The post Top Markets to Explore in the Middle East appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>This sprawling bazaar dates back to the 14th century and is a must-visit for anyone traveling in Egypt. The market is filled with vendors selling traditional goods such as clothing and jewelry as well as spices and other souvenirs. Shop for unique local crafts like handmade lamps, then stop by Naguib Mahfouz coffee shop for an authentic Egyptian coffee experience.
The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest markets in the world, with over 4,000 shops spread across 61 covered streets. Visitors can get lost in the maze of colorful stalls selling everything from Turkish delight and spices to handmade ceramics and carpets. It’s a great place to haggle with vendors and practice your bargaining skills.
This market is the beating heart of Marrakech. It’s located in the city’s Medina quarter and is filled with sights, sounds, and smells that are sure to delight your senses. Wander around and check out all of the local handicrafts, or stop at a tea shop for some traditionally-served Moroccan mint tea.
The post Top Markets to Explore in the Middle East appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post A Cultural Tour of Morocco’s Medinas and Souks appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>One of the most famous souks in Morocco is the Souk Semmarine in Marrakech. This souk is known for its colorful stalls and its variety of goods. It’s easy to get lost in the maze-like alleys of the Souk Semmarine, but that’s part of the adventure. You never know what you might stumble upon around the next corner.
Another popular souk in Marrakech is the Souk El Bahja. This souk is known for its traditional Moroccan pottery. You can watch the artisans at work and even try your hand at creating your own pottery. The Souk El Bahja is also a great place to pick up a unique souvenir to take home.
If you’re looking for textiles, head to the Souk Haddadine in Fez. This souk is known for its beautiful woven fabrics and carpets. You can even see the weavers at work, using traditional techniques that have been passed down for generations.
In Meknes, the Place el-Hedim is home to the sprawling Souk Nejarine. This souk is known for its woodwork and furniture. You’ll find beautifully carved doors, tables, and chairs, as well as smaller items like boxes and chess sets.
The post A Cultural Tour of Morocco’s Medinas and Souks appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post 5 Tips for Surviving the Souks in Marrakech appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Once you enter the Souks, be prepared for an array of sights, sounds, and smells. Although the area is divided into sections, the hustle and bustle can be overwhelming and it is easy to get lost. You will be approached by many locals offering to guide you to the best places. They will charge you and may take you somewhere that is not safe. Always firmly refuse their services and use google maps to find your way through the maze of streets.
If you find something that you want to buy, it is very important not to accept the first price you are offered. The stallholders expect you to negotiate and start at ludicrously high prices. It is customary to walk away from the deal in order to get a better one.
Stallholders make their living by selling to tourists. So don’t be surprised if they understand everything you are saying, regardless of the language you are speaking. If you think you can confer with your friends or family, assume they will understand. Nothing is private. Working out a simple code with your fellow travelers in advance can really help.
The most aggressive sellers are those camped around the stallholders. There may be a group of women that grab your hand and start marking you with henna tattoos before you have even noticed. Snake charmers will put a snake around your neck and you will be inundated with mobile phones, designer sunglasses, and watches. All these encounters will cost you money unless you firmly refuse.
There is a lot of petty crime and pick-pocketers in Marrakech. Make sure you stay alert by not wearing headphones; not going out alone at night; not wearing expensive jewelry; keeping valuables in a zipped up bag, and staying confident. Women – don’t forget to cover up your legs and shoulders as well.
The post 5 Tips for Surviving the Souks in Marrakech appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post Top Markets to Explore in the Middle East appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>This sprawling bazaar dates back to the 14th century and is a must-visit for anyone traveling in Egypt. The market is filled with vendors selling traditional goods such as clothing and jewelry as well as spices and other souvenirs. Shop for unique local crafts like handmade lamps, then stop by Naguib Mahfouz coffee shop for an authentic Egyptian coffee experience.
The Grand Bazaar is one of the oldest markets in the world, with over 4,000 shops spread across 61 covered streets. Visitors can get lost in the maze of colorful stalls selling everything from Turkish delight and spices to handmade ceramics and carpets. It’s a great place to haggle with vendors and practice your bargaining skills.
This market is the beating heart of Marrakech. It’s located in the city’s Medina quarter and is filled with sights, sounds, and smells that are sure to delight your senses. Wander around and check out all of the local handicrafts, or stop at a tea shop for some traditionally-served Moroccan mint tea.
The post Top Markets to Explore in the Middle East appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post A Cultural Tour of Morocco’s Medinas and Souks appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>One of the most famous souks in Morocco is the Souk Semmarine in Marrakech. This souk is known for its colorful stalls and its variety of goods. It’s easy to get lost in the maze-like alleys of the Souk Semmarine, but that’s part of the adventure. You never know what you might stumble upon around the next corner.
Another popular souk in Marrakech is the Souk El Bahja. This souk is known for its traditional Moroccan pottery. You can watch the artisans at work and even try your hand at creating your own pottery. The Souk El Bahja is also a great place to pick up a unique souvenir to take home.
If you’re looking for textiles, head to the Souk Haddadine in Fez. This souk is known for its beautiful woven fabrics and carpets. You can even see the weavers at work, using traditional techniques that have been passed down for generations.
In Meknes, the Place el-Hedim is home to the sprawling Souk Nejarine. This souk is known for its woodwork and furniture. You’ll find beautifully carved doors, tables, and chairs, as well as smaller items like boxes and chess sets.
The post A Cultural Tour of Morocco’s Medinas and Souks appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>The post 5 Tips for Surviving the Souks in Marrakech appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
]]>Once you enter the Souks, be prepared for an array of sights, sounds, and smells. Although the area is divided into sections, the hustle and bustle can be overwhelming and it is easy to get lost. You will be approached by many locals offering to guide you to the best places. They will charge you and may take you somewhere that is not safe. Always firmly refuse their services and use google maps to find your way through the maze of streets.
If you find something that you want to buy, it is very important not to accept the first price you are offered. The stallholders expect you to negotiate and start at ludicrously high prices. It is customary to walk away from the deal in order to get a better one.
Stallholders make their living by selling to tourists. So don’t be surprised if they understand everything you are saying, regardless of the language you are speaking. If you think you can confer with your friends or family, assume they will understand. Nothing is private. Working out a simple code with your fellow travelers in advance can really help.
The most aggressive sellers are those camped around the stallholders. There may be a group of women that grab your hand and start marking you with henna tattoos before you have even noticed. Snake charmers will put a snake around your neck and you will be inundated with mobile phones, designer sunglasses, and watches. All these encounters will cost you money unless you firmly refuse.
There is a lot of petty crime and pick-pocketers in Marrakech. Make sure you stay alert by not wearing headphones; not going out alone at night; not wearing expensive jewelry; keeping valuables in a zipped up bag, and staying confident. Women – don’t forget to cover up your legs and shoulders as well.
The post 5 Tips for Surviving the Souks in Marrakech appeared first on Traveler Dreams.
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