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A marathon experience in Morocco |
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The Marrakech marathon in Morocco is reported to be one of the fastest races of its kind in the world, and this year's event is scheduled to take place on January 29th.
The city has long been a favourite with backpackers and other adventurous tourists, but is expected to see an even greater influx of visitors than usual for the 17th annual race, when over 5,000 hopefuls will compete.
The January temperature of 20 degrees C is a relatively mild one, although supply points offering water, dates, raisins and slices of orange as sustenance will be distributed at intervals of around 5km.
The route itself is notable for its alleys of palm trees and the orange orchards and olive groves of the Menara Gardens, and it also skirts the remaining ramparts of the ancient city of Medina.
Medina is home to Marrakech's bustling and boisterous traders and skilled artisans. Bargain-hunters will not be afraid to barter for a piece of exquisite Marrakechi art, and each craft has its own specific area in the city.
As well as buying, it will be possible to watch the craftspeople at work, whether beating out brass and copper, or making sieves and slippers. Jewellers, carpenters and apothecaries also jostle for attention.
For other key sights, such as the towering Koutoubia Mosques minaret, it may be worth hailing one of the 300 horse drawn carriages that are a regular sight around the city.
source: gotravelinsurance.co.uk |
