Marrakech, Morocco
It is hard to capture Morocco in a single word. Maybe intricate could work – conveying the artistry and detail present in all areas of Moroccan life. But what about the color? The liveliness? The warmth of the people? Ten years ago during my first visit, I was taken with it, returning to the states with beautiful trays, mirrors, sconces – each time I pass by one in my house, I am reminded of Marrakech. This past winter, I was able to visit again, accompanied by a group of friends. Together we had a truly magical experience.
Before you arrive…
-
To ensure a truly special experience, I enlisted the expertise of Keri Levitt, a former New Yorker turned Morocco expert who plans bespoke trips and events. From couples' getaways to family adventures and large celebrations, Keri's insider knowledge and meticulous planning ensured that every moment of our Moroccan adventure was magical.
-
Even though you are likely wanting to unplug during your time in Marrakech, check out these outlet adaptors! They were excellent and are only $15.99 on Amazon.
-
There are so many great options for accommodation when it comes to Marrakech. If you are working with a person on the ground, it is so easy to have them visit hotels and take videos or FaceTime so that you can see the properties live! Keri kindly did this for us, and it was so much easier to make a decision I felt confident in.
Getting There
When it comes to reaching Morocco, the journey can be an adventure!
One option is the route through Paris and then onward to Marrakech, particularly if you opt for the luxurious experience of Air France's La Premiere.
Tip — consider booking business class with a potential upgrade to La Premiere a week prior to your flight. Air France often offers attractive upgrade deals during this period.
The flight itself was remarkable in its luxury. Alongside the sophisticated styling of its interior, the La Première section of the plane has only four seats, complete with a movable wall that can divide pairs. If you are traveling with a companion, the section transforms into a dining area for two; having dinner felt like you were in some intimate lounge rather than 35,000 feet in the air. I couldn't resist the delicious cheese crackers, securing as many boxes as the friendly flight
attendants would allow!
The other highlight of first class was the service when landing at Charles de Gaulle. Whisked through a private entrance, driven across the tarmac, and greeted at a lounge with no busy passport queue – only a kind concierge to take your passport and escort you through the private security area and into the lounge. The lounge boasted a ‘water bar’ offering a curated selection of bottled waters, a menu of French cuisine, and private beds – a welcome respite. Options for massages, facials, and makeup services added a touch of pampering. Oh, and the suede wall covered bathrooms – I'm not sure my photos do them justice.
The downside of traveling on Air France with a layover in Paris is the second leg of the journey. There is no real business class, just a spacious economy with a vacant middle seat.
Another option is taking Royal Air Maroc nonstop from New York to Casablanca – efficient, yes, but not luxurious. The journey is straightforward, though a three-hour drive to Marrakech does await you upon landing. If you're more about the destination than the journey, it's a good choice.
Hotels
For this trip, we were a group of six couples traveling together, so I was in search of a hotel that felt intimate. Although I had initially desired a riad, I couldn't find one that combined style with quality service.
The Selman
In the end, I opted for the Selman. This small property, designed by Jaques Garcia, exudes both intimacy and sophistication. We stayed in one of their one-bedroom villas, with a lengthy heated pool outside and a fabric-covered pavilion for dining. Inside, I loved the decor—Moroccan chic, sexy, and elegant, without being overly dark or ostentatious.
A special note of gratitude to the incredible staff, who took great care of us during our stay in the villa. The night before our departure, for instance, they secured us bubble wrap and tape, helping me wrap up all my goodies for the trip home!
Upon exploring the various rooms, I found the suites to be appealing also; they would be my choice if a villa weren’t available. The ones I favored were decorated with an ivory and black color palette, as well as a set of intricate Moroccan arches that led from the rooms to the balconies.
While I thoroughly enjoyed the property, the breakfast setup didn't quite meet my expectations. It felt somewhat like an afterthought within the lobby space. The buffet selection was decent, but as a breakfast enthusiast, it definitely left me wanting. Also, beside the buffet sat a small fountain that wasn’t clearly marked. Day after day I would watch as one unfortunate guest or another accidentally stepped into it.
The Selman’s Chernot Spa is a must-visit. Several of the group got a Hamman, a traditional ritual of scrubbing and exfoliating. Most loved it, but others found it wasn’t their cup of tea. If it doesn’t sound like your kind of thing, still check out the pool rooms – swim around, admire the intricate lattice work, and take a spin on the aqua bike.
La Mamounia
La Mamounia combines modern sophistication with traditional Moroccan style. The property is larger than that of the Selman and bustling with guests, which might be more exciting if you are traveling with kids or teenagers. There are extensive gardens, a well-appointed fitness center, and the most spectacular dates I’ve ever tasted served in the lobby.
Accommodations include rooms, suites, and riads. It is worth noting that while staying there several years ago, I remember being underwhelmed with the size and layout of our room.
Royal Mansour
While planning the trip, I considered staying at the Royal Mansour. It is a stunning palatial hotel, but it seems as though it is better suited for a singular couple on a trip – rather than a group. It exudes formality, with each room being a riad; special attention is given to ensuring quiet and privacy. The emphasis on luxury becomes even more understandable when you learn the hotel is owned by the King of Morocco.
Mandarin Oriental
I’ve also received positive feedback from friends who stayed at the Mandarin Oriental. The decor boasts a chic minimalist style that retains its Moroccan roots, and all rooms come with a pool. If you're traveling in the summer and prefer a more modern atmosphere, this could be an excellent option, temperatures easily reach above 95°F!
Tip — check out a new property called IZZA; it just opened after years of renovation! Located in the medina, it is a remodeled riad that features an amazing art collection and, according to Keri, has fantastic breakfast offerings!
Restaurants
Sesamo
Recognizing that we would be having mostly traditional Moroccan cuisine the next few days, we went to this Italian restaurant at The Royal Mansour for our first dinner. Sesamo’s food was delicious and the service excellent. They also included an artistic element to the dining experience in presentation and the usage of glasses.
Le Jardin
For a break from the bustling medina (Marrakech’s old town essentially, but more on this later), check out Le Jardin for lunch. While the food is fine, the real highlight is its interior and ambience. Pink and green tiled tables, lush plants providing shade alongside an array of umbrellas – it is a hidden gem inside the medina.
Late at night, the place is illuminated by candlelight with a DJ stationed next to the cool indoor pool. I'm torn between recommending it for a drink or a meal!
Plus61
Plus61 was Keri’s recommendation and turned out to be a group favorite for lunch. Offering chic yet uncomplicated Australian food, I highly recommend!
El Fenn
Another must-see is El Fenn, which offers both a restaurant and a hopping rooftop bar! I would recommend going early enough to soak in the views and to visit their boutique (one of my favorites!)
Afterward, head to the restaurant for dinner. Ours was a private dinner in their glasshouse, a perfect option if you are looking for something for a group. Keri did amazing work with a pink-themed tablescape, with everything encircled by candlelight.
Tip — Check out the diffuser oil sold at the boutique, as the scent is made just for them, and have your hotel bubble-wrap it for you.
Jnane Tamsna
If you are coming to Morocco for a celebration, check out this beautiful hotel that hosts private events; it also has spectacular gardens, and at nighttime the property is lit by hundreds of candles. In a word it was magical; we had drinks followed by a dinner outside.
.
Comptoir Darna
For a really fun night, head to Comptoir Darna. They serve Moroccan cuisine (the tajines are a must!), play live music, and have belly dancers walking around — it makes for such a fun night. Bring some money to tip the dancers!
Bacha Coffee
Even if you aren’t a coffee person, Bacha Coffee is a must stop. It is a hidden gem inside the Dar El Bacha palace, and Keri organized a private coffee experience for the group to try all the different kinds. Coffee culture is huge in Morocco: the smells, the way they pour – it is all very ritualistic and unique, making it a lot of fun to see!
Tip – check out the little shop next door. It makes a great gift to bring home!
Experiences
Montresso Art Foundation
If you're at all interested in modern art, a tour of the Montresso Art Foundation is an absolute MUST. It is a 45-minute drive from Marrakech but so worth it! They have a residency program featuring artists from all over the world, and visiting with a few of them is so interesting. Many of the pieces – not just the residents’ work – are for sale, and they will easily ship them to the states.
Agafay Desert Experience
You cannot do Morocco properly without a desert excursion, and I believe that Keri has one of the most stunning desert properties in her rolodex! For that information, you're going to need to ask Keri. Complete with a picture perfect camel ride, dinner with belly-dancing entertainment, and fire show, it was a beautiful and well-executed experience.
Atlas Mountains and Berber Village
Many people opt to spend a night or two in the Atlas Mountains, but we didn't stay overnight due to the limited time. We went for a day trip, originally planned to include a scenic hike and a visit to a Berber village. Sadly fate had other plans; it poured that day. Undeterred, we navigated the mountains in covered 4x4s, maneuvering a muddy drive that, while a bit treacherous, only added to the adventure.
Eventually we arrived at a Berber Village, and there we learned the art of making mint tea with a local family.
To our surprise, Keri organized a special celebration, marking my wedding anniversary and that of a friend on the trip. Dressed in traditional Moroccan wedding attire, we acted out a marriage ceremony – led by a very funny friend in the officiant role!
Visiting a Berber village in Morocco may seem touristy, yet it's one of those experiences you shouldn't miss, especially if you're coming for the first time. Given the recent earthquakes, these people will need your support and tourism now more than ever.
Tip — I became obsessed with making fresh mint tea after I got back from Morocco. They teach you that it is an art – an art that takes a long time to perfect and refine. A friend of mine found a good substitute for those who want mint tea but don’t have the time to go through the entire process. Also, if you're an almond butter fan, on your way down from the Berber Village is a little store on the right-hand side that makes homemade almond butter. Of course, I asked the driver to pull over so I could get a few jars!
Kasbah Tamadot
We stopped for lunch at this Richard Branson property in the Atlas Mountains. The food was lovely, and they were kind enough to give us a tour of the property. While it was very beautiful, I felt that it could have used a bit of an update regarding decor. If I had more time to venture beyond Marrakech, I might consider going to Dar Ahlam, a centuries-old Kasbah that now functions as a hotel. It is a four hour drive from Marrakech or a short plane ride, and it boasts beautiful views of the Atlas Mountains.
Tip– I have heard from a friend that Dar Ahlam is magical but activities should be booked in advance.
Jardin Marjorelle
The Jardin Majorelle is a must visit. All of the buildings are painted this exquisite blue color, and the botanical gardens that encircle it are beautiful. Unless you are an avid horticulturist, it could be walked through in under a half hour.
Make sure to also visit the YSL museum which is located next door; unfortunately, it was closed for updates during our visit
Shopping
Moro
Another must-see after the Jardin Majorelle is the concept store Moro. Incredibly chic, it has beautiful pieces scattered throughout: blue bowls, plates, cake stands, and vases that photos can’t do justice. Keri arranged for a private luncheon at this store, using their pieces to create a stunning blue and white tabletop. One of the women on the trip bought the vases and cake stands to recreate this magical look at home!
The Medina
Filled with an abundance of trinkets, the medina is a must, and there are always treasures to be found. I highly recommend having a local guide show you around. Among my personal favorites are the nuts and dried fruit section – don’t miss the cheese-covered nuts and the dates! Also, explore the 'pharmacy' shop for body oils and creams.
Beldi Country Club
A few of my other favorite shops are located in an area called the Beldi Country Club. While they do have a hotel and event space that's worth stopping by to see, the stores are really cute and chic. My personal favorite was the pottery and glass store with exquisite colored glasses, pitchers, and vases. I regret not bringing some back!
Maison Blaoui
Maison Blaoui is owned by Carole and Mustapha Blaoui – the same owner of the famous shop in the medina. With light fixtures, furniture, and intricate tableware, this boutique offers a more modern interpretation of traditional Moroccan pieces. I prefer this store over the one in the medina.
Tip – shipping is definitely an issue in Morocco. I recommend bringing extra duffel bags in order to bring items home on the plane with you. If you do decide to ship, be sure to coordinate everything with the hotel concierge in advance of leaving. Keri kindly acquired some inexpensive hard shell suitcases for us – they were a must have!
Jajjah
Located in the industrial area of Sidi Ghanem, this shop is owned by the artist Hassan Hajjaj and features his photography and signature tea cans. His style is incredibly unique — definitely worth a visit. Recently, I visited SCAD in Savannah, where they were exhibiting his photography.
Maison Sarayan
Also in Sidi Ghanem, this store takes traditional Moroccan tabletop items and gives them a modern flare. I bought a few pieces here that you can’t find anywhere else!
Tip – Sidi Ghanem is an up and coming design district on the outskirts of Morocco, about a twenty minute drive from the hotel. I’m sure it will continue to thrive, becoming even more impressive in the coming years.
Maison ARTC
If you appreciate avant-garde fashion, be sure to visit Artsi, a clothing designer in Marrakech who creates gorgeous handmade pieces. You can set up an appointment with him at his atelier, and be sure to check out his photography!
It’s all in the details…
There is nothing I love more than finding a little treat on my bed when returning to my hotel room. Keri and I curated several locally sourced gifts for the group that really brought Morocco into our hotel rooms and back home with us, as we carried all that we could onto the plane!
Upon arrival, guests found a basket filled with assorted nuts and dried fruit from vendors in the medina, along with a locally made straw tote adorned with their initials.
That night, they received slippers and robes also personalized with their initials to wear to the hammams.
A tagine filled with local spices from the medina awaited them for the upcoming tour of the medina the following day.
A blue candle hinting at the lunch at Moro and the tour of the Majorelle Gardens the next day.
A diffuser from the boutique at El Fenn and a beautifully made straw box (which I now use to hold extra bath items in a guest bathroom) filled with oils, creams, and elixirs from the pharmacy in the medina, including a natural remedy for headaches.
Having never been to Morocco before, many in the group were a bit hesitant. However, once you pull into the gates of the hotel and see the intricacies of the entrance doors, the jewel toned colors, and the magnificent tilework, you cannot help but feel enveloped with warmth for this place.
The key is having the right person on the ground: Keri proved instrumental. Her local expertise allowed us to curate and execute a once in a lifetime trip, and I am so grateful for the memories she helped to make.