Marrakech Express: Tango Alpha

Tango Alpha reports from adventures with the Berbers of North Africa:

"What does an American Indian do when the summer is starting to come to a close?

He goes to the lands where Indian summers never end. Marrakech, where rich Berber tribal culture meets French-European decadence. Tango Alpha recommends relaxing at the hammam after your 100+ degree excursion.

Marrakechian daylight tours are essential as are nightly soirées at Le Palais Rhoul.

A private tent in the luxe gardens and late night drinks at the outdoor L’Abyssen club make this spot a must for any modern nomad to purge his sins in the midst of the traditional Gnawa music. If you want a desert tent journey on camelback or a mid-Atlas mountain Berber trek you must have a guide who speaks a minimum of four languages and has a 2nd degree black belt to be safe and comfortable, and Mohamed Chaaouane is the man for this job. Never mind the Souk owners haggling you for more cash or any corrupt police trying to detain your from your journey if Mr. Chaaouane is with you. If your desert oasis of nightly hedonism isn't enough try handing out some Ben Franklins to the kids working amongst the Souks and watch the bright sun get brighter in their faces."

+Le Palais Rhoul, Marrakech + 212 24 32 94 94 95.
+La Maison Arabe, 1, Derb Assehbe- Bab Doukkala, Marrakech Médina, +212 24 38 70 10.
+There's Always: La Mamounia, Avenue Bab Jdid 40 000 Marrakech, +212 24 38 86 00.
+W4 Suggests: Marrakech: Guide: Mohamed Chaaouane : +212 61.60.1149.
+W4 Photog: Marrakech.