Marrakech Information - hotels, restaurants, golf, weather, maps & more

With a population of just over one million people, the colorful and ancient city of Marrakesh has blossomed to become a world capital and one of the most unique cities on Earth. Located in the southern part of Morocco, the city started life as a simple trading post that existed along the long and winding routes from Africa into Europe. But the city has taken on a life all its own, and today, it is a center for culture, the arts and, of course, trade. The famous Djemâa el Fna Square is still one of the most amazing sights any tourist can discover; a marketplace to rival all marketplaces on the planet where you can buy just about anything, and with a good haggle, you can probably buy it for less.

Hotels in the city of Marrakesh run the gambit from palaces to hostels. Overall, the average hotel room in Marrakesh is significantly less than in most European cities, which makes visiting here even more alluring. If you have the extra coin, the four and five star resorts here are as good, if not better, than any you would find elsewhere. These are spots where you might rub elbows with kings, presidents and royalty from all over the world. But even the more affordable spots are lavishly decorated with bright colors and breathable fabrics.

Dining in Marrakesh is a study in fresh ingredients and dramatic preparation. A surprising amount of vegetarian cooking is available here, but once you take a look at the assortment of fresh meats always cooking here, you might not want to bother. Many restaurants, even ones that would be classified as fine dining, offer outdoor tables and dining under the stars at all hours. It gives the dining community here a wide open feel, and while it may take a little getting use to, the lack of pretension and attitude here is quite refreshing. Americans will need to adjust their expectations a little, since things like tap water being served automatically and tipping rules are different here than in the United States.

When it comes to sights to see, the first reason why so many people flock to beautiful Marrakesh is the shopping. While the world famous marketplace square is everyone’s first stop, unique shops dot the landscape here, with each one promising treasures that you simply can not find anywhere else. The biggest problem you might face is limiting your spending to a reasonable amount. More and more retailers here do take credit cards, but it is smart to stick to cash.

Sightseeing in Marrakesh is truly a sight to behold. The majority of buildings here are still painted the traditional salmon color, as they have been for centuries. A stroll down a typical Marrakesh street conjures up storybook images of flying carpets and magical lamps. While you probably won’t meet a genie during your visit, you will feel whisked away to an amazing land. You will likely be left asking yourself why you took so long to visit this amazing spot.