Morocco Part 2: Souq Chic

Morocco in May is hot - when we were there temperatures climbed to 40 degrees but there's plenty to do that helps you to escape the heat and also makes the city the perfect mini break getaway.

                 

Marrakech is probably most famous for its souqs. When I arrived back, I had dinner with an old friend who's first question was: 'so did you get a leather bag, some spices and a rug?' - the answer was no (apart from a little Ras El Hamut, which Flo works magic with). I only picked up a couple of trinkets whilst I was there, but the souqs are a wonderful experience whether you're shopping or not.      

The old medina souk is a haggler's playground: narrow alleyways overflowing with exotic treasures. You can wander through this rabbit warren for hours safe from the sun's heat which zigzags its way through overhanging wooden slats  occasionally - a reminder of how hot it will be when you emerge into a square. My favourite bits were far away from the main square, where fewer tourists mean you get more (let's call it 'customer service') and also far better prices. The rules of haggling are thus: offer 1/4 or 1/3 of the asking price depending on the ware - it's best to not offend an antique rug seller. Then gradually barter your way towards 1/2 or 2/3. If they look like they're not budging then walk away and count to 10. They usually come running.

In the evenings, the main market square comes to life. The snake charmers and monkey men come out alongside storytellers crouched around fires. The largest awning only food market is located at one end of the square where you can grab steaming plates of unknown ingredients and camp out to people watch. It's magical.

For a sit down drink and food, near  the old Medina, there's a rather lovely bar, restaurant called Cafe Arab. This rooftop recluse serves alcohol too (shhh) so it provides the perfect breezy watering hole between activities. The menu is simple and serves both Moroccan and Italian food. It's over priced for Kesh but worth it - I think - for the view.

I took advantage of the sunshine to check out my purchase: the only bangles that I've tried on that fit my wrists. Could not have been more pleas

  

The absolute go to place in Marrakech has to be the Majorelle Gardens, which have been owned by Yves Saint Laurent and family since the 80s and can be found just outside of the Medina Walls. We got up early one morning and made the dusty half hour walk out to see them. The gardens are beautiful though they get crowded so go early. The are full of exotic plants and cacti. 

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