15/12/2009
Probably the biggest tourist attraction of Marrakech is Jemaa el Fna, the main square, and the spider web of streets leading from it into the medieval maze of Souks that make up the Northern Medina. Much of the Medina is the same as it was centuries ago and within a few minutes walk from Jemaa el Fna you can become lost in a world of sights sounds and smells right out of a scene from Arabian Nights. Row upon row of stalls and tiny shops selling everything from carpets and leather goods to powders and potions to cure all known ailments. The spice markets are a must visit providing a dazzling array of smell and colour than overwhelms the senses.
The hustle and bustle of the souks can be intimidating at first but it is a unique experience. Except for the occasional scooter or moped the souks are more or less free of motor vehicles. Watch out for the donkeys however as they are the preferred method of transport.
Haggling is de rigueur... never pay the asking price. In fact counter a sellers first offer with a price approximately 1/3 of the amount and you won't go far wrong if you end up paying around 50% of the original price. But first shop around as prices tend to get lower the further away you stray from the main square.
The best bargains are to be found in the rug merchants and spice and perfume markets where prices will be significantly lower than in the U.K.
SOUK SHOPPING DO'S AND DON'TS
1. Take some Moroccan change for tipping (or sweets for the children). You are bound to get lost and will probably need to ask for directions. There will be plenty of Moroccans prepared to guide you back to Jemaa el Fna... but at a price!
2. Take cash as many of the smaller shops and stalls don't take credit cards.
3. Haggle, haggle, haggle!
4. Don't go on a Friday. This is the Muslim holy day and the markets are closed from lunchtime onwards.
5. Watch out for pickpockets!
