1. Visit The Co-Operative first - that will give you a good idea of pricing on products such as carpets, ceramics, etc.
2. Do not buy the first thing you see unless you really love it or you can get it for a really good price. You will see the same thing again and again so you miss out - unless of course it is a genuine antique and very rare.
3. Be prepared to haggle. Decide on what you are prepared to buy and stick to your price. If it is too low they won't sell it to you. Trust me, the will only sell when there is profit to be made.
4. Keep up the water...keep your body hydrated. Water ranges in price - grande size (1.5litres) for 10dh is the going rate. Tourist spots such as near the Office Tourisme outside the medina we paid 12dh for a small bottle of water.
5. Footwear - I was told to wear runners etc. but my Birkenstocks have been worn every day. Comfortable and cool.
6. Eating food at night in the main market place Jemaa el-Fna is fine - head to the stalls that have the most people. The locals always know where to eat. Our riad owner recommended stall Number One.
7. Do NOT eat fish unless in an upmarket restaurant. Marrakech is not near the sea. Need I say more?
8. If budgeting most sights are about 10dh - 20dh per person entry.
9. Most important: when booking your trip please check your dates for Morocco's religious holidays. Eid is like our Christmas and most things are closed. Stall holders are off killing their sheep and feasting on lamb with their families.
10. Book your day tour in advance if you are only in the city for a few days. The idea of booking via your hotel is great if you have time at your disposal. We could have enjoyed a day trip to Essouria while Marrakech 'slept'.
11. The Hop On Hop Off bus is a good way of getting to know Marrakech - just don't rely on punctuality.
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