Jaunted

Movie Set Travel / → All Tags

Movie Set Travel: Charlie Wilson's War

Charlie Wilson's War is living up to the hype. Tom Hanks and Julia Roberts are back on the big screen for this political tale of intrigue. Hanks plays a quick Congressman who carefully funnels money to Afghanistan after the country is invaded by the Soviets in 1979.

Roberts is a socialite who steps in at all the right moments (doesn't she always?) and helps him out. Charlie Wilson's War is based on an excellent book of the same name, and for once, apparently the film doesn't stray from the text.

Much of this one was shot in Marrakesh, Morocco as shooting in Afghanistan was likely, um, not an option. In that vein, we offer you some things to see and do in Marrakesh.

Where To Stay: La Sultana One of Marrakesh's more charming riads, La Sultana is a little tacky, sure, but there something comforting and cozy about its 21 rooms. Think ornate gold doors and bright linens, with a great view and decent on-site restaurant with tons of fresh fish dishes.

Where To Eat: Dar Marjana This is the most authentic Morroccan spot in Marrakesh and you'll pay for it. The five-course dinners aren't cheap, but you'll also get a show with your meal. Traditional belly dancers and musicians roam the room and you'll feast on couscous and lamb tagine while sipping all the drinks you want. Keep in mind that reservations are essential.

Where To Shop: Djemaa el Fna Marrakesh's largest marketplace, Djemaa el Fna springs to life every day with folks selling water from traditional leather sacks, men with monkeys chained up for sale, storytellers and food stalls. The market seems to change every hour, so spending a day there would be worthwhile if you can handle the chaos.

Related Stories:
· Morocco Travel coverage [Jaunted]
· Movie Set Travel coverage [Jaunted]

[Photo: CanMag]

Luxury Travel / Hotels / → All Tags

Sleeping Pricey in Marrakesh

It's always irritating when what a paper says is the best place to stay also happens to be the most expensive, but oh well. La Mamounia really does look wonderful, with its outdoor pool, 17 acres of olives and orange and palm trees, and even a "tacky casino" for good measure. Rooms start around $360 and go up precipitously from there -- don't look for us in the suite across the hall.

Related Stories:
·   Get a Room: Marrakesh [Times]
·   Marrakesh Express [Jaunted]
·   La Mamounia Reviews [TripAdvisor]

Travel Tips / → All Tags

Marrakesh Express

A couple articles about Marrakesh, so white-hot and shiny that we're sad we're not on a plane this very second. Don't forget to brush up on your haggling before touchdown.

Image: patio of Riad Malika

Related Stories:  
·   The Ten-Point Escape Plan: Marrakech [New York magazine]
·   Female going solo in Marrakesh[London Times]
·   Marrakech's new Euro chic [LAT]
·   Marrakesh unravelled [London Times]
·   Rock the Casbah [Daily Candy, via Gridskipper]