Final day

I am pleased to report that I succeeded in buying things in Marrakech without having to go through the tedious process of haggling. The tedious processs that inevitably works in favour of the blaggers as they are content to spend all day holding out to agree an inflated price.

There is a government-baked artisan centre that sells everything at a fixed price. I am sure I paid a slight premium over the minimum a desperate blagger might sell at, especially as I bought numerous items, but I certainly avoided the risk of paying the ridiculous prices that every traveller I've spoken to has had the misfortune of paying.

Now for a quick summary of my Moroccan trip. All in all I'm pleased I came here, and in particular I am pleased to have used Marrakech as a hub for visiting other towns/villages such as Essaouira and Merzouga (in the Sahara). I'm not a fan of Marrakech, but I'm pleased I came here to formulate my own opinions. There is plenty of contrast in the city, from the hectic (Jamaa Al Fna square and the bustling main roads) to the tranquil (Jardin Princess Lalla Masna and Jardin Marjorelle), the cultural spectacles (the Koutoubia) to the brazen awfulness of the Souks. There is something to intrigue and interest everyone. But equally, there is plenty to piss off everyone.

Highlights: trip to Sahara / first 30 mins exploring Jamaa Al Fna at night / Jardins of Marrakech
Low points: blaggers / beggars/ prices / cold temperature