Category: Marrakesh

Experiencing Comfort and Luxury: Le Meridien N’Fis in Marrakech

After crossing the desert, my wife and I arrived at one of our last hotels, the Le Meridien N’Fis in Marrakesh, Morocco. This hotel, part of the Starwood line now owned by Marriott, was among the nicest we stayed at in Morocco and had, by far, the best Wi-Fi in the hotel rooms. Conveniently located about one mile from the medina and across the street from a large mall, it offered both comfort and accessibility.

Entrance to Le Meridien N'Fis hotel

Welcoming Lobby and Friendly Service

The hotel opened into a large lobby area, featuring plenty of seating and a grand piano (which, unfortunately, I don’t recall anyone playing during our visit). Our keys were waiting for us upon arrival. I went up to the front desk to provide my Marriott Rewards number in hopes of gaining room stay credit and some points.

Although the clerk took my rewards number down, I never received the credits, likely because our rooms were booked by a travel agency. Despite this, the clerk was cordial and helpful. The spacious lobby also had a gift shop where guests could find a small variety of gifts and stamps. Sending a postcard home cost about two dollars, a rate consistent with other places we’ve traveled.

Hotel Lobby showing check in desk.
Another view from hotel lobby

Lush Gardens and Relaxing Walkways

The hotel is spread out on a large property with a central garden and pool between the lobby and guest rooms. The gardens were lush and well-maintained, providing a sampling of the area’s indigenous flora. Meticulously trimmed bushes, ornate flowers, small pools, and a fountain created a serene atmosphere. There always seemed to be a bit of a breeze walking between the guest rooms and the lobby, adding to the relaxing ambiance. It was a short but pleasant walk from the lobby to the guest rooms.

The Le Meridien N'Fis has a second building behind the main building, where my room was located.
The landscaping at the Le Meridien N'Fis was lush.

Comfortable and Cool Rooms

Our room had working air conditioning, which was a significant plus as the weather was beginning to turn hot during our visit. Several of the hotels had not yet switched over to air conditioning, so the cool air was welcome. The tile flooring also helped keep the room cool. While the Wi-Fi in the room was not exceptional, it was better than non-existent connections in other Moroccan hotel rooms. The room was clean, attractively decorated, and functional. The bed was comfortable, a bit softer than others we had slept in. Additionally, the room had a small balcony with an exceptional view of the gardens below and the distant medina.

Large king bed room at Le Meridien.
View of room facing the door.
View of the grounds from my room.

Delicious Breakfast Buffet

Le Meridien N’Fis had one of the best breakfast buffets of any hotel we stayed at in Morocco. Each morning, the hotel consistently put out a nice selection of fresh fruit, breads, soups, meats, and more. There was a juice bar with a couple of freshly squeezed juice selections each morning. The coffee came from Nescafe machines typical of all the hotels we visited. The service in the restaurant was efficient, making it a great way to start our day.

Excellent Value and Location

Le Meridien N’Fis is located at Avenue Mohammed VI, Marrakech, 40000, Morocco. The prices online currently range from 120 to 150 US dollars, a reasonable price for what you get. While not a five-star hotel, it is an upscale property with plenty of amenities. The rooms were large and clean, the staff friendly and accommodating, and the food was good. The Wi-Fi and air conditioning were icing on the cake. Overall, it was an excellent value and a comfortable, enjoyable stay.

Night time view of the Le Meridien N'Fis pool area.
Le Meridien N'Fis viewed from the mall across the street.

For anyone visiting Marrakech, I highly recommend staying at Le Meridien N’Fis for a blend of comfort, convenience, and excellent service.

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The Grandeur of Koutoubia Mosque: Marrakech’s Historic Heart

One of the focal points of Marrakesh is the Koutoubia Mosque. It is an architectural marvel that stands as the largest mosque in the city. Dominating the skyline, its iconic minaret, rising to 253 feet, serves as a reliable landmark visible from miles around. During my stay in Marrakesh, I could easily spot the minaret from my hotel room. Although located a mile away, it served as an excellent reference point for exploring the city.

Fountain in the plaza near the Koutoubia Mosque minaret.

Historical Significance of Koutoubia Mosque

The site of the Koutoubia Mosque has a fascinating history. It has been home to two mosques, both constructed in the 12th century. The first mosque built on this location was found to be misaligned with Mecca by five degrees. To rectify this, a second mosque was built alongside the original. However, this too ended up being misaligned by a slightly greater margin. Today, visitors can see the remnants of the original structure, marked by pillars in the plaza beside the minaret. This area also features a vast garden with walkways, lush vegetation, and a large fountain, providing a serene environment for reflection and relaxation.

Short pillars demonstrate the structure of an earlier Koutoubia Mosque

The Minaret: An Architectural Marvel

At night, the Koutoubia minaret is beautifully illuminated, enhancing its status as a focal point of the plaza and the nearby medina. The design of the minaret is ornate and intricately detailed, featuring laced brickwork around arched windows. The reddish hue of the brickwork adds a muted, elegant charm to the structure. Near the top, mosaic tile work and three gilded copper spheres of descending size at the spire further accentuate its beauty.

Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakesh at night.

Navigating the Plaza and Medina

While the area around the Koutoubia Mosque offers a peaceful respite, it’s essential to remain aware of your surroundings, especially when exploring the nearby medina. The merchants in Marrakech are notably more aggressive compared to those in other Moroccan cities. Making eye contact with the small vendors in the plaza can result in persistent sales pitches. The same goes for the medina market, where many merchants are eager to engage with potential customers. Despite this, the plaza remains a tranquil place to stroll, especially when the weather is pleasant.

Architectural Details to Admire

For those who appreciate architecture, the Koutoubia Mosque is a must-see. The minaret’s detailed brickwork, arched windows, and decorative elements showcase the skill and artistry of its builders. The mosque’s overall design reflects a blend of Islamic art and Moroccan cultural influences, making it a significant landmark not only in Marrakech but also in the broader context of Islamic architecture.

The minaret of Koutoubia Mosque in Marrakesh from the lush nearby plaza.

Visiting Koutoubia Mosque

If you’re planning a visit, take some time to sit in the plaza and admire the mosque’s architectural splendor. The area is particularly pleasant during the cooler months of spring, when the weather is ideal for leisurely walks. I was not able to explore the mosque itself, as the mosque itself is not open to non-Muslims. However, the surrounding gardens and plaza provide plenty of opportunities to appreciate its external beauty and historical significance.

The Koutoubia Mosque stands as a testament to the rich history and vibrant culture of Marrakesh. Whether you’re drawn by its architectural beauty, historical significance, or simply looking for a peaceful place to relax, the Koutoubia Mosque is a landmark that should not be missed on any visit to this enchanting city.

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Unforgettable Nights in Marrakesh: The Medina’s Vibrant Transformation

Introduction to Marrakesh’s Medina
Shops in the Marrakesh Medina

Marrakesh was one of the final cities my wife and I visited on our trip through Morocco. The Marrakesh medina was the last on our journey. Each medina we explored had its own unique charm and atmosphere. Near Erfoud, it felt like a rural farmer’s market. In Fez, the winding streets and alleys were a labyrinth. In Marrakesh, we were met with a circus-like atmosphere that was truly captivating. As an interesting side note, the Marrakesh Medina is also listed as a World Heritage Site.

Nighttime in Marrakech: A Festival of Sights, Smells, and Sounds
Food tents at night in Marrakesh medina

Our first visit to the medina was at night, heading in for dinner. The medina has a large square that seems deserted during the day but transforms into a festival of sights, smells, and sounds at night. One section of the square is set aside for dining. In the evening, this vacant area springs to life with wall-to-wall tents featuring a variety of food. We were amazed at the vast selection ranging from fresh seafood to traditional Moroccan favorites like tajine. The rest of the medina quickly filled up with snake charmers, merchants, and entertainers.

Dining in the Medina: A Culinary Adventure
Fresh food and hot meals at Marrakesh medina

On our first night, we didn’t venture into the alleyways as it was already late and we hadn’t eaten yet. We navigated the fair-like food tents before checking a few brick-and-mortar restaurants surrounding the square. Ultimately, we decided to immerse ourselves in the square’s bustling atmosphere and headed back to the food tents. Following my travel rule-of-thumb to choose the busiest place with the most locals, we found a tent and ordered dinner.

Appetizers of bread, dipping sauces and seasoned olives to start off our meal.
meat and vegetable skewers from a food stand in Marrakesh

Even though we were in a tent, we were given the standard appetizers of olives and bread after being seated. I ordered tajine, but it was already sold out for the night. Instead, I opted for mixed skewers, which included beef, chicken, goat, vegetables, and possibly camel. The skewers were seasoned well and delivered quickly. The place was bustling with a mixture of tourists and locals. We were seated at the end of the table, offering an unobstructed view of the square, but our meal was constantly interrupted by beggars, merchants, and musicians. This is something to consider when choosing where you will to sit.

Exploring the Medina by Day: Shopping and Sightseeing
A medina shop bursting with potential gifts.

The following morning, we returned to the medina. The merchants in Marrakesh were a bit more aggressive than in other places we visited. Prices were reasonable, but a few merchants pushed us too far. When we were with our guide, we were treated more politely. He was able to diffuse the aggressiveness of the merchants who followed us.

Day time view of Marrakesh medina

The majority of people we met in Marrakesh, whether at the medina or elsewhere, were incredibly friendly. The aggressive merchants we encountered were a small minority, but they stood out. It was generally the merchants without shops who were the rudest or most aggressive. However, my wife and I did have one particularly shocking run-in with a shopkeeper as well. In the US, I would not have been as polite in the face of his incredibly rude approach. This is not indicative of the majority, but you are bound to encounter aggressive merchants if you visit.

A donkey pulling a cart through the medina in Marrakesh stopping for a bite to eat.
Navigating the Medina: Tips and Tricks

The shops off the main square are along alleyways forming a rough grid. The alleys were not as confusing as Fez, but not entirely intuitive like Rabat. I wouldn’t expect anyone to get lost if they have a reasonable sense of direction. The sounds of the square provide an audible cue, and the market layout along the edge of the square helped us with orientation.

Shops in the Marrakesh Medina
What to Buy: Souvenirs and Local Goods

There was plenty to be found in the medina. Near the end of our vacation, we could have easily found everything we purchased had we forgotten something. The shops carried leather goods, spices, argan oil, tajines, artwork, clothing, and even fresh olives. The olives in Morocco were delicious. I wish I had brought some back with me.

Art work for sale at Marrakesh medina
Abundant olives for sale in the medina in Marrakesh
The Medina by Day vs. Night: A Stark Contrast

The photos of our evening dinner give a bit of insight into what the tents looked like at night. Imagine those tents covering half of a large square. During the daytime, the plaza is nearly a ghost town. It’s amazing how quickly they set up for dinner. The photo below shows what the plaza looks like during the day. The red area to the right is where the food tents will be set up later in the day.

Marrakesh medina main plaza during the day.

I enjoyed the Marrakesh medina. Despite several aggressive merchants and aggressive panhandling, it was the most interesting of any we visited. Each medina is unique, but you really have to visit the one in Marrakesh to fully appreciate the chaos. Your senses will be bombarded from every direction. As you walk from the minaret towards the plaza, horse-drawn carriages line the route, waiting to take passengers on a city tour. Merchants selling toys and small items crowd this area, waiting to make eye contact with unsuspecting tourists.

Horse carriages lining the walkway into the Marrakesh medina.
Conclusion: The Unique Charm of Marrakesh’s Medina

As you enter the plaza, musicians fill the air with joyful sounds, creating a carnival-like environment. Snake charmers add to the din with their pipes, while the food tents fill the air with the smell of barbecued meat and fried fish. Ice cream, coffee, and fresh-squeezed juice are also popular stands forming an outer ring around the food tents. If you are looking for a meal or an evening snack, there is plenty to choose from. It is an experience you don’t want to miss.

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Marrakesh Magic: Fantastic and Scenic Horse Carriage Ride

Horse-drawn carriages are a quintessential tourist attraction in Marrakesh. They offer a nostalgic and scenic way to explore the vibrant city. As visitors approach the bustling markets, they can’t miss the long queue of carriages parked along the promenade. Here, drivers eagerly wait to take them on a horse carriage ride of Marrakesh’s enchanting streets. This experience brought to mind the horse-drawn carriages of Central Park in New York. Or, maybe the haunted carriage rides in New Orleans. But Marrakesh adds its unique flair to this charming mode of transport.

View of road from horse draw carriage.

A Memorable Horse Carriage Ride Experience

During our stay in Marrakesh, my wife and I opted for a high-end horse carriage ride experience as part of our tour package. Our hotel, situated about a mile from the medina, was the starting point for our delightful journey. A row of elegant carriages lined up in front of our hotel, ready to whisk us away on a meandering journey towards the medina. Taking side roads we hadn’t explored before, we enjoyed a fresh perspective of the area surrounding our hotel.

Horse Carriage tour in Marrakesh.

As the sun began to set, our carriages boldly entered the main plaza, creating a spectacular scene against the carnival-like atmosphere already brewing in the square. This ride wasn’t just a tour; it was part of an unforgettable dinner package that included an incredible fine-dining experience. I’ll delve into the details of the dinner later, but suffice it to say, the combined carriage ride and dinner, costing $65 per person, was worth every penny.

Exploring Marrakesh by Horse Carriage

Our carriage ride served two purposes: it transported us to our dining destination and provided a scenic tour through the market. I was initially surprised that horses were allowed in the bustling square with so many people milling about. However, the experience added a unique charm to our evening. While we didn’t venture too far into the square, the sight of the horses amidst the crowd was a memorable spectacle.

Horse drawn carriage ride through back streets of Marrakesh

For tourists looking to explore Marrakesh, there are various carriage ride options. You can take carriages to see the city’s historic ramparts, visit gardens, or embark on organized tours that include dining experiences like ours. Booking through a tour company can sometimes be more economical; for instance, our tour, which included dinner at Lotus Privilege, was significantly cheaper than the prices listed on Viator.

Horse drawn carriages lined up near Marrakesh market

Concerns and Considerations

As an animal lover, I was initially concerned about the health and welfare of the horses. However, they appeared to be well cared for and unbothered by the traffic and crowds. The drivers seemed experienced and attentive, ensuring the horses were comfortable and safe.

Riding the horse drawn carriages through the Marrakesh medina.

Tips for Your Horse Carriage Ride

If you plan to find a caleche (carriage) when you arrive at the medina, head to the queue located between the Koutoubia Mosque and the square at Djema el Fna. Be prepared to haggle, as the initial price quoted by the driver will likely be higher than what you should pay. For a short horse carriage ride, expect to pay around $20, with longer rides costing more.

Why You Should Try a Carriage Ride in Marrakesh

Carriage rides in Marrakesh offer a fun and relaxing way to see the city, providing a break for your feet while allowing you to soak in the sights and sounds of this enchanting place. The prices are reasonable, and the experience is both nostalgic and unique. If you find yourself in Marrakesh, consider hopping on a horse-drawn carriage for a memorable and charming tour of the city.

Marrakesh medina.

Conclusion

Exploring Marrakesh by a horse carriage ride is an experience that combines nostalgia, charm, and convenience. Whether you’re taking a scenic route to dinner, exploring historic sites, or simply giving your feet a rest, the carriage rides offer a unique and enjoyable way to see the city. So, if you find yourself in Marrakesh, don’t miss the opportunity to take a leisurely ride and create unforgettable memories.

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Majorelle Garden: A Tranquil Escape in the Heart of Marrakesh

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Marrakesh is the enchanting Jardin Majorelle Garden. This stunning garden, created over a forty-year period by French painter Jacques Majorelle, offered us a serene visit during our trip. Ranked as the number two attraction (currently) in Marrakesh by TripAdvisor, Jardin Majorelle offers a peaceful escape. I found Marrakesh to be a bustling city with a vibrant market. Therefore, we found this visit a unique opportunity to explore both nature and local culture. Especially with the addition of the Berber Museum.

Jardin Majorelle map, Marakesh

The History of Jardin Majorelle Garden

Jacques Majorelle began developing the garden in 1923, importing plants from all five continents. His residence was located within the garden, making it a true labor of love. Unfortunately, financial difficulties forced Majorelle to sell parts of his ten-acre garden. In 1947, he opened the garden to the public to help offset his expenses. After his death, the garden fell into disrepair until it was rediscovered by fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and his partner Pierre Bergé in 1966.

Interior garden at Majorelle Garden

In 1980, they purchased the property. Consequently, they saved it from being turned into a hotel. They installed a new irrigation system and more than doubled the number of plant species from 135 to 300. When Yves Saint Laurent passed away in 2008, his ashes were scattered in the garden, and a monument now commemorates his contributions.

Exploring the Jardin Majorelle Garden

My wife and I meandered through the garden, which currently spans two and a half acres. This offered a manageable yet still impressive space for our visit. Upon entering, we were greeted by a fountain with a choice of paths leading straight ahead or veering off to the right towards the Berber Museum. The garden is characterized by its signature Majorelle blue accents, water features, and a variety of plants arranged to create a peaceful atmosphere. Overall, it was a tranquil way for my wife and I to spend a few hours.

The garden is home to several species of birds, including bulbuls, blackbirds, sparrows, robins, blue tits, great tits, warblers, grey wagtails, and turtledoves. Their chirping, combined with the sound of trickling water, enhanced our enjoyment of the serene atmosphere. We stopped to rest on park benches beneath covered walkways to reflect on the quiet beauty around us.

Colorful flowers inside Majorelle Garden

The Berber Museum

The Berber Museum, housed in what was once Majorelle’s painting studio, charges an additional admission fee. Opened on December 3, 2011, the museum is divided into four rooms, each highlighting different aspects of Berber culture and craftsmanship. Visitors enter through a small introductory room before moving on to:

  • Two: Traditional Skills – Showcasing items that demonstrate the craftsmanship of the Berber people.
  • Three: Berber Jewels – Displaying a variety of intricate jewelry designed and worn by Berber women.
  • Four: Berber Finery – Featuring festive costumes, carpets, and musical instruments.

No photography is allowed inside the museum, but the collection, which includes 600 objects dating from the eighteenth century through the 1960s, offers a fascinating glimpse into Berber heritage. The tour concludes in a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs.

Fountain and plaza area near Berber Museum

Practical Information

  • Entrance Fees: Currently gardens cost 165 dirhams (approximately seventeen US dollars) and the Berber Museum costs an additional 55 dirhams (approximately five US dollars). The fees are reasonable given the immaculate maintenance of the garden and the carefully curated exhibits of the museum.
  • Accessibility: Both the garden and museum are wheelchair accessible.
  • Hours of Operation:
    • The Jardin Majorelle is open every day of the week, from 8 a.m to 6:30 p.m. The last entry is at 6 p.m.
    • The Pierre Bergé Museum of Berber Arts is open every day of the week, from 8 a.m to 6 p.m.  The last entry is at 5:30 pm.

For those interested in luxury shopping, there is a YSL shop behind the museum offering high-end products for those looking to indulge.

Cactus and signage inside Jardin Majorelle

Final Thoughts on Majorelle Garden

Jardin Majorelle offers a beautiful blend of nature, art, and culture, making it a must-visit destination in Marrakech. Whether you’re taking a leisurely stroll through the gardens, enjoying the peaceful ambiance, or exploring the rich history and artistry of the Berber Museum, Jardin Majorelle promises a memorable experience.

Large blooming cactus in the interior of Majorelle Garden, near the Berber Museum.

Don’t forget to add this enchanting garden to your itinerary when visiting Marrakech. It’s a perfect spot to relax, learn, and immerse yourself in the beauty of Moroccan culture.

Walkways offer great views of the immaculate Majorelle Garden.

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