marrakech
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WanderLittles |
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Mechoui Alley
Just off the main square of Marrakech (Jemma al Fna) you'll find Mechoui Alley tucked into a small street. You can eat tangia here, a lamb dish that's only made here in Marrakech. Mechoui, or whole roasted lamb is also available. You order by the weight (1/4 kg, 1/2 kg etc.) and eat in or take it home.
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Moroccan food in restaurants is aimed at tourists who really don't know better. If you want to taste really good, authentic Moroccan food - the kind the locals eat - you have to eat street food. There's dozens of options but we love olives, msemmen, stewed beans, and skewers of chargrilled meat. Still unsure? Take a food tour with Amanda while you're visiting.
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Open only a few years the Amal Center is wildly successful. Disa_dvantaged women are given job training, life skills and a job at the restaurant. The menu is a mix of Moroccan and European but well priced. Don't skip dessert. You can also book a cooking class here.
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Cafe Clock is a cross-cultural cafe in the kasbah area of Marrakech. Their take on traditional Moroccan with a little bit of pizazz is perfect for families with kids who want to try something new but the kids are unsure. They also always have things happening; from storytelling to musical performances and plenty more.
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Horse and Carriage Ride
Throughout the city you'll find horse and carriages to transport people. Take a loop around the old city or the new city. Kids seem to love seeing Marrakech from a carriage! Make sure to negotiate and agree on the price before going.
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Outdoor Adventures
A short drive from Marrakech is Terres d'Amanar. This hotel has rooms where you can spend the night, or just go for the day. There's ziplining on site for all ages, a big pool, and LOTS of room to run around. There's also horseback riding, a big playground, and a good on-site restaurant.
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Cooking Class
There are literally dozens of cooking classes in Marrakech. Check out prices and class sizes before signing up. Also make sure that the kids can get hands on during the class. You might also consider taking a food tour during your time in the city.
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Jardin Majorelle
This may not be the most exciting place for kids but it is a lovely place to take a walk and cool down on a hot Marrakech day. Come very early or very late to avoid crowds.
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The Medina
The medina is the part of Marrakech most people desire to be. It's iconic but it also has draw backs. It can be difficult to navigate the windy, uneven streets with kids in tow - it's also easy to get lost. But, if you want an authentic feel, to live where Moroccans live, the medina is where to be.
There are hundreds of medina riads. Be sure to check if there are age limits before booking as many set a minimum age (usually 10 or 12). |
The Kasbah
Situated next to the royal palaces, the kasbah is where those that worked for the royal family once lived. Today it's a busy neighborhood with many riads mixed in. You'll be a short distance from the action but not caught up in the middle of everything.
Rent an entire riad here to have space for your family and live like a local! |
The Palmerie
This area of the city was once just a palm grove but today is the "Beverly Hills" of Marrakech. Luxury villas and hotels abound. If you want to get away and relax it's perfect but, know it will take 20-30 minutes by taxi to get to the center of Marrakech from this area.
Some hotels in this area include Jnane Tamsna and Les Deux Tours. |
Outside the City
If you'd rather stay a bit farther afield opt for a hotel or resort outside of Marrakech proper. There are many great family hotels (one even has a waterpark) and more rural bed and breakfast style accommodations as you drive towards the High Atlas Mountains.
Terres d'Amanar and the Pickalbatros Aquapark are two favorites. |
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general tips:
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Morocco is a bargaining culture. If you plan to shop know that you will need to negotiate the prices throughout the purchase. Give 2/3 less than what the seller says the price is and work from there. You should end up somewhere near the middle. If you really like something, act disinterested, even walk away because if the seller knows you love it, the game is over.
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When planning your visit to Marrakech you will want to consider the weather. The summer months can be VERY hot, reaching well over 100F during summer. Winter is the rainy season but much more temperate. Pay attention to the time of year and pack/plan accordingly.
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The currency in Morocco is the dirham. $1US = appx. 9.5 dirham. There are ATM machines everywhere as well as money exchange booths. Do not try to use travelers cheques as they are difficult to redeem.
Morocco is a cash culture. While some places like hotels may accept cards, 95% of stores will not. |
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Jess' note: Amanda also keeps a treasure trove of information on her personal site, and has written "The Outsider's Inside Guide to Marrakech" guidebook you can download to your Kindle!
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