Sounds Of The Souks

Tag: Henna Art Cafe

An exploration of The Red City known as Marrakech.

  • Healthy Juice And Smoothies In Marrakech.

    A wonderful alternative way to hydrate yourself.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Marrakech is a smoothie lover’s dream come true.

    Smoothies can be found everywhere in Marrakesh. They are one of the healthiest, most vibrant, refreshing drinks in the medina.

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

    There is no shortage of exotic fruits and vegetables in Marrakech.

    The markets are alive with colour.

    I regularly go for detoxifying smoothies for their positive health benefits and as a pick me up after a long, hot day exploring the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    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 healthy ingredients that are blended together to make the perfect smoothie.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Fresh juice is also a popular choice amongst tourists who need something to quench their thirst in the hot African sun.

    Freshly squeezed lemon juice is tangy and exhilarating.

    Served with fresh mint, it’s both aromatic and a real taste sensation.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Orange juice made from freshly picked oranges off the trees around the medina is a breakfast staple.

    It is sunshine in a glass.

    Mixed fruit juice is a favourite sold by the vendors in the main square.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    My absolute favourite is the freshly squeezed pomegranate juice.

    It is a refreshing tonic and gives me a boost of energy. 

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

    I felt revitalised again..

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

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

    They use carefully crafted banter to draw you towards them with many competing for business.

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

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    There are a few places I can recommend where you can enjoy a refreshing juice or healthy smoothie..

    Pikala Cafe has an excellent choice, and it’s a great little spot.

    I have written a separate post about Pikala Cafe.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Le Ferme Medina.

    Henna Art Cafe. 

    La Famille (vegetarian restaurant)

    All offer comfortable, attractive surroundings for a peaceful break from sightseeing and a pleasant way to get some vitamin C.

    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.

    Sugarcane juice is widely available around the medina, also.

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

    The temperature is very warm and humid.

    I can not underestimate the power of a bottle of water, and you should always carry one with you, but for a healthy, refreshing treat, consider trying some of the wonderful juices and smoothies also.

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

    Remember, there may still be a high sugar content, so moderation is key.

    It’s all about balance..

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • Riad Blue Berber

    A 17th-century riad in a great location.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Riad Blue Berber is an authentic traditional riad in a strategic location.

    It is close to the Bahia Palace, Dardar, La Pegola, Tinsmiths Square, and plenty of shops.

    It is situated on a popular side of the medina that is lively and central to many popular sightseeing spots.

    Riad Blue Berber has a very pretty courtyard, and the rooms are authentic.

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

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

    Mona, the cook doesn’t speak English, but every morning, she prepares a big, hearty breakfast for the guests.

    She still manages to interact well despite the language barrier.

    The riad can organise tours and cooking classes are available to teach you how to create a traditional tagine.

    The rooftop is large with different tiers and was being modernised during my stay.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The views across the medina are excellent, and waking up to the sound of birds chirping in the courtyard below was a lovely way to begin the day.

    I always felt safe walking to and from Riad Blue Berber even at night time.

    The area feels very safe with plenty going on.

    This is a bonus, especially for solo female travellers.

    The traditional 17th century tiles on the floor of the courtyard give Riad Blue Berber character and charm.

    There are four rooms, three of the rooms have air conditioning, and the other two have fans and heaters.

    It is approximately only 200 metres away from Jamaa El Fna, yet once inside, it is peaceful and calm.

    The address is;

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

    Staff at the riad will happily look after your luggage after checkout time.

    It’s small personal details like this that make staying in a place extra special.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Visiting Marrakech On A Budget.

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

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    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.

    5.

    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.

    6.

    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 article 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.

    7.

    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.

    8.

    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 find your way out eventually.

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

    9.

    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.

    10.

    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.

    11.

    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.

    12.

    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.

    13.

    Spend some time in Tinsmiths Square. This is a less touristic square than Jamaa El Fnaa, and there is plenty to see going on. There are budget friendly cafes and restaurants and plenty of souvenir shops.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    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 great for everyone, including those on a tight budget.

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

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Henna Art Cafe.

    A whimsical place for lunch in the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

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

    It’s the perfect spot to stop and refuel myself after my flight and the long queues at Marrakech Menara airport.

    Henna Art Cafe is a  place where 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, and the henna ladies are very professional.

    I would recommend getting your henna tattoo done in a reputable place like here as opposed to Jamaa El Fna.

    Henna Art Cafe has a really relaxing vibe, and I often stop by to enjoy a meal at lunchtime whilst shopping in the medina.

    It’s also very reasonable if you’re on a tight budget.

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

    There is free WiFi, and it’s popular with digital nomads.

    It’s a friendly place and a good introduction to the medina without being too overly stimulating.

    Henna Art Cafe is located in the heart of the medina, just a 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.

    I recommend the freshly squeezed lemon juice. It’s tangy and refreshing and packed with vitamin C.

    Henna Art Cafe does a nice fragrant tagine, but if you’ve overdosed on tagine or couscous, there are plenty of other interesting options on the menu.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Payment for your meal 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 always ready to tackle the challenge of trying to locate my riad.

    My battery is recharged, and I have begun to climatise to the change of temperature between my own country and that of North Africa.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I have a soft spot for this quirky little cafe.

    Henna Art Cafe was my first introduction to the medina, and I was eased into the cultural change with my first bowl of harissa soup and traditional Morroccan bread.

    I could say this is where my love affair with Marrakech began..

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