Marrakech
Rock The Kasbah KNOWN AS The Red CITY, Marrakech has a bohemian mystique that has been drawing the cool kids since Led Zeppelin and The Rolling Stones visited during the 60s. Equal parts gritty and glamorous—and only a few hours by plane from major European cities, it’s never been easier to ride the Marrakech Express.
Sheik Sleeps Traditional Moroccan homes that have been converted into private hotels are called riads, and staying at one is a must.
Located within the ochre colored walls of the medina is the stylish and intimate Riad Farnatchi, with only nine suites. The staff is excellent and serves the best mint tea in town next to the gorgeous courtyard pool. It’s also close to the not-to-be missed Maison de la Photography.
If you want to roll like royalty, stay at the opulent Royal Mansour. King Mohammad VI is the backer of this Moroccan Xanadu. The property boasts a library with a retractable roof for stargazing, three bars, and private plunge pools in every riad-style room. The only thing missing is a magic carpet! You don’t have to be a guest of the hotel to dine at the French and Moroccan restaurants (both overseen by three Michelin star chef Yannick Alléno) or visit the exquisite spa and hamman.
Funky Old Medina Wandering the maze-like medina and shopping in the souks is an essential part of the Marrakech experience. Half the fun is getting lost… you’ll eventually wind up on the main square, Jamaa el Fna. Your senses will be overwhelmed by the snake charmers, water carriers, and the exotic smells of the food stalls.
Arabian Nights For dinner, head to Dar Marjana, a magical restaurant located in a former Pasha’s palace. Local Gnawas musicians set the mood while you drink and feast on endless plates of chicken tangine and pigeon pastille. Then the belly dancing begins.
Desert Oasis Escape the chaos of the city and head to the nearby Agafay Desert and spend the day at the La Pause eco-resort. There you can ride a camel and visit a Berber village. Stay for a relaxing lunch served under a nomadic tent.
