Sounds Of The Souks

Tag: Marrakech

An exploration of The Red City known as Marrakech.

  • Traditional Moroccan Mint Tea

    Mint tea is practically a ritual in Marrakesh.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    After the painstakingly long queues at the airport, you finally arrive at your riad.

    At this point, you’re feeling lightly overwhelmed and dishevelled.

    The manager of the riad gives you the warmest welcome and guides you into the beautiful courtyard.

    You sit down on the colourful cushions, listening to the gentle sound of the trickling water from the fountain and smell the fragrance of blossom on the trees.

    Slowly, you begin to unwind.

    The manager reappears with an ornate teapot with colourful glasses on a tray, accompanied by a dish of fresh olives. 

    The tea is poured, holding the teapot higher and higher.

    This is a traditional Morroccan greeting for visitors. The higher up the teapot is held, the more respect the guest is being shown.

    The tea also becomes aerated, making it cooler to drink.

    You watch with amazement as the tea finds its way perfectly into the little glasses without a single drop spilling out.

    It takes practice to perfect pouring tea from such a height, I have tried and failed miserably.

    Video by Freebird Tracey.

    The aroma from the fresh mint leaves begins to fill the air around you.

    Soon, you are feeling refreshed and accustomed to your new surroundings.

    After you have drank your sweet tea and eaten the delicious fresh olives, the panic of trying to locate the riad and queues at the airport disappear as if by magic.

    The image of Google Maps not working and dragging your luggage through narrow alleyways crammed with tourists starts to become a distant memory.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Mint tea is served everywhere in Marrakech.

    It’s a refreshing drink that the locals enjoy as they sit inside cafes chatting with their friends.

    I highly recommend 1112 Moroccan Tea House. They serve wonderful tea, and there is a room telling you all about the history of the tea.

    It’s situated inside a beautiful riad, and it’s the first Moroccan tea house in Marrakech.

    I’ve also written a separate article about 1112 Moroccan Tea House.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Drinking mint tea is a central part of Moroccan social life.

    The name for mint tea is ‘atay’ in Moroccan darija

    It is known by the locals as  ‘Morroccan Whisky’

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The tea is made using gunpowder green tea and fresh mint leaves, and it is often sweetened with sugar cubes before serving.

    If you find it a bit too sweet, ask to have the sugar cubes separately.

    That way, you have control over how sweet it is.

    Fresh mint is displayed on market stalls all around the medina, and the strong aroma is evident when you walk past.

    You can purchase the ornate tea glasses in the souks, along with the traditional teapots, they make the perfect gift for taking home with you.

    Make sure to wrap them well as they are quite delicate and can break easily.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Moroccan mint tea has many health benefits.

    It improves digestion, helps to improve oral health, is a natural decongestant, and provides antioxidants that support good mental well-being, skincare, and alertness.

    Sipping mint tea overlooking the lively square from a rooftop is a nice way to experience Marrakech.

    It’s a big part of a fascinating culture.

    One you will remember for a very long time.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • A Day Trip To Ouzoud Waterfall.

    For a great day out, take a trip to Ouzoud to see the spectacular waterfall.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Ouzoud Waterfall is the second largest waterfall in Africa.

    It is well worth the three hour drive through the stunning Atlas Mountains to see it.

    I met my driver at Cafe de France, and after picking up a few more passengers, we were on our way.

    The mini bus had air conditioning and was pretty comfortable. We drove for around one and a half hours, then stopped for a toilet break and a drink.

    There was a small cooperative selling Argan oil, and a few tourists in the group purchased some to take home with them.

    Soon, we were on our way again, and the views of the Atlas Mountains were breathtaking.

    It was a really scenic drive, and time passed quickly.

    When we arrived at Ouzoud, we were introduced to our guide, who spoke several different languages, and we set off walking.

    We rambled through the olive groves as the cheeky wild Barbary macaque monkeys played hide and seek in the trees with us.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The waterfall was visible from different angles with plenty of viewing points to take photographs or rest for a few moments.

    The waterfall plunges 110 metres into the canyon below, making it a breathtaking sight.

    It was a warm day, so we stopped for a freshly squeezed pomegranate juice before continuing our way down to where the boats were.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    A boat ride up against the waterfall is part of the itinerary if you book a tour.

    The boats are colourfully decorated, and we were taken right up to the waterfall, allowing us to get some great photos.

    It was an amazing experience.

    The feeling of the cool water spraying our faces was a welcome relief from the heat.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    We were dropped off on the opposite side and then had quite a steep climb up to the restaurants.

    I was able to get a table overlooking the waterfall, and the view was amazing.

    I had a three course meal consisting of a starter, which was a small salad with fresh bread and olives, followed by a vegetable tagine and fruit for dessert.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The meal was finished off with a glass of Morroccan mint tea.

    The meal cost around 150 dirhams and was fairly good value.

    It was very tasty and filling enough for a light lunch.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    After lunch, we made our way up some more steps, stopping off to feed the monkeys at the top.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Finally, we were reunited with our driver, and it was time to set off back to Marrakech.

    We stopped again on the way back for a toilet break and to pick up a drink or snack for the remainder of the journey.

    It was early evening when we arrived back in Marrakech.

    Overall, the trip to Ouzoud was well worth the six hours of travelling.

    It was absolutely beautiful. Sitting above the waterfall looking down at it whilst eating my lunch was the highlight of the trip for me.

    The monkeys were also very amusing, I had to keep hold of my sunglasses to stop them stealing them.

    The guide was so helpful and looked after everyone really well.

    He spoke five languages, and it was very impressive that he was able to communicate with the whole group.

    I highly recommend going to Ouzoud if you visit Marrakech. It’s a wonderful day trip.

    If you have mobility issues, it may be challenging for you. There are a lot of steps, and it’s a bit of a steep climb from where the boats are up to the restaurants.

    There’s also a fair amount of walking involved to see all the vantage points.

    Some people were taken back up on Donkeys, so that’s an option.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I booked my trip with Get Your Guide, and it was good value for money for such a great day out.

    It included the drive in an air-conditioned vehicle, the tour, and the boat ride.

    The lunch was separate.

    Your accommodation can also organise visiting Ouzoud and other popular day trips for you.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • When Is The Best Time For Visiting Marrakech?

    I’ve put together a few helpful tips to help you decide.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Marrakech is an all year round destination.

    It has a high desert climate, so it is pleasant all year round.

    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.

    I suggest 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.

    I would recommend taking a lightweight jacket or jumper to throw on as temperatures 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 tend to soar.

    This might make excursions and activities more uncomfortable if you’re 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 sunny, with average highs of 19°C and lows of 6°C during the evening.

    This would be the ideal time to visit if you’re put off by huge crowds 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 slightly different.

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

    The Jacaranda trees along the main roads in Gueliz look really beautiful, and the air is really fragrant at this time of year.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    March can be quite hot, but heavy thunderstorms are also frequent.

    The sky can look very dramatic and holds its own kind of beauty just before a storm.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Springtime can still be very busy with tourists, and the souks are lively and bustling with excitement.

    For me, that is part of the fun, but for some people, the crowds can be overwhelming.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    September can be humid.

    I found it more challenging to walk around the palaces and stand in long queues in the humidity.

    Between 3.00pm and 7.00pm 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 in your hotel or riad.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Marrakech is sunny and warm all year round, and 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.

    I have written a separate article on suitable clothing for Marrakech.

    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.

    The square comes alive in the evening, so most of the souks are still trading until late because people are still present.

    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.

    Take advantage of the air conditioning available and consider taking an afternoon nap.

    Visiting the Sahara desert will be blisteringly hot in summertime.  Consider going in the cooler months when days are still warm but not unbearable.

    Remember, evenings get cold in the desert.

    Marrakech is a wonderful city all year round.

    If you follow these simple rules, you should have an enjoyable visit whichever time of year you decide to travel.

    It’s about planning your trip beforehand.

    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?

    Can you handle the extreme heat, or would you prefer the cooler temperatures in December or January?

    Whichever time you decide to travel to Marrakech, the locals are always smiling, and there’s always plenty to do and see..

    I recommend reading my article about visiting Marrakech in winter for tips about travelling in the cooler season.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Bacha Coffee.

    Calling all coffee lovers,this place is an absolute gem.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    With over 200 different coffees to choose from, Bacha Coffee is a coffee lovers paradise.

    From the exuberant interior with beautifully tiled floors and exotic plants to the finely dressed waiters in their elegant uniforms, Bacha Coffee is a wonderful experience.

    The service is impeccable, and the coffee from all over the world is incredible.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Visiting Bacha Coffee is an absolute treat.

    You do have to wait quite a long time for a table, but you can wander around the museum with its beautiful garden and Islamic architecture whilst you wait.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    You are given a bleeper to notify you when your table is ready.

    Once you are seated inside, you are free to take your time to paw over the extensive menu. The choice of coffee available makes it incredibly difficult to choose.

    I eventually decided to go with a Caribbean coffee from the Blue Mountains, and it didn’t disappoint.

    It was smooth aromatic and had a subtly sweet flavour.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    It came served in beautiful little cups with fresh cream, chocolate chips, vanilla pods, and an assortment of other delights to enhance the taste of the coffee.

    I also had a slice of cake, which was delicately spiced and tasted wonderful.

    My tastebuds were in heaven.

    I  now wish to try every coffee on the menu, so I’ve promised myself I will go back again and again until I have.

    That’s a lot of coffee.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    The only downside to Bacha Coffee is that due to its popularity, the queues can be very long. 

    I suggest arriving early around 9.30 am when they first open and join the queue outside.

    It’s worth the wait for the quality of food being served and the stunning decor.

    The breakfast is excellent, and I will definitely be trying it next time I visit.

    Hopefully, I can make my way through the hundreds of coffees on offer from around the world.

    I’m certainly up for trying.

    Bacha Coffee is worth visiting just to capture those perfect Instagram photos regardless of the excellent food and coffee.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    There is also a shop where you can buy coffee and other beautiful things like cups and  condiment containers to take home with you.

    It’s the perfect gift for someone special.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Opening hours are,

    Tuesday-Sunday 10.00am-6.00pm

    The address is,

    Dar el Bacha, Rte Sidi

    Abdelaziz Marrakech 40000

    Morocco

    Bacha Coffee is in a nice area of Marrakech surrounded by plenty of  good shops.

    I would recommend anyone visiting Marrakech to come and see for themselves.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • Staying In A Traditional Riad.

    Immerse yourself in the culture of Marrakech.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Everyone visiting Marrakech should stay in a traditional riad at least once.

    If you want a taste of  authentic Moroccan life, spending time in a riad inside the walls of the medina will give you one.

    Traditional zellige tiles and the sound of trickling water from the ornate fountain in the central courtyard is just a small part of what riad life has to offer.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Riads are the homes once lived in by the well-to-do of Marrakech.

    Whole families lived inside them, and they offered a private, secluded place, especially for the women in the family.

    They are built around a central courtyard with the windows facing inwards and have citrus and palm trees in the centre, reaching up through the open rooftop.

    Many have a small pool for cooling off in, and most of them still have their original fountain from when they were first constructed.

    The rooftop can be reached by climbing the steep tiled steps.

    You will be greeted by a vibrantly coloured seating area where you can escape from the heat and admire the incredible views over the medina.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    The interior rooms are traditionally decorated in Moroccan lamps and Berber artefacts, which include colourful rugs, cushions, and exquisitely handcrafted furniture.

    Many riads around the medina have been purchased by Westerners, renovated and refurbished to appeal to the ever growing influx of tourists.

    A lot of riads still maintain their original appearance, and staying in one is like being immersed in a tale from ‘1001 nights’

    Some of the original tiles from hundreds of years ago have been brought back to life, and they exude charm and character.

    High-end riads are also  beautiful and rather luxurious.

    They include bidets and television sets in the rooms.

    All riads are charming, and it all depends on whether you favour luxury over authenticity.

    My choice of riad is a family owned property, one that still has it’s old world charm and feels as though I’m staying with a Moroccan family.

    Like a tale from an ‘Arabian Nights’ adventure, a testimony to the beauty of Islamic architecture and craftsmanship.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Most riads cook delicious home cooked food for their guests and offer cooking lessons.

    There is also a hammam and massage service available in most riads.

    This is a wonderful experience, and something everyone who comes to Marrakech should indulge in at least once.

    Rooms in a riad are usually slightly dark inside.

    This keeps them cool in the summer when temperatures can exceed 50°

    Some of the windows have intricate screens from when the riad was a harem to keep the women private and secluded.

    Waking up to the sound of birds singing in the trees and the gentle flowing of water burbling from the fountain is such a wonderful start to the day.

    The early morning sunshine reflecting off the beautifully tiled floors puts me in such a happy mood.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Most riads provide their guests with a hearty breakfast, which is sweeter than we are used to in the west.

    Some staff cook omelettes, and there is always fresh orange juice and homemade yoghurts and jams served with traditional bread.

    The msemen pancakes served with honey and amlou are my absolute favourite.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I love sunbathing on the rooftop, listening to the call to prayer from the Koutoubia mosque.

    If you’re staying near Jamaa El Fna,you can hear the gnawa musicians and the drumming in the distance.

    This is a true immersion in the culture of Marrakech.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    In the evening, I like to watch the sunset from the rooftop.

    At dusk, Jamaa El Fnaa comes alive with thousands of visitors.

    You can hear the vendors calling out to beckon tourists into their food stalls.

    The aroma of the food cooking catches your breath.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Back in the courtyard, you feel as though you are in an oasis.

    This calm and peaceful environment is a far cry from what is happening outside the big, heavy wooden door of the riad.

    The sound of  gentle music plays quietly in the  background, creating a sense of tranquillity.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    Staff at the riad can suggest places where you can eat and also arrange popular excursions for their guests.

    They are eager to please and go above and beyond the call of duty.

    For me, staying in a traditional riad has a more intimate feeling than a hotel.

    I like to spend a few days having what I call, a riad experience, and enjoying the culture of Marrakech like a true local.

    Images by Freebird Tracey.

    Whether it’s a former palace or a family owned business, staying in a riad is one of the most authentic experiences you can have when you come to Marrakech.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.
    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • The Historical City Of Marrakech.

    An introduction to the most visited city in North Africa.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    If Africa is a peacock, then Morocco is its tail.

    Welcome to my blog featuring everything you may wish to know about the  famous red city of Marrakech.

    I include my own personal stories, experiences, and adventures from each time I visit what has become my second home.

    My name is Freebird Tracey, and I’ve been a regular visitor to Marrakech for many years.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    As a solo female traveller, I always feel safe travelling around Marrakech.

    The friendly locals are incredibly hospitable, which makes Morocco a wonderful place to visit.

    Whenever I visit Marrakech, people are so helpful and always with a big smile across their faces.

    Nothing is too much trouble for them.

    For me, this is what makes Marrakech so special.

    I believe I have found my ‘happy place’ in the sunshine, amongst the fragrant orange blossom, the vibrant colours, and the magical sights and sounds of Jamaa El Fna.

    Marrakech is a diverse and magical city, steeped in history. 

    From its beautiful Islamic architecture to the culinary delights and fine craftsmanship on display, there is something to tempt the senses on every corner.

    Image by Freebird Tracey.

    I never get tired of exploring this alluring and magnetising corner of our planet.

    There is always something new to see, and it’s full of little surprises.

    Marrakech is an assault on the senses..

    Allow me to take you on a fascinating journey to North Africa and show you how to make the most of your time in Marrakech.

    My main focus is on the medina, the ancient walled city, including the kasbah and mellah.

    This is the heartbeat of Marrakech, the place that oozes character and has a wealth of fascinating history.

    I will share some of the best places to eat, including vegetarian and vegan options.

    I will tell you where to find cool bars that serve alcohol.

    Suggest places to stay in the historic medina.

    Show you ways you can travel to Marrakech on a budget, plus many more interesting facts and useful tips to ensure you have the best possible experience.

    I will give you a few ideas on how to spend your time in Marrakech, including popular excursions, activities, and day trips.

    You will also find ways to help you stay safe and avoid potential scams.

    This is a tell-all blog at your fingertips.

    Keep it close to hand, and use it as a reference before and during your visit to this delightful UNESCO world heritage site.

    I hope you will gain some inspiration and find it helpful when planning your visit to the historical red city.

    All that said, it’s time to buckle up.

    Come and join me on a mind-blowing trip of a lifetime.

    Let me introduce you to the sights, sounds, and tastes of Marrakech, all beautifully entwined with each other,creating what can only be described as a little piece of heaven here on earth.

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