Travel Advice from the Riad Zamzam team
Some (Really) Useful Information for Visitors to Marrakech
Do’s
Go with the flow! Explore the Medina and the souks. Discover new places, new alleyways and shrines. See the Medina as an exciting adventure.
If you need directions, ask people working in the ‘Hanouts’ or little street shops as they are very helpful.
Cover knees and shoulders in the Medina if you want limited attention. In Gueliz (the new town) it’s not so important, but please remember it is a Mulism country so we encourage all visitors to be respectful at all times.
Enjoy haggling. As a rule of thumb, offer to start with about a 1/3rd of what they are asking. Always haggle with a smile, you can always walk away if they get too pushy.
Be polite when you need to be firm. Firm with politeness is fine.
Relax and have a hammam, you will never regret the experience.
If you want quality spices to take home, ask Ilham (our chef) to buy them for you. Tagine pots too!
Do a cooking course and market tour with Ilham to learn about local flavours and spices.
When flagging a local taxi ask them to “fait le contour” (put the meter on), this will avoid an argument at the other end. If the driver’s says it’s broken, simply look for another cab.
Carry small change or 20dh notes for tipping.
Learn to say “Shukran” (thank you) and “Inshallah” (god willing) after most requests.
Always ask people before taking photos.
Visit Jarjeer Donkey Sanctuary – it is very special.
Book a Medina guide for half a day to adjust to your surroundings.
Use your safe at Riad Zamzam rather than carry your passport around with you.
Speak to Emma if you would like help with carpet or interiors shopping, she’ll get the best pieces at the best prices.
Dont’s
Don’t follow any kids who tell you a street is closed. If someone tries to guide you and you don’t want to be bothered by them, stop and say “we are ok, thank you” or “La Shukran” (no thanks). It may take a few attempts if they persist.
Don’t get too bothered by the occasional whiff of drains, the Medina pipes are ancient! It’s all part of the sensory experience of Morocco.
Don’t stress about your emails too much, try and make the most of your time and enjoy the laidback Moroccan way of life.
Don’t drink the orange juice from the carts in the Jemaa El Fnaa (your tummy won’t thank you).
Don’t drink and smoke during day light hours in Ramadaan.
Don’t leave your air-con running all day when you go out, please, as the system will overload.
