Marrakesh
Introduction The Pearl Of The South
Seasons
Best times to visit are rose scented spring (Mar-May) and temp-tastic autumn (Sept-Nov); winter can be razor nip-inducing, while your furnace would be more agreeable in summer.
Islamic holy month Ramadan means abstaining from food and drink in daylight hours for followers, and very discrete public consumption for everyone else, so plan accordingly.
Opening Hours
Shops in the Medina generally open 10am-7pm daily, except for Friday afternoons, while new city stores usually operate Mon Sat from around 9.30am-6pm.
Safety
Like any big city, you’ll need to be sensible. Don’t carry obviously valuable items, dress respectfully, take taxis late at night, ignore catcallers, keep purses close and pockets empty.
Languages
Languages: Darija (Moroccan Arabic); French; Tachelhit (Berber)
Getting Around / Taxi to town
Marrakech Menara Airport to town = 20 mins / 70Dh (Petit Taxi) / 100Dh (Grand Taxi)
Money - exchange rate / cash / card / tipping
The currency is the Moroccan Dirham (Dh), 10Dh = approx. 1USD. While there is no rule of thumb, tipping is welcome. Add 10-15% to your restaurant bill (if it hasn’t been added already), and keep some small coins and notes handy for drivers and villa staff.
Int’l calling codes codes
International calling code for Morocco is +212. Marrakech landlines are prefixed with 05, and mobiles 06.
Useful numbers
Tourist police: +212 524 384 601
Ambulance: 150
Public Transport
In Marrakech, there are two types of taxis: beige coloured Petit Taxis that operate within city
boundaries and take 3 people max, and larger Grand Taxis that carry up to 6 people and can take you out of town. Fares are officially fixed (PT 70-100Dh, GT 100-150Dh), but an extra surcharge (50%) applies after 9pm. Some cheekier drivers may need reminding of the official rates, so best agree on the fare before you ride.
Etiquette
While Marrakech is relatively liberal, you’re still in a predominantly Muslim country where modesty is not only appreciated, but expected. Bikinis are fine by the pool, but best leave your favourite bum grazing hotpants at home and opt instead for loose, shoulder and knee covering attire (men and women). Mosques and shrines are for followers of Islam only, and
always greet and eat with your right hand (your left is for hygiene). Kissing hello on the cheek is common only for members of the same sex a handshake or smile will do nicely otherwise.
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