Hypnotised by the images of Marrakech on Pinterest. Morocco has always been on my bucket list of countries to visit. With heaps of multicoloured spices, Marrakech is a city filled with exotic culture.

Always after an authentic cultural excursion, opting to be enticed by old Marrakech, to experience the city like a true local. Morocco is at the northern point of Africa, with its coastline along the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It is the fourth largest city, it compromises of old and new architecture, with an eclectic mix of medinas in between.

 

Riad Papillon 

An authentic experience, is always the best way to experience a country, with that said staying in a riad was paramount in the decision making. Meandering through tight alleyway's and sharp corner's, upon arriving at the riad it was love at first sight. A beautiful cascade of light through the centre of the building. With five rooms in total coming off at each landing an intimate setting. Each detail of the finishing touches carefully thought of. Delicate mosaic tiling, creating a beautiful ambience across the entire space. The staff at the Riad Papillon were second to none, and I would highly recommend their services. Deliciously light breakfast to start the day, with the inclusion of advice of getting around complete with their own complimentary app.  

 

 

 

 

 

Souks

One of the most surprising, discoveries of Morocco is that it is a predominantly French-speaking country. I had expected it to have hints of Spanish, due to the border being so close, and the colonial history. Stepping into the 42-degree temperature is definitely an overwhelming experience for the senses. With tight alleyways, and motorcycles zooming past at every corner, it is a bit much to take in all at once. Having heard so much about the souks, it was top of the list of places to explore, with warnings from friends and the staff of the riad, it was very important to absorb as much information as possible, to avoid being misdirected to locations and to understand the style of haggling in Morocco. Unfortunately, the advice was an understatement of the actual atmosphere, the locals were incredibly aggressive. Descending through the souks, it became very apparent every other stool had identical items, with a mixture of knockoffs. With a country so heavily reliant on tourism, it was incredibly disappointing to have such a bad experience. 

 

Essaouira

To make the best of the trip, headed to the coastal region, a 3-hour drive from Marrakech Essaouira is known for its fishing harbour, and bohemian hang out's for artists, such as Jimmy Hendrix. Similar to Marrakech, the medina is located in the centre of the city, with more craft-based businesses and artwork, and in general, a lighter mood compared to the medina in old Marrakech. One of the highlights of Essaouira is visiting the region where argan oil is produced. It has become a tourist attraction as the goats only climb the trees with argan, which is indigenous to the area. Outside of this, there is not much to do in Essaouira, but nonetheless, it was nice to experience natural manufacturing process of the argan oil. 

 

 

  

Medersa Ben Youssef 

The Ben Youssef Medersa was an Islamic college, named after the sultan Ali Ibn Yusuf who increased the cities influence. It was closed for renovation and has since opened as a historical tourist attraction. Comprising of a courtyard style architecture and beautiful Arabic calligraphy, with a mixture of geometric patterns. Running parallel to the centre of the largest courtyard are mini courtyard's leading into yet more mini enclosures. An authentic taste of Moroccan history. 

 

 

 

 

Majorelle Garden

The Majorelle Garden, often known by the colloquial name of YSL Garden, is a botanical garden and archaeological museum. Known for its electric cobalt blue exterior walls and its affiliation with the French designer Yves Saint Laurent. A tropical oasis the garden is filled with brightly coloured foliage and cacti, set against the backdrop of the Mies Van Der Rohesque house in the centre. An intimate circulation of space. in the heart of the city.

 

Bahia Palace

My favourite stop of the entire trip, the name itself speaks of greatness Bahia meaning "brilliance". Built to capture the essence of the Islamic and Moroccan architecture. True to custom it consists of a 2-acre garden, with rooms opening on to the courtyard. As you look above, the ceiling is beautifully decorated to perfection. Detailed Corinthian columns and carefully crafted to reflect the beauty and elegance of that period, a must see. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Saadim Tombs

Similar in style to other tourist attractions in Marrakech, the tombs are renowned for their beauty and intricate detailing. The mausoleum comprises of tombs of the Saadi Dynasty. The building has been charmingly restored to reflect it's elegance. 

Morocco is an archaic city, with an injection of modern lifestyle growing in the city. To truly enjoy the authentic experience, have your wits about you, get a male tour guide and stay no longer than three days. 

Riad: A traditional Moroccan house or palace with an interior garden or courtyard

Souk: An Arab market

Medina: A distinct city section found in many North African cities, typically with narrow alleyways. 

All images are copyright of Copper Dust

 

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