You Haven’t Been to Marrakesh, Morocco If...

That World Cup game was on another level! 🤯 I guess we can all agree that Messi is the GOAT and I’m happy that Argentina got this win. You know that the PSG locker room with Messi and Mbappe is going to be tense.

P.S. Someone please pray for Cristiano Ronaldo. He’s got to be pissed.

When visiting Marrakesh, here are some things you must do!

Jemaa el-Fna (aka, The Death Market)- This is the town square in the center of Marrakesh where public executions used to take place😬. Now, however, it’s an area full of life and a must-see for tourists (No decapitations, so you’re good). If there’s anything to be wary of it’s the snake charmers… watch my video and you’ll see what I’m talking about. The square of death has been taken over by drummers, monkey trainers and… the snakes. With the street food, entertainment and market, this place is not only a microcosm of Morocco, but has been classified as a UNESCO world cultural heritage site.

Riad - You haven’t really experienced Morocco if you don’t stay at a Riad. Riads are buildings with a courtyard in the center and a terrace up top. They have multiple rooms so they’re economical and easy to book on Airbnb. But make sure you get free pick-up from the airport and free breakfast or it’s not a good deal!

Atlas Mountains - When staying in Marrakesh, take a side trip and check out the mountains where the Berber people live. Not only is it the highest mountain range in North Africa, but you can experience all 4 seasons in one spot. Surreal! I can’t describe the beauty here, so you’ll just have to see it for yourself.

Madrasa Ben Youssef - This former Islamic school was once the largest of its kind in North Africa! Sounds boring I know. I also thought it would be lame until I visited the school and was super impressed, so don’t miss out. Make sure to book a tour, preferably with a real tour guide… there are a lot of fakes out there!

Check out a garden -Le Jardin Secret has beautiful Islamic architecture. If you want a more “trendy” garden, visit Jardin Majorelle. Legendary fashion designer, Yves Saint Laurent used to live here, so also check out the nearby Yves Saint Laurent Mansion if you can.

Spend money at the Medina - This market area is a different experience than we’re used to so be sure to enjoy the spices and take in the ambiance. Beware of Hawkers ➡ people who will aggressively try to sell you something you don’t need and/or overcharge you for whatever you do want to purchase. Don’t get taken advantage of…NEGOTIATE for EVERYTHING!

Quick Visits

These are some areas you should just hit and quit. See some culture, take some pics and move on.

Bab Agnaou - One of the original city gates and one of the most preserved gates as well. Be sure to go during sunset!

Go to the Saadien’s Tombs - This area of architecture has remained intact because the invading force was superstitious about the dead and didn’t dare touch the tombs. I don’t blame them bruh, I don’t mess with the dead! Bad juju…This is the resting place of 166 Saadians! The tombs also have great examples of zellige tiles, if you nerd out about tiles like I do.

Bahia Palace - This is an old-school harem where the sultan would keep his wives, mistresses, and anything else he was into… all in one building. How convenient! Forget about the television show, “Basketball Wives.” This was the original.

Badi Palace - This is a palace where the Saadian princes would show off and entertain visitors. The palace has some great views and is great for selfies on the roof!

What tips do you have for international travel?