Tag: Riad Lea

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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