Marrakech revealed – insider tips

Whether you’re travelling as a couple, with friends or maybe a family getaway, lowcostholidays.com will give you the low down on everything you need to know about Marrakech.

When is the best time to go?

Marrakech has amazing weather as well as all the other countries in Morocco. The destination is popular all year round but especially during the July and August period. On average temperatures reach a scorching 31°C for 6 months (April to October). From November to March, temperatures are not so high but its buzzing atmosphere still attracts visitors at all times.

There’s no such thing as boredom!

The streets of Marrakech are like an ancient tale brought to life. Drift away down winding roads watching snake charmers and admiring the antique buildings. The people of Marrakech celebrate their freedom from slavery by having a free concert called the ‘Festival Gnaoua et Musiques du Monde’ in ‘Essaouira’. The concert occupies the entire month of June and provides acts from all over the world, belly dancers, music for everyone and delicious Moroccan delicacies.

Spoilt for choice

There are many restaurants offering high quality food from all over the world. ‘Narwama’ is owned by a chef from Bangkok that infuses Thai tastes with Moroccan and produces mouth-watering food. The restaurant also serves fruity mojitos and other alcoholic/non-alcoholic beverages. There are other places that served Moroccan style grilled chicken and steaks, although not so much pork as it is an Islamic country.

What’s the shopping experience like?

Trying to find shops that sell really unique, high quality souvenirs can be a pain in foreign countries. But worry no more! Marrakech has many shops that cater to your every need whether it be a toothbrush from the supermarket or a Moroccan cookbook from the book store. ‘Acima Supermarket’ has your every need, soap, toothbrush etc, and ‘African Lodge’ has henna painted orb table lamps and camel-saddle coffee tables, and when you think it doesn’t get any better, there’s a DHL shipping service around the corner!

What’s the exchange rate?

£1 = 14.1 (MAD Moroccan Dirham)

What is the emergency number?

19 for police, 15 for fire and ambulance.

How do I get around?

It is better to get around by foot as some of the roads can get congested with trucks and vans. However, you can always use car hire.

What language do they speak in Marrakech?

The official language for Morocco is Arabic. However, there are some places that speak French. So if I were you, I’d get both dictionaries out!