Marrakech prepares for International Film Festival

Those stopping off in Marrakech before or after an overland tour might be tempted to visit the International Film Festival next month.

British travellers booking overland tours of Morocco might expect to see the Atlas mountains, the Sahara desert and some of the north African nation's bustling and historic cities during their adventure holiday.

However, there is so much to see and do in Morocco that holidaymakers wouldn't normally expect when setting off for the airport.

For instance, the wondrous city of Marrakech hosts numerous celebrations and activities throughout the year, meaning tourists will never be short of ideas for days or nights out in the capital.

Next month sees the Marrakech International Film Festival 2011 take place from December 2nd to 10th.

Travellers who enjoy soaking up different cultures on their break might find that the celebration has a distinctly Central American feel.

The festival has focused on Moroccan, Spanish, Italian, Egyptian, British, South Korean and French films in recent years, but 2011 will be dedicated to Mexican cinema.

As well as introducing a new generation of stars from the country, it will also celebrate the great names from the golden age of Mexican filmmaking.

Intrepid tourists who do venture along to the festival during downtime before or after their overland tour could find that they recognise a few faces in attendance.

Alien star Sigourney Weaver is to act as president of the short film jury, having previously been honoured at the event in 2008.

"I am looking forward with great anticipation to seeing the work of the talented young filmmakers at the Cinecoles competition," she said.

"The Marrakech film festival is uniquely positioned to host the most established and the most eagerly emerging filmmakers in this marvellous city where so many worlds meet."

The winner of the Cinecoles Short Film Award will be given a grand prize, which will be personally endowed by Prince Moulay Rachid and will go towards funding a second movie.