Sounds Of The Souks

Tag: Henna Art Cafe

An exploration of The Red City known as Marrakech.

  • 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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  • RIAD BLUE BERBER.

    A 17th Century Riad In A Great Location.

    Courtyard with original tiles.

    Riad Blue Berber is a traditional riad close to some great places such as Bahia Palace, Dardar rooftop bar, Le Pegola, and a variety of restaurants and shops.

    It is situated on my favourite side of the medina because it’s still lively yet a little less manic.

    I find it easier to locate riads here than negotiating the souks late at night.

    The riad is authentic and pretty with typically morroccan furnished suites.

    There is a more intimate feel about this riad because it’s slightly smaller.

    The owner, Habi, is a knowledgeable man who enjoys a chat with his guests. He is very hospitable, and the riad has a homely feel about it because of its staff.

    Mona, the lady who cooks breakfast, doesn’t speak English, but every morning, she prepared a hearty breakfast for me.

    The riad can organise tours, runs cooking classes, and will store your luggage after checking out.

    The rooftop was large with different tiers to sit on and was being updated during my stay.

    The rooftop of Riad Blue Berber.

    However, it would benefit from a lick of paint to make it perfect.

    I always felt safe walking to and from Riad Blue Berber. This is also a bonus, especially for female solo travellers.

    The traditional 17th century tiles on the floor of the courtyard give it a sense of character and charm.

    Riad Blue Berber has four rooms.

    Three of the rooms have air conditioning, and two have fans and heaters.

    It is approximately 200 metres from Jamaa El Fna,

    The address is;

    5 Derb Jdid, Riad Zitoun Lakdim, kadim، 40040, Morocco

    Courtyard in Riad Blue Berber.

    For more information about places to stay, contact me via the email address below;

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • RIAD PERSEPHONE.

    A pretty riad close to Jemaa El Fna.

    Courtyard in Raid Persephone.

    This is a large riad very close to the main square. It has a very pretty courtyard with beautiful plants and a swimming pool.

    The colour of the walls are a lovely blue that works really well against the lush green foliage and tiled flooring.

    The rooftop is large with plenty of seating and a warm jacuzzi. It’s lit up in the evening and looks incredibly pretty.

    Views from the rooftop.

    The square is visible from the rooftop, and you can hear the lively sound of everything that is going on until late at night.

    I chose a room on the rooftop. It was exceptionally pretty and decorated in a Saffron colour.

    Saffron room.

    For light sleepers, you may find the early morning call to pray rather loud, and the noise from the square may be a bit of a problem.

    The sound of the food stalls being dismantled can be heard until the early hours of the morning.

    I would recommend taking ear plugs.

    Riad Persephone is not a reasonably priced accommodation, and it is not a luxury riad.

    It has a rustic charm, and some areas are a little bit tired and in need of a face-lift.

    If you prefer a traditional style of riad, this is what you will get but at a high-end price. Don’t expect a five-star experience. You may be disappointed.

    The riad offers the usual activities and has a hammam.

    Riad Persephone is in a great location, close to some nice restaurants and shops.

    It is vibrant and colourful, with a few cosy little nooks to sit and relax.

    Interior of Riad Persephone.

    If you’re looking for a traditional riad,there are similar riads that have excellent customer service at a more reasonable price.

    At Raid Persephone, you are paying for the close proximity to the Jamma El Fna.

    Overall, it is aesthetically pretty and very close to the main square.

    If you are looking for a more intimate place with a friendly,  homestay vibe, there are better options available.

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • MARRAKECH ON A BUDGET.

    Helpful ideas if you want to visit Marrakech on a budget.

    Visiting Marrakech doesn’t have to break the bank.

    In fact, Morrocco is a relatively cheap country to visit in comparison to many others.

    It’s all about careful planning and putting together the right itinerary for your trip before you go.

    I have compiled a few ideas and suggestions to help you enjoy your trip without having to spend a ridiculous amount of cash.

    1.

    Book your flight early.

    The earlier you book, the cheaper it is. Download an airline app and keep an eye on the cost of flights. Book out of season when it’s less busy.

    2.

    If you book your accommodation directly through the riad or hotel, it is often much cheaper.

    3.

    Use public transport in Marrakech. The buses are an excellent way to get a taste of local life. They are extremely cheap and reliable. The price is set, and you will avoid being privy to scams from the local taxi drivers.

    4.

    Marrakech is a bustling metropolis with so much going on around the main square. Consider spending time with a pot of traditional mint tea and observing the spectacle from a rooftop. You won’t be disappointed. The sights, sounds, and smells will keep you entertained for ages.

    4.

    Visit the wonderful Koutoubia Mosque gardens. The mosque is out of bounds for non Muslims. However, the gardens are absolutely delightful and free to visit. Consider picking up a few delicious snacks such as Baclava cake and a sugar cane juice and sitting in the beautiful garden. Despite its proximity to the chaos of Jamaa El Fna, it is peaceful. It’s especially lovely during the evening when the lights come on.

    5.

    There are plenty of excellent cafes and restaurants which are great value for money.

    Henna Art Cafe is superb and has a very pretty interior( see my separate post about Henna Art Cafe). I have eaten here numerous times and highly recommend the food.

    Cafe des Espices is also excellent if you’re prepared to wait for seating. The views are great from the rooftop, and I particularly love their choice of salads.

    Street food is another option and very popular amongst tourists. Check how busy places are to get an idea of the quality of food being served.

    Consider trying the delicious sweets and pastries for sale inside the souks.

    6.

    Try a public hammam.

    I have a separate post describing what a hammam is, and it’s a must do if you’re visiting Marrakech.

    Public baths are very cheap in comparison to the more upmarket ones and the best way to experience the local culture.

    You can purchase black soap and other essentials for taking in with you in the souks for pennies.

    7.

    Visit the souks. This is by far the most exciting part of any trip to Marrakech.

    Experience the colour and the lively atmosphere as people haggle with the locals for a bargain.

    You may get lost in the maze, but that’s all part of the fun. You will work it out eventually.

    There are souks for many different things, and you will see incredible artisans at work crafting all kinds of things.

    8.

    Visit the Mellah, the old Jewish quarter, and see the Bab Mellah spice market. It’s an assault on the senses discovering all the different spices and their fragrances. You may be offered mint tea whilst you are given a lesson on what each spice is used for. It’s very educational, and to purchase a couple of things is fairly cheap.

    9.

    Walk around the Kasbah. This is where you will experience the more authentic part of Marrakech. There are more locals here and they are very friendly. It’s a way to feel the more authentic side of Marrakech, and there are some nice spots to grab a coffee and people watch.

    10.

    Visit Cyber Parc, Arsat Moulay Abdeslam. This is a very well maintained place with beautiful native trees and plants. Relax for an hour or so in this peaceful environment away from the chaotic busy medina. Listen to the birds singing and read the interesting facts dotted about here and there.

    11.

    Take a 25-minute walk or the number 16 bus from the medina to Gueliz. Wonder around the upmarket boutiques and stores on Mohammed V Avenue and see how modernity and ancient coexist in harmony together in Marrakech.

    Marrakech is a walkable city, and you can spend many an hour wandering about discovering what makes Marrakech so magical.

    It’s a destination that is accessible for everyone, including those on a tighter budget.

    With some careful planning, you can put together an interesting itinerary and have a truly wonderful experience.

    If you need help to organise your trip or advice on places to eat or stay, reach out and leave me an email using the contact details below..

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • HENNA ART CAFE.

    A great place to visit for a spot of lunch in the medina.

    Interior of Henna Art Cafe

    The first place I go after arriving in the medina is Henna Art Cafe.

    It’s the perfect spot to stop and refuel myself.

    I can familiarise myself with where I am and check Google maps for the location of my riad.

    It’s a quirky place with decent food and the funkiest little bathroom, even if it is a bit of a tight squeeze.

    On the first floor, you can get henna tattoos done, and there are plenty of designs to choose from.

    All are 100% natural.

    It’s a really relaxing vibe here, and I often enjoy a light snack at lunchtime whilst shopping in the medina.

    It’s also very reasonably priced.

    There is a good selection of food on the menu, vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options are available.

    There is free WiFi, and you can often find digital nomads enjoying a quick bite to eat here. 

    It’s a friendly place and a good introduction to the medina without being too in your face..

    Henna Art Cafe is located in the heart of the medina, just  three minutes stroll down Riad Zeitoun al Kdim from Djemma El Fna.

    It is open 7 days a week from 11 to 8.30 PM.

    During Ramadan, it closes earlier at 5.30 PM.

    A refreshing glass of lemonade
    A simple vegetable tagine
    Silver babouche cutlery holders

    Payment is taken downstairs on the way out, and cards are accepted here.

    After a nice meal and a rest at Henna Art Cafe, I’m ready to tackle the challenge of trying to locate my riad.

    Lunch upstairs on the terrace
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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