We are pleased to share this nice article in Vogue US about
finding inspiration (and shopping) in Marrakech by a design-Lover Amanda Shine when staying @ #LasultanaMarrakech
Amanda Shine, of the chic New York–based ceramics line and branding agency, The Setting, recently headed to Marrakech with business partner and pal Billur Kazaz. It was a celebratory trip to commemorate their first year in business together and to gather inspiration for the launch of their next project: a hotel debuting this summer. Morocco ranked as their number one destination to gather homeware and hospitality insight, but the trip soon turned into an educational journey in culture, cuisine, and color—plus launched a serious love affair with Moroccan coffee. “One of the reasons I was most excited to travel to Marrakech was to touch and see Moroccan ceramics,“ explains Shine, adding that “Marrakech has a modern and inclusive energy full of people from all aspects of life and that was an especially enlightening and unique element of the trip.”
Between the swoon-worthy mosaic-clad interiors, lush gardens, and delectable sweets, Shine’s design-focused guide to Morocco is bound to inspire your own trip. Below, Shine shares a photo diary from her trip as well as some of her top picks on where to stay, dine, and explore in the Moroccan city.
What to See:
Jardin Majorelle
This roughly 2.5-acre botanical garden offers inspiration for every nature- and decor-lover and is perfect for a half-day adventure. Wander the endless cacti, tropical plants, and cobalt blue exteriors that were once owned by Yves Saint Laurent and where his ashes are spread.
The Souk
Get lost in this endless web of shops offering handcrafted silver, spices, leather goods, rugs, garments, and food. Take a guided tour to see the full span of the souk on your first day to help you get an understanding of specific districts that house woodworking, leather, or other specialties. You can always venture out yourself; chances are you will be back for multiple shopping trips during your stay. (Pro tip: Always have cash (dollars are a good backup for large purchases like rugs) and an extra duffel to stash your goodies.)
Jemaa el-Fna
Located in the Medina quarter, this lively square has been a main destination for locals and tourists since the early foundations of Marrakech. Games, snake charmers, cactus fruit, street food, and henna, along with an array of locals and tourists make up the famous square and is surely not to miss. But a word to the wise: If you’re taking photos of any act you will be expected to tip!
What to Buy:
Argan Oil
Made from local argan nuts that are ground on site inside the small natural remedy shops, it’s a staple in Moroccan cuisine and beauty, and truly a must for argan oil devotees.
Orange Blossom Oil
If you’re wondering what the amazing aroma is in your hotel and around Morocco, it’s orange blossom oil. You can use it on your hands and skin as an essence, in baking recipes, or put some drops in your diffuser and make your whole house smell wonderful. We both purchased this and brought it home; definitely a favorite!
Silver
Small candlesticks, letterboxes, trays or teapots are all authentic to Morocco and make for incredibly valuable and special gifts for others or for your own home.
Woodwork
The most special pieces with incredible amounts of inlay and labor. Get yourself a small jewelry box or chess set.
See full article here : http://www.vogue.com/article/marakesh-travel-diary-morocco-design-inspiration
Ask our Conciergerie for tailored shopping tips when visiting Marrakech
TEL. +212 5 24 38 80 08 - RESERVATION@LASULTANAHOTELS.COM