Moroccan cuisine is enjoying unparalleled popularity around the world. Its subtle spicy flavours suit most taste buds and Moroccan cooking, unlike some other international foods, is not difficult to master. With so much emphasis on the food, interest is now swinging to the people and the land of Morocco.
Moroccans are a mix of ethnicities and it is this mix that has created the delectable flavours that are the trademark of the cuisine. Phoenicians, Jews, Arabs, Berbers, Sub Saharan Africans and in the past, Romans and Vandals have all called Morocco home. They brought with them their religions of paganism, Christianity and Islam and the result is truly a cultural melting pot. Tantalising your taste buds as you visit Morocco, is as much about exploring its rich cultural heritage as its food.
Marrakech – Where the Ancient Meets the Modern
Marrakech is the perfect location to appreciate all that the country has to offer, without needing to travel from the city itself. Marrakech is the third largest city in Morocco and home to over a million people. The capital of the mid south western region means it has important historical significance. Behind the city, the snow-capped Atlas Mountains provide a beautiful backdrop to a city that celebrates the ancient with its thick fortified walls and the more modern new developments.
Within the walls of the old city (Marrakech Medina) is a palace that today is a restaurant offering not only delicious Moroccan foods, but an opportunity to experience the richness of Moroccan culture within the rooms and gardens of the palace. For something a little more exciting, experience Arabic folklores in an exciting display of horsemanship and rifle shooting at Chez Ali’s Fantasia. Performed by experienced riders from around the country, you can dine on Moroccan cuisine whilst marvelling at their skills. It is an unforgettable experience that will surely create a lot of interest back home after your holiday.
Daytime in Marrakech would not be complete with visiting the souk or marketplace. The largest in Morocco, it is not only a place to spend time getting to know the locals as they shop for their every day supplies, you can find all the things you need to cook your own foods. Here also you can enjoy acrobats, storytellers, dancers and musicians performing traditional Moroccan songs and dances. Return at night and enjoy the souk’s transformation into an open-air restaurant.
What about a Walking Tour?
Walking tours of the city are available, and these give you the opportunity to hear and appreciate the local history presented by local guides. Taking these tours ensures you don’t miss anything the city has to offer. A similar tour is also available for the souk.
Whether you stay local or take a car and head to the nearby mountains with their waterfalls and river valleys, be prepared to be charmed and surprised as you visit Marrakech. You may visit for the cuisine, but like so much of Africa, once you visit, you will leave your heart there.
Cars can be pre-booked so that they are available for pickup from Marrakech airport. Visit erentals.co.uk and search for the best deals – you are sure to save money by comparing.