Sun, souk and snakes, three things you’re guaranteed from a trip to Marrakech. We travelled at the beginning of April on the search for pre-summer sun and discovered so much more. The average temperature at that time of year hovers around 18 degrees Celsius and rises steadily as summer approaches.
We stayed in a Riad slap bang in the middle of town, just around the corner from the main souk and a short walk to the market square. (Riad is a traditional Moroccan house or palace with an interior garden or courtyard. The word riad comes from the Arabian term for garden, “ryad”.)
Dar Housnia is an oasis nestled amongst the bustling streets, tight with people, mopeds and animals all jostling for space. Once we opened the big wooden doors into the courtyard we were transported to a much-needed place of calm where we enjoyed the classic Moroccan mint tea and local delicacies over dinner including the ubiquitous beef tagine.
The famous main square Jamaa el Fna is a must visit. Whilst it’s busy during the day it really comes alive at night. Street entertainers (lots of snakes) and all manner of bright colours and sounds make for an unrivalled sensory experience.
Marrakech for the weekend is the perfect mix of cultural exploration and relaxation. The souk provides an experience so far removed from a trip to the high street or even a day’s shopping in the west end. There are so many fabulous items on sale including clothing, bags, spices and food. Haggling is of course obligatory and became second nature within minutes. After a hard days shopping the riad allows you to unwind in a tranquil setting and somehow even manages to block out the noise only streets away.
I’ve never been to morocco before but always fancied it x
Marrakech was great for the weekend – such a contrast between the souks and the riad too. Maybe you could do a cheeky weekend away 🙂