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. It is one of those special places that travellers will be deeply impacted by, not necessarily because of its sightseeing spots but based on all the different kinds of people and interesting characters you encounter there. It is very difficult to have a boring experience in Marrakesh.
The main draw for tourists is the city's Djemma el Fna, the huge central souk, or marketplace. I know you've probably seen countless markets and are thinking "Another market?" But this really is a market like no other. It's more like a circus sideshow or a travelling carnival. It is an overwhelming place, and it's important to stay alert and not get taken for a ride by any vendors or scam artists, or get pickpocketed. 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 vicinity of the gates where you enter and exit the souk, there are terrace cafes where you can sit and overlook the madness while sipping tea or smoking sheesha. Around sunset, the buildings in the marketplace start to turn an eery blend of orange and blue. After dark, the area is illuminated with lanterns, and the surreal scene becomes even moreso.
The city is punctuated by historical ruins and monuments, and is surrounded 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.
Get a Political Map of North Africa at Free Printable Maps.
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