Marrakesh’s spice shops know how to attract custom – colourful pyramids of spices and herbs are proudly displayed outside to entice the shopper. If you want to take home a taste of Morocco, these are the places to come to. Ask for ras el hanout (‘top of the shop’, a special blend of up to several dozen spices) that gives Moroccan cuisine its distinctive twist. Every shop and kitchen has its own particular blend, but cumin, cinnamon, allspice and cloves are all essential ingredients. Moroccan saffron is also an excellent buy. Many spice shops double up as apothecaries. Herbs, bark, mineral and infusions are all offered to cure anything from headaches and skin complaints to impotency – a truly spicy offering.

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Add some authentic Moroccan flavor to your trip

Marrakesh’s spice shops know how to attract custom – colourful pyramids of spices and herbs are proudly displayed outside to entice the shopper. If you want to take home a taste of Morocco, these are the places to come to. Ask for ras el hanout (‘top of the shop’, a special blend of up to several dozen spices) that gives Moroccan cuisine its distinctive twist. Every shop and kitchen has its own particular blend, but cumin, cinnamon, allspice and cloves are all essential ingredients. Moroccan saffron is also an excellent buy. Many spice shops double up as apothecaries. Herbs, bark, mineral and infusions are all offered to cure anything from headaches and skin complaints to impotency – a truly spicy offering.

In the Souks

Visiting Marrakech, Morocco, I made sure to wander the souks (or bazaars) that have been around for centuries. This was the Souk Sammarine, the largest. Others specialize in various products. Everything was on sale here from herbal medicines to hand-stitched bags, to pig’s feet. The sensory gifts are free. Make sure to peep into the old baking houses that provided the bread for the villagers of old (and still do), step into a traditional bath house, watch the snake charmers, and eat the fresh grilled foods. You may even get a marriage proposal or two.

Colorful spices in Marrakech Souk

Amazing experience just walking around the Marrakech Souks although the vendors can be pretty pushy - be prepared to haggle, haggle, haggle. http://www.peregrineadventures.com/blog/10/01/2012/5-tips-surviving-marrakech-souk

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