LOCATION
Dar Shariq is located in Sidi Ben Slimane area, in the North of the medina, few steps far from the souq, in a traditional district, with many famous restaurants and local groceries, 10 minutes walking to Medersa Ben Youssef, 15 minutes walking to Jemaa El Fna square, 20 minutes walking to Majorelle Gardens and the new Yves Saint Laurent Museum.
Mohamed Sidi Ben Slimane al-Jazouli is not only considered as one of the seven patronsS of Marrakech, but he is also recognised for his holiness throughout the Islamic world. As an Islamic scholar and Imam, Sidi Ben Slimane al-Jazouli, often known as “Imam al-Jazuli”, is best known for compiling the Dala’il al-Khayrat, an extremely popular Muslim prayer book.
Although there are many saints in Marrakech, the most notable are the Seven Saints of Marrakech and it is possible to trace their influence around the city. Not only is there the seven saints Monument, dedicated to all the saints, but Mohamed Sidi Ben Slimane al-Jazouli also has a district named after him in his honor.
Incidentally, outside the College Mohammed V, in the Ben Slimane al-Jazouli, neighborhood is primary pick up and drop off points for Dar Shariq, situated in close proximity in the heart of the Medina. Perhaps the Sidi Ben Slimane will also be your gateway into Marrakech and the beginning of your exploration of this wonderful city.
TIPS
1.Airport/Transportation in Marrakech
Flights to Marrakech arrive at Menara Airport (RAK). A valid passport is required for entry into Morocco.
3.INSURANCE
We recommend our guests to take out travel insurance before traveling.
2.Tipping in Morocco
Tipping in Morocco is part of the local culture and a custom particularly appreciated, especially by those who give you assistance. It is recommended to have small note or coins on hand.
4. Dress for Women
Marrakech tends to accepting of Western attire but as Morocco is a Muslim country women are advised to dress conservatively. So what should you wear in Morocco? We suggest making sure your knees and shoulders are covered, a scarf to cover up if will be chilly in the evening.
5.Weather in Marrakech
Marrakech is a popular destination with nearly year round sunshine. Summers (June-September) can get quite hot with temperature near 100 degrees F while the winter months can get chilly with night time temps dipping into the 30 degree F range. March-May and September-October are generally pleasant with highs in the 70 degree F and 80 F degree.
6.Buying Moroccan Rugs in Marrakech
Many of our guests arrive in Marrakech aware of not wanting to buy a carpet ....
We would like to share with you a funny anecdote, which one of our guest, Lynda, sent us on her return home ...
'Our tour guide took us to the cooperative and I fully expected to enjoy the demonstration while sipping my mint tea and continuing on my way. I'm not sure if it was the intricate Berber motifs or the softness of camel wool, but soon I found myself the proud owner of a Moroccan carpet and I absolutely love it. '
7.BE SMART IN MEDINA
Scams are an unfortunate part of life in the Medina, often in the form of unsolicited help with directions, telling tourists that the street they are on is closed or “tannery tours” , all of which will then demand a payment for their services.
The winding streets of the Medina can be overwhelming for a first time visitor, we recommend hiring a guide for your first afternoon or morning out to get a feel for the city as well learn about the history and culture of Marrakech.
8. You Will Get Lost
With the narrow winding streets of the Medina and little signage the chances of you getting lost at some point is fairly high. Paper maps provided by us, immediately mark you as a tourist, a better option is to download an offline map (Maps.me). Beware of unsolicited advice for directions (see sugestions above), if you must ask for directions your best bet is asking a shopkeeper or restaurant staff.
9. Food in Marrakech
Food in Marrakech is a feast for all the senses. The souks are lined with rows of sweet oranges, plump dates and countless varieties of olives while the air is heavy with the scent of intensely fragrant spices from the spice market. You can’t leave Marrakech without having a tagine; a stew, usually with chicken, lamb, beef or vegetables cooked and served in a clay pot of the same name. Eating is one of the best ways to experience Marrakech and our personal favorite is 'tanjia' (succulent lamb slow roasted in clay pots for hours in underground ovens).
20. top attractions
Ben Youssef Madersa
One of the most popular sites in Marrakech, the Ben Youssef Madersa previously served as a center for Islamic learning for over 400 years. Today visitors marvel at the intricately carved Moorish walls and stunning tile mosaics.
Majorelle Gardens
Once a private retreat for famed French designer Yves Saint Laurent the Majorelle Gardens are a beautiful mix of Berber and French cultures and provide a calming respite from the hustle of Marrakech.
Le Jardin Secret
An oasis from the chaos of the Medina, this beautifully restored courtyard features stunning tile work and lush gardens.
Bahia Palace
Considered one of the most lavish palaces in Marrakech, Bahia Palace features expansive courtyards, lush gardens and ornate architecture.