Bonjour from Marrakech,

Onwards to Marrakech. We checked into our Riad situated near the Djemaa-el-Fna, a really lovely riad with a beautiful interior and open courtyard. After our first Moroccan lunch we were off to explore the hustle and bustle of the medina. We wandered around the square and souks taking in all the amazing sites, snakes, monkeys and all sorts of amazing things to buy. Then we had a nice afternoon rest before having a great Moroccan dinner enjoying the varied tagines and brouchette (kebabs).

The next day, after a full Moroccan breakfast consisting of croissants, Moroccan pancakes, eggs and unleavened bread, Miki and I went out to explore further while the others went to pick up lost luggage from the airport. We walked around the 12th century Koutoubia Mosque a very impressive tower and the surrounding gardens, finding some storks nesting high in a tower.

After meeting with the others it was on to the Ali Ben Youssef Medersa getting hopelessly lost in the souks on the way. Eventually we found our way to this stunning ancient learning centre, which had amazingly intricate stone and woodwork.

In close proximity was the Musee de Marrakech, enclosed in a beautiful building, but with mainly modern art within. The art wasn't great but we had a nice light lunch there with mint tea.

We then had a quick look around the Koubba Ba'adiyn, an ancient ruin, before making our way back through the souks for a rest.

We went to dinner at a restaurant recommended by our riad host. We had a big set menu which was great, but were shown a 'spectacle' of faux Moroccan culture being watched by old Europeans on tours! Couldn't get out of there quick enough!