Visiting Marrakech in January offers mild weather, perfect for exploring vibrant souks, historic medinas, and exquisite gardens.
As many people want to stay in the same accommodation, I have booked a Riad* in Marrakech for up to 7 people for a 4 night trip. It is the social side of these trips that everyone enjoys the most, so that way everyone can stay together in one place.
For the book, we will read and discuss Esther Freud's (yes, daughter of painter Lucian Freud and a great-granddaughter of Sigmund Freud) book of her time in Marrakech in the 1970's with two young children. You might remember the film with Kate Winslet of the same title.
*A riad is a traditional Moroccan house or palace with an interior garden or courtyard. Typically found in the medinas (old cities), riads feature beautifully decorated rooms arranged around a central courtyard, often with a fountain or lush greenery. They offer an intimate and serene retreat from the bustling streets outside.
ITINERARY
Thursday - 30 Jan 2025
After arriving in Marrakech and having time to check in, we will all meet up in the evening and have a meal.
Friday - 31st January 2025
We will have a local tour guide for our literary tour of Marrakech inspired by Esther Freud's "Hideous Kinky," where we will dive into the vibrant 1960s atmosphere. We'll start at the bustling Jemaa el-Fnaa square, absorbing its lively ambiance. We will explore the enchanting souks, where the young protagonist and her mother experienced the city's chaotic beauty. As we visit the Koutoubia Mosque, we'll reflect on the cultural and spiritual quests depicted in the novel.Throughout our wanderings, we will weave in the novel's plot, blending historical facts with the rich, colourful narrative.
Saturday & Sunday - 1st/2nd February 2025
Free to spend as you wish either exploring alone or with others. Visit the Jardin Majorelle gardens (they are beautiful) and Bahia Palace if you wish to stay in Marrakech, or outside Marrakech, you can explore the Atlas Mountains or visit Essaouira for its coastal charm (where you can also see the goats in trees).Monday 3rd February 2025
One final breakfast together before departing.Accommodation
This is the first time I have done this, so I have tried to choose a well reviewed property in a good location that can accommodate everyone.
Riad l'Echappée is well reviewed, in a quiet area within the Madina itself. You can see details on the property here, it looks very traditional and attractive - https://www.riadlechappee.com/en/le-riad
Choose the room option you prefer. Two of the rooms are twin rooms, so are for sharing, so please only book them if you are going to share with a friend or happy to share with someone new.
THE COST
Included in the cost of the trip:-
Everything from a normal Books in Places trip, but with accommodation included.
- 4 nights accommodation with breakfast in a Riad
- Walking explore of Marrakech with local tour guide
- Evening meal in a traditional Moroccan restaurant
- Book club meeting while we discuss the book Hideous Kinky
The total cost of the trip depends on your accommodation choice.
There are only five rooms available on this trip. As people will come from different places, flights are not included, but direct flights are available to Marrakech from many UK airports and were under £100 last time I checked.
Double room price is for the whole room on your own (if you would like two people in a double room, please contact me). (now sold out)
One place now available in a twin room. Please use the contact form https://booksinplaces.co.uk/contact/ and let me know if you are interested.