Marrakech villa holidays

Marrakech is the kind of place where you find snake charmers and fortune tellers in one area of the Medina, before turning the corner to be greeted by monkey trainers and an abundance of orange juice stalls. To get a great view of the city and all its sights, hop on to a Calèche (horse-drawn carriage) and the driver will take you wherever you want to go – just don’t forget to bargain down from the inflated price he may try to charge you.

For a true taste of classic Moroccan cuisine, try a Tajine with cous-cous. Named after the clay pot with a cone-shaped lid in which they are gloriously slow-cooked, Tajines usually combine meat or fish with fruits and vegetables to provide a wonderfully traditional meal. Delicious filo pastry dishes such as Pastilla or Briouettes are real favourites, and to sample a bit of everything, why not try a selection of international cuisines at the Palmeraie Golf Palace.

Renowned the world over, the Souks and Bazaars of Marrakech give those who like to shop a great chance to test their bartering skills. Laid out in the narrow streets to the north of the Medina square, you can find almost anything if you look hard enough. From lanterns and carpets to herbs and spices – each section specializes in a particular type of product. Those keen to expand their horizons and venture into the city by evening will be tantalized by the Night Market, where the shopping experience is heightened by the street entertainers and musicians.

Whilst many of the more sacred buildings are out-of bounds to non-Muslims, there is more than enough in Marrakech to keep those intrigued by the city’s colourful history. The pink dried mud walls of the old city date from the 12th century, and both within and outside of them there are countless places to see. From the fabled Badii Palace to the Saadian Tombs, hidden in a beautiful garden at the end of the narrowest of passages - you will find a reminder of Marrakech’s fascinating past.

Religion
In this predominantly Muslim country, religion should be respected at all times; Non-Muslims are only allowed to visit mosques on organised tours; See below for more information about the religious festival of Ramadan.

Ramadan
Ramadan is a festival that takes place across the Muslim world every year. The exact timing of Ramadan varies from year to year, and involves a month of fasting between sunrise and sundown for people of Muslim faith. To respect local customs, you should not eat, drink or smoke in public during Ramadan in Morocco. Alcohol is also not normally served until after 19:00 - however, most restaurants are open during the day for non-Muslims. Any loud music/entertainment does not take place during this festival. Take note that businesses in Morocco also operate reduced hours.

Alcohol
Alcoholic drinks are not widely available for purchase in supermarkets or other shops in Marrakech. However, alcohol can be purchased in restaurants and bars.

Clothing
Modest clothing should be worn - For example: sleeveless tops are ok when walking around the city, but swimwear should be restricted to beach and pool only.

General etiquette
Avoid public displays of affection; avoid pointing the soles of your feet at people – this is seen as rude; always ask permission before taking photographs of local people – and in general, avoid taking photos of local women; only use your right hand when offering or receiving things; taxi fares should be rounded off to the nearest Dirham.