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General Category => General Discussion => Topic started by: Jediboy on January 25, 2018, 09:44:22 PM

Title: Marrakech
Post by: Jediboy on January 25, 2018, 09:44:22 PM
Hi,

I'm taking the wife to Marrakech next week as a 40th surprise. It's not a surprise that she's going to be 40 but this holiday is a surprise.
I was wondering if anyone here has been to Marrakech and if so do you recommend any particular things to do or not do whilst there?

I'm undecided about taking the camera. It's a bit bulky, and I won't be able to do the sort of photography I want, but at the same time I don't want to miss an exciting opportunity to take some photos. I'll have my GoPro but not sure about the DSLR.

Thanks
Chris
Title: Re: Marrakech
Post by: Hinfrance on January 27, 2018, 01:24:31 PM
Hi Chris - never been to that part of Africa, but my take it anywhere and everywhere camera is my Olympus Tough, TG4. Version 5 is out now with a better sensor. They're not cheap, but they do what they say on the tin - very tough: dirt, dust and waterproof (I use mine to take video and stills snorkelling).

One of the reasons I bought my Panasonic bridge is for travelling and avoiding having to take a bag full of lenses and other paraphernalia. So that will go with me on forthcoming journeys as well as the Olympus, which I pretty much always carry.
Title: Re: Marrakech
Post by: Jediboy on January 27, 2018, 06:07:20 PM
Thanks H.
I was looking to buy a Nikon J1 or newer model. But I'm now looking to put that money into a drone which is still on the cards.
I think I'll probably take my DSLR as I don't want to miss out on photo opportunities.
Title: Re: Marrakech
Post by: jinky on January 28, 2018, 10:14:32 PM
Wasn`t to fond of Marrakech when I went. Some great shots to be had but some very aggressive locals. heed the warnings about the snake charmers and old medicine men that abound. They gang up and seek to extort cash from tourists trying to sneak photos and do not settle for paltry sums when done with permission. I was physically manhandled by 4 of them in the square after giving money to shoot  some action when they decided they wanted more and I refused. Tourist police turned their backs when I called for them. I was only rescues when 3 young girls starting taking shots without asking and became the new targets. I then wen over to Police to steer them that way but again they were reluctant to get involved and I`m afraid I legged it. Lovely scenes but take care! Another one to watch are self appointed guides who try to attach themselves to you into the markets even when you repeatedly say no. Again attempts to extract money and you have to be strong and rude. Other than that - great fun  :)
Title: Re: Marrakech
Post by: Jediboy on January 29, 2018, 03:54:59 AM
Sounds like you were unlucky Jinky. That said I have heard of similar stories. I've also heard that it pays to be confident and to be aware of the 'scans.'
Generally hearing positive stories but pays to see the full picture.
Thanks.
Title: Re: Marrakech
Post by: jinky on January 29, 2018, 06:22:23 AM
Quote from: Jediboy on January 29, 2018, 03:54:59 AM
Sounds like you were unlucky Jinky. That said I have heard of similar stories. I've also heard that it pays to be confident and to be aware of the 'scans.'
Generally hearing positive stories but pays to see the full picture.
Thanks.
I think my main problem was going back to the square on my own later for shots but then on a family trip it`s hard getting the shots you want. That said don`t let my experience put you off - just use the warnings to take care. The number of scammers / pickpockets and harassers were up a grade from even my worst experiences in Egypt. Watch your valuables ad when they say "no money needed" they mean they want money  ;). Have a great time and leave your back pockets empty.
Title: Re: Marrakech
Post by: Jediboy on January 29, 2018, 05:47:44 PM
Sound advice no doubt. I'll be sure to be on my guard. Thanks again.