When my best friend from school announced a November visit, I immediately started looking for a holiday destination — somewhere with warm weather, a bit of sightseeing, a bit of shopping, yummy food, maybe a massage and spa, and easy to get to. Marrakech fit the bill perfectly.
Really? questioned James. You want to go back to Marrakech? Where the henna drawer attacked you? And everyone hassled us all the time to buy stuff?
It’s true that Marrakech was not our favourite place when we visited Morocco in 2003. We were harassed constantly in the souks, the food was not great and yes, I was hennaed against my will.
But my friend could only come in November. November, when the weather is cold and rainy in many parts of Europe. November, when cheap flights from Switzerland to anywhere sunny are limited. Marrakesh was pretty much the only option for a short trip. I could put up with the souks. I knew to avoid the henna women. And now that TripAdvisor exists, I was sure of eating well.
Our Marrakech experience
My goodness we ate well. Add in a beautiful place to sleep, a luxurious hammam, a lovely day in the Atlas mountains, and bargaining success in the souks (which are much more pleasant now) — and you have the perfect short holiday. We did get badly scammed within the first 5 minutes, but it’s easy to ignore the scammers once you know what they’re up to. I’d go back in a flash.
Short break in Marrakech – itinerary and tips
Our trip was a 4-day girly holiday, but would also make a lovely romantic getaway or short trip for a group of friends. Here’s an overview — click on the links for more details.
- Day 1: Sights, souks and food glorious food
- Day 2: Atlas Mountains with a market if you can
- Day 3: Cooking class & hammam
- Day 4: Bargaining galore
- Tip: Stay in a riad
- Tip: Don’t get scammed!
A few photos from our trip to Marrakesh
