Check out everything Marrakech is famous for! Each arrondissement is made up of many small neighborhoods. Jemaa el-Fnaa is a bustling square in Marrakech with snake charmers, street performers, and food vendors. Its easy for market vendors to swindle tourists by giving back the incorrect change or asking for more money and using your ignorance when it comes to the currency as an excuse to do so. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); I have to say I loved the Jardin Majorelle and accompanying Berber and YSL museums. With travel insurance, youll have peace of mind, knowing youll be financially covered should you get ill or be involved in an accident. Are there any dangerous animals in Marrakech? However, the great animation and the crowds of tourists make it a very noisy area. What to do instead?A lovely little museum, located in the heart of the medina,The Photography Museumwas one of the most pleasurable places Ive stumbled upon in Marrakesh. Always check the reviews and avoid eating any salads (salads are washed with tap water, and tap water in Morocco is not safe even for the locals).Another good idea is to booka cooking class. The most beautiful madrassa in the country is a bucket list must-see but is currently under renovation. If a restaurant is worth visiting, queues and busy tables should be able to speak for themselves. In the Medina is where youll find most of the sites in Marrakech. Alcohol is available in Marrakech but is not widely consumed due to the citys conservative nature. On the southeast side of the medina is the Bahia Palace. Ben Youssef Madrassa. While its not necessarily dangerous, per se, the tannery is known for its exceptional abundance of scammy tactics and behavior. It, View Post Top 10 Dangerous Places in Cape Town Stay Safe!Continue, Your email address will not be published. ($$) Riad Le Marocain: This riad is full of comfortable spaces with nice touches throughout the property.Rating: 8.2 of 10 stars-read reviews here, ($$) Riad Al Ksar and Spa: With one of the most lush rooftop terrace gardens Ive seen in Marrakech, this is a calm oasis from the bustle of the city. Actually, 75% of the Moroccan travelers I talked to had some sort of bowel discomfort while visiting Marrakesh. This tip is about the desert tours offered in Marrakesh. The best times to visit Marrakech are from March to May and between September and November. I visited Marroco in June and may be that make the big difference between our opinions. You mind your own business, and someone puts a monkey on your back, encouraging you to take a picture with it. One of the more traditional pieces of dining etiquette that Moroccans still follow today is eating with their hands. ). Here you can visit the Matisse Art Gallery, which showcases Moroccan artists, the stately Teatre Royal, or the Vyes Saint Laurent haute couture museum. 7 Day Transformational Journey with Yoga, Hiking, Meditation and Detox near Essaouira. Bargain hard, be bold and walk away if the price is too high. NOISE: While Marrakech does have quite a bit of hustle and bustle, I wouldnt worry too much about the noise from the streets creeping through into the riads. Restaurants with hassling waiters who try to lure you in with picture menus and English names are usually the worst ones to pick. Been in Marrakesh, there is no way youd miss the Djemaa el-Fna square. In the world of Instagram, Marrakech is king. Stick to bottled water and cooked food from reputable vendors. Marrakesh is the beating heart of Morocco; traders come from all over the country, many of them with workshops in their hometowns. Designed by Melissa Giroux | Copyright 2023 A Broken Backpack. Trying to figure out where to stay in Marrakech in 2023? Must visit best country to visit in Africa. I thought they were all beautiful and worthwhile. Avoid raw or undercooked meat, unwashed fruits and vegetables, and tap water. Ensure you have an enjoyable trip and avoid mistakes many tourists make by NOT doing these 10 things. Marrakech (and Morocco) is generally safe to travel to if you understand the countrys law and exercise caution. Castaway TipThe riads are designed to keep cool so If you travel during the winter, make sure the one you pick has a heater. Oh. Another garden, another skip. If you want to experience Marrakesh (and Morocco as a whole), there is no better way thanstaying in a riadinside the medina. Marrakech (and Morocco) is generally safe to travel to if you understand the country's law and exercise caution. Dontwaste your time with the Secret Gardens, December in Morocco All You Need to Know. WALKING DISTANCE: Personally, I feel that when visiting Marrakech, its best to stay close, or at least relatively close, to the action. This area is much busier, generally more crowded, but it is also the most centrally located area to all the tourist attractions. Rankednumber one in TripAdvisor about things to do in Marrakesh, Jardin Majorelle was the biggest let-down I had in a long time. Street Food: What to Avoid to Prevent Food Poisoning. If youre visiting during Ramadan, respect those fasting and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during the day. This is why this article answers the questions you may ask yourself to organize your stay in Marrakech: Here is a study and a map of Marrakech neighborhoods useful for locating areas to avoid and best neighborhoods to stay. You can also read the experiences of many other people in this area here. Marrakech's vibrant colors, aromatic dishes, indecipherable sounds and inimitable. Rooms are a nice mix of traditional style, with a touch of modern.Rating: 8.4 of 10 stars-read reviews here, ($$$) Ksar Anika: This riad is a really lovely combination of beautiful architecture, decor, and landscaping, with many spaces to relax. You take the picture, and now you need to either pay a hefty tip or get in a conflict with the tamer and his friends. Get the snake on your shoulders? Marrakech is famous for its street food, but be careful about what you eat. In Marrakech, there aren't so much areas to avoid as there are places to be vigilant when you visit. High Atlas Mountains and 5 Valleys Day Trip from Marrakech - All inclusive -. However, its also a notorious tourist trap. Top 10 Dangerous Places in Cape Town Stay Safe! Skip Jardin Majorelle Travel insurance also covers loss of belongings, so if you get pickpocketed, you could claim back some or all of the money. Regarding taxis, choose the small ones (Petit taxis) rather than Grand taxis as the former has rear seat belts while the latter does not. Upgrade Your Stay: Our Favorite Upcoming Experiences in Morocco. These street guides may approach you even if you dont look lost and offer to show you around. However, theres so much more to explore beyond the walled limits and although visiting Marrakech is a must, dont neglect the beaches, mountains, deserts, and charming towns that the rest of this country has to offer. While these do happen in Morocco, they are not a regular occurrence, and there are many things you can do to stay safe during your visit. The exception to this is in the Gueliz neighborhood, where the streets are broad and wide. 4. Morroco has been riddled with internal conflict for decades and petty crime, as well as terrorism, has damaged Marrakechs reputation in the past. 2. Thus, we are guaranteed to choose our accommodation in a good safe area and well placed for sightseeing. Street food is part of the culture in Marrakech and the souks (markets) are an unmissable part of any trip, but not all street food is made equal. TAKE PHOTOS OF PEOPLE OR THEIR MERCHANDISE, 7. However, tourism has given way to some challenges that you should be aware of. Marrakech is Moroccos most popular destination with international travelers, with more than three million tourists flocking to its aroma-filled streets every year. I recommend getting insurance with SafetyWing as they offer comprehensive coverage and have an effortless application process. The colorful markets, known as souks, are a symbol of Marrakech and you can get anything from traditional clothing and footwear to spices, shisha, tea sets, and lamps, as well as jewelry, watches, and designer leather goods. 600. Youre in the right spot! How does it work? In Gueliz, youll find more modern, western style hotels, and very few traditional Moroccan riads. This area is particularly noteworthy for its caf scene, gourmet restaurants, and bars. Avoid touching them or getting too close, as they may carry diseases. Find out in this article what are the top attractions in Morocco's most iconic city. Be cautious with your belongings Pickpocketing is common in Morocco, so never walk around with a backpack with zip pockets and no locks or safety devices. In this article, well cover 20 things to avoid in Marrakech, from cultural considerations to safety precautions, tourist traps, accommodation, dining, and transportation tips. No such luck, there was already a queue of 10-15 people waiting.Inside, it was even worse. Avoid shorts, tank tops, and revealing clothing. The safest way to keep your money and valuables safe out and about is to use a money belt. Buying cookies from carts in Djema al Fnaa, Visiting certain neighborhoods especially at night. Also note that while men may call out random things to get your attention, this is as far as inappropriate behavior goes in most cases. However, modesty is respected, especially in religious areas or if you simply dont want to stand out like a sore thumb. from. Introduction Africa, one of the largest continents only behind Asia a vast and diverse destination that offers visitors endless, View Post Best Country to Visit in Africa Top Destinations for an Unforgettable TripContinue, If youre planning a trip to Mauritius and want to experience the magic of seeing turtles up close, youre, View Post Where To See Turtles In Mauritius?Continue, Are you planning your next vacation and considering Seychelles as a destination? However, it is also, View Post Explore the 10 Most Dangerous Places in AfricaContinue, Mauritius, an island in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and breathtaking landscapes. The wealthy Hivernage district is located in the city center west of Bab Jdid to the south of the Guliz district. This area definitely has a more residential vibe, as its outside of the Medina and has fewer attractions and is a little cleaner. Agdal - best place to stay in Marrakech on a budget. However, the truth is most tourists do not encounter any of these dangers during their trips and, instead, enjoy a peaceful and safe vacation in Marrakech. Most riads have pretty good soundproofing and really work to create an oasis from the city. Best Time to Visit Colombia Plan Your Trip Today! We may be visiting Marrakech soon. 5 Day Yoga and Hiking Holiday in Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh-Safi. Here is a study and a map of Marrakech neighborhoods useful for locating areas to avoid and best neighborhoods to stay. While you are not expected to wear a headscarf, wearing skimpy clothes will make you stand out like a sore thumb and result in A LOT of unwanted attention. If youre visiting for the first time, a top concern will be where to stay in Marrakech. The tap water in Marrakech is unsafe to drink, so sticking to bottled water is essential. 7. Hivernage - where to stay in Marrakech for luxury. Hidden, hole-in-the-wall gems or word-of-mouth recommendations will usually afford the most authentic dining experiences in Marrakech. Luckily, there are a lot of good areas to stay in around the city and where you choose just depends on your own personal preferences! So much so that mocking, criticizing, and talking badly about Moroccos king is actually a criminal offense. Marrakech is a safe destination for travelers. Only drink in licensed bars or restaurants, and avoid getting drunk in public. Djemaa el-Fna completely transforms when the sun falls and just observing the process is one of the best shows in Marrakesh. But there are some things to look out for when navigating its fragrant mazelike alleyways and market squares. Skip Jardin Majorelle 2. C$118.18. The palace itself is a masterpiece of architecture. Where To Stay In Marrakech: 5 Best Areas & Neighborhoods Updated: April 12, 2023 Marrakech combines history, luxury, and culture into one exciting package. Madrid's climate in 2050 is likely to resemble Marrakech's climate today, according to Zurich-based scientists . From the red walls, to the intricately designed doors, from the tiles and mosaics, to the swaying palm and olive trees, I was absolutely charmed by what Marrakech had to offer. Today, most Jews in Marrakech live outside the Mellah quarter, in the newer parts of the city, and many Muslims live in the Mellah district. I have broken down central Marrakech in sections and am thinking this is how we should tackle seeing all the central things on the. There is also a rooftop caf serving pretty good tajine and offering excellent panoramic views. Criminal organizations will often deploy distractions in the way of beggars, commotion, and even children in need so that someone else can swipe into your pockets and bags when youre not looking. Answer 1 of 8: My husband and I will be traveling to Marrakech for the first time in early June. Okay, so I want to break this area down a little bit further. by Melissa Giroux | Last updated Jul 7, 2023 | Africa, Morocco, Travel Tips. Here are some key things to avoid: When youre walking down the street and stop to check your phone to determine where you are, this signals to any scammers nearby that you are an easy target. Moroccan cuisine is delicious, but following these food rules will help you avoid getting ill? To avoid this, always insist on the meter being turned on and act confident and savvy so the driver doesnt see you as an easy target. The riads are the traditional Moroccan houses with two or more stories surrounding an Andalusian-style courtyard in the middle. Showing a bit more skin might not get you in trouble in Marrakech, but youll likely receive unwanted stares, attention, and even outward judgment. Best to just walk purposefully and avoid eye contact. Always go to the mosque with naked feet, and dont take pictures of people praying. ($) Riad Marraplace: With earthy colors and a cozy, homey feel to the rooms and the courtyard, this riad is really pretty, particularly for the price youre paying! The streets are narrow and winding, and many (not all, but many) riads are tucked into quiet little side streets, where its impossible for taxis to navigate. The city lies near the foothills of the Atlas Mountains and the Sahara Desert, making it a special place to start a Moroccan adventure. Find Out Now! It's not a hop and a skip. 1. In the Kasbah area, you are within walking distance of all the sights in Marrakech. Yep, agree with 90% and yep, a very helpful post. A two-night trip simply isn't enough time. Never give money to strangers or agree to follow them to another location. Opt for accommodation with air conditioning, as it can get hot in Marrakech. If the entry was free, the Secret Gardens wouldnt have been in my NOT to do in Marrakesh list. For example, you can see the type of shops that locals frequent, instead of shops that are geared towards tourists. Save. Before coming to Marrakesh I triple-checked the weather forecast and it indicated 18-25 degrees all the time. Compared with the United States - for example - you are less likely to be a victim of violent crime and much less likely to be assaulted. Don't Trust Any Weather Forecasts. Overflowing with sprigs of fresh mint and sugar for sweetness, mint tea is a huge part of the local culture and ridiculously refreshing in the hot and sweltering climate. Its definitely worth visiting but therell always be crowds of tourists, and with that, comes inauthenticity and steep prices. You should use just your thumb and first two fingers to eat using your whole hand is deemed greed and if you find yourself enjoying a traditional Morrocan meal or, better yet, youve been invited into someones home in Marrakech, be sure to only eat, pass, and pick up things with your right hand. Some locals will tell you that the old Jewish quarter in Marrakech is not safe for visitors. The Kasbah area of Marrakech is just outside and south of the Medina. Copyright 2023 Travel Bag | Powered by WordPress Astra Theme. Caused by a difficult economic context and the consequences of Covid 19, poverty is accompanied by delinquency. Indeed, the bustling atmosphere, the bargains, the thrill of haggling and the assault on the senses is often a big part of the reason why people take a trip to Morocco's Red City. ($$) Riad Al Jana: This riad delivers in a light and airy atmosphere, beautiful doorways, and spa services available on-site. Hivernage This upscale district has hip bars, high-end restaurants, and lavish accommodations. Look for accommodation in well-lit and safe areas, and read reviews from other travelers before booking. Known as the Red City, Marrakech is an enchanting holiday destination. Marrakech is generally safe for foreign visitors and millions of people enjoy it every year without problems, but it has also been a target for terrorist attacks in the past and places where large groups congregate, like tourist areas, religious sites, and protests, are usually the first places to be hit. This guide isnt aimed at hostels though, so the lowest youll find for a private room in a riad with a bed for two people is around $40-50. Therefore, its best to wear somewhat conservative clothes to make your trip more enjoyable. The 8 Best Places to Shop in Marrakesh El Bahia Palace, Marrakesh: The Complete Guide The 18 Top Things to Do in Meknes, Morocco No, you dont need to cover your head in Marrakech unless you visit a mosque. There are a lot of really nice riads in this price range! This rich district has many luxury villas, the Palais des Congrs, the Royal Theater, good restaurants, many shops including the shopping center. It is one of Morocco's imperial cities and a cultural hub. From where to go to what not to eat, how to dress, and how not to get scammed, these are all the things to avoid in Marrakech to ensure you have a problem-free trip. So, is Marrakech safe for tourists to visit? Marrakesh Travel Tips: What to Know Not to Get Disappointed. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Located next to the Kasbah Mosque, the tombs are one of the few remains of the Saadian dynasty that reigned over the golden age of Marrakesh 1524 to 1659.To see the most famous hall the Chamber of the Twelve Columns- you may have to wait in one extra queue. In fact, in all of the areas to stay in Marrakech we highlight below, our value picks (indicated with the $ symbol) are generally in this price range. While Jews could live anywhere in the city, a lot of them did live in the Mellah quarter at the highest point, 70,000 Jews lived in this district. If you want to stay in a spot where you can go out for some nightlife near where youre staying, Gueliz is a good spot for you. Privacy Policy | All Rights Reserved | Global Castaway 2023, Dont waste your time with the Secret Gardens. In this quarter, you can visit the Place des Ferblantiers, the Lezama Synagogue, the El Fasiines Synagogue, the Miara Jewish cemetery, and the Mellah market. Medina This ancient walled city center is a UNESCO world heritage site and by far the most popular part of Marrakech for tourists. Kasbah This neighborhood is part of greater Medina, located near the south gate. Considering this, its no surprise you may feel weary about visiting. Despite rules that prohibit drinking in Islam, Marrakech is a good city for nightlife and caters to its tourist crowds with western bars and even nightclubs playing live music and hosting DJs. Make sure to book a stay in one of the best hotels in Marrakech. Island Safety Explored! Our mid-range riad picks generally fall in the $90-150 price range, and the luxury picks are generally speaking, $150 and higher. Im Slavi, a former reality show Castaway and adventurer, who travels the world chasing an impossiblebucket listand is slightly obsessed with travel photography, all kinds of animals, and pizza! Dubbed as a drum that beats an African identity into the complex soul of Morocco, there is plenty of information out there about what to do and see in Marrakesh, but after my visit, I wasnt as charmed as I was expecting. Gueliz This hip area is newer, has a more European feel than Medina, and is full of lovely plazas, cafes, and restaurants. A few dozen people were wandering around the not-that-major-garden andruining every effort for a peaceful experience. It is true that, when looking for a hotel, as in all tourist cities around the world, it is preferable to identify areas to avoid. The whole old medina section isnt all that large, and youre never all that far from anywhere else in the old medina neighborhood. GET HENNA IN THE SQUARE OR ON THE STREETS, 8. If you decide to tip, give a small amount and keep an eye on your belongings. Haggling is a huge part of the trade in Marrakech, and Morocco in general. avoid parking in isolated places, on the roadside and on beaches due to the risk of break-ins or assaults. Al-Azzouzia, in the suburbs to the North West, is not a place for tourists either and suffers from poverty and deprivation. Built in the late 19th century, intended to be the greatest palace of its time, it completely deserves its name Bahia (meaning Brilliance). The city was filled with such contrasts, amazing sights, and kind people. I will simply tell you below the most popular areas for tourists visiting Marrakech. 2023 Money Guide to the Garden City, The Ultimate Bali Couples Itinerary For Romance On The Isle, Cozumel Best Breakfast Options: 7 Places To Start The Day. Visitors should take certain precautions as they would in other touristy places and women be extra careful and walk with a chaperone when possible, but Marrakech is by no means off-limits to solo travelers. Marrakech has a variety of restaurants, but not all of them are good. Why Skip?Animal abuse | Could be costly | Chance to get pickpocketed. You are going to save me and hubby big time! All your tips will help us decide. The Berber museum hosted inside, while pleasant, is only three rooms big andcan be explored in 15 minutes. There is still a big cash culture in Marrakech, so many places do not accept cards either. Fez - Coolest Place to Stay in Morocco. The Red City, the Daughter of the Desert, the Ochre City whatever you know it as, Marrakech is undeniably iconic and worthy of a spot on any travel bucket list. You can buy alcohol from some supermarkets and liquor stores, and there are even two specialist wine merchants in the Newtown district of the city, but you cannot drink it in public, and acting drunk and disorderly in the streets is strictly punishable by law in Morocco. These sellers can be pretty aggressive and may try to convince you to let them take your photo and then charge you for it or even refuse to remove the snake until you pay them. If your phone supports eSIM technology, consider getting an eSIM from one of the. Its a weird feeling staying in a riad (one I stayed in had my room right on the entrance, so it felt like I was sleeping at the reception) but no doubt a very unique experience that will contribute massively to your authentic Moroccan adventure. The first two halls are an art museum (where paintings are for sale) followed by a few rooms with weapons, artifacts, and some clothing. Beware of pickpockets in crowded areas, especially in the medina. The initial price the merchant tells you is always much higher than the real cost, so always haggle for a price you think is reasonable. The square and marketplace in Marrakechs medina quarter, or old city, is the center of tourism and is still the main place of trade for locals too. If a man was to approach you, the best way to handle it is to say no and walk away assertively. Rating: 9.2 of 10 stars-read reviews here, Read More: An Epic 10 Day Morocco Itinerary. This is why, apart from a few neighborhoods to avoid in Marrakech, the city is not at all dangerous. As the people of Marrakech dont drink much alcohol, caffeine is one of their vices, and coffee as well as other caffeinated herbal teas are hugely popular with locals. Atlas Mountains/Sahara Desert - Where to Stay in Morocco for Adventure. The horses and/or donkeys are not treated any better than the snakes and monkeys (that actually goes for just about anywhere in the world where such carriage rides are offered). If you like art galleries and museums, you can find many here in Gueliz. Never leave bars with strangers you have just met. They are usually two or three days long, but the difference is more than just a day. See Also: The Ultimate Morocco Travel Itinerary, Prices:Jardine Majorelle 150 MAD / 15 USDGardens + Berber Museum 200 MAD / 20 USDYSL Museum 130 MAD / 13 USDCombined ticket (all 3) 300 MAD / 30 USD, Why Skip?Just meh | Overpriced | Overcrowded |Badlocation outside of the medina. Required fields are marked *. time visitor, and then 1 area in Marrakech I would definitely recommend you avoid! Just I'm not agree with your opinion about Jardine de Majorelle . 1. There is a range of accommodations here, suiting all budgets, and some great nightlife, including cocktail bars and live music venues. On the other hand, in Marrakech like many cities in Morocco poverty and social misery have developed in recent years. Is Mauritius Safe to Visit? Housed in a 19th-century palace, the Marrakesh museum is a collection of everything that has some connection to Morocco. Note that it is only a 30-minute walk from the Medina. Are tourists everywhere safe in Marrakech? These are the city's most popular and safe areas that offers a wide variety of attractions and amenities. Many snake charmers mistreat the snakes and may try to extort money from you.
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