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A traditional coutry house to rent in the Berber village of GHAZOUA (a happy place ) only 5 miles from mystical Essaouira, Essaouira airport, and Sidi Kaouki beach. " The freshest fish, the wildest windsurfing and a laid back '60s legacy add up to Morocco's most fashionable coastal resort " TIME OUT
REVIEWS, PROPERTY DETAILS, PHOTOGRAPHS, AND RENTAL PRICES ;
www.holiday-rentals.co.uk/84145 Rental guarantee and contract available.
GET MORE FOR YOUR HOLIDAY POUND IN WONDERFUL MOROCCO !!!!!!
e-mail ; villatazmin@aol.com UK phone ; +441970 627425 mobile ; +447762194487
ESSAOUIRA is generally acclaimed as one of the most enchanting spots along Morocco's Atlantic coast, and is rumoured to become as infamous as St. Tropez. Its sunny and temperate climate hardly changes from month to month, and the cool sea breeze is as welcoming as the generosity and warmth offered by the inhabitants.
The liberal and tolerant atmosphere strongly characterises the mood on the streets, where fishermen, merchants, craftsmen, musicians and artists of all kinds, come to share their work, play and friendship.
This exotic Moroccan fishing port was once the home of the " hippy hippy sheiks " in the seventies, and today a new wave of tourism is adding style to its ramshackle charms. In the late afternoon the medina, Essaouira's old walled quarter, glows pink, a fabulous sight as falcons swoop across the beach from the island of Mogador. The towns ramparts are so picturesque that they have been used for numerous films, most recently Ridley Scotts KINGDOM OF HEAVEN. Down in the harbour a flottila of fishing boats arrive back at this thriving port with all manner of exotic sea creatures, cooked in the many restaurants straight from the nets, and washed down with cold rose wine.
In Morocco, shopping is an art form, and Essaouira is no exception. But instead of the twists and turns of the typical souk, where you may get lost and have to pay a local urchin to get you out, Essaouira is very easy to navigate. A great introduction to the Arabian way of life. There are literally hundreds of shops offering beaten brass souvenirs, inlaid thuya woodwork, multi-coloured slippers, carpets, rugs, blankets, lamps, jewelry and spices. In addition to the fun of haglling over prices, freshly brewed mint tea appears from everywhere, and buying a carpet can take several hours, or even days.
These bustling streets are littered with antique shops, local artists and painters, wonderful cafes, and restaurants all within a unique safe, friendly, and welcoming environment. Essaouira is still as enchanting, evocative, and as endearing as it was during the eighteenth century, the town is still a hub of Moroccan art, and recognised as a world heritage site by UNESCO.
" YOUR HOLIDAY MATTERS CHARTER OF QUALITY 2009"
" TRAVELLERS CHOICE 2008/2010 AWARD WINNER"
" GOLF DESTINATION OF THE YEAR 2010 "
There are two fabulous 18 hole golf courses in Essaouira, signature designed by the legendary Gary Player, an exceptional setting , with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The academy, practice course and clubhouse are located along the edge of the course.
" I love Morocco, its climate and landscape. The Mogador-Essaouira course will make a lot of players very happy ; exceptional golf in an exceptional setting " Gary Player
BOOKING TERMS & CONDITIONS
We require a 30% deposit at the time of booking, and recommend that you take out comprehensive travel and cancellation insurance. There is no free health care in Morocco. www.insureandgo.com
Well worth considering www.protectmyholiday.com
The balance is due four weeks prior to your departure. Payments can be made by secure direct bank transfer. If however the full balance and bond is not received by the agreed date, due to "breach of contract" you will lose your deposit ,and we are entitled to re let the house. If you live outside of the UK we can arrange the deposit to be paid in Moroccan Dirham 1800 on arrival at the house. The security bond/deposit will be returned in full on your departure subject to our rental terms and conditions. A rental contract is available on request. Any cancellations outside of six weeks prior to departure will get a full refund. Within six weeks prior to your deparure you will forfeit your deposit. If cancelled within 4 weeks of your departure you will forfeit the full amount. We accept no responsibility for travel arrangements made by us on your behalf, any personal injury or theft , our house & public liabilty insurance being supplied by Intasure. The rental property including all fixtures and fittings are to be treated with care.The tenant is held responsible for the actions of other people,including any guests or visitors they might have within the house.The tenant is liable for any damaged or lost goods, damage to the property or anything else related to the property, whether caused by themselves or their guests or visitors. By paying your deposit, you are agreeing to our terms and conditions. All prices,services, and information are subject to availability and given as a guide onlyWe do not accept responsibilty due to disruption of services or severe weather conditions.We do not accept any responsibility if your booking is cancelled by us due to circumstances beyond our control, and your full payment will be returned.
LOYALTY DISCOUNT
Should you wish to return to the Kingdom Of Morocco we are offering a 10% discount , this will also include bookings via your recommendation to family & friends etc.
FLIGHTS
There are many cheap flight providers on-line, and price-comparison sites.But is cheaper to book direct, on line with the airline, rather than a holiday company, and pay by credit card for more financial security. We can highly recommend www.thomsonfly.com high frequency flights Manchester to Marrakech, 3 flights per week Birmingham to Agadir (seasonal) highly recommended if you are intending to hire a car for your trip. EASYJET ; Manchester & Gatwick to Marrakech, Gatwick to Agadir. NEW RYANAIR ; Bristol & East Midlands-Marrakech commences November 2009.
London Luton to Marrakech via Ryanair www.ryanair.com
www.low-cost-airline-guide.com
www.moneysavingexpert.com/travel/cheap.flights
www.airparks.co.uk for the cheapest airport parking alternatively ;
www.yourparkingspace.co.uk www.parkatmyhouse.com
Flights from Birmingham and Manchester concentrate on Agadir, and are much more expensive. There are numerous flights per day from Gatwick including :
www.royalairmaroc.com www.atlas-blue.com www.easyjet.com
Plus British Airways have seasonal offers to Marrakech.
ESSAOUIRA airport is only 5 miles from the house, with several flights per week from Paris, within a few years the airport will become International with direct cheap flights?
VIRAL INFECTION PROTECTION
Many visitors are arriving and returning with viral infections, which are spread in airports, and especially budget flights, because they are not thoroughly cleaned between each trip, due to a quick turnaround!
Research also shows that the air filters are not cleaned regularly, and the air conditioning on planes are running on the lowest setting, to save money.
Asking my local GP if it would help if I wore a mask during the flight, she recommended using FIRST DEFENCE Nasal Spray, before each flight. This actually works, and is highly recommended !
ESSAOUIRA HEALTH INFORMATION
Essaouira is fully equipped with proper sanitation facilities. It is advisable to consult your health care provider on the vaccines which you may need depending on the duration of your trip and your personal health factors. It is advisable to carry your own set of medicines for health emergencies as over the counter drugs are limited. There is a hospital in Essaouira, but for any dental emergencies I suggest Agadir.
THE RISK OF ACQUIRING DISEASES TRANSMITTED BY INSECTS IS EXTREMELY LOW. Be careful of too much alcohol, food and beverages that you are consuming as these can cause diarrhoea. Always drink bottled water and Ice cubes from bottled water, avoid milky drinks, eggs should be cooked thoroughly,wash up and rinse thoroughly, wash your hands regularly, use anti-bacterial gel. Its all common sense, and obviously, not too much sun.
CURRENCY GUIDE approx.
1 British pound = 13.48 Moroccan dirham. 100 Moroccan dirham = £7.50GBP
AIRPORT TRANSFERS, CAR HIRE, BUSES, & SUPRATOURS.
TranStar taxis ( approx 800 moroccan dirham) per journey Marrakech to Essaouira 2.5hrs. We can arrange secure transfers by our friends at TRANSTAR from either Marrakech or Agadir airports to the house. Highly recommended.
Wonderful service, and prices for car hire ; www.gardenia-tours-marrakech.com
SUPRATOURS offers a cheap, comfortable coach transfer from Marrakech to Essaouira, we have been advised that it is possible to phone Supratours ; 0524 43 55 25 and reserve seats, payment required when picking up tickets. Ask for English speaking staff.
Petrol is cheap, there are plenty of garages, straight,well sign-posted roads, but do get the AA Morocco pocket Guide & Map.
Bus time table ; www.morocco-holidays.com/holidays/bus.htm
ARRIVING BY CAR........... prior to your departure I will provide 2 maps of the area and directions to the house. We must agree on a time of arrival at the house, and I strongly suggest that after dark, our concierge meets you outside KM8 restaurant. This is africa, there is no sat nav available, roads, villages, and houses are often unmarked, and unless you are able to speak fluent arabic or French, asking for directions is futile. When planning your journey allow plenty of time for rests, getting lost, petrol stops, breakdowns,airport/car hire delays. Taxis can make the journey from the airports in Marrakech and Agadir in approx 2 hours, but I strongly suggest that you allow at least 4 hours for your journey. Please text our concierge and me if you are late. Ask your car provider for comprehensive directions from the Airport to the main ESSAOUIRA road, plus a map of Morocco. Although an International driving license is not necessary, please check with the AA or RAC, and remember to take your driving licence with you.However I would strongly suggest flying to Agadir if hiring a car for your trip, the town and roads are not so busy,easier to navigate,with spectacular scenery along the coast and mountains,stoping at Taghazout or Bananna Valley for lunch?
However you may wish to hire a car from the many companies on arrival in Essaouira, our concierge can arrange this, and expect to pay approx £30.00 per day for a family sized car. Do not leave your passport,ensure that you have all the hire and vehicle documents and your driving licence at all times.
ESSAOUIRA GNAOUA AND WORLD MUSIC FESTIVAL
Thursday June 24th-Sunday 27th 2010 ; attracting around 10,000 foreign visitors to its array of free and ticketed events.
CAMEL & HORSE RIDING
Ranch de Diabat, highly recommended ; www.ranchdediabat.com
WINING & DINING
Essaouira offers some of the finest food available, the freshest fish, herbs,spices, with French, Spanish, African, & Italian influences.You must visit the fish co-operative restaurants near the harbour.Plus there are many restaurants tucked away in the medina and on roof tops.Vegans and vegetarians are well catered for, with new restaurants opened in Place Chrib Attay, opposite Chez Mermoz.
www.bestrestaurantsmaroc.com/search/restaurant-maroc-essaouira.html
In the medina are many types of take-aways ,street vendors, cafes, wonderful patisserie, crepes, kebabs etc. literally something to suit every taste and budget. There are even Berber restaurants where they will cook your chosen fresh ingredients bought from the fabulous market, whilst you continue shopping. One of our favourites is Mermoz, a family run business, exceptional value for money fixed price menus,and possibly the cleanest toilets around , located in a bustling courtyard, with evening entertainment.
The Beach restaurant on the prom opposite the Hotel des Isles, has a "locals" bar on the left hand side, cheap and cheerful, with some wonderful characters, tourists, and views of the fishing port and Atlantic.
Whilst on the doorstep in Ghazoua is a newly refurbished, TAJINE restaurant.The food and service at the Hotel Villa Damonte is erratic, often expensive, but do use their swimming pool.
Patricia has now left la belle de Mai, with new owners and menus March 2009, Le Plum ; restaurant francais & pizzeria. July 2010 new owners again!
Surreptitiously located between the shops is the KM8 restaurant, wonderful al fresco dining in the garden, or in the cozy restaurant.The menu is a little expensive, a French influenced menu, ideal for a romantic meal for two, celebrations, or a departure dinner. Drop in for a bottle of chilled rose wine.
www.riadsdeluxe.com/cityguide-essaouira-restaurants.html
Not forgetting our concierge who will produce a memorable TAJINE, and breakfasts.
COOKERY CLASSES are now availavable at the fabulous l'Atelier Madada in Essaouira.
bon appetit .
LOUBOU'S Restaurant/Lounge/Nightclub.
A large modern venue just outside the medina next to the Hotel des Iles.The tables surround a circular dance floor, with subdued lighting, and large video music screens, they also host special events,bands and D.J's. Live music every evening from 23:00. Wide curving stairs lead to an upstairs bar. Ideal for a celebration, or a special night out,as the international menu and drinks can be a little pricey. Full details on bestrestaurantsmaroc( link above) or visit ; www.loubouslounge.com
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
If arriving by hired car or taxi, you may want to consider shopping for provisions at the MARJAN hypermarket, before leaving Marrakech.
The local shop in the village situated on the left, walking down from the house, will let you pick your own goods from his store, and even deliver! Wash all fruit and vegetables first, and they even stock Schweppes tonic with lemon!
There is a new swimming pool 2009 nearby at Les Deux Mondes, www.riadles2mondes.com
plus Hotel Villa Damonte, and Les Calmes, a short drive away.
There is a new hypermarket(June 2010) in Essaouira approx 1 mile from the medina ;
ASSAWAK ASSALAM.
The local time is GMT, during the winter the clocks may be altered by one hour. The electric current is 220volts, 50hz, two pin plugs and eco light bulbs are in use.There is a hair dryer.There is a well stocked first aid kit, with hyperdermic needles, and thermometer, and there are numerous pharmacies in Essaouira, plus a hospital and dentists. However do check the date stamping as drugs deteriorate quickly in the heat, it is wise to take a supply of pain killers, anti-diarrhoea pills and a sun burn remedy. Do not buy illegal drugs. There is a washing machine, and plenty of drying area in the garage, so you can cut down on your clothes, and buy more souvenirs and duty free! In case of any power cuts, there are wind up torches and candles (please use carefully) and tap water stored in plastic bolltles by the washing machine. This is Africa, do expect a lot of sand carried by the wind, and building works. There is a roof "tent" to be fitted during windy, rainy or cold weather , please take "winter woolies" and a coat October-February. Hassan can arrange wood for the fire, please ask for the price, and why not collect some on your travels??
Mosquitoes are not generally a problem, and no vaccinations are required at the moment, but do check with your doctor. The beds have mozzie nets over them, mosquitoes are attracted to perfumes and aftershaves, so wear a little mozzie spray instead. www.travelturtle.co.uk
Please respect our neighbours, their children, animals, property and land. Please do not allow ANY animals in to the house. Keeping noise on the roof terrace to a minimum after midnight.If you do experience any problems with the children, please tell our concierge.
Please be a responsible traveller turning unused lights off, short showers, full washing machine loads turned down to 30 degrees, and respect the environment.The water levels can often be low in Ghazoua,use water sparingly.
Roads and pavements can be uneven, and tiled floors and stairs slippy, please be careful, and wear sensible shoes. There are road and street lighting improvements in progress throughout the Essaouira region.
This is Africa! and yes most of the time it is hot and sunny, so do take care in the sun. www.p20.co.uk
There is often a cooling wind and mist in Essaouira early morning and evening. Walks on the beach can be blustery. The short winter can bring cold nights, and some rainy days, but there is usually real sun and strangely less wind than the summer.
Average temperatures ;
January, February, November, December 21
March, April, May, October 23
June 26 July, August 27
September 25 However 2009 exceeded these temperatures.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/weather/forecast/684
Swimming from the beach is gorgeous and refreshing, but bear in mind that this is the Atlantic,and not the med.
SPAS AND THERAPIES
Indulge yourself at the fabulous new 5* Atlas Hotel "Spa Daniel Jouvance", and nearby Sofitel , on the sea front in Essaouira. Splendid places with idyllic charm, well being for a renewal of the senses , including ; foot reflexology, massage, fitness centre, hamman, jacuzzi, anti-ageing, beauty, hand and feet treatments. Hairdressing and cosmetic shops
RIFF October 2008............................an adorable plack puppy was found dying outside the house, after much TLC from our house guests, Taibi, and ourselves, a visit to the vets, and doggie treatments, she is now able to walk, and has a fighting, second chance in life. So Riff has adopted the house, and everyone who stays there! please be kind, and DO NOT allow her in to the house, she will sleep and eat outside. It is considered bad luck in Africa to have a dog in the house. If there are any problems or issues, please discuss these withour our concierge, or please contact me....... Thank you.
March/October/November 2009/ Jan/Feb 2010 Riff was given loads of TLC by our family, but her collars keep getting lost?? She has been treated by HSAM and ourselves.
HELP THE STREET ANIMALS OF MOROCCO www.hsam.org.uk
Endeavour to neuter, vaccinate and treat the animals in Essaouira. Working with local vetinary professionals, government and communities, their aim is to ensure a good quality of life for the animals that live amongst them, and provide animal welfare education. The local council have been rounding up stray cats and dogs, giving a lethal injection, resulting in a slow,paiful death. Apparently to increase tourism!!?? Last visit May & November 2009, May 2010 full updates on HSAM facebook. Thank you Claire, Rob & Co.
GETTING ABOUT
At KM8 there are frequent buses to and from Essaouira and Sidi Kaouki beach, both petite and grand taxis (often shared) will stop, or you can flag these down. Many of the friendly locals will stop and offer you a lift. There are taxi numbers in the guest book, and Taibi can advise the use of a people carrier via TRANSTAR. Always ask and agree the taxi fare in advance, as there are no fixed council rates, and the fares can vary, and some taxis will not drive up the PISTE, through the village,and to the house!
Bus time table ; www.morocco-holidays.com/holidays/bus.html
THE DOUAR ELGHAZOUA HORSE & CART PROJECT
May 2010
Predominantly to transport local people along the tracks in Ghazoua to the main road, this is a charming, olde worlde means of transport. However guests in Ghazoua staying at holiday rentals & riads will be able to phone and book the horse & cart ( this will have to be in Berber) The carouila seating 8 is currently being built, and the driver Brahim ( mobile phone ; 06 41 13 66 57) is looking forward to an enjoyable worthwhile job. We are actively supporting the project with an initial donation and hopefully the first horse and cart should be in operation by the summer, with a second one planned. Thank you Jane Loveless for a wonderful idea, dealing with all the "red tape" creating jobs, work, and especially improving the villagers lives. The carts are now in operation.21/07/2010.
HOUSE SERVICES
Cleaning . Laundry . Ironing .
Tajine or Cous-cous ; Chicken, fish, beef, mutton ,fish, or vegetarian .
Barbeque & 3 course meals by arrangement and market prices.
Breakfasts ; Bread, marmalade, boiled egg, butter, cheese, orange juice, coffee, tea.
Take your favourite instant coffee and tea bags with you.
All services, including trips, should be requested in advance from our concierge, agreeing a price,and paid in moroccan dirham directly to him.
PHONES AND INTERNET
There is no land line in the house, a tele-boutique is only 5 minutes walk away, using telephone cards or cash. Request an International text and voice bundle from your mobile phone provider prior to your departure, providers are reducing international calls by 85%, however Morocco is in zone 6, and may not be included. There are now numerous travelling sim cards available e.g sim4travel, which will reduce the cost of phone calls, or purchase a Moroccan sim card from Meditel or IAM during your stay.
There are several internet-cafes in Essaouira, and available at the Tajine Cafe,and Hotel Villa Damonte.
CURRENCY, MONEY & BANKS
You can not buy Morrocan Dirham outside of Morocco, or indeed take the money in and out of the country. The exchange rate is very stable,and hardly varies.
There are two Bureau de Change before you leave the airport, and upon entering the airport. Cash dispensers are user friendly in English, and outside the many banks in Essaouira . Bank Populaire in the main square will exchange English notes in to Moroccan Dirhams, the receptionist also speaks English. Credit cards are not widely accepted. Consider a pre-paid card for cash withdrawals e.g. fairFX only charge £1.50 per transaction, and the exchange rates are good, updated daily. The cash dispensers often go in to melt down, but are ok the folowing day, some machines are not recognising our new UK twenty pound note. The Euro is becoming accepted more widely, but the poor exchange rate and performance make it an emergency use currency only.
RESPECT
This is a Muslim country with the friendliest people on earth. Please do not wear beach clothes in or around the towns or villages. Be firm but polite wth traders and beggars, but reward any help or assistance you may be given. Tipping in bars & restaurants is 10%. Bars and restaurants will be closed during the day for the month of Ramadan. There are many stray dogs and not many are kept as pets, plus donkeys are working animals, but SPANA is slowly educating the Moroccans in animal welfare.
During the month of RAMADAN usually September, the "off licences" will be closed, and alcohol only available in restaurants, or tourist bars ( check the prices) the cheapest bar for BEER, is the locals bar, next to the Chalet bar and restarant on the beach in Essaouira. our concierge may be able to advise you of alcohol purchases during Ramadan.
ALCOHOL & CIGARETTES
THIS IS A NON SMOKING HOUSE but feel free to smoke on the roof terrace, using ashtrays and disposing of the ashes carefully.
Smoking is part of the culture in Morocco, including hashish or flying carpet.
American and local cigarettes are very cheap, there is not a smoking ban in public places, although some bars and restaurants are smoke free. Not every restaurant serves alcohol, always check the menu & prices. Moroccan flag lager is the cheapest, imported wines and spirits, including cocktails can be very expensive. There are two "off-licences" near ARGON TOWER behind the medina in Essaouira, there is no signage, so you need to look in every door, but they have a comprehensive supply of wines,beers and spirits.
SAFETY
Crime is not a major problem, and the streets are safe to walk, even late at night. However do be aware at all times, especially in the crowded medina, and public transport. There are key touts at the entrance to Essaouira, and most cars are stopped entering and leaving towns and cities.Official guides should wear an official Tourist Authority badge. A touristic brigade, omni-present and plain clothed police guarantee peacefullness at all times.
There are also many uniformed police about, who are very polite and helpful. With a police station near the clock tower in Essaouira.
The house is of traditional Berber design, with no windows( due to the open roof) metal doors, and high roof terrace walls, offering exceptional safety and security.
LANGUAGE
English is often understood, so is French, so please try your "school boy French".
The main languages being Arabic, Berber, and some Spanish.
Tip ; keep a note of of the directions to the house, French numbers for haggling and payments.
Ask for the amount to be written down, it is much easier, always check your change, and do not flash your cash!! Take a useful phrase book.
DIRECTIONS
November 2009 the new "Autoroute" now under construction from Marrakech is a nightmare to navigate at night! However, when this is completed, the journey will be memorable.
Leaving Essaouira on the Main Agadir road N1, you will reach a bridge after 2kms. Turn left at the roundabout, and continue up the hill, Diabat is on your right hand side.
At the top of the hill you will see in the distance on your left, the Hotel Villa Damonte, and the Auberge de Mai, is directly opposite.
Ther is a lay by on the left hand side, with several shops, the Tajine & KM8 restaurants.
Turn right directly opposite, do not turn left, but continue up le piste for 1km, reaching several shops,and the teleboutique is on the right. Contine for 100 metres and turn left by the corner shop.
Turn right, 20 metres, and VILLA TAZMIN, is on your left, past the blue garage doors, please park your car outside the garage doors.
Our concierge will be there to greet you, unless you arrive after dark, and we have probably arranged to meet outside the KM8 restaurant. There are often no street names, no local post/zip codes, sat nav,and unless if you speak fluent Arabic or French, asking for directions is futile.
If arriving from Agadir, you will pass the University on your right, KM8 restaurant is 1km on the right, turn left here, and follow the directions above.
Before your departure we must agree on a time of arrival at the house, please inform our concierge and me, by text, if you are delayed. Thank you.
Martyn UK ; mobile phone number ; +44 (0) 776219 4487
RECOMMENDED TRIPS & TOURS
The scenic coastal road to Agadir takes you through "Bananna Valley" to Taghazout, a chilled Berber village with wonderful beaches,surfing,waterfalls,and nearby bird sanctuary. Whilst Agadir " The Miami of Morocco" offers a splendid promenade,marina, shops,restaurants,and night life to suit all budgets and tastes. Barter for accommodation if you want an overnight stop.
Visit the Sahara desert a two day escorted trip from Marrakech ( tag on to the end of your visit to Villa Tazmin?) with our trusted friends from maroc-transport from only 120 euro per person. Full details on request.
FAVOURITE LINKS
www.lexicorient.com/morocco/tiznit.html
www.al-bab.com/maroc/trav/essaouira.htm
BUYING PROPERTY OR LAND IN ESSAOUIRA & MOROCCO
Please contact our highly recommended agents ; www.moroccan-homes.com
We are able to offer 14 plots of land for sale residential, and commercial at ; TIZNIT, near Agadir, from my cousin's family.
Please contact me for full details ; villatazmin@aol.com,