Air Jaws - Afton Grove

Afton Grove Country Retreat

Afton Grove Country Retreat, a tranquil Cape Town guest house situated in rustic Noordhoek, offers you a warm friendly welcome and quality accommodation with choice of bed & breakfast or self-catering accommodation in Noordhoek.

10 “Cape Style” garden cottages and a honeymoon suite surround a peaceful two-acre lawned garden, with restful calm and bird song beckoning you to breakfast. Mature shady trees and a swimming pool invite relaxation. You will be tempted to extend you stay – over and over again.

The Cape Style garden cottage units all contain an en-suite bathroom with a choice of single or double beds. Each individually decorated cottage has personal touches with attention to detail including an honesty bar and private patio reflective of the country charm. The tranquility and privacy of your own garden cottage invites respite from any routine. Our spacious honeymoon suite which exudes elegance and comfort is always a popular choice for our visitors. There is secure parking available behind a remote controlled gate.

Seal Island False Bay offers the unique opportunity to witness natural predation of the great white sharks on Cape Fur Seals. What makes False Bay so special is that this behavior can be seen more frequently here than any other shark spot in the world.
Our AIRJAWS great white shark trips specifically focus on breaching and natural predation plus we offer shark cage diving on the trip.
We would consider our high season to be from mid-April to end of August and the best months for the predation and breaching activity is during June, July and August. September is in between high and intermediate season with a 70% success rate. March is still early in the season and we have a 60-70% success rate. During March our trips mainly focus on the cage diving and surface viewing as it is still too early in the season for the breaching.

Duration: Approx 5.5 hours. The trip departs from Simonstown at 7am sharp and returns at 12h30.

Simon's Town Pier in Simon's Town is just 40 minutes from Cape Town and the base from where we depart.
A 20 minute trip from will take you to Seal Island False Bay, famous for "AIRJAWS", a term used for their highly athletic breaching and hunting behavior.
Great white sharks often attack their prey with such force and explosive energy that it propels them right out of the water. To witness a breaching Great White Shark is a spectacular sight, and will definitely leave you with a lasting impression.                                                                                                                            

Zambia: The Legendary Land

Zambia has some of the most spectacular views of the magnificent Victoria Falls and a choice of fine lodges along the banks of the mighty Zambezi River. This friendly country is the land of the African walking safari, with some awesome hiking trails. Breathtaking lakes and wetlands, an abundant wildlife and raw wilderness areas complete the picture.

Explore the many national parks and enjoy Zambia’s diverse concentration of wildlife. For bird lovers, there are over 740 species to sight. For off-the-beaten-track adventures and adrenalin thrills, choose from river rafting, kayaking, canoe trails, bungy jumping, microlighting, scuba diving, 4x4 routes, horseback and elephant trails and some of the best fishing spots in Africa!

Visit the fascinating Shiwa Ngandu colonial manor, Chimfunshi Chimpanzee Santuary, the Livingstone Memorial and several museums and other places of historic and cultural interest. Zambia has a few more of Africa’s best-kept secrets: go and see for yourself.  

Leopard Mountain Lodge Winter Warmer

Let us warm you up this winter with an amazing offer at Leopard Mountain Game Lodge.

Stay at leopard Mountain during the months of June & July and you pay half price!!! Cuddle up next to our Bonfire in the boma while reminiscing the days' wildlife encounters and tasting some true South African Cuisine.

Pay only R 1 125.00 per person sharing per night. This includes accommodation in a private luxury chalet, a four course gourmet dinner, a Full English breakfast, a healthy lunch, High tea and three guided game activities daily.

Leopard Mountain Game Lodge is located high up in the secluded hills of the 23 000ha of the Zululand Rhino Reserve. The lodge overlooks a vast stretch of unspoiled bushland and riverine forests, from the Umsunduze River meandering below to the most spectacular views in Zululand .

South Africa Waterberg

Described as being South Africa’s best kept secret, the malaria-free Waterberg lies in the north-western part of the Limpopo Province. Vaalwater, forming the centre of this area is situated about 200 km north of Pretoria. The Waterberg Mountain range stretches in a long arc for some 150 km’s from Thabazimbi in the west, Nylstroom in the centre to Potgietersrus in the east, incorporating rivers, streams and swamps to add to the spectacular scenery of the mountains themselves. Situated in the heart of the Bushveld, this area offers the visitor fantastic horse safaris, is an important San Rock Art area, is home to about 75 mammal species including the Big Five, over 300 bird species and due to its elevation it is much cooler than most other game reserves in South Africa.

Welgevonden
Situated on the Waterberg Plateau and only a 3 hour drive north of Johannesburg International Airport, the Welgevonden Private Game Reserve is a 34 200 ha privately owned game reserve made up of 500 ha blocks allowing owners to build a maximum 10 bed lodge per sub-division. There are no internal fences but an electrified perimeter fence prevents large mammals from movement onto neighbouring properties. This malaria-free reserve with its mountainous terrain, dissected by deep valleys and kloofs, offers the visitor a genuine African Safari experience in the untamed Bushveld.

Victorial Falls: Mosi-Oa-Tunya

One of the seven natural wonders of the world. The local tribes people call it Mosi-Oa-Tunya - the smoke that thunders stretching over 1,5km as it plunges over 100 metres into the Batoka Gorge below. The fine spray of the mighty Victoria falls, may be seen like a cloud across the bushveld, throwing rainbows hundreds of feet in the air. Nationwide Airlines and British Airways have regular flights from Johannesburg into Livingstone on the Zambian side of the falls. Guided walking safaris are available, which takes you through the magnificent rain forest where you are able to view the cataracts, Livingstone’s statue and a wide variety of birds and plants.

Visit the craft village, which offers the opportunity of seeing traditional African lifestyles and markets.
A visit to the crocodile farm is also worthwhile, whilst a sunset cruise viewing Africa’s big five on the Zambezi is a must. White water rafting or a trip on a jet boat is just the thing for the adrenaline junkies.

Your accommodation needs will be more than adequately met by the two hotels selected.

From Brazil to Kerala to Morocco - Hideaway Trips

The honeymoon suite a Pacuare Lodge, Costa Rica.

The term "rustic luxury" could have been created for Uxua: nine wooden casas set among lush gardens in the village of Trancoso. The houses have wooden floors, four-poster beds and Portuguese antiques – presented in a style you'd expect from a property created by Wilbert Das, creative director of Diesel. A cosy restaurant serves Bahian dishes.

• Casas sleeping two from £275 a night; 00 55 73 3668 2277; uxua.com. British Airways (0844 493 0787; ba.com) flies to Rio de Janeiro from Heathrow from £680

Known for its five-star hotels and sprawling resorts, Mauritius has few boutique hotels, so the opening of a new – and affordable – bolthole is newsworthy. La Maison d'Eté has four rooms in the main house and six bungalows with kitchenettes. Kayaks, scuba-diving equipment and mountain bikes are all available free of charge.

• Doubles from £84 B&B; 00 230 410 5039; lamaisondete.com. Air France (0845 0845 111; airfrance.co.uk) flies to Mauritius from Heathrow from £582

Petite Anse (petiteanse.com) has a real hideaway feel: 11 cottage-style rooms tucked away in the north of the island, with lush gardens surrounding the pool and lodge. Rooms have four-poster beds and a private deck or terrace, with a stunning beach close by. The restaurant is open all day, with a more formal feel in the evening.

• A week's B&B including flights and transfers costs from £775 through Just Grenada; 01373 814214; justgrenada.co.uk

The 12 suites at Aditya are named after Hindu deities, and there is something particularly tranquil about these cool rooms, furnished with teak beds and chaises. Balconies overlook the sea, with beaches and the streets of Galle a short walk away.

• Doubles from $208 room only; 00 94 91 226 7708; aditya-resort.com. Emirates (0844 800 2777; emirates.com/uk) flies to Colombo (via Dubai) from six UK airports from £643

Boutique hotels rarely get a look-in among the towering behemoths of Dubai. Fusion, then, is a real find – a 15-room hotel in Jumeirah housed in classic Arabian villas with gardens. Rooms have warm Arabic touches – lamps, rich drapes and ceramics. Lunch and supper can be taken by the pool.

• Doubles from £70 B&B; 00 971 50 478 7539; fusionhotels.com. Emirates (0844 800 2777; emirates.com/uk) flies to Dubai from six UK airports from £374

One of the most remote villages on the island, Tejeda makes a perfect base for a walking holiday in the Unesco Biosphere Reserve, laced with ancient paved pathways called caminos reales. The hotel (hotelfondadelatea.com) is a converted inn with 10 bedrooms and views across the volcanic Cumbre. Hearty breakfasts are served in the traditional dining room.

• Upland Escapes (01367 851111; uplandescapes.com) has a week at Fonda de la Tea from £670, including flights and car hire

Just getting to Pacuare Lodge is an adventure: guests can arrive by raft, passing canyons and waterfalls that flow into the Pacuare River. The lodge is hidden inside tropical forest, with 13 bungalows, a pool and a central building with a restaurant and bar. Rooms are luxurious, with pristine white linen and polished wood floors.

• From $326 a night per person, including all meals and rafting tour; 00 506 2225 3939; junglelodgecostarica.com. Iberia (0870 609 0500; iberiaairlines.co.uk) flies to San Jose (via Madrid) from Heathrow from £579

One of the best mid-haul bets for winter sunshine, the Gambia mixes beautiful beaches with nature reserves and forests, four-wheel drive adventures and fishing trips. Ngala Lodge (ngalalodge.com) is a former colonial mansion with just 10 suites in a spectacular clifftop location. A small private beach offers fantastic fishing at low tide.

• Serenity Holidays (0845 330 2060; serenityholidays.co.uk) has a week from £599, including flights and transfers

One of the best Caribbean islands for trekking, Dominica is criss-crossed with walking trails – and many go through the grounds of the Zandoli Inn. Its six rooms are comfortable, with slick bathrooms and balconies, but no radio, TV or phones. It is an easy walk down to the village of Fond St Jean, or up to Morne Pei.

• Doubles from $145 room-only; 00 767 446 3161; zandoli.com. The cheapest way to fly to Dominica is by purchasing two separate return tickets. British Airways (0844 493 0787; ba.com) flies to Antigua from Gatwick from £554 return, after which Liat (liatairline.com) flies from Antigua to Dominica from £116

Mallorca's mild winter weather makes it perfect for walks up into the Tramuntana mountains, or horse rides across the plains. Located in Soller, L'Avenida has eight stunning bedrooms, all shot-silk drapes and jet chandeliers.

• Doubles from €225 B&B; 00 34 971 634 075; avenida-hotel.com. Easyjet (08706 000 000; easyjet.com) flies to Mallorca from 10 UK airports from £57

The perfect spot for lovers of the Caribbean who don't want to lie on a beach all day, the Mago Estate Hotel is perched between the Piton mountains, with fantastic hiking from the door. Take supper on the terrace for incredible views of the Pitons.

• Doubles from £114 B&B; 00 1 758 459 5880; magohotel.com. British Airways (0844 493 0787; ba.com) flies to St Lucia from Gatwick from £571

Liby has some of the most astonishing Roman ruins in the Mediterranean and is becoming more accessible to tourists. Tripoli's first boutique hotel is hidden in the medina, with 15 rooms grouped around four tranquil courtyards.

• Doubles from $226 B&B; 00 218 21 33 44 917; elkhanhotel.com. British Airways (0844 493 0787; ba.com) flies to Tripoli from Heathrow from £263

A former colonial mansion, Villa Belle Epoque provides an escape from the madness of Cairo's streets in the lush suburb of Maadi. The house has 13 bedrooms with balconies, shady patios and a pool. A walking tour of the Maadi's historic homes and gardens gives a fascinating insight into Cairo's more recent history.

• Doubles from $255 B&B; 00 20 2 2358 0265; villabelleepoque.com. British Airways (0844 493 0787; ba.com) flies to Cairo from Heathrow from £302

Malabar House is ideal for combining lazy days on the Keralan backwaters with exploring the region's history. It dates back to the mid-18th century, and there are Dutch palaces, 15th-century Portuguese churches and ornate Indian temples to explore. The house has 17 elegant rooms and an Ayurvedic spa.

• Doubles from €220 B&B; 00 91 484 221 6666; malabarhouse.com. Qatar Airways (0870 3898 090; qatarairways.com) flies to Kochi (via Doha) from Heathrow from £476

Koh Phangan may be famous for raucous parties, but Mandalai is hidden on the quieter side of the island, near the village of Chaloklum. The 12 rooms are set around a pool and terrace that opens on to a beach. For the price, the level of style and comfort is impressive.

• Doubles from £58 B&B; 00 66 77 374 316 19; mandalaihotel.com. British Airways (0844 493 0787; ba.com) flies to Bangkok from Heathrow from £629

The Borjs de la Kasbah offers the riad experience for less. The rooms are comfortable, if a little bland, but the communal areas – the open-fronted dining room, cosy bar and sitting rooms – are all welcoming and delightfully furnished. There is a good sized pool for cooling off in after a spree in the souks.

• From £35 per person B&B, including airport transfers; 00 212 524 38 1101; lesborjsdelakasbah.com. Easyjet (08706 000 000; easyjet.com) flies to Marrakech from Gatwick and Manchester from £74

The 16 rooms at Madawi are decked out with locally made furniture and fabrics, but its x-factor is the open showers hidden among tropical ferns. The landscaped pool is a perfect spot for breakfast.

• Doubles from £48 B&B; 00 62 361 739 360; madawi.com. Qatar Airways (0870 3898 090; qatarairways.com) flies to Bali (via Doha) from Heathrow from £594

White Waters is about as far from the chintzy image of Madeira as it is possible to be. Rooms are neat and pared down, and all have balconies with sea views. The hotel is in Machico, perfect for exploring the east coast fishing villages, and for heading inland to the central plain, crisscrossed with levadas – irrigation channels that are now walking paths.

• Doubles from €87 B&B; 00 351 291 969 380; whitewaters-madeira.com. Easyjet (08706 000 000; easyjet.com) flies to Madeira from Gatwick, Stansted and Bristol from £61

This 300-year-old warehouse in the pretty village of Britona has been converted into an elegant hotel with eight rooms and two studios. Rooms have a colonial feel with antiques and wall frescoes.

• Doubles from £52 B&B; 00 91 0832 241 6737; casaboutiquehotels.com. Thomson Airways (0871 231 4691; thomson.co.uk) flies to Goa from Gatwick, Manchester and East Midlands from £599

With just six rooms and two suites, Hibiscus House is a world away from the vast resort hotels that now dominate Gambia's beaches. Rooms are furnished with African fabrics and art, and all have a private terrace or garden.

• From £64 B&B; 0151 703 0100; hibiscushousegambia.com. Monarch (08719 40 50 40; monarch.co.uk) flies to Banjul from Gatwick and Manchester from £257

Holidays In Middle East made a Multi-coumtry trip

The dramatic landscapes of the Middle East are a great playground for families. Camping out with the Bedouin, exploring ancient castles or riding across the desert on camels will keep even the tetchiest teenager amused. Families Worldwide (0845 051 4567; familiesworldwide.co.uk) has launched a new nine-day tour of Egypt for 2010. Called Sinai and Desert, it combines visiting the pyramids, snorkelling in the Red Sea and camping with the Bedouin. The cost is from £1,099 for adults, £999 for children, including flights and accommodation.

The Red Sea coast of Saudi Arabia has some impressive dive sites, but until now they have not been easily accessible for Western tourists. New holidays from Regaldive (01353 659999; regaldive.co.uk) will change that, with accommodation at the Al Alham resort in the coastal town of Al Lith. Days will be spent exploring virgin dive sites and reefs that are rich in coral and sea fans, and spotting turtles and pelicans nesting on nearby islands. A week's trip costs from £1,349, including flights and transfers.

Spend a couple of days lazing by the sea before slipping into ski gear and whizzing down the slopes on a new combination break to Lebanon with Black Tomato (020 7426 9888; blacktomato.co.uk). There is still snow on Lebanon's peaks even when it's warm enough to sunbathe on the beach, and the four-day itinerary includes time for both, along with visits to the ancient sites at Baalbeck and Byblos.

Good news for independent travellers: the launch of Dubai's first low-cost airline this summer has made a multi-country trip to the region easy and affordable. Flydubai has routes between Beirut, Damascus, Alexandria, Amman, Aleppo and Dubai with fares from about £60 one-way, although there are extra charges for checked-in baggage and booking a specific seat. Book at flydubai.com.

Due to open in November, the Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Resort in Abu Dhabi will be the first hotel in the vast empty wastes of the Empty Quarter - the largest uninterrupted stretch of desert in the world. The 196-room resort is designed to resemble an old desert fortress, but comes complete with state-of-the-art spa, children's club and a huge freeform pool. The desert itself can be explored by dune bike, 4x4 tours or on camping trips, all bookable through the hotel. A four-night break including breakfast costs from £929, including flights from Heathrow through Destinology (0800 634 2866; destinology.co.uk).

The Middle East may be undergoing a building boom, but there are areas where conservation issues are at the forefront of tourist development. The Ras Al-Jinz conservation area in Oman is located at the head of the Arabian peninsula and houses one of the largest nesting areas of green turtles in the Indian Ocean, with around 30,000 nesting in the 120km stretch of protected area. The Visitor Centre adjoins the Carapace Lodge, offering luxury accommodation from where guests can join tours of the nesting areas.

Spring Break 2011 in Europe!

Having trouble deciding where you should go for Spring Break? What could be more fun and more memorable than spending Spring Break in Europe? Just imagine drinking fine wines in a Parisian cafe, visiting the Eiffel Tower and spending the afternoon at the Louvre. Or imagine sipping a frothy pint of Guiness, cheering loudly as you watch the latest Football match in a local pub in London. While you might not get a tan, one things for sure- you’re guaranteed to have memories that’ll last a lifetime.

You’ll be surprised just how affordable your European escape can be- chances are you’ll actually save money compared to a beach party binge-fest- and the best part is you’ll remember it all. (at least more of it )

There are so many incredible options to choose from when planning your Euro Trip and with only a quick visit, the toughest part is going to be picking only one or two cities to visit. A week is just enough to get a taste of Europe and I can guarantee you’ll be back for more!

Here are our students’ favorite European destinations that are perfect for a dash away from it all during Spring Break 2011.

The artistic (& romantic) capital of the world, Paris never dissapoints. With a wealth of history, incredible art exhibits and some of the world’s most famous sights- you’ll find no shortage of excitement in the French capital.

“Good Americans, when they die, go to Paris.” – Oscar Wilde

The classic European getaway- London is one of the cities you absolutely must see before you die. With world-famous sights, shopping, nightlife, theatre, buckingham palace, music, history and architecture

“When a man is tired of London, he is tired of life; for there is in London all that life can afford.” – Samuel Johnson

Canals, Cafes & Cannabis- that about sumsup the truly beautiful and eclectic city of Amsterdam. Spend the afternoon riding your bicycle through the cobble-street roads, visit the Van Gogh museum or swing by the Heineken brewery to sample a pint of refreshing beer. Whether you’re looking for an action packed party weekend with friends or a relaxing getaway, Holland’s claim to fame fits all.

“In Amsterdam the water is the mistress and the land the vassal. throughout the city there are as many canals and drawbridges as bracelets on a Gypsy’s bronzed arms. – Felix Marti-Ibanez

A Portuguese blend of Rome and San Francisco, Lisbon has held the title of capital since 1147, and rightfully so. Lisbon is a legendary city with over 20 centuries of History- combined with a reputation for friendly locals & world class wines.

Barcelona’s charm is evident in it’s rich history, traditions and cultural influences. Barcelona is home to incredible sites- Parc Guell & La Sagrada Familia to name a few- not to mention delicious tapas, succulent sangria and exotic flamenco dancing.

If ghost stories, Scottish whiskey tours and funny accents don’t do it for you, then steer clear of this popular backpacker destination. The medieval feel of Scotland’s capital still holds strong- with knights, castles and beef pies to die for- you can even visit the “birthplace” of Harry Potter.

Enjoy a pint of Guinness or “d black stuff” as it’s known to the locals at the world renowned Guinness Storehouse. Spend the day exploring Trinity College & O’Connel Street then cap your night off at the infamous Temple Bar district. Watch out for the drunkards who often end up brawling on the streets late at night!

Berlin, Berlin, Berlin. The German capital has endured the wrath of the World War, the rise and fall of the Berlin wall, and yet it’s rebuilt itself as a modern day powerhouse. With a rich and vibrant art scene, a never-ending party scene and decades of historical gems- Berlin is not to be missed.

Germany’s often neglected neighbor, Austria, is not to be underestimated. World class ski resorts, schnitzel to die for and a whole lot of Schnapps- this country knows how to get down. Home to the legendary Habsburg dynasty, Vienna is the history buff’s dream city. Blanketed with beautiful architecture, premiere Opera performances and decadent sweets- Vienna is a top pick that’s sure to surprise you.

So what are you waiting for?

Ready for a World Holidys Trip

There is no feeling like getting ready for a big trip. Whether it’s a weekend in Vegas with the boys, or a 6 week Euro-trip, the anticipation before any vacation is tantalizing.

As you check off days on the calendar, counting each one down with anticipation… it seems like the day will never come. Then before you know it… it’s finally there. You set the alarm clock. Twice. (Which really doesn’t matter anyways because you can’t sleep from sheer excitement.) You jump out of bed, grab your bags and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

For anyone who has ever traveled, I’m sure you can agree that embarking on a new journey is unforgettable. There’s no better feeling than sitting on the edge of your seat and hearing those words… “Buckle your seatbelts & prepare for takeoff!”

But what about the part nobody ever talks about? Coming home. I recently just completed one of the most amazing journeys of my life through Southeast Asia. 19 months in total to be exact. That’s 578.3 Days of shorts, sandals, and a whole lot of sun. Granted not all of that was spent traveling, but needless to say- it was freakin’ incredible… that is until I had to leave.

And you know what I came home to? Over 20 inches of snow in less than a few days, temperatures dropping below minus 15 degrees Fahrenheit, and freezing cold winds that cut to the core.

The craziest part? I absolutely loved it. The sheer fact that two ENTIRELY different worlds can co-exist within less than a day of travel, is pretty mind-boggling if you think about it. In a period of less than 30 hours, I experienced two drastic extremes- from 90 degrees Fahrenheit and flip-flops, to -20 degrees literally overnight. To me, that’s freakin’ cool. No pun intended.

Don’t get me wrong- there are things I absolutely love about living in a warm weather climate- being warm for instance- but there are definitely benefits to both. And the more I travel, the more I learn to love both sides of the coin. Skiing in the rockies, surfing in Bali, snowshoeing on frozen lakes, or snorkeling with giant sea turtles- I simply love it all.

You always hear about “reverse culture shock” and people who have difficulties integrating back into their home culture after being abroad. But I beg to differ- obviously it takes some time to adjust to everything, but I find that I end up loving home all that much more after spending some time abroad as it gives you perspective that you would never have access to when stuck in the daily grind.

It helps you appreciate things you normally take for granted and ultimately reveals just how truly fortunate we are to live in a country with many freedoms, and a high quality of life (you might argue this point- but after having traveled to many countries where the average wage was less than $100/month- you certainly come to appreciate the luxuries we have been brought up with… and I’m not even talking about big TV’s and nice cars- more like clean drinking water and good education!)

So which would you choose? Snowy Canada? or Balmy Thailand? I choose both and will continue to travel the globe in search of the best snow, sun, and adventure. At the end of the day it comes down to being flexible and willing to adapt to your surroundings. I can’t say I’ve ever traveled to a “bad” place. It’s entirely what you make of it, so go out there and seize the day!

For the love of travel,
Evan

P.S. Challenge yourself to create an adventure in your own backyard. So often we get stuck in the mindset of having to get away from it all in order to have fun- but why not check out some of the activities at your fingertips, or book a hotel in your own city & have a vacation at home! Travel is all about being creative… Live it up!

Morroc’n out in Marrakesh

The flight took just over an hour, but as we entered the city it felt as though we were a million miles from Europe… We had just arrived into Marrakesh, after departing from Seville, Spain. I’d booked a few nights in a Riad on StudentUniverse.com.

Luckily, somebody from our hotel came and met us from the taxi, as there’s no way would have found the Riad otherwise. Marrakesh is full of winding, narrow, and seemingly unmarked streets. Getting lost is almost inevitable… It’s a bit daunting at first, but as you familiarize yourself and get your bearings getting lost can actually be an adventure. Plus you can always ask locals for directions, but some will expect a few dollars in return.

A Riad is a hotel/guesthouse in Morocco, which has multiple rooms, all surrounding a large shared courtyard, with roof terraces. The riads are lavishly decorated, and covered with communal sofas and cushions. Prices for a decent double room start from $50 per night, including breakfast, although you can pay much less for shared accommodation.

Marrakesh is separated into 2 parts, the old and the new town. We stayed in the old town, the “original Marrakesh“. The streets surround a large square called Djemaa El Fna. Here in the day you’ll find everything from snake charmers, to women offering henna tattoos, to delicious dried fruit stalls. At night the main square turns into a food market, which is actually a UNESCO national heritage site. You’ve been forewarned… food stands will tout very hard for your business! You can sample some of the local delicacies, lamb brains anyone? or how about some 5 spice snails! My favorite was the traditional Moroccan salads and kebabs. The atmosphere is incredible as the buzz of the market carries on through the night- not to mention the quick service you’ll receive.

The souks are one of the main draws to Marrakesh. Miles of winding streets, shops everywhere you look. Again it’s easy to get lost, but if you keep walking you’ll eventually meet the city wall, and find your way back. You’ll wish you had extra suitcases for all the souvenirs you’re sure to pick up. Leather goods, lamps and spices are some of the best buys. Keep in mind that haggling is expected and prices start reasonably higher than what you should pay. The shop keepers of Marrakesh are pro’s, and can sometimes be aggressive when haggling so be sure to only pay what you think is a good price, and don’t be bullied into purchasing. There’s no golden rule but only buy from somebody you have a good experience with, then your souvenir will hold fond memories. If you want to gauge prices, take a look round a fixed price shop first to get a better idea.

To get away from the craziness of the souks, we grabbed an ice cream and headed to one of the gardens near the city centre. These are welcome places of sanctity on a hot day. Other attractions to visit in Marrakesh include the Koutoubia Mosque, Saadian Tombs, and El Badi Palace. StudentUniverse has a trip that will take you to see all the monuments in Marrakesh. If you have a strong stomach, you can also visit the tanneries, where leather is processed. But be warned, the chemicals used make the place smell pretty rancid.

Overall Marrakesh is a great place to visit for experiencing authentic cultures, foods & having a blast doing it!

I would suggest girls dress modestly while travelling here. I was with my boyfriend, and didn’t receive any hassle, but other people I spoke with had experienced some discomfort. I never went out without covering my legs, chest and shoulders. Scarfs are a good option, and an excuse to do more shopping! Marrakesh is not a great place if you hate cats or motor bikes, they are literally everywhere, I nearly trampled on a few kittens. I found letting the bikes move round me, opposed to trying to dodge them, caused less confusion.The climate is pleasant all year round. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are probably the best times to visit. It gets really hot in the summer months, reaching up to 100+ Fahrenheit (40 Celsius) in August.Morocco has an exchange control, so you’re not allowed to import or export the Moroccan Dirham’s. Foreign currency can be exchanged at Bureau de Changes, at a bank and sometimes at your hotel. We wrongly took travellers checks, which they wouldn’t exchange in many places.