Q&A with Keri Levitt
I sat down with the wonderful Keri Levitt, a former New Yorker who now lives in Marrakech. Her company Morocco by Design plans trips and events ranging from family vacations to extraordinary birthday celebrations. Together we talked food, must-dos for any visitor, and her nonprofit AFAK.
I have been living full time in Marrakech for two years now but had been spending my time between here and NYC for over five years. I first discovered Morocco on a family trip back in 2018 and absolutely fell head of over heels in love with this country.
How long have you lived and worked in Morocco? And what brought you there?
What does your company Morocco by Design do?
We curate fully bespoke trips throughout the country and will often produce intimate events for our clients to make their time here even more memorable. What sets us apart is that we manage every detail of our trips, so all our clients have to think about is enjoying their time and soaking in the magic.
All of our trips are highly customized and no two itineraries will ever be exactly the same. We work very closely with our clients to design an experience for them that suits their travel style and blend luxury with immersion to offer a very insider’s perspective on the country.
How do you begin to plan a trip so that it is unique for that individual, couple, or group?
Spending time in the old city in Marrakech - known as the medina - is a must. It’s a great place to meet local artisans and experience the flavor of the city. I also recommend spending time in the smaller rural villages to truly experience the warmth of the Berber hospitality. You can’t leave Morocco without trying a traditional Moroccan hammam. It’s a beautiful weekly bathing ritual that leaves your skin feeling exfoliated and smooth.
What are three things a first-time visitor should do in Morocco?
Yes! There is a very special riad that just opened that we love called Riad IZZA, which means “House of Friends.” It’s a 13-room property located in the medina that underwent an 8 year renovation. Super chic interiors. Incredibly curated modern art throughout. And has a fabulous rooftop that serves an insanely delicious breakfast.
As you and I have discussed at length, there are some really great properties in Marrakech. Are their any new hotels or properties you are excited about?
You, yourself have such fabulous style, what are 3 not to miss stores in Marrakech?
When I first discussed the trip with this group, I think there were some preconceived notions about Morocco – and maybe some hesitation. The group was so surprised by how much they loved the city and the people. Do you find that to often be the case? What do you wish foreigners knew about Morocco? What is the culture like? The people?
I can’t think of a trip where our clients didn’t leave with that same feeling you’re talking about – just blown away by how beautiful and welcoming this country and their people are. It’s unlike anywhere in the world! Of course, Morocco offers stunning architecture and design, but it’s really the people that make this place so memorable. They’re so opened minded and incredibly warm and hospitable; they love to share their culture and traditions. There is a peacefulness to Moroccans which makes everyone feel at ease when they are here.
I was surprised about how you sourced the group gifts and all of the decor entirely from Moroccan companies: custom monogrammed napkins, plates, flowers, etc. – everything was such high quality. Can you tell us about the vendors in Morocco?
Morocco is brimming with talent. Everything we produce for our events is customized and handmade by local artisans. There’s no big box retailers or Amazon here, so we rely on artisans for everything we do - from custom plates and poufs and hand embroidering linens and hand stitched leather goods. These are not “event vendors” per se, these are local artisans who we collaborate with. If you can dream it, they can do it! And this is what I love about working here- anything is possible.
As you know, I am a snack-lover, with a particular soft spot for candy. You did an amazing job finding candy for my room! A must-have. What are a few snacks that visitors have to try in Morocco?
There are so many delicious flavors here. We love the assorted nuts from the souks that we always welcome our guests with. Almonds coated in anise and cinnamon and sesame as well as the most delicious dates that we sometimes get stuffed with almonds and pistachio nuts. Moroccans are knowns for their sweets and in particular their cookies so we definitely recommend sampling some during your time here.
Fes is always at the top of our list. It’s an older and very authentic city where you will get to meet with craftsmen in the leather tanneries and pottery factories. We also recommend spending time in the High Atlas mountain region to experience the beauty of Berber hospitality. In particular, Asni, Imlil and Ouirgane Valley, all located just a little over an hour outside of Marrakech and offer a very different feel in landscape.
What other areas in Morocco besides Marrakech should people visit?
Sahbi Sahbi for traditional Moroccan food- in a super chic setting in a new restaurant in Gueliz owned and run by all women.
Azalai Urban Souk – an inventive menu when you want a change from Moroccan food.
And we love the addition of Royal Mansour’s new La Grande Brasserie by Chef Helene Darroze.
Favorite restaurants at the moment?
For sure a tagine. This is the most classic Moroccan dish, and it can be made with chicken, meat, fish, or vegetarian and chicken pastilla. And the breakfasts here are delicious. You can’t leave without trying msemmen, which are Moroccan pancakes served with amalou (aka Moroccan Nutella) - an amazing mix of crushed almonds and honey.
Must-try Moroccan dish?
Layers! The weather shifts here all thoughout the day. Mornings start off crisp and chilly but it warms up later in the afternoon. Scarves are great for layering, and I always bring a light leather jacket and sunglasses because the sun is always shining!
Any packing necessities?
In addition to running Morocco by Design, you are the founder and director of AFAK. Could you tell us a little about it?
