MARRAKECH, THE PINK CITY (Journal of Morocco #1)

Morocco, a North African country bordering the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, is distinguished by its Berber (the natives), Arabian and European cultural influences. Marrakech's walled medina, maze like medieval quarter, offers entertainment in its Djemaa el-Fna square and souks (market places) selling traditional ceramics jewellery and metal lanterns. The capital, Rabat's Kasbah of the Udayas is a 12th century royal fort overlooking the water.

Marrakech, a former imperial city in western Morocco, is a major economic centre and home to mosques, palaces and gardens. It is justly reputed the most fascinating of all Moroccan cities. It is nicknamed the pink city for its pinkish city walls. The pink colour is originated from the pigment of the local clay. It is a wisdom to sooth the eyes during the hot summer where temperature of this desert city can soar up to 55 degree Celsius. New regulations also determined every new house of building must be given this pink colour.

Ourika Valley is the city's escape from the scotching summer heat. The temperature here is much cooler in the shadow of Atlas peaks, where there will be snowcapped mountains during the winter. The landscape is very lush and local village houses are build from bricks made from the local rich red soils. There are camel rides along the mule tracks follow the line of the Oued Ourika (Ourika River). We drove around the valley enjoying the mountain views, green terraces, rocky village foothills. Those who are fit also can hike to the seven water falls if time permit.

Beautiful Atlas Mountains view.

See, blue sky with no cloud. Typical character of Marrakech.

Lush greenery along the way.

Olive farms.

Camels for a ride.

Near the head of the valley, surrounded by the peaks of the High Atlas, is Setti Fatma, a typical Berber village which is popular with tourists. The village has been largely rebuilt after a severe flood in 1995.

This is an interesting way to escape heat. Restaurants are set up along the river bank, the tables and chairs are laid out in the middle of the river. Diners enjoy their meal with their feet dipping in the cooling spring water!