The Ben Youssef Madrasa is another cultural landmark to visit; the largest Koranic school, it was built in the 14th century and completed in the 16th century. The recently opened Musée Yves Saint Laurent is also a top attraction for visitors to take a tour of the late, great designer's house and his creative studio.

The likes of Jean-Paul Gaultier own a luxurious riad in Marrakesh, but the city is good for travellers at all budget levels. On about US$40 a day, you'll be able to enjoy the essence of the country by staying in a cosy hotel or a small riad within the main neighbourhoods of the walled medina towns – though you'd be advised to keep a map at hand, as finding your way home through the maze-like streets and souks can be a bit tricky. For something luxe and less confusing, there are a number of palatial resorts surrounding Marrakesh that offer some indulgent retreats at a US$1,000 daily rate.

Spring is the ideal season to visit. In July and August, it can be glaringly hot, with the mercury reaching 40 degrees Celsius; November sees the highest rainfall through the year; and in the wintertime, if the great Sahara is on your itinerary, bear in mind that it can get extremely cold in the desert. From February to April, however, the lukewarm weather allows for some unmelted snow on the splendid Atlas mountains, which also makes for stunning views and photographs.

Ninety-nine percent of Morocco's population is Muslim. This year, the holy month of Ramadan will begin from sundown on May 15 to June 14. For 30 days, believers forgo any food or water from sunrise to sunset, intended as a time to contemplate the blessings of having food and to understand the suffering of those who don't.

As you traverse the markets, make sure you give way when you hear "balak" – the local term to remind people when a loaded handcart or a mule is coming through. Getting lost in the chaos is a delightful part of Moroccan city life, but you might be wise to learn a few necessary sentences in Arabic or French, as English isn't widely used in the region.