SunIsle Holidays

At A Glance

1) Djemma el Fnaa square

Go just before the day ends and grab a table on the top floor of the surrounding cafes and relax with a drink as dusk falls. As the square really comes to life; move down into it and stroll through the exotically dressed water sellers, the snake charmers and groups of drummers. The food stalls may look a little ‘adventurous’, and we haven’t actually tried the roast sheep heads ourselves… but the braver of you should try some of the spicy snail soup or the kebab sandwiches – no51 is our opinion of the best stall in the market but we give no guarantees!!

2) The Souks

So you think you can haggle!! Shop til you drop..?? We challenge you to come out of the souk with an empty bag or a full purse. The souks are a network of alleyways broken roughly into areas denoted by craft’; so the leather souk, the silver souk, the spice souk etc. Go in there with a confident step and a smile on your face and enjoy the experience.

3) The Majorelle Gardens

These stunning gardens are owned by the designer Yves Saint Laurent and provide an oasis of calm and colour to provide a wonderful contrast to the hustle and bustle of Marrakech. There is a Museum of Islamic Art, and the design of the gardens packed with vivid blues and yellows, and incorporating streams and fish-filled pools with exotic flora are truly spectacular.

4) The Hammam

You should definitely experience a traditional hammam; this is not to be confused with the westernised (and sanitised) luxury spa experiences, but the daily ritual of ordinary Moroccans. For a fraction of the price you can do the full works that include being oiled down with black exfoliating soap, a steam in the hammam, a soaping and scrape down and then a massage…. mint tea is optional afterwards but recommended.

With all these experiences we strongly recommend you consider hiring a guide for a day or half a day. They will ensure that you don’t get lost and make the best of your time. They will also ensure that you are not bothered by the less scrupulous traders and also provide you with a running commentary on the culture and life within the city.