Page 12 - The Local Eye - Issue 138 - April 2017

12
Travel Feature -
So, close – Exotic Marrakech...

By Mags Addison
Marrakech is an assault on the senses – but in a good way. Everywhere
there are vibrant colours, the people are friendly, the food is amazing
and fresh, and the sights fascinating. If you want a short trip that
is exciting, exotic, entertaining, and full of experiences outside of
anything European, then do try a weekend in this interesting city.
This is North Africa at its best – and so easy to get to with direct
3-hour flight from various airports the UK. I recently visited and
stayed in a 4-star hotel which was well placed for getting around.
Complementary afternoon mint tea served in the foyer, and the
excellent and reasonable spa on the premises, made this a comfortable
place to stay.

Our tour guide Helen, made the holiday special by giving us the real authentic flavour of this fascinating
city. We toured the Medina and the souks, which were chaotic and fascinating. We were amazed by stalls
with their huge barrels of spices and nuts outside. Individual sellers on narrow corners selling pastries,
or big square trays of peanut brittle and sesame bars. The many fruit stalls bursting with colours. The
shoe souks, where you could see the shoes and bags being made as you passed, the smell of leather
following you tantalizingly. Beautifully crafted glass lanterns, and earthenware tagines in all hues and
sizes. Plus, pashminas, cushions, drapes, clothing and souvenirs. And in amongst these narrowed, crowded
passageways, there are people on small motorbikes everywhere - zipping in around the tourists and locals
alike.
We found a hidden garden – a haven deep in the busy Souks. We looked at green blues and white tiles
that adorn some of the Palaces, Mosques, and Riads we passed. And ate in authentic local restaurants,
that were excellent value for money – we also tried delicious tagine dishes, and couscous which was so
light, fluffy and aromatic. Followed by delicious Moroccan pastries. We dinned exquisitely one night in a
beautiful Riad in the city, and another night at a cheap and cheerful tarpaulin covered cafe on Jemaa el-
Fna Square, full of tourists and locals, and atmosphere.
It turned out Helen works for Complete Tours, which is Travel Counsellors destination tour guide for
Morocco. We work together, with our experience, and Complete Tours
local expertise to tailor make a trip that is individual and special to you. Excursions to the Atlas Mountains
and meeting ethnic Berber tribes. Or you can visit
Essaouira on the coast for the day, which is cosmopolitan
and relaxed, and a nice contrast to Marrakech for a few
hours. Or try it as a second centre.
Both Marrakech and Morocco itself, are vibrant, exotic,
and are easy to get too for either a short, or prolonged
visit. It’s good value, and there are some interesting
itineraries to extend your visit. Be greeted with bright
smiles of welcome – Mrehba. And leave knowing you
want to come back to discover more.

Beach holidays, City breaks, Honeymoons, Weddings abroad, Adventure holidays, Ski,
Cruise, Tailormade trips, Flight only, Car hire, Airport hotels and parking and much more...
Contact Travel Counsellor
Mags Addison

01202 901390
0845 058 7812
margaret.addison@travelcounsellors.com Travel Counsellors ensures complete
www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/margaret.addison financial protection on every booking

To advertise <> 08000 430485 <> email: info@thelocaleye.com <> www.thelocaleye.com

LE April 2017.indd 12 23/03/2017 13:08:03