I had been wanting to visit Morocco for a while, and the former imperial city in the foothills of the Atlas Mountains did not disappoint. My very limited French did come in handy when traversing the maze-like medina. The people were incredibly kind and I don't think I've ever drank so much tea in my live.
EXPLORE
Jardin Majorelle is a complete oasis from the dusty city. Once owned by Yves Saint Laurent, the garden features signature YSL blue buildings sprinkled through the lush grounds. Visit in the morning to avoid crowds and stop by the cafe for a fresh juice. A YSL museum is also set to open in Fall 2017.
Marrakech By Air is a life-changing excursion. A half-day trip begins with a 4am pick up (worth it, I promise), drive out to the desert, hot air balloon ride with mountain views, a traditional berber breakfast, and finally a camel ride. Cannot recommend this enough.
Amal Women's Training Center offers tagine cooking classes, with a side of philanthropy. This nonprofit supports, trains, and educated Moroccan women in order to afford them opportunities, including entrepreneurship. Our tagine didn't taste half bad either.
Ben Youssef Medrasa is a quick, but beautiful stop. The former school of Islamic law sports incredible mosaics.
Le Maison Arabe is a boutique hotel, but the real draw is the enchanting hammam. Make a reservation for a really good, reasonably priced, scrub and massage. Also a good place to stock up on argan oil.
SHOP
Djemaa El-Fna is the main square of the medina. You can buy everything from handcrafted jewelry to live chickens. If you're snapping up some souvenirs keep an eye out for silk embroidered pillow cases, pretty tassels, and leather slip-on shoes in every color imaginable.
EAT
NOMAD is a modern eatery with a rooftop deck, perfect for a sunset dinner. It's a little hard to find, but once you're there you won't want to leave. Order the lamb burger and the zucchini fritters.
Henna Cafe is small lunch spot atop an education center. It doesn't look like much from the outside, but venture up. Juices and salads are accompanied by table-side henna service. Choose from their design book or bring a photo of your own. They also have a very cute pet turtle that meanders between the tables.
El Fenn is the place to go for a lux evening. Riad El Fenn is a glamorous hotel owned by Vanessa Branson (Richard's sister). Having dinner in the rooftop restaurant will make you feel like a queen. Try the lemon ravioli.
Comptoir Darna may be a tad touristy, but it's a hell of a lot of fun. Come for the food, stay for the show. At 10:30pm belly dancers light up the restaurant and diners get to join in. Order the seven salad sampler and the caramel tart for dessert.
STAY
Riad Trois Palmiers is truly the best vacation stay I've had. Anywhere. The traditional house-hotel features a pool, rooftop terraces, charming rooms, and a delicious breakfast each morning. The staff are simply incredible people that go far beyond their duties. One staff member walked us out to the car at 4am for our excursion pick up. I honestly wouldn't stay anywhere else!