Welcome, everyone! Today, I’m excited to share a brand-new adventure from a brand-new city. Right now, I’m in the vibrant city of Marrakech, having just arrived yesterday after a four-hour journey on a Super Tour bus from Agadir.
From the moment I stepped into Marrakech, I was captivated by its energy. This is my first time here, and the city is massive, full of life and excitement. We are starting this journey in the famous Jemaa el-Fnaa Square, which serves as the central hub of activity in Marrakech. It’s a place every visitor finds themselves in at some point.
In this video, I’ll be exploring what $20 can get you in this dynamic city. I believe we can stretch it quite far, but we must be mindful, as I’ve already encountered some surprisingly high prices for simple things. So, join me as we navigate through Marrakech, showcasing what $20 can buy and some of the city's most iconic sights.
Exploring Jemaa el-Fnaa Square
The first thing that stands out about this square is the abundance of juice stands and small seating areas with umbrellas, where women offer henna tattoos. The atmosphere is electric, and I love it! You can immediately sense you’re in Morocco.
Coming from Agadir, a relaxed beach town where vendors rarely approach tourists, the contrast in Marrakech is stark. Here, shopkeepers and street performers are eager to engage, offering photo opportunities, selling souvenirs, or inviting you into their stores. Some people may find this overwhelming, but it’s part of what makes Marrakech unique. The key is to smile, politely decline if uninterested, and move on.
Speaking of money, I forgot to mention earlier that $20 is roughly equivalent to 200 Moroccan dirhams. An easy way to estimate conversions is that 10 dirhams are about $1.
Street Performers and the Hustle
As I walked through the square, I encountered street performers who asked for a small tip in exchange for a photo. I initially agreed to give them 20 dirhams ($2), but after taking the photo, they suddenly demanded 100 dirhams ($10) per person. I firmly stood my ground, insisting on the originally agreed price. This kind of hustle is common here, but it's all part of the local experience.
Many people label Marrakech as a city full of scams, but the reality is that if you stay aware and assertive, it’s easy to avoid being overcharged. The people here are simply trying to make a living, and you have to respect their hustle.
Snake Charmers and Monkeys
A few steps away, I encountered snake charmers performing with cobras, playing music, and showcasing incredible tricks. I paid another $2 for a photo, only to later see monkeys being used as props for tourists. While fascinating, it's essential to be mindful when engaging with these attractions, as prices can suddenly change after you’ve taken a picture.
Walking through the square is an immersive experience—aromas of food, incense, and spices fill the air, and the sounds of music, motorbikes, and lively conversations add to the sensory overload.
Fresh Juice Stand
With so much going on, I decided to stop for a fresh fruit juice. The vendor was friendly and recommended a mixed fruit juice, which cost just 10 dirhams ($1). The vibrant colors and flavors were refreshing, making it a fantastic deal.
Visiting Koutoubia Mosque
A short five-minute walk from the square brought me to the Koutoubia Mosque, one of Morocco’s most significant religious landmarks. Built in the 12th century, the mosque is a stunning example of Moroccan architecture, featuring intricate designs and a beautifully preserved structure. Seeing it up close was truly impressive.
Exploring the Medina
Next, I ventured into the Medina, a bustling marketplace filled with thousands of shops selling everything from spices to souvenirs. My goal was to find a magnet as a keepsake. Prices varied, but after some searching, I found one for 10 dirhams ($1), a reasonable deal compared to other vendors asking for 20 or 30 dirhams.
Moroccan Street Food: Briouat
Feeling hungry, I decided to try a briouat—a Moroccan version of a samosa. This crispy, flavorful snack was freshly made and cost just a few dirhams. It was the perfect quick bite before heading to our next destination.
Visiting Menara Gardens
After a short drive, I arrived at the Menara Gardens. The gardens feature a large body of water surrounded by olive trees, offering a peaceful escape from the city's hustle. While the scenery was pleasant, it appeared more impressive in pictures than in real life. Nevertheless, it was a nice place to relax and enjoy some traditional Moroccan tea.
Sunset Dinner with a View
As the day wound down, we returned to Jemaa el-Fnaa to enjoy dinner on a terrace overlooking the square. The city looked even more mesmerizing from above, with the chaotic energy below creating a beautiful contrast. We ordered a traditional tagine with Coca-Cola, bringing our total spending for the day to almost exactly $20.
Final Thoughts
Despite the occasional tourist hustle, Marrakech is a fascinating city where $20 can go a long way. With a budget of around $35-$40 per day, you can enjoy even more local experiences. The key is to embrace the adventure, appreciate the culture, and respect the hardworking people trying to make a living.
Would I recommend Marrakech? Absolutely! Whether you’re on a budget or ready to splurge, this city offers an unforgettable experience.
