THE MIDDLE EAST & EUROPEAN SERIES PT10
MARRAKESH, MOROCCO
After my connection in Casablanca I arrived in Marrakech and was immediately surprised by the fresh-looking airport followed by the usual hassle of taxi drivers fighting over your business.
MARRAKESH WAS DIRTY BUT HAD PLENTY OF CHARACTER
If you have ever been to Marrakech you will know that if your hotel isn’t on the main road then expect problems finding it. The roads only go so far until you reach the tiny area of the city called Rahba Kedima. From here it’s out of the car and time to explore. The entire old town is a maze of tiny side streets and alleys, where anyone would be forgiven for getting lost.
WHERE IS MARRAKESH?
Arriving into Marrakesh
VENDORS
I was not surprised how Marrakesh turned out. It was me mix between Cairo and Tunisia but leaning more towards the hectic nature of Cairo. You still got that unfriendly aspect from the place especially from vendors. I would go as far to say the vendors were some of the worst I have ever come across.
In Thailand for example where almost all of the population depends on tourism the vendors can accept the word no, even with a smile. Whilst here and Cairo they will walk alongside you until you either ignore them which they make entirely difficult or continue to force their product or service upon you until you agree to have a look or burst into fits of tears.
Arriving into Marrakesh
RELATED READ: A NAKED SWEDE AND ANGKOR WAT
FIGHT FIRE WITH FIRE
If I come across a few aggressive vendors and I have a little time, I usually enjoy wasting their time because they are happy to waste mine as well as being upfront rude and ignorant. But it’s not always the best option, especially when you are alone. Anyway, I checked in and after a scout around the old town headed to bed before my interest day of snake charmers tomorrow.
Arriving into Marrakesh
RATINGS….
- PEOPLE – 6/10
- BACKPACKING – 7/10
- SAFETY – 7/10
- WEATHER – 8/10
- THINGS TO DO – 7.5/10
- VALUE – 8/10
NEXT UP
Getting a snake thrown at my throat in Marrakech! Click to read.
SAFE TRAVELS, DS x
108/229
This post is part of The Middle East & European Series, click to explore or for episode 1 click here.
