The Joy of Marrakech - the slow travel guide

As a veteran visitor to Marrakech, it is a city that has almost become a second home. Much of the city is now familiar. I spot many friendly faces time and time again and yet each time I visit, the city has changed, moved on and evolved.

So, what is there to love about Marrakech? It is a frenetic city that seems to never sleep - where old traditions live hand in hand with modernity. However, just spend a little time here, and Marrakech will surely get under your skin.

Marrakech can be a tiring place – so moderation is the key to taking joy in being here. I love wandering around Marrakech, getting lost in the warren of souks, enjoying the occasional super strong coffee and cheeky Moroccan pastry. I have nowhere to go, no schedule to maintain – I just wander, take in life and enjoy what Marrakech to has to offer.

Food is a highlight of Marrakech – generous portions, locally sourced and authentically Moroccan. Whilst at first glance food can look a little one dimensional, actually nothing is further from the truth. Tajines, the staple of Moroccan cuisine, come with a dazzling array of taste, flavours and recipes. Moroccan food at its best is local, authentic and seasonal.

No trip to Marrakech is complete without shopping and there is nowhere quite like Marrakech to shop. Approach shopping with a calm frame of mind, be strong and prepare to haggle. The vendor will always start at the highest possible rate – he would love to go home for the day and so if he can do once he has sold you a pair of slippers he is happy! So, start low and meet somewhere in the middle.

So, what are our top tips for taking joy from a visit to Marrakech?

Pace yourself – Marrakech can be hot, frenetic noisy. So, take it slow and take lots of breaks. Stop for a extra strong Moroccan coffee, mint tea or pastry. Watch the world go by and take your time.

Explore the city like a Moroccan – Marrakech can be hot, and we do mean hot. So retreat to a city park or your hotel during the hottest hours of the day.

Eat like a local – if you are in the main square, then bypass the tourist restaurants and eat at the night market. Don’t get there too early and look out for the busiest stalls. Look out for the snail stall ( there is only one with only locals eating there).

Shop hard – shopping is serious pastime and Moroccan are well practiced at negotiating for maximum profit. Be sure you know what you want to pay and stick to it. Keep smiling