If you want to explore real Morocco than head towards Marrakech that still has managed to keep its culture alive. Located in close proximity of Atlas Mountains, the city is unbelievably magnificent and full of life. Fondly known as the ‘Red city’, it witnesses ample number of tourists every year. Presence of many primitive structures has designated it to become a cultural powerhouse of Morocco. Recognized as resort from past many years, literal meaning of Marrakech is the ‘Land of God’. Third biggest city of Morocco is separated into two parts i.e, the primeval city namely Medina and Gueliz, the contemporary city. Embracing the Berber tradition, it offers all the luxuries one could dream for. The activities one could enjoy include skiing as well as mountain excursions. Along with the international tourists, even Moroccans never miss a chance to visit the city. One of the significant tourist spot includes Jemaa l-Fna that locates Koutoubia mosque whose minaret could be seen anywhere from the city. Similarly, you will find the musicians and storytellers along the way to entertain and enlighten you. A Menara garden, another tourist spot and the romantic spot, is mainly frequented by youngsters of the city. The best time to visit the city is during cooler months of September and May however, avoiding the summer season is recommendable. The maps of the city will guide you towards the destinations you would like to explore in the city hence, no need to opt for guide.
Square Jemaa l-Fna
Hub of Marrakech, it is believed to be very ancient and came into existence even before the city. The spot is packed with visitors during day time as well as night and you will get full on entertainment with the presence of belly dancers, storytellers, snake lovers, and musicians. Nearby restaurants and cafes will make your visit much enjoyable. The place occupied by one or the other activity, it is an entry point to several marvelous suqqs.
Majorelle Garden
The botanical garden came into existence during 1920s; it was gifted by Yves Saint Laurent, a fashion designer and formed by two artists from French namely Louis Majorelle and Jacques. To be visited for old studio of Majorelles as well as the fascinating garden.
Koutoubia Mosque
Be at any part of the city, you will never miss sight of minaret of the mosque. City’s tallest structure was constructed during 12th century and introduces you with the Moroccan culture. The plaster-covered structure’s restoration work accomplished during 1990s.
Sa’adian Tombs
It became accessible by the public in 1917 and Sultan Ahmed el-Mansour has constructed it for himself as well as the family. The structure came into existence during 16th century and the Sa’adian royal family’s 66 people are buried in the tombs.
El Badi Palace
The palace with 360 rooms was constructed in 1578 and the royals used it for partying. Now it has become prime venue to organize the National Festival of Popular Art and other famous events.
The Souks
The market streets are never free from the sellers or the buyers. The markets are divided into many sections and you will be able to buy particular stuff from that particular street.
Once in the city, you will be able to try your hand in many activities some of them include:
Swimming
Golf
Horse riding
Quad bike riding
Hot-ballooning
Skiing
A culturally-rich city contains Berber population and music is its life and it is proved from the ongoing music performances at Jema el Fna. The city is mainly inspired by the Arab and Muslim cultures and the music embraces Berber, African, Arab and Spanish styles.
You could even witness many opera performances at Guéliz vicinity. Many music festivals like the National Festival of Popular Arts is organized in the Square. You could hear musicians try their hands on guitars, drums, mandolins, and other sweet-voiced musical instruments.
There are various museums that leave no stone unturned in demonstrating ancient culture. The Museum of Dar si Said will introduce you with lifestyle of the sultans. The Museum of Marrakech along with possessing ancient coins, jewellery, it also exhibits the modern art. It is a paradise for the best filmmakers as they head towards the city in search of beautiful locations. The worldwide film fraternity participates in the Marrakech International Film Festival that is organized every year.
The nightlife of the city comes into full swing with presence of many famous nightclubs and bars in the city. The late night time brings contemporary lifestyle of the city in front of you. Many theatre shows are also organized to let you spend night with enjoyment. The happening nightlife spots include
Cotton Club
One of the modern and the best nightclubs of the city that is frequented by locals as well as tourists.
Le Diamant Noir Dance Club
The place that felt presence of many sultans during ancient past is now filled with the contemporary lifestyle. The locals as well as tourists throng the spot.
New Feeling Dance Club
Very stylish in nature, it is one of the happening nightspots of the city. In the close vicinity of the club is Palmeraie Golf Palace.
Club Bustane
Here you will be able to hear live orchestras and it opens its doors from the daytime itself.
Before Le Montecristo
The nightclub is frequented by locals and it is decorated in a very unique manner.
Jacaranda Restaurant Marrakech
The cuisine is more than tasty and it is also presented in a very rich manner. Located in Gueliz vicinity, it serves the best Moroccan as well as French cuisine.
Lolo Quoi Restaurant Marrakech
If you want to taste the best Italian cuisine in Marrakech than heading towards Marrakech is not a bad idea at all. The restaurant that was inaugurated in the year 2005, the service provided is also wonderful.
Jnane Tamsna
It serves the best Mediterranean and Moroccan cuisines.
Soleiman palace Restaurant
Here you will be able to taste the best Moroccan food however, many international dishes are also served here.
Les Borjs de la Kasbah
The rooms will give you feel of traditional Moroccan style and the hotel offers facilities like air-condition, TV, internet connection, huge beds, among all.
Riad Kniza
If you want to enjoy testy Moroccan food and want to rest your mind after exploring the city for the entire day than this is the best place to stay.
Es Saadi Hotel
The hotel with spacious rooms and magnificent garden area came into existence during 1960’s. The hotel serves traditional Moroccan food and the facilities offered include a piano bar and swimming pool too.
Tichka Salam Marrakech
The hotel rooms are decorated in traditional Moroccan style and it is surrounded by magnificent palm garden. The building structure is very lively and is located in a close proximity to the city center.
Kasbah Agafay
Contains 11 spacious rooms and suites, its restaurant serves the best traditional Moroccan cuisine. Surrounded by the lively sightseeing, it also contains spa and hammam.
Number of transport systems are available that will allow you to explore the city attractions in a very well manner. Some of the mode of transports includes
Bus
The public transport services are available from early morning to late night and the service is provided by the CTM Company. The services mainly begin from the Central bus station and covers all the major routes of the city however, sometimes could be crowded.
Taxis
The taxi type includes petite taxis and Grands taxis from which petits are the metered taxis whereas for the grands is running on the fixed rate system. It will let you attain your destination in a comparatively less time.
Car Hire
The car hire system is available easily as the companies’ representatives are present in the airport vicinity itself. As per the rule driver’s age should not be less than 21 years and he should possess valid license.
Bicycle Hire
You can also voyage through the city’s inner circles by bike and it could be hired from every nook and corner of the city. However, you might face traffic congestion on the city’s major roads.
Tue, Dec 22, 2009 0 Comments
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