Marrakech

Morocco is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Africa, especially the city of Marrakech which is also known as Morocco’s Red City or Rose City because of its rose-colored buildings. Marrakech, written as Marrakesh locally is the former Imperial capital of Morocco and is currently Morocco’s largest city. The city lies at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains and is bordered by deserts and faces the Atlantic in the west. For tourists who want an exotic African vacation, Morocco is a must-see because of its beautiful attractions, its fine Marrakech weather and nice Marrakech hotels. Marrakech can be reached by air through the nearest Marrakech airport, the Menara International Airport and from Casablanca via train.

Marrakech weather is often fine because of its Mediterranean-like climate which makes the city a very popular destination among tourists. Marrakech hotels and riad Marrakech inns are very comfortable and accommodating. Marrakech restaurant and souk cuisine are very tasty. Tourists can even experience shopping for and cooking their own Moroccan meals in cooking workshops.

A Moroccan vacation is not complete without touring Marrakech which is easily reachable by train from Casablanca. The city can also be a starting point to Casablanca which is also reachable by air at Marrakech airport.

Marrakech is a small city whose attractions are easily reachable from most riad Marrakech inns and Marrakech hotels. Listed below are the most popular areas of Marrakech as well as touring suggestions:

• Djemaa el Fna – is a popular square and market located in Media or the old city. It is a popular destination for tourists who shop for souvenirs from the various souks (open market stalls) in the square. The food from the stalls is a must-have experience for visitors. There are also Terrace cafes available for visitors to get away from the bustle of the crowds but remain among them. Street performers like magicians, dancers and snake charmers in their colorful costumes will pose for tourists. The square is also a popular nighttime destination for food and drink and the more vibrant atmosphere.
  
  
• Medina – or the old city is known for its ancient 11^th century structures all tinted in various shades of red. There are several tour services available that take tourists around the old red defensive wall and to the mosques (Muslims and special guests only) tombs and other places.
  
  
• Balloon Rides – tourists can experience the popular balloon rides in Marrakech where they are escorted from their Marrakech hotels and also enjoy camel rides to the open site where the balloons await. The rides are safely scheduled to avoid the winds and rain of the Marrakech weather.
  
  
• Desert Exploration – Tourists can experience the scenic African desert through camel rides or by riding quad bikes sponsored by touring services. Some tours begin or end by having meals in riad Marrakech homes.
  
  
• Koutoubia Mosque – is the largest mosque in Marrakech often visited by tourists for its beautiful red architecture and its surrounding areas after which they can stay in riad Marrakech inns.

As a popular tourist destination, the city has many Marrakech hotels to choose from. Many are inexpensive budget hotels and riads where tourists can stay for less than 100USD per day like the popular Riad Dar Dialkoum and Riad Menzeh. For more comfortable accommodations and complete amenities, the Riad Dar One and Dar Charkia are the more popular choices.

Whether visitors of Morocco come from Casablanca or Fes, a visit to Morocco is not complete without stopping by Marrakech if only to experience Medina or the souks of vibrant Djemaa el Fna. Marrakech can also be the first stop before visiting other exotic places in Morocco.