A travel diary by Süzet, Karel, & Ceyda...
When we landed in Morocco, our first stop wasn’t Marrakech, but Essaouira. Following the Atlas Mountains towards the Atlantic coast, a three-hour drive brought us to a windswept fishing town surrounded by ancient walls. We spent our first day wandering through narrow streets and eating sardines fresh off the boats with the ocean breeze around us. Le Jardin des Villa Maroc, with its earthen bungalows, Berber-inspired details and quiet atmosphere, set the tone for the journey: slow, intentional, and a kind of luxury that never tries too hard.
Then came Marrakech.
The moment our car entered the medina, we were surrounded by noise, the scent of spices and motorbikes weaving through narrow streets. Our refuge within the chaos was El Fenn; behind a heavy wooden door was another world of courtyards, terraces, pools, tiled floors and contemporary art.
We spent our days getting lost in the souks. Hand-carved wooden bowls, babouche slippers, handwoven rugs and ceramic tiles appearing around every corner… At some point, we stopped trying to keep track of where we were going and simply surrendered to the rhythm of the city.
One afternoon was spent among the cobalt blue walls and cacti of Jardin Majorelle. But perhaps the most memorable things we brought home from Marrakech were the ones no suitcase could hold: the colours, patterns, surfaces and sense of a place that has truly been lived in.
One of the best things to do in Marrakech is sometimes to make no plans at all; sit in a courtyard, order a tea and let the city reveal its own rhythm.
Where to Stay
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El Fenn: In the heart of the medina, for contemporary art, colourful courtyards, rooftop views and a chance to experience the city’s energy from within.
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La Mamounia: For classic Marrakech grandeur, expansive gardens and a timeless atmosphere.
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Royal Mansour Marrakech: For an unforgettable stay where private riads, elegant courtyards and traditional Moroccan craftsmanship meet contemporary comfort.
Where to Explore
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Jardin Majorelle: For its cobalt blue walls, exotic plants and Yves Saint Laurent legacy.
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Bahia Palace: For its Zellige tiles, carved wooden ceilings and interconnected courtyards.
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Le Jardin Secret: A place to step away from the bustle of the medina and breathe among water channels and green courtyards.
Where to Eat
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Nomad: For modern Moroccan cuisine on a rooftop overlooking the medina and Atlas Mountains.
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Le Jardin: For a slow lunch and mint tea surrounded by greenery.
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Dar Yacout: For a more traditional Moroccan evening that feels long, generous and almost ritualistic.
What to Bring Home
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A handwoven rug: Each one carrying its own colours, textures and story — a piece that continues to live with you at home.
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Babouche slippers: A small, comfortable and characterful reminder of everyday life in Marrakech.
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Handmade ceramics: Bowls, plates and small objects that bring the city’s Zellige patterns and colour palette to the table.
