Take a souk-er trip in Morocco

Taking a tour of Morocco's souks and other traditional markets is one of the best ways of immersing yourself in this intoxicating country.

Souks play an enormous role in Moroccan life, providing the workings of much of this African country's economy, but also making up the fabric of much community life.

Each town has its own special souks, while bigger cities like Marrakech and Fez have scores scattered about, each linking together in an intimately sprawling network, selling all manner of crafts and produce one can imagine.

In places like Marrakech, entire squares are dedicated to just one type of commodity, meaning holidaymakers can lose themselves in a mass of exotic and fragrant spices, or among lovingly-carved pottery.

As with buying anything, it is worth shopping around when picking up items such as handicrafts. Shoppers in Morocco are advised to visit craft museums, where they can get a good idea if what they are buying is close to the real thing.

Rugs are also high on the agenda for canny market traders in Morocco, with places like Rabat boasting some of the finest rugs in the world. However, expect to pay top dollar for the top rug, so it is worth keeping an eye out for mid-range weavings and, of course, be prepared to barter.

Food shopping in Morocco's souks can be quite an experience, as there are many foods to choose from that you will not find in Britain. Taste first and see if you like it, and even if you do not, if it looks funny, it will make a good souvenir for a friend back home.

The souks of Marrakech are perhaps the best-known, for their colourfulness and vibrancy, but wherever you go in Morocco, there will be a souk to suit your needs.