania Madrasa.

    Cafe Clock is now a buzzing hub of culture where you can sample its famous camel burgers. This lively space in the Kasbah district was once an old school house. It has since been converted and is renowned for its storytelling and live music events.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Cafe Clock is popular with young Moroccans learning the ancient traditional art of storytelling and travellers who are curious. There is nice energy here, and it’s a great place to come and chill.

    At Cafe Clock, you can take  cookery classes. You will be taken to the local markets to buy fresh ingredients before learning how to make a traditional Morroccan dish.

    The interior of Cafe Clock has been decorated by local artists who have added their own unique touch.Colourful vintage berber cushions and thrifted whimsical finds are displayed around a large open fire place. There is a homely atmosphere at Cafe Clock.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    I visited during December, and it was cold outside. Sitting next to the roaring fire, listening to a live acoustic guitar made me feel warm and cosy.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The menu is good and offers an interesting choice for vegetarians and vegans.I particularly recommend the falafel Super Bowl and vegetable pastilla.

    If you’re travelling around Morocco, Cafe Clock is also extending its empire into other areas like Chefchouen.

    Opening times for Cafe Clock are 9.00 am until 11.00pm daily. The address is 224 Derb Chtouka, Marrakech.

    Cafe Clock is a popular cultural space dedicated to keeping the ancient culture of Marrakech alive. Whether it’s traditional gnawa musicians or the best raconteurs in Marrakech, you can expect an entertaining experience here.

    Cafe Clock is also open for breakfast, with a good variety of choices on the menu.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Atay And Moroccan Pastries.

    Delicious sweets and pastries in Marrakech.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Shopping in the medina is a fascinating experience, but it can be overwhelming at times. I soon realised that taking a regular break and pacing myself was the best way to enjoy the experience.

    Navigating the maze of alleyways in the souks is exciting. There is so much more to them than beautiful leather goods and Moroccan lamps, though.

    There are delicious sweets and pastries waiting to be sampled. These compliment the taste of traditional mint tea known as atay perfectly.

    There are so many different pastries to choose from. I decided to treat myself to a selection to find out which ones are my favourite. I enjoyed the taste of the almond pastries most of all.

    Traditional mint tea is very hydrating. Sitting in a colourful, boho nook drinking mint tea is a perfect way to take time out from the hectic rhythm of the souks.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    If you are shopping in the souks, I recommend that you pace yourselves and take some time to enjoy the experience. Sitting outside a cute little tea shop is the perfect way to do that.

    There are plenty of places around the medina selling mint tea with traditional sweets and pastries. Part of the pleasure of exploring is finding these hidden gems.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    A few places I recommend are,

    Medina Kawa Marrakech.

    La Patisserie de la Terracce Spices

    Boughaz Coffee in the Kasbah.

    Marrakech has an abundant supply of sweets and pastries, and I suggest trying Baclava. It’s a sweet pastry made of layers of flaky phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts like walnuts, pistachios, or almonds. It’s sweetened with honey and flavoured with spices like cinnamon and lemon juice. This was one of my many favourites.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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