If you reach gridlock, politely turn down the offer and go to leave - you may find that this is enough to quickly get your final offer accepted. But, dont let fears of safety put you off spending afew days in Marrakech. Location: 200 yards from Djemaa El Fna, 350 yards from Souk of the Medina, Room Type: Standard Double Room, Superior Double or Twin Room and Suite, Location: 15-minute walk from Jama El Fna Square. For example, one afternoon we enquired with our riad manager how much a taxi should cost to 'x'. Action cameras come in many shapes and sizes find the perfect alternative for you. Hire a professional guide and let them take the strain. You can look at TripAdvisor for the best places to eat in Marrakesh, read reviews, and find somewhere that sounds as though its going to be amazing. With Marrakech Train Station a 15-minute drive and Marrakech Airport only 2.5 miles away, youll be fine getting around. But then I booked a private guide with whom I went to explore souks and I felt so safe. Yes, Marrakech can be safe for female travellers, especially when accompanied by another friend. Food in Marrakesh means Moroccan food and that means tagine, tasty salads, flatbreads, and that ubiquitous Moroccan favouritevery sweet mint tea. You have to eemember that most locals earn a fraction of what Europeans earn so that kind of excuses the behaviour a little i guess. Heavy rains can cause flash flooding in Marrakech, in which event you should heed the instructions of local authorities. Its a question we are often asked by readers thinking about heading to the red city one of the most popular places in Morocco. Riad Daria, just a 15-minute walk from the bustling Jama El Fna Square, offers a lovely rooftop terrace with a seating area, a plunge pool to beat the heat, and a massage room for ultimate relaxation. If you want to have a unique Moroccan experience, I highly recommend staying in a riad instead of a hotel. If however you're travelling around a little longer, to a few other places, it will absolutely be worth bearing in mind that this is probably not the cheapest place to shop, not for quality goods anyway - and especially not if you're a dreadful haggler. Its a shame to say it but women travelling alone may face some issues, too. Certainly, you won't struggle to get by if you don't speak French or Arabic, but as with anywhere in the world, a little smattering of the local lingo goes a long way -not only when establishing important information such as directions or bus times, but also in showing that you're willing to try. You may be thinking that you cant drink the water in Marrakesh but you would be incorrect in thinking so. Others will offer to guide you to a specific attraction. As we said, hassle doesnt mean a place isnt safe. Is Marrakesh Safe for Travel? With a limited number of rooms, every stay feels like a personalized retreat, complete with home-cooked meals lovingly prepared by your hosts. All rights reserved, Is Marrakech safe? Keep the cash you carry to a minimum. Its really annoying having a pickpocket secretly pinch your cash and can change your perception of a country. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. Traffic comes from all directions. Quite an interesting read, I didnt feel unsafe in Marrakech but definitely from all the cities in Morocco we visited I felt most alert and even a bit uncomfortable especially with two young daughters beside me. In Marrakesh, were going to level with you: theres a lot of opportunities for petty crime. Plus, to help your trip go as smoothly as can be, weve actually got a few pointers for you solo travellers. I was happily following Google when I met a closed gate. 2 Carry bags that are not easily snatched or opened, 4 Be aware of your belongings if someone is distracting you. Great tips. Public parking is available on site, and Marrakech Menara Airport is a quick 1.9-mile trip. Morocco's pink city can be incredibly overwhelming, and whilst you can absolutely visit without having done the research, knowing what to expect or some top travel tips for Marrakech can make your visit all that more enjoyable. Looking for some relaxation? Travel news, itineraries, and inspiration delivered straight to your inbox. Avoid exploring the quiet streets of the Medina at night especially if you are alone. Be smart and careful of your surroundings no one else is there to look out for you! Since most sketchy characters come out after dark, we definitely wont recommend going out at night whether thats for a couple of drinks or travelling to your next destination. Each one-of-a-kind room is decked out with Berber carpets and a crafted mirror, ensuring a unique stay. Chill in the cadale tent on the terrace or stay connected with free Wi-Fi in the inviting living areas. If youre thinking of exploring beyond Marrakechs city limits, make sure to avoid all travel around the Berm, which is Moroccos militarized boundary in Western Sahara. The public transport in Marrakesh is not the best not much so much in terms of safety but just how not very good it is. Morocco is a Muslim country and its important to remember that even visitors should be at least respecting Islamic law and local customs. Actually, that's kind of a nice way to put it. Bookings // Booking your trip via the links in this guide will earn us a small commission, at no extra cost to you. If youre travelling with teenage girls, take tips from teenage girls the same age in the city and try to follow what theyre wearing. The riads location offers easy access to sightseeing tours, and theres even a car rental service available for your convenience. Everything is expensive considering its a 3 rd world country. Youre probably going to want to be careful about food; make sure its been served to youhot. A passenger health form must also be submitted. If youre in the mood for some TV time, head to the spacious lounge and kick back. Well have a look at our Weekend in Marrakesh Itinerary). But Marrakech does have its challenges. But it does require ignoring lots of false requests to provide help and planning your own route around. We would, however, recommend Marrakesh as a place for solo females who have travelled places like this before. Youre connected. Marrakesh is totally safe to travel with families. However, keep in mind that prices do fluctuate . A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic booooring. Running times are fromaround 6 amtill about 9:30 or 10 pm. Whilst there are plenty of cheap hotel rooms and luxury resorts outside of the medina, we'll scream 'til blue in the face that you can't come all the way to Marrakech and not stay in a riad - after all it's kind of famous for them. To avoid this, choose busy stalls (where food doesnt sit for long) and seek places where locals are eating. As one of the safest countries in the Middle East and Africa, it provides an excellent destination for exploring a completely different culture. For travel to Marrakech, its also a good idea tocheck your immunisations. The Pacsafe Money Belt is our best bet. Yes, you can usually drink alcohol in Marrakech riads, but its always best to check with the individual riad as some may have their own policies. Each room in the riad offers a cozy wardrobe, a patio with an outdoor dining area, pool views, and a private bathroom stocked with a hairdryer and bed linen. The best way to cut a trip short, or simply put a dampener on your holiday, is to fall for some stupid scam or get money stolen from you. Driving into the centre of Marrakesh is tough too. Riad Zhor offers more than just a place to rest. Its just that easy. Chinese tourists are beginning to show up in the city as well. Morocco has a poor road safety record. And Morocco? In 2017 Marrakesh broke its own record, crossing the 2 million mark for tourists in the city with more than6 million overnight stays; thats a lot for a city with a population of just under 1 million! Chill out on the rooftop terrace, complete with tables and chairs, or unwind by the courtyard pool with a refreshing mint tea in hand. Its exciting, energising and a great way to experience a very different culture to what you might be used to in the west. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the property to keep you connected. Just be smart, and you'll be fine. These hotels come with family rooms, family amenities, and people will generally be pretty happy to help you with any request. The comfy, air-conditioned rooms come with seating areas, private bathrooms featuring a bath, shower, and hairdryer, and extra touches like a safety deposit box and bed linens for a pleasant stay. Just a 2-minute walk from the famous Jama El Fna Square and a short 450-yard stroll from Bab Doukkala Mosque, youll be right in the center of the action. However, they will accommodate you; big meals with all the family are very much the norm in Morocco and people will try their best to get you and your family seated in their restaurant. I think its a place to just be a little cautious. They may try to direct you to places you dont want to go, to sell you stuff you dont want, or act as faux guides who can be difficult to shake. In Marrakesh, the upscale neighborhoods of Gueliz and Hivernage offer luxury and safety, while areas like Sidi Youssef Ben Ali and Douar Sidi Daoud are less desirable due to limited infrastructure and lower safety standards. Dont forget the sweet puddings, doughnuts and other delights that can make this city a veritable haven for foodies. Nestled in the heart of Marrakechs old Medina, Riad Zhor is the perfect getaway, just a quick 10-minute walk from the vibrant Jama el Fna Square. An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! It joins notable pieces of legislation like 2003's Medical Marijuana Program Act that expanded patient rights while establishing a voluntary ID card program aimed at helping patients avoid arrest for using their medicine.. This sounds harsh, yet, if you take one piece of advice from this article, make it this - it'll improve your experience 100%. We imagine youll be staying in one of Marrakeshs family-friendly hotels. Oh, and try not to pay too much attention to signs - especially those pointing to Jamaa El Fna. Catrin is a history enthusiast based in Wales. Oftentimes, the interiors feature elaborate timber ceilings, sculpted plaster, and lovely mosaics as part of their lavish decoration. Now that you know what a Riad is, lets jump straight into our recommendations on the best riads in Marrakech. But as in any place in the world, the chances of incurring serious trouble are greatly increased in less populated areas and if you are on your own at night. Overloaded motorbikes zoom up. He was absolutely right. We recommend that you respond to all requests, saying no thanks firmly but politely and walking on. Theres no regard for signposts. If possible, we'd probably recommend getting a riad that at least has a plunge pool - you'll be thankful for it when it's 45C out! Technically it should have some plants in four planting beds and a central fountain. There are no obvious lanes, few footpaths and an apparent lack of road rules; it is chaos, and absolutely not the place to stare down at your feet, or at your phone. We visited Marrakech in the deepest darkest depths of winter; it was still 24C and sunny most of the time. Traditional Moroccan dishes are prepared for lunch and dinner. Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox. Now it's your turn, so quickly decide how much you'd like to pay and go in a little lower. It can build a false picture of the dangers of visiting these places. As the situation changes regularly, check the foreign travel advice from your home country before your trip. By using these, you are directly supporting Along Dusty Roads to remain an independent travel blog, and to create free guides to help you travel more, travel better. Theres a lot going for travelling the world by yourself. Public transportation is somewhat reliable and safe in Marrakech, especially ALSAs tourist buses. Dont expect to find facilities in most restaurants were talking things like high chairs and childrens menus. Most buses run every 20 to 15 minutes and are pretty cheap. It's a. Avoid the white grand taxis, which are large but may pack in more passengers than is safe or comfortable. I have been in a number of riads. Enjoy its scenes play out from one of the cafe terraces, maybe have a meal at its lively night restaurants, but lower your expectations. Updates // We do our best to keep the information in this guide up to date, if you notice anything has changed, please leave a comment below. Riads often serve as a cool retreat from the heat of the outside world. Whilst you'll find plenty in the new town, they're few and far between in the Medina - and the ones that do exist often only accept domestic bank cards. While violent crime is highly unlikely and petty crime possible but still rare, the chances of being verbally hassled by locals is high. Other factors to consider regarding Marrakech safety include street harassment, which remains common despite a law against it; female travelers might consider dressing in conservative, non-revealing clothing. Just remember, don't get caught up in wondering whether he would have gone lower. If you're only visiting Marrakech, and nowhere else in Morocco, you can move on from this point - go forth and spend all your monies on spices, rugs and pretty pots. In the evenings, unwind in the bar or lounge, sipping on your favorite drink. Cultural differences, plus the medias over-representation of rare events, can sometimes make places feel like they are more dangerous than they actually are. 1. Almost all sights are centrally located and easily walked to. Required fields are marked *. But the short answer is, yes, Marrakech is safe. Room Type: Suite with 2 Single Beds, Suite with Double Bed, Suite with Single Bed and Double Bed, Deluxe Room with Single Bed and Double Bed. Its affordable, it looks and acts like a belt, and its sturdy what more could you ask for out of a money belt! The food in Marrakesh is not always going to be up; its easy to get a stomach bug from something as simple as the cutlery thats not been washed up so properly, so here are some pro tips to help you and your stomach have a good time here. And when it comes to safety, there are few things to be aware of. If youre thinking about living, however, there are probably a few concerns you have. Having visited other cities in the country during August, we can imagine just how hot and stifling it gets here in the summer months! Each room boasts Moroccan details and furnishings, alongside a private bathroom for your convenience. When hunger strikes later in the day, indulge in traditional Moroccan cuisine at the riads restaurant or take your meal to the terrace for a more alfresco experience. However, hassle and all that comes with it doesnt mean that a city isnt safe and that goes for this one. There have been no major issues in Marrakech since 2011. If you choose to purchase through these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. News of terror attacks, crimes against western tourists or anecdotes of being hassled in exotic souks, quickly make their way across both social and traditional media. A riad is a classic Moroccan house or palace with a courtyard or garden inside. And dont forget to take advantage of the helpful services, like organizing tour excursions, airport transfers, and enjoying the cozy traditional lounge. Top Tip // If youll be visiting Marrakech as a solo traveller (especially if youre a solo female traveller), wed recommend you consider staying in a hostel. As a side note, things can get quite pricey in Marrakesh. Just come armed with some helpful strategies, and you will quickly learn that beneath the hard sell, Marrakech is a fascinating and beautiful city. To get yourself to a good clinic or hospital, ask the staff at your accommodation theyll know the best ones in town. Nestled in the heart of the Medina of Marrakeshs Bab Doukkala area, Maison Belbaraka is a charming and well-maintained guest house that offers a serene retreat from the citys bustling streets. The term 'riad' means garden but it is applied to town houses built round a central courtyard. Sign up for our free newsletter. Sometimes the cars are a bit not up to par with Western safety standards (missing window winders, cracked windscreens, questionable interior decor), the drivers may be super speedy, you might get ripped off. We are Paul & Mark, two curious & adventurous travellers who provide practical information to help you make the most of your travels. Marrakesh recorded over2.4 million tourists. But do not fear! These are pretty old, theyre usually jammed full and make for a generally not very nice way to travel. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers. But some practical planning will help keep you safe. Unlike a lot of other money belts out there, theres no big pouch to get in your way and look obvious under clothes, no extra belt to wear if youve already got a belt on, no discomfort. You see, despite having visited Morocco a number of times in the past, upon leaving Marrakech, we completely forgot that we weren't actually supposed to take the local currency out of the country, or that changing it - or spending it - once you've gone through airport security is next to impossible. We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. At best it will end up with a trip to this helpful stranger's family shop, at worst it could end with an aggressive insistence that you pay for their guide (often after you've already followed them and completely lost you sense of direction). Sebastian, Travel Blogger Updated Jun 20, 2023 La Sultana Marrakech Rated 9.4 in 138 reviews. But Marrakech does have its challenges. And be sure to read our guide on the best things to do in Marrakech to find out all about the citys many souks! First things first, if youve never stayed in one, you might be wondering, what is a Riad and how does it differ from a hotel? The buses are run by a company calledAlsa. Fortunately, Marrakech is a very compact city, so there is no need to hire a car. Even if youre just going on a road trip from Marrakesh to Fez, for example, theres still so much to worry about and take into consideration on the roads. In this guide, weve got a ton of tips, ways to not get scammed or how to deal with taxis! Married couples weve spoken to often report the same thing. Sadly, sex tourismincluding child sex tourismis a growing industry and does draw travelers here. Thanks for sharing. If, however you continue to find the hassle annoying, dont let it ruin your holiday. Staying in a riad in the old medina of Marrakech is a unique experience, but it is not for everyone. Portia Jones from the travel blogPip and the Citysays that the specific concern for solo female travellers is unwanted attention and comments from locals. Just a 10-minute stroll from Jama El Fna Square and Koutoubia Mosque, this riad features an inviting outdoor pool complete with a poolside bar, perfect for unwinding with a drink. Picky eaters will probably be ok eating things like bread and potatoes, but its a big city with a fair few international eateries, too. Each morning, enjoy a delicious continental breakfast in the dining room. Weve had excellent road trips in Morocco, so if you intend on travelling further afield read through our advice ondriving in Moroccowith tips for staying safe on the roads. For example, the citys historic medina is a must-see, but pickpockets are common there; visitors should keep valuables well under wraps and be aware of their surroundings at all times. Its just a little bit more mental in Marrakesh. The streets are packed, it's a big city, and poverty (to an extent) is an issue. Im sure youll love it. The road fatality rate is approximately 9 times higher than in the UK. In terms of the most common safety concern in Marrakech being hassled unnecessarily there is little to discriminate between different types of travellers. Obviously, theres the romance of living in the walled luxury of a riad, but then again you really are going to be consistently and constantly challenged by simple, everyday life in Marrakesh. Remember, that by paying massively over the odds, you're making it much harder for everybody else that chooses to visit. Don't Trust Any Weather Forecasts. But thousands of sex workers do work in places like Square 16 November, Avenue Mohammed V, and Rue Yougoslavieand the government mostly turns a blind eye. No more boring hotels you deserve WAY BETTER. (Insider Tips). Price Range: $183 - $252 USD per night. Instead, buy an eSIM! Readers often ask us, is Marrakech safe to visit? I would have love to explore and enjoy more if it wasnt for the aggressive panhandling and con artists. Even with 10 minutes of bartering, it was only heavy rain plus the end of a guy's shift that meant we got a lift for 30 dh. Enjoy your travels! Riad Porte Royale is a sustainable gem tucked away in a historic building right in the heart of Marrakech, just a stones throw from Le Jardins Secret. With Jemaa El Fna Square just a 2-minute walk away, youll be in the heart of the action. It also makes arguing with taxi drivers a lot more fun! Together we have appeared in countless travel publications including ABC News, Huffington Post, Travel + Leisure, USA Today, and more. If you need to go out, get yourself a reliable taxi. Taxi drivers will lean out the window and chat with passing drivers whilst speeding. All Rights Reserved. Is your phone eSIM ready? Staying in a riad in Marrakech, Morocco is generally safe, but its essential to choose a reputable establishment and take standard precautions, like safeguarding your belongings and being aware of your surroundings. 1. Room Type: Economy Double Room, Standard Double Room, Superior Double Room and Deluxe Room. As a first-time solo female travel destination, we wouldnt be recommending Marrakesh anytime soon. Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe! Tragic events like these make worldwide news and are often all we hear of Middle Eastern and African countries. You can walk around the city with good peace of mind knowing that the chances of getting attacked or mugged are very small. By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. At this welcoming Riad, youll find a 24-hour front desk, a terrace, and a bar, all ready to make your stay unforgettable. Steer clear of prostitution in Marrakech. For the rest of the time you can take taxis, which are generally inexpensive, but never fear: for the truly budget-minded there are local buses. So, keep the swimwear for the riad pool and stick with something that at least goes beyond your knees, covers your shoulders and doesn't reveal too much boob for exploring the streets. Sometimes the reputation of a place goes before it and, actually, the destination isnt half as bad as you imagined. If you can get over that, then theres the safety points, the pickpockets and scammers, but if you look confident and walk like youve been to Marrakesh before, chances are people arent going to try any unsuspecting tourist stuff on you.
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