Memories from my first visit to Marrakech back in 2011 are not particularly happy ones. I was constantly running to the bathroom (food poisoning), feeling endlessly harassed, upset at having my arse grabbed by a teenager and ended up crying on the doorstep to our riad. To top it all off my relationship was coming to an end. That holiday sealed the deal I think.
I swore I’d never go back to Marrakech. So when I was asked if I’d like to shoot Beat Hotel festival in March (see my other post here), I did hesitate… for about two seconds… then proceeded to book flights and give Marrakech a second chance.
And Marrakech had changed. A lot. Or perhaps I had?
I hadn’t remembered how much of a vibrant and mysterious city it was, that you could lose yourself for hours in a labyrinth of tiny alleyways. A real city of extremes… busy and noisy in Jemaa el-Fna (the main square), with calm and tranquil spots tucked away from the Medina. Souk vendors seemed way more relaxed this time, people were friendlier (apart from the kid who told me to f*ck off!) and I was in photography heaven. Filled with rich colours and the intoxicating scent of spices, I fell head over heels in love with Marrakech this time.
Jemaa el-Fna, the main square in the heart of Marrakech
