Need help for trip to Morocco in early January with family

I would think very carefully at the moment about any of the countries along the North African coast. There has been trouble in Marrekesh, with the bomb in the centre and obviously there is political unrest in other countries, Tunisia, Libya, Egypt etc.

Morocco has traditionally been OK, but monitor the situation carefully yourself before booking. Bland reassurances that everything is and will be normal should be taken with a pinch of salt.

Lifeman-Thanks for the heads up!!! I may reconsider the destination.

Do not get scared about the situation in Morocco.It is all safe and stable now.

we were actually in Morocco when the cafe in Marrakech was bombed and when Bin Laden was killed. Kept a low profile and felt safe. People made a shine with flowers/notes of sympathy at the cafe. 2 Moroccan waiters were killed there too. We saw a parade of people in the main sqauare there with banners condeming the bombing and all terrorism. We booked with Journey Beyond and they provided good information about the political scene there. Also bought trip insurance for the first time in our lives.

Hi there, I stumbled upon your question whilst googling Morocco. We (a family of four too!) travelled to Morocco in early 2010. We loved it and desire to return there again someday to experience the whole thing over again (and some more!) We found it to be a genuinely true place with the culture untouched by modernity and Western influences. We travelled extensively for four months through Europe/North Africa. Morocco was one of the best places we visited. I see that you were wanting some advice on where to go, what to see and a recommendation on where to stay. We loved Marrakech and booked our accommodation before we arrived. The place we stayed at and highly recommend is viewable by this link:
http://www.charming-riads-in-marrakech.com/english/riad_diana/contemporary-riad.html
Very comfortable. Easy to locate and within easy walking distance to the markets. English speaking managers and the food was to die for! We've kept in ontact with Aziza. She's a very gentle and helpful sole. Aziza (the manager) arranged a trip for us out to the edge of the Sahara Desert by car. We went to Ourzerzat throught the Atlas mountains and it was an experience we will never, ever forget.
Go to Marrakech with an empty suitcase.....the shopping is fabulous and you'll want to buy everything. Leather goods, ceramics, traditional tea sets and handicrafts galore.
Go there. you'll love it.

Just in case my link doesn't work, the Riad is called Riad Diana.

Ronael- Thanks for your comments. We are still concerned about the political situation and re-thinking whether we should go or not. If we do go I will be sure to follow your recommendations.

I think that the three imperial cities are not to be missed: Marrakesh, Meknès, Fez--with day trips to Volubilis, Sefrou, Azrou on market day.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/mksfca/sets/72157622870770847/

Without knowing how long you'll be in Morocco, it's tough to give good advice about an itinerary. Marrakech, Fes (and area), Essaouira, Chefchouen come to mind, and don't forget about an overnight camel or High Atlas trek.

A camel trek in the desert is unforgettable! Plan on a minimum of 3 nights away from Marrakech or Fes to get there and back. Worth the time, if you can spare it!

(oops! I submitted by accident) Hotel recommendations: In Marrakech, I really enjoyed staying at Riad Dar Najat & Riad Bab Marrakech. In Fes, Riad Ibn Battouta. In Merzouga, Kasbah Mohayut. In Essaouira, Riad Bab Essaouira. All great places with different budgets.

I was in Marrakech last January for a 3 weeks. It was beautifully warm and sunny during the day - mid to high 20C's. Quite cool at night though. I needed a thick wool jacket not long after the sun went down. It rained only once and even that was overnight.

Sights? Check out the souqs in whatever city you decide on. Ait Benhaddou is excellent near Ouarzazate, Todra Gorge, Volubilis. If you're in Marrakech, definitely check out the Jardins Majorelle and the Medersa Ben Yousef. If you're in Fes, I would recommend to get a guide for the medina, see the Bab Boujloud, Medersa Bouanannia and Borj Nord.

Morocco is a fantastic country to explore! cheers