Travel bucket list idea:
Marrakech, Marrakech-Safi, Morocco
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With more than 2,500 stalls and shops crammed into a labyrinth of narrow streets, which in turn are also rammed with people, donkeys and mopeds, it’s easy to feel intimidated in the souks. Don’t be. Virtually every type of trade and craft is being practiced here; there are blacksmiths, carpenters, weavers, carpet sellers, purveyors of magic potions and natural cosmetics, fruit and vegetable traders and many more.
To visit the souks is to experience the real heart of this ancient city. There are other souks in Morocco but this is one of Morocco’s liveliest and most special.
Haggling is expected, and part of the fun, so play along. Rule one is never to accept the first price. As a general rule, pay a third to half of the original asking price.
Rule two is be prepared to walk away. (Stallholders will also often run after you and accept your closing bid). Stalls sell a lot of the same goods, so never buy from the first place you see something. If you did get the best price – you can always come back.
Rule three is don’t get angry or frustrated. If the sales pitch gets overly zealous, just smile and walk away.
The best souk buys include Moroccan kilims, bedspreads and cushion covers, teapots and coloured glass tea sets, silver jewellery, kaftans, leather ottomans, perfume bottles and babouche (Moroccan pointy-toed slippers).
The souks start their sprawl from the centre of the Medina, on the main square, to the north and east of Jemaa El Fna (the main square).
Go first with a guide to appreciate souk daily life – craftsmen, weavers, hole-in-the-wall bakeries, tanneries – and to get tips on the best stores. Return again later to shop.
Most stalls can be relied upon to package and send goods home, but anything remotely breakable will not survive the rough handling of Morocco’s postal service.
Few things are certain in life, but getting lost in the medina is one. Young local boys will happily help you find your way out, but be sure to pay them a small tip.
Shops and stalls within the souks are generally open daily from 9-1pm and 3-7pm, though many are closed on Friday afternoons.
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Destination guides including or relevant to this experience
Marrakech-Safi, Morocco
An exotic time capsule of ancient streets and souks, blending Arab culture and French colonial heritage. Soak it all up in the wonderfully evocative atmosphere of the Jemaa el-Fnaa.
