Marrakech is a unique city that will surely stand out from whatever you've seen before. It's a fascinating experience with new customs, smells and flavors that you will perceive from the moment you land on the airport.
Average yearly temperature in Marrakech is 20°C and the weather is a standard dry Mediterranean climate. July and August are hot months in Marrakech. Average temperature in these months is 28°C and it's not uncommon to see thermometers hit the 40°C mark. It is pretty much impossible for it to rain, and sandstorms are a distinct possibility.
The official language in Morocco is Arabic, but there are also many Moroccans that talk French and Spanish; so if you're fluent in any of these languages you'll have no trouble finding your way in Marrakech. To be able to move in Marrakech you'll surely have to walk. Streets are narrow, so it is common for cars not be able to fit, except for motorbikes and bicycles. There are no detailed maps on the streets and many times whatever map you have, may have different street names. To orient yourself in Marrakech you should stop and ask someone for directions or use a GPS assisted system. The best way to cover distance in Marrakech is by taxi. There are petit and grand taxi. Petit taxis allow you to travel within the city, and grand taxis take you to the outskirts of Marrakech.
One of the main characteristics of Marrakech is that it doesn't have many large monuments. The beauty of the city lies on the culture. You can spend your whole day visiting the Jamma el Fna Plaza, where the inhabitants of Marrakech go to buy and trade with their neighbors. In daytime, you can see on the plaza many things that will capture your attention, such as monkey-masters and snake-charmers. There are many stands that sell delicious fruit juice, snail snacks, spices, mint dishes and a whole bunch of eccentricities. As the night comes by, the plaza changes as a whole and many food stands appear. At night, there are many music and dance spectacles that truly reflect the culture of this exotic and friendly place. There are also several bars around the place which tend to have a terrace to appreciate the whole plaza from a different point of view.
Hotels in Marrakech
La Mamounia (Avenue Prince Moulay Rachid, Marrakech, +212 5243-88600): This is one of Marrakech's most luxurious hotels. The buffet serves the best Moroccan traditional food and the interiors have exquisite decoration. It is quite expensive but it is well worth the experience.