Sounds Of The Souks

Tag: Marrakech

An exploration of The Red City known as Marrakech.

  • 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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  • Does Marrakech Cater For Vegetarians And Vegans?

    The type of food available in Marrakech.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    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.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    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 a pleasant outdoor setting, the food here was incredibly good.

    The menu was small and creative and changed regularly to keep it exciting.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    There are plenty of choices for non meat eaters on the menu in most restaurants and cafes 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 smaller 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.

    In the more luxurious restaurants, there is a good deal of variety for vegetarians and vegans.

    The abundance of freshly cooked seasonal vegetables is mouth wateringly delicious.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

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

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I highly recommend trying the soup.

    Some restaurants serve a healthy brunch.

    I loved the avocado toast at La Ferme and again at Mandala Society.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The Clock in the kasbah does a really nice vegetable pastilla.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    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.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

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

    I have written a separate article about Palais Dar Donab.

    Write down the restaurants you wish to try before travelling, including their address and opening times.

    This will save wandering around in the heat, looking for places suitable for your dietary preference.

    Bon appetite.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • A Few Scams To Be Aware Of Around Marrakech.

    Popular tourist traps.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Marrakech is a safe place for travellers with a relatively low crime rate, but scams can happen.

    Like any other destination, there are several things to be mindful of as a first-time visitor to the red city.

    There are a few potential scams that 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 for safely delivering you there.

    Slightly more if you buy.

    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, eventually, the door opened, and I was let inside my riad.

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

    There are occasions when friendly locals really do want to genuinely help you find your way, and you will be grateful for their knowledge of the area.

    Especially after a long flight.

    However, this is a common problem and can become irritating, to say the least, if you have luggage with you.

    Marrakech has a good police presence, and, in the worst case scenario, threatening persistent hangers on with that often does the trick.

    Most will back off before it gets to that situation, though.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    .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.

    There are also fixed price stores such as Dar Bouchaib in the kasbah.

    . 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 some time, they ask you for a fee.

    If you want a genuine tour guide, check the website of the attraction you’re visiting or consider booking an activity through Get Your Guide.

    Booking. Com also offers attractions with a guided tour and transport.

    Payment is upfront, and the guides are very friendly and knowledgeable.

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

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

    You may not experience any of these things.

    I have been incredibly lucky with taxi drivers who often get a bad press for inflating prices.

    I have had some positive experiences with taxis and felt very safe whilst travelling back to my hotel in a remote area.

    Generally, the locals are very friendly, and tourists are  made to feel very welcome.

    There are the occasional poor people in Marrakech who see tourists as financially secure with more money than sense.

    My advice is to make your boundaries clear from the start.

    Get yourself some data by buying an Orange SIM for negotiating your way around the medina, and learn a few words of Arabic or French to help you to 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.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • How I Spend The Perfect Day In Marrakech.

    A look at how you can spend a typical day in the red city.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

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

    I listen to the birds singing in the courtyard and hear the sound of the medina as it  gradually comes to life.

    I watch cats prowl along the rooftops, and below me, I can hear the clattering of plates as staff prepare a delicious breakfast.

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

    I enjoy a breakfast of msemen pancakes with homemade jam, amlou, and honey.

    Fresh fruit, yoghurt, and eggs.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    After a refreshing shower, I head out into the medina for a glass of atay in a cafe overlooking the main square.

    Sat outside, I observe the vendors setting up for the day.

    The entertainers are getting ready to entice the crowds of tourists, and the local ladies are on their way to the market for fresh herbs and spices.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    My next destination is the souks before they get too busy.

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

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

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Cats gather for a few morsels off the butcher, and locals toss a few titbits for them to eat.

    They vye with each other for the perfect spot in which to laze around in the sunshine.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I check out the wonderful Amazigh jewellery, the argan oil, and the beautiful ceramics and mirrors on display in the narrow alleyways.

    At the same time, I dodge motorcycles and donkey carts as they make their way to wherever they’re going.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    I buy one or two souvenirs, promise to go back for other things, and then decide it’s time for a light snack.

    A cafe with colourful outdoor seating calls out to me, and I choose a selection of delicious pastries with a pot of mint tea.

    I sit for a while people watching and enjoy the scenes as they unfold around me.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    It’s fascinating watching daily life go by in the medina.

    Tourists look in awe at the beautiful things for sale, and vendors call out to them with their friendly banter.

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

    I head towards Madrasa Ben Youssef and take the opportunity to get some photos of the stunning architecture.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

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

    I take in the beautiful surroundings and relax amongst the beautiful trees and plants.

    I watch the fountain.

    It feels cool and refreshing as it sprays up into the air beside me.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

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

    It’s an acquired taste but goes down well as the day is steadily getting warmer.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The heat is becoming quite intense, so I return to my riad for a rest.

    I make my way up onto the rooftop for a spot of sunbathing.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The call to prayer echos across the medina.

    A familiar sound that echos across Marrakech five times a day.

    I read a book and order myself a cold drink which arrives with 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.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    It’s a lively atmosphere, and there are lots of people enjoying a drink and chatting.

    Afterwards, I head towards Jamaa El Fna.

    The energy is electric.

    Food vendors touting for business, dancing, drumming, and crowds of tourists gather to witness the spectacle.

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

    I choose a place that has a rooftop overlooking the square to watch the sunset.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I enjoy a traditional tagine, which is 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.

    I am satisfied and content, but the evening is still young.

    I take a leisurely walk to The Clock, situated in the kasbah 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 more souvenirs along the way.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

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

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I ask the staff for suggestions for the next day.

    We chat about possibilities, and they help me put together a few ideas.

    I have had a perfect day..

    I have experienced a different culture, tasted delicious food, watched a magnificent sunset, chatted with friendly locals, and navigated my way through the maze of souks without getting too lost.

    I fall asleep.

    I am tired but happy and ready to do it all again tomorrow.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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  • The Bahia Palace.

    One of the most visited attractions in Marrakech.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

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

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

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

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

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    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.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    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.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    There is also a 2-acre garden surrounding the palace and beautiful orange trees lining the route to the entrance.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    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 in Marrakech.

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

    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 before it becomes too overwhelming and you can’t capture any photos.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    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.

    I have written a separate article about it.

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  • Cafe Arabe.

    A popular restaurant where booking a table is essential.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    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 large 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 stopped by for a refreshing smoothie and a break from the intensity of the souks and the heat.

    I was given breadsticks and olives to accompany it,

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

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

    There was no pressure to order anything to eat, and I appreciated the relaxed energy of this busy restaurant during mid afternoon.

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

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    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 there all afternoon quite happily.

    The bathroom is also very clean and well maintained.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Returning later for a meal, it was incredibly busy.

    The atmosphere was different.

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

    I ordered a margarita pizza, which was very tasty.

    I also enjoyed a cold beer with olives whilst waiting for my food to arrive.

    I would have liked a desert, but I didn’t have time to wait for its arrival, so I decided to try again another day.

    I realised that due to the demand for seating at Cafe Arabe, booking is essential.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Such is the demand for this popular restaurant, I tried booking a table for the following evening but it was full.

    I would suggest booking a few days or possibly weeks in advance to guarantee a place.

    The prices are pretty average considering the proximity to Jamaa El Fna, and the food was relatively good.

    It was a little bit too busy for me during the evening, and not surprisingly, the waiters appeared to be slightly under pressure due to the number of people.

    In Marrakech, there are so many wonderful restaurants to dine in, and I favour a more peaceful environment.

    The food was nice, though, so I would be tempted to come back at lunchtime, perhaps when it’s less busy with tourists and the energy is more relaxing.

    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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  • Monriad.

    A peaceful, fragrant riad in the heart of the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The first time I visited Marrakech, I stayed in Monriad.

    This is where my love affair with the medina began.

    I had no idea what to expect and was absolutely amazed at the wonderful experience I had staying in a traditional riad for the first time.

    Monriad was so pretty.

    The courtyard was tranquil, and the sound of the trickling water and birds singing was blissful.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The owner and her staff were friendly and helpful, greeting me with the ultimate respect and offering traditional mint tea with olives on arrival.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I was given helpful advice about the area surrounding the riad and popular excursions I might wish to book.

    She also suggested that I could eat dinner in the riad with the other guests and recommended places of interest close by.

    The rooftop was glorious, and watching the sunrise up there each morning really was a blessing.

    Captured by Freebird Tracey.

    My room was impeccable, with traditional and good quality furniture and a beautiful bathroom with a traditional basin.

    The riad smelt amazing. Cleanliness was a top priority for the staff.

    There was a large, traditional, carved wooden door into the riad. I wasn’t given my own set of keys, but it was never a problem.

    I did eat dinner once inside the riad, and the food was quite good. It was popular with other guests who seemed to really enjoy dining inside the riad.

    The breakfast was very good.

    Monriad is tucked away down a quiet little street.

    It’s a pleasant, safe area with several cats and kittens who have also made the surrounding streets their home.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Monriad is close to Jamaa El Fna and points of interest, such as Bahia Palace, yet it is peaceful and secluded.

    It is considered a mid price riad but has still maintained a family and welcoming feel about it.

    It remains my mission to stay in as many different riads as possible in Marrakesh, but I would definitely consider returning to Monriad.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Monriad can be found at the address below,

    N. 4 Derb Lahbasse, Riad

    Zitoun Lakdim, Marrakech 40000 Morocco.

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  • Kabana Rooftop Bar.

    A lively bar serving alcohol in the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Kabana Rooftop Bar is a lively, popular place serving a wide range of cocktails and other alcoholic beverages.

    They have a good selection of high-quality dishes on the menu to suit all palates.

    You enter the bar from the road, and it’s up a couple of flights of stairs.

    From the outside, it looks rather unassuming, but inside, it is very modern and tastefully furnished.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    There are lanterns hanging everywhere, giving off a cosy, glow, and music videos playing on a large television screen.

    Video by Freebird Tracey.

    It’s a very busy venue with young and old alike, and booking is essential to be guaranteed a seat.

    The bar itself is huge, serving a variety of alcoholic beverages and cocktails.

    You can either sit inside the bar or on the rooftop, where most people prefer to hang out listening to the music.

    Table service is provided.

    The food is delicious..

    I took my son for his birthday meal and he chose the steak. He said it was cooked to perfection.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Some people have expressed mixed reviews, saying waiting times to be served are lengthy and found it was a little pricey in comparison to other places.

    The food is Mediterranean inspired, and they also have a sushi menu.

    Kababa gets very busy, and booking is advisable to guarantee a place, especially if you only wish to visit for a drink.

    Lunchtime is generally quieter, and the lunch menu is also very good.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The bathroom is rather special too..

    Kabana rooftop bar is lively and loud. It is typical of somewhere you’d expect to find in Gueliz.

    There is a spectacular view of Koutoubia Mosque from the rooftop, especially at nighttime.

    It’s slightly shielded because drinking alcohol with the Mosque in full view is prohibited in Islamic culture.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Kabana rooftop bar has a very cosmopolitan vibe..

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    It is situated at the gate of the medina and open daily from,

    11.00am-2.00am

    They play DJ sets, and it’s a  vibrant setting with a relaxed dress code.

    It is not the ideal place for a romantic or quiet meal, I found it rather difficult to hold a conversation amidst the crowds of people and loud music.

    Lunchtime would be better suited if you’re looking for a more intimate experience.

    There are plenty of places in the medina offering a quieter environment if that’s something you’re looking for.

    Kabana is a modern cocktail bar with a vibrant energy  within walking distance for people staying in the medina.

    It’s definitely worth a visit if you want an exciting evening out in the medina.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The address is,

    Kissariat Ben Khalid R’mila,

    1 Rue Fatima Zahra,

    40000 Marrakech Morocco.

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  • Palais Dar Donab.

    A beautiful, peaceful environment serving authentic Morroccon food.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Palais Dar Donab is a special treat for visitors to Marrakech.

    The scent of orange blossom fills the air, and the sound of birds chirping in the courtyard gives a sense of complete peace and tranquillity whilst dining here.

    This was one of my favourite places to visit and I absolutely love it here.

    I keep going back time and time again.

    Sometimes, it is for a glass of wine during the afternoon and a welcome break from sightseeing.

    It’s a place where you can unwind and enjoy the sunny courtyard with its large pool in the centre.

    Image Freebird Tracey.

    The menu is extensive with food to suit all palates.

    They also serve a decent selection of excellent wines and beers.

    I was really impressed with the quality of food and enjoyed each meal I have eaten in this fine restaurant.

    The vegetable tagine was one of the tastiest I have tried in Marrakesh, and the delicious smoothies were beautifully presented and full of fresh, vibrant fruit.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Palais Dar Donab is also a high-end accommodation, where guests and visitors  mingle together for a quiet break from the busy medina.

    As you relax in the calm, tranquil surroundings, you never feel rushed.

    The pace is slow and calm.

    The staff are attentive, and at the same time, they allow you to enjoy the lovely, peaceful setting without feeling any pressure to leave.

    The gentle sound of the leaves on the trees and the trickling water make dining here a very pleasant experience.

    Tangerines fall from the trees, and you can hear the birds singing happily.

    Palais Dar Donab is open for lunch as well as dinner.

    The tables are set around a large pool with citrus trees lining the courtyard.

    Beautiful flowers add an array of colour.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Music is played subtly in the background, allowing conversation to flow and a nice laid-back atmosphere.

    Relaxing for an hour or so admiring the intricate craftsmanship that surrounds you is a perfect way to recharge your batteries.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I highly recommend trying Palais Dar Donab, not just for the quality of the food or the friendly service, but for the peace and serenity it offers.

    You come away feeling recharged and de-stressed after the overwhelming medina with crowds of tourists.

    It’s a pleasant oasis in comparison to the over stimulating Jamaa El Fna.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Opening hours are,

    Monday-Sunday

    10.00am-10.30pm

    Address is,

    53 Dar el Basha-Bab,

    Doukkala Marrakech, Morocco.

    The restaurant is vegetarian and vegan friendly and accepts credit card payments.

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  • Le Marrakchi Restaurant.

    A popular restaurant with views over the Jamaa El Fna

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Marrakchi restaurant glows a deep red across the square.

    This popular place facing Jamaa El Fna is a fine dining experience in tastefully decorated surroundings situated on,

    52 Rue des Banques, Av.

    Jamaa El Fna

    40000 Morocco

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Inside the restaurant, the feeling is intimate with dim lighting as candles flicker on the tables, giving a warm, cosy glow.

    It’s a busy restaurant  attracting a lot of tourists as it’s one of the few places selling alcohol in the square.

    It’s a family-friendly establishment and has plenty of food choices, including vegetarian and vegan options available.

    The vibe inside the restaurant is very relaxing despite it being a relatively busy place, constantly buzzing with energy.

    Outside, the walls take on a wonderful, red glow, which is very atmospheric and can be seen from across the square.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The food is very good.

    I especially enjoyed the tagine that was accompanied by a spicy, Harissa sauce.

    The staff are attentive, friendly, and professional.

    The decor is traditionally Morroccan, with pretty lamps and comfortable, deep red couches along the windows overlooking the main square. There is also intricate tilework on some of the walls

    Le Marrakchi serves cocktails, and you are welcome to just visit for drinks.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Prices are competitive for a licenced restaurant close to Jamaa El Fna.

    I went back several times because the vibe was very pleasant, and I enjoyed listening to the sounds of Jamaa El Fna outside the windows and the call to prayer.

    I didn’t feel rushed despite the fact that the restaurant was busy and people were coming and going throughout the evening.

    It was a relaxed, dining experience.

    There is a good selection of dishes on the menu, such as couscous, which is traditionally served on Fridays in Marrakesh.

    The bathroom facilities were excellent and fragrantly scented with orange blossom. .

    There are a few steps to climb to get into the restaurant, so it’s probably not ideal for people with mobility issues.

    Opening hours are 12.00-12.00am daily.

    They also offer a takeaway service.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
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