The weather... is obviously marvellous.

Summer can be very hot. But then again, you are in a Riad, almost an artform developped over the course of centuries, and the whole house is constructed in such a way that it keeps out the heat during the day... and keeps out the cold in the evening.

The Autumn is a summer that can not say goodbye. But the temperatures are nicer now, no longer influenced by hot desert winds... in fact a very good springtime.

Winter is the season of Marrakech. The weather is now like spring in Europe, which means that you have all the energy for hikes, sports, visits to the Atlas or the great south.

In Springtime the really warm days are arriving... and the lovers of sunny and warm weather.

The clothing... for summer, but bring something warm as well.

After all, we are not in the desert. Also we have our periodical showers or cloudy skies. So bring lots of summer wear... but do not forget at least one outfit for a day of rain or chilly evenings.

Sunglasses and sun protection are indispensible. However, you are here in the souks, so should you forget something from home... you will find it just around the corner.

Remember you are in an other culture, and appropriate dress is highly appreciated. Just "casual smart" will take you a long way. This is the country of Ingrid Bergman and Bogart... and also top of the line classy restaurants or environments.

Getting by in Marrakech... walking and taxis.

For such a large city, Marrakech is surprisingly easy to discover - mainly because of the low costs for taxis.
That is... if you make sure you take a Petit Taxi (the small taxis) and first look if the driver has set the meter. If he doesn't, you can ask him to do so, as this is required. Then a drive of several kilometres or miles can cost as little as 10 MAD.

The Grand Taxi (or big taxi) is meant for destinations out of the city centre - but then again, they can take you just anywhere, even up to Ouarzazate or Essaouira. It is very common to share a taxi with others. If you will really travel a long distance, ask your driver to share the taxi with others, so you can split costs in 2, 3, 4 or 5.

And in the medina... you can walk, and obviously get lost. No, there is no way around that! And so it should. Morocco is par excellence a country to just wander about, discover, and occasionally go for a tea.

What to do and what to see... a very, very wide range of possibilities.

You are close to both Atlas Mountains and the great south... two landscapes without comparison... and in a city with a 1000 year old history. The options are limitless:

• Climbing: In the village of Armed for level 4 to 6c.

• Trekking: Circuits for all levels in the high valleys at an altitude of over 4000 meters, within a one hour drive from Marrakech in the direction of Imlil, Asni Ijoukak or the Zat Valley.

• Winter Sports: Equipped with a ski station, l’Okaimden is one of the most beautiful ski sites of Africa.

• Canoe-Kayak: In Ourika and Assif Nfiss (in March and April).

• Casino : The casino of Marrakech is open every day, late at night.

• Getting back in shape: Its exceptional climate, its fairy tale like environment and the refinement of its « art de vivre », make Marrakech ideal for all those that are looking to get back in shape or for wellness. You will discover the enchantment of the orient at a massage with essential oils, black soap or with a bath with natural essences. The city offers a wide range of fitness centres, thalassotherapy, spas, saunas or traditional hammams. In total, over 6000 square meter are dedicated to wellness and health, both in hotels as well as in independent centres that are open all year round, with a dedicated and professional staff.

• Congresses and Seminars: At a 3 hour flight from most European countries, Marrakech offers everything for a succesful congres, meeting or exhibition.  With the Congress Palace of Marrakech and the different conference centres around the city, professionals have over more than 25 000 square meters for any event or convention.

• Wining and Dining: Marrakech boasts restaurants that are simply fabuleous. For exquisite Moroccan cuisine, Restaurant Al Fassia is an institution. But we can point you towards so many wonderful places, in exceptional locations. We will be more than happy to point you in the right direction.

The craft work... if there were an Olympics for it, Morocco would win hands down.

Ever since the 16th century, Morocco has been known for the creation of exotic and refined objects that, from an early time on, were taken back to Europe by traders and soon decorated the salons of the higher classes. This “maroquinerie” slowly became synonemous for high quality articles in leather. Still very alive today, this tradition of leather continues in the souks of the medina of Marrakech, and goes hand in hand with the production of all sorts of other objects: tapestry, rugs, tissues, pottery, artistic iron, jewels… Rustic Berber or typical Marrakchi objects can be found in the medina as well as the trendy shops of the Gueliz neighbourhood.

Arts and artist... an exceptional cultural inheritance.

How to talk about the culture of Marrakech without telling about the painters, writers and artists world wide that are fascinated by this city ?

After the very many and famous European painters, it became a talented generation of Moroccan artists that is distinguishing itself. Painters, sculptors, designers, stylists… Marrakech is a city bubbling with talent, fusing traditional arts with oriental techniques.

Marked by its authenticity in combination with modernity, the “Marrakech Style” makes the headlines of fashion and decoration magazines.

Faithful to its tradition of openness, Marrakech is also the site of numerous expositions, shows and festivals. The Royal Theatre welcomes, among others, the classical concerts of the Philharmonic Orchestra of Morocco.

Every year, the international film festival of Marrakech, the “FIFM” is a 10 day event that attracts celebrities and media attention from all over the globe.

The history... do you have three hours?

Summarising the history of Marrakech in less than a 500 page book is impossible. Remember the city is 1000 years old, has been influenced by the original Berber (Amazigh) people of the region, as well as by Arabs, later the French, and the city was, on and off, in competition with Meknes, Fes and Rabat, capital of the country, depending on the choices of the ruling dynasty.

Better than reading about it... ask us. Your host Saïd is a true connoisseur of Marrakech's and Morocco's magnificent history.

More...?

Why not come and discover. Aren't it always the less prepared travels... that are the most surprising and unforgettable?

Or... just ask.

Thank you for your visit.