MARRAKECH | What to see in Morocco's most vibrant city
In this episode, we'll explore the imperial city of Marrakesh. Extremely popular as a tourist destination, it retains its ancient charm, catapulting visitors into a kaleidoscope of colors, flavors, and aromas. Vibrant neighborhoods and streets alternate with uniquely beautiful historic buildings. If you're planning a trip to Morocco, Marrakesh is a must-see.
Below, as always, you'll find a wealth of useful information to enhance your stay in Morocco.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
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LOCAL CURRENCY
The local currency is the Moroccan dirham. Its value is currently approximately 1:10 to the euro. 1 € is therefore equal to 10 dirhams. Always keep an eye on its value fluctuations. Current exchange rates clearly allow you to easily convert any amount from the local currency to the euro.
As in every country in the world, it's best to exchange money in the city center, NOT at the airport. Change/withdraw cash at the airport only as much as necessary to get to the city center (which isn't far). There are several places where you can exchange money. Here's one near the central Jemaa el-Fnaa square that usually offers a favorable exchange rate: https://maps.app.goo.gl/iVRLuMvWfuQpd....
PHONE SIM
You can purchase a SIM card directly at the airport. You'll find stands selling SIM cards just before exiting the terminal, right next to the door, on the left. They'll likely cost you a little more here (with Maroc Telecom, the basic package started at €20). If you have an emergency or immediate need, you can buy them here (be aware that the stands close at midnight, so you might not arrive in time if your flight lands late). If you're not in a hurry, you can head downtown where I've listed the following, also for top-ups: https://maps.app.goo.gl/oAnBnagVPDrn8....
SHOPPING, BARGAINING, and HOW TO AVOID SCAMS
As is well known, in Morocco, almost every type of purchase is haggled over: from taxi rides to purchases in markets and sometimes even in stores. The first price they offer will almost always be disproportionately high. You should ALWAYS negotiate, because prices are essentially based on your geographic location, and you can often even cut the initial price in half.
BEWARE OF UNWANTED SITUATIONS: Marrakech is a wonderful city, but unfortunately, you have to be a little "smart" in certain situations. Locals will often have a tendency to put you in situations where, at a certain point, you'll feel obligated (or "kindly" make you feel obligated) to pay something. Remember that NOTHING IS FREE here, so before handling exotic animals or being "guided" by random people, ALWAYS ASK IF THERE IS A COST (there will be) AND HOW MUCH. If they say something like "don't worry," insist and make it clear that if they don't tell you in advance, you won't do anything or you won't pay at the end of the experience they're offering you.
One example is in the tannery area: they'll strike up a conversation with any excuse and then offer to take you around the tanneries, workshops, and shop (where the shopkeepers will be insistent on making you buy, be warned). It's an experience I recommend, but be sure to negotiate the price first.
Another example: henna in Jemaa el-Fnaa Square. They'll often try to start drawing on your hand without you even asking. If you don't agree on a price beforehand, you'll find yourself in a heated argument when they ask you €30-40 for a €5 job.
Also be careful with street artists: as mentioned in the video, you can't photograph or film them without leaving a donation.
It's unpleasant to say, but 95% of the time someone talks to you, it's to get you to pay. I want to point out that this is the case in Marrakech, but absolutely not in other parts of Morocco! Essaouira, for example, is a different story, and you won't experience this sometimes unpleasant "climate."
... useful information continues in the featured commentary.
CHAPTERS
0:00 Intro
0:52 Koutoubia Mosque
2:37 Souk - The Market
4:04 The Tanneries
6:52 Jemaa El-Fnaa Square
8:14 Historic Center
9:38 Ben Youssef Madrasa
10:38 Jewish Quarter
11:56 Bahia Palace
1:08 El Badi Palace
15:01 Outro