Visiting Marrakesh, Morocco

One of the best parts of a trip to North Africa, and of course of a trip to Mococco, is Marrakesh. It was once the capital of Morocco, and today it is a thriving, bustling town. Marrakesh is one of those unique places that has a big impact upon a lot of visitors, not because of great sightseeing but rather because of all the different kinds of people and unusual characters you meet there. I can't imagine how you could have a boring stay in Marrakesh.

One of the focal points for visitors is the Djemma el-Fna, the massive central market. It really is more than just a regular market, it is something akin to a circus sideshow or a travelling carnival. It can be overwhelming, and you need to have your wits about you to resist the approaches of all sorts of people seeking your attention, and to protect your wallet. But if you can relax and simply be assertive and know your boundaries, then you can freely enjoy this massive freakshow for what it's worth. In the area of the market gates, there are cafes with terraces and verandas where you can sit and observe the craziness down below you as you sip coffee and smoke tobacco from an Arabic water pipe. As the sun sets, the marketplace starts to change appear an eery mixture of blue and orange. After darkness falls, the market and its surroundings become illuminated with lanterns, as it descends even deeper into the realm of the surreal.

The entire city of Marrakesh is dotted with historical relics and monuments, and is enclosed by Old City walls. Around Marrakesh you will see various towers and fortifications, which increases the desert atmosphere and reminds you that you are in North Africa. No matter where you go you will experience some traditional desert atmosphere, and even though Marrakesh is not a new destination for tourists, it is very far from spoiled and it is a great place to experience Morocco with a touch of big city weirdness.