Marrakech Destination Guide
Marrakech is divided into two distinct parts: the Medina (the historical city) and the new European modern district called Gueliz or Ville Nouvelle. The Medina is full of intertwining narrow passageways and local shops full of character. In contrast, Gueliz plays host to modern restaurants, bars and big brand stores.  The majority of the tourist areas in Marrakech are within a very small area. The main square and market place is called the Djemma el-Fna and it is within the Medina. The square is frequented by both locals and tourists alike with entertainment on offer throughout the day including magicians, story tellers, Chleuh dancing boys and dozens of food stalls. The pace and entertainment varies throughout the day with the busiest time being in the evening.

Marrakech Attractions
The Menara Gardens are the city’s botanical gardens filled with rare plants and bright colours and originally designed as a summer escape. Famous fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent had his ashes scattered here. Near to the gardens is the district known as the Hivernage, this is the richest part of town where many of the luxury hotels are located. The Mohammed VI Avenue is the heart of the Hivernage and hosts the Royal Theater, the new station, the Palace of Congress and a range of shops.
Another popular attraction is the Bahia Palace. Built in the late 19th Century, its name means ‘brilliance’ which says it all. It combines both Islamic and Moroccan style and originally housed Si Moussa, the grand vizier of the sultan. It is an opulent palace with stunning mosaics, intricate rooms, gardens, courtyards and pavilions. Admission costs 10 Dirhams at the time of publishing. P Diddy even managed to hold his 2002 birthday bash here.

Marrakech Excursions
Worth a Visit / Day Trips include:

•    The Koutoubia Mosque
•    Majorelle Museum
•    Bert Flint Museum
•    Day trip to the Atlas Mountains
•    Camel trekking
•    4x4 desert excursion

Spas have become very popular in Marrakech with many high quality and well renowned private spas opening across the city. Spas are moving up the list of reasons to visit Marrakech and it is not uncommon for visitors to dedicate their stay to a spa weekend.
The best spas combine both the traditional and modern both in terms of décor and treatments. One of the very best is the Les Bains De Marrakech, and of course, many of Destinology’s hotels feature luxury on-site spas.

Marrakech Shopping
On one side of the square is the Marrakech souk (traditional markets servicing locals and tourists and not to be missed), on another cafes and restaurants, hotels and the Menara Gardens. The souk itself is covered and can be a cool refuge from the soaring temperatures in the summer. No visit to Marrakech would be complete without a visit to the Souk and the Djemma el-Fna.

Marrakech Restaurants
Restaurants range from fine dining, hip and new to traditional and there seems to be a revival in the food world in Marrakesh with many restaurants receiving rave reviews. Destinology’s range of luxury hotels are noted especially for their fine cuisine, with several in our portfolio having won awards and distinctions for their authentic African cuisine.

Marrakech Bars & Nightlife
There is also a whole range of bars to choose from and one of the most well known clubs is Pacha Marrakech. Pacha is also open during the day where you can lounge by their private pool.

Other Marrakech Travel Information
Language: Thai. English is also widely spoken.
Currency: Moroccan Dirham (Euros often accepted also)
Time Difference: Phuket +8 hrs from GMT
Visa Requirements: Not required for UK citizens.
Vaccinations: No vaccinations are required but some travellers generally take vaccinations for hepatitis A and typhoid. It is advisable to drink bottled water there.
Tipping: No rule but generally 10-15% is expected in most bars and restaurants, it is common to round up to the nearest 5 Dirhams in a taxi and a 10 dirham tip is appropriate for hotel porters etc.
Best time to visit: Between September and May.