Welcome to Marrakech
Marrakech, one of the 4 Ancient Imperial Cities, was founded in 1062 by Yusuf ibn Tashfin, a prominent military leader. Known as the "Ochre City" because of the color of its buildings, it offers a mix of tradition and modernity. The Medina, with its wide avenues and narrow streets, represents the soul of the city, lively and chaotic, but also capable of providing spaces of silence and relaxation.
Important information about the return flight
• Only paper tickets, not electronic, are accepted at Marrakech airport.
• To print the card, send it to: riadbijouxmarrakech@gmail.com
• At the check-in counter, it is mandatory to have the ticket stamped to gain access to the controls.
General advice
• Pay attention to personal items (bags, cell phones, wallets).
• Do not accept directions from people who recommend visits to markets or ancient
tanneries.
• Always walk keeping to the right to avoid accidents with motorcycles.
• It is not necessary to bring documents to exchange currency.
Jemaa el Fna Square
• Avoid eating at kiosks in the center for reasons of hygiene and high prices.
• Haggle the price before taking pictures with snakes or monkeys.
• Avoid women who make Henna because they often use unnatural pigments.
Food and water
• Tap water is safe to drink, but not recommended for drinking.
• The food and smoothies are generally of good quality, even in the stalls.
Cab
• Cabs are divided into "small" (up to 3 people) and "large" (up to 6 people).
• Always bargain the price before going up.
• It is helpful to know that prices are higher at night than during the day.
Tok-Tok
• Small scooters with passenger compartment, inexpensive and practical.
• They carry up to 4 people and are easily found in Jemaa el Fna Square.
• Even for Tok-Tok, it is best to bargain the price.
Change
• Credit card use is infrequent.
• Change currency into Dirhams at exchange offices such as the one on the corner of Cafe Argana or at Hotel Ali.
• Paying in foreign currency is not convenient.
Souvenir and clothing purchases
• Haggling over price is a local tradition.
• Avoid counterfeit products because of possible customs problems.
• Mint tea offered by vendors is part of the traditions.
Argan oil and other cosmetic products
• Purchase Argan Oil and cosmetics only from authorized herbalist shops.
• Pay attention to limits on flights for liquid products and creams.
Clothing and local customs
• There are no imposed rules on clothing, but it is best to respect the customs of the place by avoiding overly flashy or skimpy garments
• Protect yourself from the sun with sunscreen and avoid prolonged exposure.
Privacy, photo and video shooting
• Always ask permission before photographing people or stores.
• It is absolutely forbidden to photograph: law enforcement, military facilities, use drones.
Restaurants
• Wide range of restaurants, from traditional to modern with performances.
• Typical dishes: Couscous, Taijne, Tanjia, Harira, Pastilla, Mechoui, Briouates, meat or chicken skewers.
Beer, wine and alcohol
• Alcohol consumption is allowed for tourists, but prices are generally high.
• Avoid driving while intoxicated so as not to run into trouble with the police.
Clubs and nightlife
• There are numerous dining, music and dance venues located outside the Medina.
• It is always advisable not to return too late to the hotel/riad facilities.
Climate
• The climate is sub-tropical, semi-desert with hot summers and cold winters.
• In summer the temperature can reach 48°C, while in winter it can drop close to zero.
Tips
• Not mandatory but welcome.
Hammam and Spa
• Many spas and hammams offer relaxation at generally lower prices than in Europe. It is advisable to avoid overly cheap facilities that may be of low quality, especially from a hygienic standpoint.
Religion
• The Muslim religion is very important to your host country.
• Mosques are forbidden to non-Muslims, except for the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca.
Ramadan
• It is the period of fasting and prayer that changes every year.
• During Ramadan, some venues are closed or have reduced hours.
Alms and charity
• Giving money to children for educational purposes is not recommended.
• Zakat is a religious obligation in Islam, one of the five pillars of the faith, which requires
Muslims to give a portion of their wealth in charity to the needy.
Thank you for choosing our Riad.
We hope your stay in Marrakech will be filled with beauty, relaxation, and discovery.
We are at your disposal for any needs you may have.