by Ian Gittins
- 03/04/2006
Marrakesh has always loomed large in the popular imagination as a genuinely exotic and fascinating destination. The good news? It deserves its reputation.
Founded in the 11th century, it is one of Morocco's four Imperial cities and functioned as the North African country's capital until 1688.
Now it's a bright, bustling and very modern city with a plethora of sights and attractions for the eager tourist.
A labyrinth of souks and bazaars lies at the heart of the city. Vendors selling spices, leather goods, slippers, pots and various trinkets vie for your attention as you snake through the maze-like streets and alleyways.
Watch carpets being woven in the Zarbia Souk or seek out jewellery in the Souks des Bijoutiers. Haggling is compulsory.
The Place Djemaa-El-Fna lies at the very heart of the pink and ochre-toned city and draws tourists to its busy environs like a magnet.
This teeming square is a riot of spice hawkers, snake-charmers, jugglers and story-tellers, all indecently keen to separate visitors from their dirhams.
If it all gets too much — and it does — retreat, and enjoy a mint tea at the rooftop cafes overlooking the Place.
Visitors keen to escape the city's commercial hustle and bustle find their way to Menara Gardens near the market area. This picturesque retreat houses a lake that was man-made in the 12th century, plus 9,000 olive trees. Morocco has few lovelier sights.
A 45-minute drive out of the metropolis lie the spectacular Atlas Mountains.
Local guides are happy to take you on a four-wheel-drive off-road trip through tiny Berber villages yet to see electricity. It's breathtaking: a place that time forgot.
Equally memorable are the vibrant local markets, where stallholders tether their donkeys before selling clothes, grain, meat and squawking roosters.
While Marrakesh has many fascinating spectacles and attractions, there are also tourist traps to avoid.
Local tour guides are keen to shuttle you off to Fantasia, a tented banquet and all-action extravaganza billed as a cross between Ali Baba and Disneyland.
Be warned: it's nothing of the kind. A fez-wearing waiting staff serve up cold couscous and the shoddy live show cares little for animal rights.
Marrakesh is relatively compact and after three days you may find its pleasures are exhausted.
But the city known as Morocco's Pearl Of The South is perfect for a romantic weekend break and you are guaranteed to depart with a wealth of memories.
