areas to avoid in marrakech

10 Things to Know Before Going to Marrakesh, Morocco - Anna Everywhere Plan on walking the rest of the way there. Best Time to Visit Colombia Plan Your Trip Today! 14 Best Things To Do in Marrakech Updated February 11, 2021 The major attraction here is the city itself. A two-night trip simply isn't enough time. If you have any questions or suggestions that would allow me to improve this blog, do not hesitate to leave me comments! There are so many beautiful riads in the medina; you're right that they're the best places to stay. Find Out Now!Continue, Africa is a continent of contrasts, offering stunning natural beauty, rich cultures, and welcoming people. Located north of Annakhil, the Palmeraie is the most exotic district of Marrakech. Here are some key things to avoid: When youre walking down the street and stop to check your phone to determine where you are, this signals to any scammers nearby that you are an easy target. Where to Stay in Marrakech (TOP 5 Areas in 2023) - The Broke Backpacker Conservatism and Islam go hand in hand. Jemaa el-Fnaa is a bustling square in Marrakech with snake charmers, street performers, and food vendors. Kasbah This neighborhood is part of greater Medina, located near the south gate. Be cautious of taxi scams and always carry small bills to avoid overpaying. If you do, please let me know cause I sure as hell didnt. time visitor, and then 1 area in Marrakech I would definitely recommend you avoid! Explore the 10 Most Dangerous Places in Africa. While they are generally safe and easy to use, remember to always keep your belongings on you, as pickpocketing is common. I would just avoid the area completely. High Atlas Mountains and 5 Valleys Day Trip from Marrakech - All inclusive -. The exception to this is in the Gueliz neighborhood, where the streets are broad and wide. When it comes to dining etiquette, eating in the wrong way can seem greedy, but there are other ways of overindulging in Marrakech that could cause offense. All of them have their own identity, ambiance and interest. Required fields are marked *. Women are advised to cover their shoulders, legs, and decolletage in Marrakech unless theyre relaxing at their hotel or partaking in an activity that requires a specific dress. Where to Stay in Morocco: The BEST Areas in 2023 - The Broke Backpacker These commissions help keep this site running. Where To Stay In Marrakech: 5 Best Areas & Neighborhoods Updated: April 12, 2023 Marrakech combines history, luxury, and culture into one exciting package. The Medina of Marrakech is the oldest and most historic part of the city its actually a UNESCO world heritage site. I call it the Rome of Marrakesh since all roads in the medina lead there (psst,Igot an awesome post about the real Rome. Eating with your hands is deemed very sanitary in Marrakech, but thats because Moroccans have strict rules around how to do it. The first two halls are an art museum (where paintings are for sale) followed by a few rooms with weapons, artifacts, and some clothing. If you are looking for one of the most beautiful hotels in the Medina, I recommend you The Koutoubia Gardens. RIADS: Finally, I really would recommend staying in a riad, not a hotel. As the name suggests, you can also enjoy the spa at this riad! The Quartiers des Tanneurs is one section of the Medina that I would absolutely stay away from. And I know, getting a cookie from the old man dressed in the quirky traditional red Moroccan robe is an experience by itself. Driving in Marrakech can be chaotic and dangerous, especially for tourists. An Essential Guide to Marrakech's Souks - Culture Trip Medina is the best overall area for first time visitors due to its proximity to . Copyright 2023 Travel Bag | Powered by WordPress Astra Theme. Ramadan is a holy month in Islam, where Muslims fast from dawn until dusk. So, is Marrakech safe for tourists to visit? Indeed, even if Marrakech is less risky than Mexico City or Rio de Janeiro, tourists should be aware of the risks they may run in Morocco. Youll find its possible to walk between many attractions, and if you are tired or its too hot, hailing a taxi is easy, just be sure the driver turns the meter on! Essaouira - Where to Stay in Morocco on a Budget. While its not necessarily dangerous, per se, the tannery is known for its exceptional abundance of scammy tactics and behavior. The Marrakesh Medina is an incredible exotic place that will surely overwhelm all your senses. Where to Stay in Marrakech [2023]: 5 Best Areas (Plus 1 To Avoid!) The roads are narrow, and traffic laws are only sometimes followed. This one is not nearly as famous as Jardine Majorelle but its way better positioned inside the medina. Dare to take a photo of them you have to pay. VISIT THE MONKEY HANDLERS AND SNAKE CHARMERS, BEST TIME TO VISIT MARRAKECH | IDEAL MONTHS AND SEASONS, 3 DAYS IN MARRAKECH A COMPLETE MARRAKECH ITINERARY. Moreover, you're just a stone's throw away from the Atlantic Coast, where the vibes are chill and the surf, legendary. People don't realize how far away the Sahara is from Marrakesh. ct intro final 1/1 Sign in to confirm your age Best mid-range hotel: La Claire Fontaine I would also advise people not to take one of those hokey horse-carriage rides. It is a safe, modern neighborhood that is popular with tourists who enjoy going out and shopping. No, you dont need to cover your head in Marrakech unless you visit a mosque. Never leave bars with strangers you have just met. Avoid touching them or getting too close, as they may carry diseases. Le Grand Cafe de la Poste is a well-known and Instagrammable caf in Gueliz, but the most famous attraction here is the blue and yellow Jardin Majorelle. Top 6 Safe Destinations in Central America | Trip Planning, Is La Paz, Mexico Safe? Spend your days exploring the quiet courtyards and snaking alleyways of the historic Medina, walking through the serene Jardin Majorelle or taking in the beauty of the city's mosques before ending the evening at a one-of-a-kind riad. Look for accommodation in well-lit and safe areas, and read reviews from other travelers before booking. If you like art galleries and museums, you can find many here in Gueliz. However, in Marrakech as in the majority of large cities, insecurity has great geographic disparities. Marrakech is a welcoming city and absolutely safe for Jewish and Israeli visitors. Many luxury amenities and services are offered at La Sultana.Rating: 9.6 of 10 stars-read reviews here, Read More: 16 Unique Things to Do in Marrakech, Morocco. Avoid raw or undercooked meat, unwashed fruits and vegetables, and tap water. As Marrakech (and Morocco in general) is a very dry country, you will find almost no bars in the Medina, and almost no restaurants that serve alcohol. Street Performers: Are They Worth the Money? Driving in Morocco: A Guide to Navigating a Morocco Road Trip, 13 Souvenirs From Morocco to Bring Home With You, 24 Delicious Traditional Morocco Foods to Try, How to Do the Monkey Fingers Hike in the Dades Valley of Morocco, 26 Traditional Moroccan Food to Eat in Morocco + Best Restaurants, The Best Riads in Fes, Morocco for Couples (Where to Stay in Fes), 5 BEST Sahara Desert Tours from Fes, Morocco, 5 Absolute BEST Sahara Desert Tours from Marrakech. The most beautiful madrassa in the country is a bucket list must-see but is currently under renovation. Is Marrakech safe for tourists? Gueliz This hip area is newer, has a more European feel than Medina, and is full of lovely plazas, cafes, and restaurants. Many traditional Jewish homes here were given to poorer Muslim families, creating poverty and conflict. NO : Marrakech should not be considered dangerous. Avoid Medina's street food 6. Like anywhere else, avoid walking through unfamiliar areas alone at night and beware of pickpocketing and petty theft. Street food is the Best food in Marrakech. Marrakech is generally safe for tourists, but its essential to take precautions to avoid petty crime and scams. Theme by 17th Avenue, Travel Tips for Marrakech, Morocco | 10 Things NOT to do, 3. I went toCafe Glacierwhich has one of the best views. Moreover, if you plan to visit attractions outside the city center, go with a tour group rather than arranging the trip alone. Working Hours:Daily from 9:00 AM to 12 PM and from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PMPrices:Entrance 70 MAD / 7 USD. The safest and most popular areas to stay for tourists are: Knowing the countrys laws and culture and the common scams in Marrakech will keep your trip safe and pleasant. Totally worth it! However, its easy to get a taxi here for 15-20 dirhams (about 2-3 dollars). Marrakech has a reliable public transport system, including buses and trams. Be prepared for both extremely hot and quite cold weather conditions. Today, most Jews in Marrakech live outside the Mellah quarter, in the newer parts of the city, and many Muslims live in the Mellah district. There is also a rooftop caf serving pretty good tajine and offering excellent panoramic views. Check out everything Marrakech is famous for! These street guides may approach you even if you dont look lost and offer to show you around. 1,124. If you go early enough, unlike the gardens, there is a big chance to have the palace all for yourself.There are plenty of rooms and gardens to explore and enjoy fine Moroccancraftsmanship. Luckily, there are a lot of good areas to stay in around the city and where you choose just depends on your own personal preferences! Prices:Entrance 80 MAD / 8 USDPanoramic Tower 40 MAD / 4 USD. What is the best time to visit Marrakech? Climate change: the chilling reality of baking cities Its totally worth the wait, though, since its one of the most beautiful halls in the world.Psst! In the world of Instagram, Marrakech is king. Its in a great location just around the corner from the Ibn Youssef school. What many digital nomads and expats like about Marrakech is despite being a bustling city, there is quite a relaxed and slow pace of life here (compared to many western cities). Beware of fake tour guides, touts, and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. Medina This ancient walled city center is a UNESCO world heritage site and by far the most popular part of Marrakech for tourists. Dubbed as a drum that beats an African identity into the complex soul of Morocco, there is plenty of information out there about what to do and see in Marrakesh, but after my visit, I wasnt as charmed as I was expecting. The 5 Most Dangerous Places In Morocco To Know About, How To Travel Between Cities In Morocco: The Complete Guide, Is Singapore Expensive? To enjoy an explosion of smells and colors - all while being as far from snakes as possible, of course - try and visit the souks during the warmest hours of the day. The whole old medina section isnt all that large, and youre never all that far from anywhere else in the old medina neighborhood. There are still sites, tourists, and street hawkers, sure, but just a little bit less than on the south end. In addition, we must also add a special constituency, the pachalik Mechouar Kasba with in particular the area of the Kasbah, the Royal Palace and the Agdal district in the extension of Avenue Mohammed VI. Top 20 Interesting Barcelona Facts You (probably) Didnt Know. We were in the Square a lot and never had any problems with them. The last major terrorist attack on Marrakech was in 2011, which killed 17 people and injured 25. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Medina of Marrakech is the most popular district for tourists who want to be in the heart of the old town, the sites to visit, the Jamaa Alfna square and the souks. Here are a few extra things to consider when visiting Marrakech. Alcohol is available in Marrakech but is not widely consumed due to the citys conservative nature. Sure, its not the safest city in the world, but is it really too dangerous to visit? Avoid shorts, tank tops, and revealing clothing. Marrakech is a predominantly Muslim city, so respecting their religious customs is essential. The arches surrounding a garden pool is jaw-droppingly beautiful and the carved stucco throughout the entire property is gorgeous. Beware of overpriced goods, scams, and pickpockets. Never take the first price youre given and negotiate as much as you can, its all part of the fun. Marrakesh is fairly safe and the risk of violent crime here is low. Best Country to Visit in Africa Top Destinations for an Unforgettable Trip. While all central areas are safe during the day, you should avoid walking around the narrow streets and alleyways alone at night. If a man was to approach you, the best way to handle it is to say no and walk away assertively. You need to pay double to remove it, even you didnt want it there in the first place. Despite being recently revived, it still has problems with crime. 7. 4 Day Yoga Luxury Retreat in the Heart of Marrakech. Fez - Coolest Place to Stay in Morocco. Among the most beautiful hotels in the Palmeraie district, I recommend the Tigmiza Boutique Hotel & Spa. 6 Day Fabulous Culinary Holiday in Marrakech. The colorful markets, known as souks, are a symbol of Marrakech and you can get anything from traditional clothing and footwear to spices, shisha, tea sets, and lamps, as well as jewelry, watches, and designer leather goods. In Gueliz, youll find more modern, western style hotels, and very few traditional Moroccan riads. Its definitely worth visiting but therell always be crowds of tourists, and with that, comes inauthenticity and steep prices. If the bus is busy and you are standing, hold your bag in front of you rather than on your back or side. So while it is annoying and there are more women-friendly countries in Morocco, you can still have a safe and enjoyable time in Marrakech. The riads are the traditional Moroccan houses with two or more stories surrounding an Andalusian-style courtyard in the middle. Get mobile data in Morocco This way you can have access to Internet if you ever find yourself in a tricky situation. Marrakech has a significant digital nomad and expat community, especially in the Gueliz district. Street performers are common in Marrakech, but be cautious when tipping them. 16 Top Things to do in Marrakech Morocco - Journal of Nomads Stick to well-established restaurants and be cautious of street food. Gueliz - best place to stay in Marrakech for nightlife. Rating: 8.8 of 10 stars-read reviews here. Enjoy the performers, skip the food stalls (more on that later), get your future read, or maybe even get a henna tattoo. Rooms are particularly large and the location is not far from attractions.Rating: 9.6 of 10 stars-read reviews here. Stick to bottled water and cooked food from reputable vendors. Tourists are the first targets for petty thieves, so keep your valuables close to your person and wear bags and rucksacks on your front or under clothing to protect money and electronic devices. Opt for accommodation with air conditioning, as it can get hot in Marrakech. This is definitely where to stay in Marrakech if you want to be close to it all. 1. Thank you very much for this very helpful info. Negotiate prices and be aware of your surroundings. Among the most beautiful hotels in this area, I recommend the Sofitel Marrakech : The Palmeraie district is popular with tourists looking for a quiet place while remaining close enough to the center of Marrakech. Top 10 Dangerous Places in Cape Town Stay Safe! Trying to figure out where to stay in Marrakech in 2023? One last thing that will keep you safe when visiting Morocco is having travel insurance. All your tips will help us decide. ($) Hotel Racine Marrakech: This hotel is a much more modern hotel with traditional Moroccan touches. You are going to save me and hubby big time! Considering this, its no surprise you may feel weary about visiting. Regarding taxis, choose the small ones (Petit taxis) rather than Grand taxis as the former has rear seat belts while the latter does not. The only downside to working remotely in Marrakech is that you may not get an excellent WiFi connection everywhere. All opinions are my own. 4. Some locals will tell you that the old Jewish quarter in Marrakech is not safe for visitors. I strongly suggest you resist the urge, though. Avoid taking photos with them or giving them money. Morocco is more liberal than some Arab countries, but there is etiquette to follow. If you decide to tip, give a small amount and keep an eye on your belongings. The tap water in Marrakech is unsafe to drink, so sticking to bottled water is essential. Before coming to Marrakesh I triple-checked the weather forecast and it indicated 18-25 degrees all the time. To stay in the old town (while remaining careful at night) at a low price, here is a typical and charming riad in the heart of the Medina : Your email address will not be published. Use small change Keep as many coins on you as possible, and avoid paying for items with large notes. This goes hand in hand with haggling in the souks. Read More: 17 Moroccan Scams to Watch Out For (And How to Avoid Them). The Medina in the center is one of the most visited areas of the city, but the narrow dark streets of the interior can feel unsafe at night too and women shouldnt walk alone here. Its hard to resist stocking up on souvenirs to take home, especially when you can get them at reasonable prices, but dont let yourself be taken for a fool just because youre a tourist. The best times to visit Marrakech are from March to May and between September and November. So, I decided to write aboutall the things NOT to do in Marrakeshand give you the alternatives that will save you time, money, and maybe even food poisoning. Is Mauritius Safe to Visit? From the bustling markets to the lively nightlife, there is always something to do in this Moroccan. The three-day one is going to Merzougaalso known as one of the best places to explore the beauty of the legendary desert. Don't Trust Any Weather Forecasts. Its just such a more personal experience, and such a traditional and cultural experience at that! However, knowing the culture and common scams will significantly help you have an enjoyable experience. There is a tower with lovely panorama views, but of course, you have to pay extra (30 MAD) to get there. However, it can only be purchased and consumed in licensed hotels, bars, and restaurants. I think being able to walk to many of the sites is an important consideration, so the majority of the neighborhoods I recommend here are within walking distance, or at least a short taxi ride, to wherever you need to go. ($) Riad Dar Palmyra: This charming riad has delightfully cozy rooms, a peaceful garden courtyard, the smell of jasmine in the air, and some traditional Moroccan architecture, all for a very inexpensive price.Rating: 7.6 of 10 stars-read reviews here, ($$) Riad Maison Arabo-Andalouse: This riad has beautiful spaces, with tiles that are very colorful, and rooms that are very comfortable and nicely decorated. Ben Youssef Madrassa. On the southeast side of the medina is the Bahia Palace. Al-Azzouzia, in the suburbs to the North West, is not a place for tourists either and suffers from poverty and deprivation. The palace itself is a masterpiece of architecture. Morrocan culture is a blend of tradition and religion with Berber, African, Arabian, and Jewish influences. The Kasbah area of Marrakech is just outside and south of the Medina. You could spend weeks in Marrakech and still not see all that this exciting city has to offer, but two or three days is a good amount of time to get a taste for the culture and visit most of the major attractions. These Marrakech travel tips can serve as a helpful guideline for travel all over Morocco, but are especially useful for major tourist cities like Marrakech and Fez. Is Marrakech Safe? Tips For Avoiding The Hassle - Anywhere We Roam Hivernage - where to stay in Marrakech for luxury. Marrakech (and Morocco) is generally safe to travel to if you understand the countrys law and exercise caution. If you want to stay in a spot where you can go out for some nightlife near where youre staying, Gueliz is a good spot for you. The city has a history of terrorist attacks and crimes against western tourists. Research restaurants beforehand and read reviews from other travelers. I share with you all my best tips and tricks to help you plan your next adventure. 5 Day Yoga and Hiking Holiday in Atlas Mountains, Marrakesh-Safi. So is grabbing a bite at one of the numerous stalls that pop up every evening on the Djemaa el-Fna square. However, its essential to dress modestly and avoid revealing clothing. Marrakech (and Morocco) is generally safe to travel to if you understand the country's law and exercise caution. Is Bab Deggagh and area to avoid? - Tripadvisor You can usually see when things are kept clean, and a good queue at a stall is a sign that the food is good. With such a diverse collection, you expect to find at least a few intriguing pieces. Another concern is violent crimes against tourists. If youre visiting during Ramadan, respect those fasting and avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during the day. 1. Most riads have pretty good soundproofing and really work to create an oasis from the city. Use licensed taxis and negotiate the fare beforehand. This is much lower than the global average, so Morocco . It is in this area that you will enjoy a magnificent palm grove in the shape of a very exotic oasis. However, theres so much more to explore beyond the walled limits and although visiting Marrakech is a must, dont neglect the beaches, mountains, deserts, and charming towns that the rest of this country has to offer. Best to just walk purposefully and avoid eye contact. From where to go to what not to eat, how to dress, and how not to get scammed, these are all the things to avoid in Marrakech to ensure you have a problem-free trip. Many women in Morocco might choose to veil or wear hijabs, but locals are by no means expected to dress the same. No guest should upset their host, shoes should be removed before entering mosques and Islamic homes, and religious talk should be censored. Housed in a 19th-century palace, the Marrakesh museum is a collection of everything that has some connection to Morocco. However, we implore you to not allow your time in the city to be fully shaped by staying at the riad with 'that pool', visiting 'that spa', drinking at 'that cafe' - by all means experience those places, but don't restrict your experience of a wonderfully complex and textured . Almost every travel site in the world is overrun with tourists these days, but many of those places are still beautiful and worthwhile. Its a weird feeling staying in a riad (one I stayed in had my room right on the entrance, so it felt like I was sleeping at the reception) but no doubt a very unique experience that will contribute massively to your authentic Moroccan adventure. Located near the medina, Ben Youssef Madrassa used to be the largest Islamic college in Morocco. There are many coworking spaces and plenty of work-friendly cafes and coffee shops. Marrakech is a conservative city, so its crucial to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Is Marrakech Safe At Night? - Space Coast Daily safety ratings to France, Germany, and the U.K. Best Coffee Shops in Barcelona for Quality + Atmosphere, Best Coffee Shops and Cafes in Granada, Spain. The Berber museum hosted inside, while pleasant, is only three rooms big andcan be explored in 15 minutes. Absolutely nothing wrong, there is just a better alternative. It's very likely that you will be verbally hassled by locals, particularly in the heart of the medina. Densely packed with palaces, gardens, souks, and mosques, its easy to get caught up in all the sights and smells that Moroccos fourth largest city has to offer, especially if youre a first-time visitor.

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