Marrakech
Marrakech is not the largest city in Morocco, but undoubtedly the most exotic and African, when compared to other well-known Moroccan cities such as Casablanca, Rabat, Agadir and Tangier.
If you have not visited an Arab-influenced metropolis before, you will probably experience a powerful culture shock when you arrive in Marrakech. The city is noisy, smelly, dusty and hectic, and you will unstoppably get inquiries from sellers, beggars and taxi drivers. But in Africa’s biggest and busiest square, Djemaa el-Fna, all your expectations for a high-exotic travel experience will be met.
It is easy to think that Africa is terribly far from Norway, but a direct flight to Marrakech takes only half an hour longer than to Norwegians favorite places like Malaga or Mallorca.
Marrakech can be visited at any time, but at times becomes uncomfortably warm in the summer, and surprisingly cool on winter nights. The city is ideal for tourists with an open mind and who have a sense of a different cultural experience.
Marrakech Facts
MARRAKECH – Morocco’s third largest city and capital in the Marrakech-Tensift-El Haouz region.
Population |
Around 1,050,000 |
Official languages |
Arabic. In Marrakech, most dialects speak Ttamazight, which is of Berber origin. A lot of people also speak French, which is an unofficial third language widely used in trade and economics. |
Control Form |
monarchy |
Religion |
Islam |
Time Difference |
Norway is one hour ahead of Morocco in winter, two hours in summertime |
Currency |
Dirham. As of January 2008, 100 dirhams are approximately NOK 70. and 100 Norwegian kroner is about 140 dirhams. You can use the largest credit cards like Visa, American Express and MasterCard at larger hotels, shops and finer restaurants, but otherwise you should invest in cash. |
Tips |
5 – 10% if you are satisfied with the service. |
Embassy |
The Norwegian Embassy in Morocco is not located in Marrakech but in 9, rue de Khenifra, Rabat. Tel: +212 3 7764 084. |
Tourist |
Esquina da rua Oued Fès, 31 com and Avenida Abtal. |
Telephone |
+212 |
Emergency |
Police 190. Fire 150. Ambulance 037 73 73 73. |
Electricity |
220-230 volts. Common two-pin connectors at most hotels, but you can also come across older three-pin connectors. |
Holidays and Holidays |
Most Moroccan holidays are moving as they follow the Muslim calendar. July 30 (Throne Fest), August 21 (King’s Birthday) and November 6 are regular holidays. |
Visa |
Not required for Norwegians. |
vaccinations |
No vaccines are required. |
Water |
Do not drink from the tap. |
Nearest major cities |
Essaouira, Casablanca, Agadir |
Safety |
Slightly violent crime, but beware of pickpockets and scammers. Do not accept any goods or services without agreeing price. Despite a lot of police in the streets, as in most major cities, there is some crime. It is recommended not to have visible jewelry and care should be taken to store valuables, cell phones, wallets and passports. |
