Riad Lea is a traditional mid priced riad only 10 minutes walk away from the main square. It is a small cosy riad with a friendly atmosphere.
There are 5 suites, which are authentically Moroccan. They are comfortable and include all the amenities sufficient for a pleasant stay.
The courtyard is peaceful with the sound of birds singing. It’s a quiet, relaxed setting away from the busy touristic area. The busy part of the medina is only a short walk away.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The rooftop is pleasant and has a jacuzzi, which is clean and well maintained.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
The staff at Riad Lea are friendly and attentive. They offered me some food whilst breaking their fast during Ramadan. It’s these little gestures that make staying in a traditional riad charming.
There are more luxurious riads than riad Lea, but it’s the personal touches that stand out for me. The staff at Riad Lea go out of their way to ensure guests are happy.
Reaching riad Lea was like heading down a hobbit hole through the narrow winding alleyway. The doorway was not made for tall people, but you soon remember to duck.
Dark winding passageways are typical in the medina and part of its charm. Riads are concealed behind red clay walls because in the Islamic faith, everyone is equal, and displaying ones wealth is vulgar.
The breakfast at Riad Lea was a typical Morroccan breakfast, which is often heavy on carbohydrates. I enjoyed the homemade yoghurt and msemen pancakes.
The walk to the main square is a pleasant 15 minutes. You pass interesting shops and restaurants along the way.
I enjoyed my stay at Riad Lea. It’s not 5 stars, but it’s good value for money. It was clean and comfortable, and the staff were a credit to the riad.
The perfect day in Marrakech begins watching the sunrise on a rooftop terrace in my riad. I can hear birds singing in the courtyard below. I hear the sound of the medina as it gradually wakes up and comes back to life. I watch cats prowl along the rooftops. Below me, I hear the clattering of plates as staff prepare breakfast.
A glass of freshly squeezed orange juice hits the spot perfectly. I enjoy a breakfast of msemen pancakes with homemade jam, amlou, and honey.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
After my shower, I head out into the medina for a glass of mint atay. I sit outside a cafe overlooking the main square. I observe the vendors setting up their stalls for the day. The street entertainers are ready to entice crowds of tourists. The local ladies pass by on their way to the market for fresh herbs and spices.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
My next destination is the souks before they get busy. Vendors are eager for their first sale of the day, and bargaining is easier early in the morning. The 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 titbits for them to eat. They vye with each other for the perfect spot to laze in the sunshine.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
I check out the Amazigh jewellery, the argan oil, and the beautiful ceramics on display. At the same time, I dodge motorcycles and donkey carts as they make their way through the narrow alleyways. I buy a few souvenirs and then decide it’s time for a light snack.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
A cafe with colourful outdoor seating looks inviting. I order a selection of Morroccan pastries and a pot of mint tea. I sit for a while people watching, enjoying the scenes that are unfolding around me. It’s fascinating watching daily life in the medina. Tourists look in awe at things for sale, and vendors call out to them with friendly banter.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
After recharging my batteries, it’s time to do some sightseeing. I head towards Madrasa Ben Youssef for an opportunity to get some photos of the stunning architecture. I learn the history of one of the most important koranic colleges in Morocco.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Afterwards, I make my way to the gardens of the Koutoubia Mosque. The medina is getting busy, and I want to sit somewhere less crowded.
I relax amongst the beautiful trees, admiring the most famous landmark in Marrakech. As I sit near the fountain, it feels cool and refreshing as it sprays into the air.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I treat myself to a sugarcane juice from a vendor. It goes down well, and the day is getting steadily warmer.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
By now, the heat is quite intense, so I return to my riad for a rest. I make my way onto the rooftop terrace to sunbathe and read a book. The call to prayer echos across the medina. It’s a familiar sound that can be heard in Marrakech five times a day.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
Soon, it’s time to get ready for dinner.
I go to La Pergola rooftop bar for a couple of cocktails beforehand. It’s a lively atmosphere. There are people enjoying a drink and chatting with friends.
Images by Freebird Tracey.
Next, it’s time to head towards Jamaa El Fna. The energy is electric. Food vendors are touting for business. There are dancers, drumming, and gambling games. Crowds of tourists gather to witness the spectacle. The smell of food cooking makes me hungry. I decide to find a nice place to dine.
I choose a place that has a rooftop terrace overlooking the square. It’s a perfect spot to watch the sunset. As the sun slowly disappears behind the Koutoubia Mosque, it’s a spectacular sight. Everywhere has a golden glow.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
I order a traditional tagine, which is flavourful and aromatic. I’m tempted by the exotic fruit smoothies on the menu. I treat myself to one containing dried fruit, and it’s delicious.
The evening is still young, so I take a leisurely walk to the kasbah. I spend the rest of my evening at the famous Clock listening to some live music and traditional storytelling.
Image by Freebird Tracey.
After immersing myself in the culture of Morrocco, I head back to my riad. I sit in the peaceful courtyard reflecting on the day I’ve had.
I have learnt some history about the culture of Marrakech. I have tasted delicious food. I watched a beautiful sunset and chatted with friendly locals. I have successfully navigated my way through the souks without getting too lost. I also have some nice souvenirs to take home.
I fall asleep. It’s been a perfect day, and I’m ready to do it all again tomorrow.
The Sound Of The Souks 