A Face-Lift for Marrakech's La Mamounia Hotel

La Mamounia, or at least its eight hectares of gardens, began life in the 18th century as a wedding gift to Morocco's Prince Moulay Mamoun from his father, King Mohammed Ben Abdellah (the hotel didn't follow until 1923). Today, those gardens, with their centuries-old olive trees, still retain their historic splendor. And the rest of La Mamounia has never felt fresher.

A Place In The Sun

Ean Vassort, dressed comfortably in jeans and blue cotton shirt, stands on the terrace of his whitewashed house, taking in the view of long golden beaches and a broad estuary snaking eastward into a hot, rocky valley. Retired since selling his restaurant near Avignon, France in 2002, Vassort, 74, now lives year-round in this sun-washed setting where he once took his holidays. But unlike earlier generations of French pensioners, Vassort's retirement idyll isn't tucked away along the villa-studded expanses of the Côte d'Azur, or in one of the popular resort towns of Spain's Costa Brava. Instead, Vassort is one of a growing number of European pensioners jumping the Mediterranean to Morocco — and getting much more bang for their euro.

He's over the hump! David Beckham enjoys a camel ride with his children during lavish 40th birthday celebrations in Marrakech

He celebrated his 40th birthday in style on Saturday night with a lavish bash attended by a host of A-list stars.

But David Beckham started his day making memories with his children as they were spotted enjoying a camel ride near the luxurious Amanjena resort.

Making the most of their time in Marrakech, Morocco, the retired footballer certainly didn’t have the hump about reaching his age milestone as he rode around with his kids ahead of the night’s festivities.

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Birthday boy: David Beckham started his day making memories with his children as they were spotted enjoying a camel ride near the luxurious Amanjena resort

Marrakech named world's best destination Summer 2015

Marrakech named world's best destination by TripAdvisor as London ranks sixth behind Prague and Hanoi... and New York fails to crack top ten

• Marrakech has been rated the world's best destination for the first time
• Results came from the website's annual Travellers' Choice awards
• Siem Reap, Istanbul and Hanoi also made the top ten world locations 

One of Britons' favourite places to visit in North Africa has been named the world's top destination by TripAdvisor users.

With its desert landscape and bustling souks, Marrakech came out on top in the website's annual Travellers' Choice Awards for the first time.

Daniel Boulud’s Marrakech Chicken Tagine

This recipe for an elegant North African stew comes out of the kitchen of Boulud Sud, Daniel Boulud’s sophisticated Mediterranean French restaurant in New York. It is a dish steeped in the flavors of North Africa, but also of France. Chicken serves as the protein, bathed in a blend of North African spices — cinnamon and coriander, turmeric, ginger powder and cardamom — combined with tomatoes, saffron and a little stock. Preserved lemons and olives added at the end provide bite. Tagines are often cooked with root vegetables and dried fruits. Boulud, who famously grew up on a farm, in Lyon, uses cauliflower.

Marrakech Express

The chef Daniel Boulud has a long history with tagine, the North African stew that takes its name from the elegant earthenware pot in which it is cooked. Thirty years ago, he said recently, he tasted a tagine cooked by a Moroccan magician and cook named Baby Dahane. The taste lingered with him. “I loved the soulful, Berber-style delicate preparation,” he said, “the crossroad of spice and flavor and the smell, the taste, the combination of spices and vegetables.”

10 Places For having Fun in Marrakech

TOP 10 Marrakech Attractions:

1. Maison de la Photographie, 46 Rue Ahel Fes Medina, 5 24 38 57 21

2. Jemaa el Fna (Place of the Dead)

3. Bahia Palace, Beyond Place des Ferblantiers

MARRAKECH’S BEST VIEWS

The top 3 Marrakech Best Views You shouldn't Miss:

A Rustic Hideaway In Marrakech

So the name of the Beldi Country Club is a giveaway: everything at the beguiling, 27-room hotel amidst fields of roses - from the earth-based pise walls to the sackcloth bags gardeners gather blooms in - is done as it was centuries ago.

Marrakech Jamaa el Fna, Second Best Night Market in the World

Ranked third most beautiful square worldwide in a rating made by travel website Lonely Planet last year, the square is featured by the travel-lovers app Adioso as the second best place for spending a wonderful night in “open-air food stalls, snake charmers and a healthy dose of chaos.” Djemaa el Fna is a high-touristic square in Marrakesh that draws more than a million visitors who come to attend the lively shows provided by the snake charmers, monkey trainers, storytellers, musicians and other popular artists from early evening until the call for dawn prayer.

An oasis of relaxation in the heart of Marrakech

Enjoy a game of golf on a nearby course at the foot of the Atlas Mountains or practice on the Resort’s pitch & putt course. The Children’s Clubs take your little ones on a journey to the land of the Arabian Nights. Experience Moroccan specialties and hospitality at the ‘El Kebir’ restaurant

Discover the souks of Marrakech with our regular shuttle service.

Branson, Famous Resident of Marrakech Explains

WHERE ARE WE NOW?

As the fifth edition of the Marrakech Biennale comes to a close, MRRKCH ( MARRAKECH MAGAZINE)  had the opportunity to sit down with Vanessa Branson, founder and president of the Marrakech Biennale, and discuss the events of the past month. Mandy Sinclair reports.

Take A Breath of Fresh Air Just Outside of Marrakech

A preferred destination for Marrakchis looking to escape the heat, this artificial lake (created thanks to a dam put in place less than a century ago) is the perfect escape from the city.

An unusual place with a surprising story

Just a half hour from Marrakech is a long lake in the middle of the plains. Residents of the imperial city often seek refuge here, particularly on Sundays, with a family picnic and cool off in the lake. After all, Lake Lalla Takerkoust Lake provides the one thing that’s missing in Marrakech: a natural place to swim.

The Fobe House, A Dream in Marrakech

The Fobe House in Marrakech, Morocco, is strikingly contemporary. At first glance, it’s all starkness and contrasts, a cascade of sharply-angled white structures speckled across an arid landscape. Infinity pools, floating terraces, and a mysterious neon glow are all present, each detail adding to the disparity between modernity and the home’s surroundings—really nothing, save the Atlas Mountains at the horizon.

The Restaurant At The End Of The World

IN 2008, PAULA WOLFERT’S BOOK, COUSCOUS AND OTHER GOOD FOOD FROM MOROCCO, WON THE COOKBOOK HALL OF FAME AWARD, TWENTY-FIVE YEARS AFTER ITS PUBLICATION.

At the time, Mo­roccan cuisine would probably have seemed pretty exotic. These days fancy food trucks and posh catering carts may be blocking the highways in Europe and the US, but Morocco’s biggest street food heaven hasn’t moved in a thousand years.

Jmaa el Fna, The Place of the Dead, The Mosque at the End of the World, North Africa’s most vibrant and exotic square, the ancient heart of Marrakech, where snake charmers, storytellers and acrobats entertain the passing crowds.

Traveling the Marrakech Medina Markets

Most travelers don’t think about the wild markets of Morocco while planning a trip to Europe. However, considering it’s close proximity, every European bound traveler should consider it! If you’re planning a trip to Europe, consider making a quick trip south to the northern tip of Africa: Morocco.

20 great things to do in Marrakech

The ultimate checklist for things to do in Marrakech – follow our insider tips for stunning mosques, fascinating crafts and luxury living:

Insider’s Guide to Marrakech Morocco

For many travelers, the ancient, bustling city of Marrakech (Marrakesh) is the first stop on a journey through Morocco and a “must see” destination. Marrakesh is a metropolitan oasis pieced together with ancients souks combined with an endless array of shops, cafes, and museum. Even the scooters and motorcycles weaving past pedestrians and donkeys is a sight to behold. Unlike much of the rest of the country, tourism is nothing new in Morocco (or in Marrakech for that matter). For centuries, Moroccans, foreigners and traders from around the world have been coming here for business, pleasure and a taste of the exotic.

Like most cities in Morocco, Marrakech is divided into two parts: the ancient medina (“old city”) and the new city (“ville nouvelle” – often referred to as “Gueliz” after the name of one of the more popular neighborhoods). In the last few decades, the city has become a tourist hotspot and a top destination for many Europeans; many who have purchased vacation and retirement homes here. Even the famous designer Yves Saint-Laurent spent the latter half of his life in Marrakech. And, recently, former French President Nicolas Sarkozy purchased a home here. In Marrakech, expats wander alongside the locals through the medina streets of the famed “Red City.”

Sparkling kaftans hit the catwalk in Marrakech

Wearing dazzling traditional kaftans, models took to the Marrakech catwalk this week to showcase the latest local and international designs at the 18th edition of the most prestigious traditional fashion show in Morocco. The two-hour long event was held this year under the theme of 'Splendours of Empires.' Fourteen established fashion designers and two newcomers presented their creations at the show, taking their inspiration from the world's great empires.

Happy cause we're from Marrakech

The storyteller of Marrakech

Storytelling in Marrakech is a practice with ancient roots, thought to date back to the 11th Century. But has it been superseded by modern life? The Cafe de France in Marrakech is something of an institution. It is the oldest and most famous of the slightly louche establishments that surround the main square, the Jemaa el Fna. Dating back to the days of the French protectorate, it sometimes feels as if its decor and staff haven't changed since then either. 

Where To Stay In Marrakech

Anyone who’s been back to Marrakech after a several year absence would have difficulty recognizing the place. The winding alleyways of the medina are still there, with atmospheric riads hidden behind nondescript doors and stall after stall of silks, slippers, brass on sale. And in the center of it all, Jemaa el Fna, the main square inhabited by snake charmers, acrobats, sizzling kebab grills, boulevarding locals and mobs of tourists. 

What’s changed, however, is the hotel scene; it’s a veritable explosion with more coming on line all the time: Rocco Forte’s Assoufid, a Baglioni, a Mandarin Oriental, a W, a Park Hyatt, the Jawhar from Monaco’s Societie des Bains de Mer are all set to open over the next year. 

Marrakech, the hard way

It’s easy to fly to Morocco. Alternatively, one can get there by car, rail and sea Children saluting beside flags Saluting Gibraltar from the Upper Rock There is an obvious way for those living in the UK to take a family holiday in Marrakech: drive to Gatwick, hop on an easyJet flight and a few hours later you will be drinking mint tea in the Red City. Alternatively, you could put your three children in the back of the car, catch an overnight ferry to Santander, drive across Spain, dump the car on a clifftop road overlooking the Mediterranean, transfer your stuff into rucksacks, catch a boat to Tangiers and then the night train to Marrakech. We did the latter.

Morocco's bright lights: Romance, riads and arresting exoticism in the Red City

The Red City yanks you from the 21st century immediately. So much so, it seems impossible that my day began in gloomy London. I stand paralysed, ink from the map clutched in my hand imprinted on my fingers and the bedlam of Marrakech ringing in my ears.

The Chic Of Marrakech

Its voluptuous exoticism and easy accessibility have always drawn a certain traveler to this Arab oasis. Now, thanks to an influx of new money and smart new places to stay, the rest of the world is checking in as well.

Frederick Vreeland, the former U.S. ambassador to Morocco and son of Diana, the legendaryVogue editor, has just flown in from Rome to host a lunch party at his Marrakech home, Orchard of the Shooting Star.

Marrakech Best Spa´s

When its time to put your feet up and relax after long days out-and-about and late night partying, head straight to one of Marrakech’s relaxing hammams and day spas for an indulgent spa treatment.

Oukameden Ski Resort

Given the soaring heat of Marrakech, its incredible that within only one hour’s drive you can be in the dramatic snow capped peaks of the Atlas Mountains.

Casino de Marrakech

Opened in 1952 with a full revue show imported from Paris, the Casino has seen the likes of Josephine Baker grace its stage. It now features 14 gaming tables and a cabaret show. Casino de Marrakech has become a legendary stop for international travellers and local players.

Marrakech or Marrakesh? Riad, Ryad, Riyad or Riyadh?

Marrakech or Marrakesh? Riad, Ryad, Riyad or Riyadh?The city is spelled “Marrakech” in French and commonly use by foreigners except English thats will say ‘Marrakesh’ and Germans say “Marrakesch”. 

Marrakech Quad Tours

There are many places where you can go quad biking starting from 1 hour to a full day however don’t expect the desert in Marrakech. The best you can hope for is rough terrain, river and scenic berber villages however if you willing to travel 600 Km in the direction to Merzouga South of Marrakech you will find a true desert.

Let’s stay in Marrakech!!! – Even not the same there’s a fantastic quad bike track in the Palmeraie, 15 mins by taxi from the medina. It’s run by Nomade Quad. They organizes hiking tours, camel raids and Quad biking.

Nikki Beach – Marrakech

Set in the heart of the Palmeraie, Nikki Beach is a charming oasis with a relaxed and sophisticated ambience. It’s a place of excellence in the “Red City” where you can spend quality time in a convivial glamorous atmosphere.

Make friends while tanning under the pleasant sun surrounded exotic perfumes and beautiful palm trees.

Marrakech Kenzi Oasis Hotel

Kenzi Club Oasis
Commune Rurale Ouahat – Sidi Brahim, 40000 Marrakech

This hotel is located in a palm plantation set in lush tropical gardens with fountains is the inviting location for the Kenzi Club Oasis Hotel, 12 Km to the North of Marrakech, Morocco. 

This attractive and distinctive hotel is a house of Moorish style, offers a variety of activities for leisure and fun. Offering an All Inclusive package, the hotel offers a good mix of relaxation and action.

Marrakech Restaurants

At lunchtime, you have many choices in Marrakech. You can eat at local restaurants, frequented by locals, which we recommend, or you can eat at restaurants that are more “touristy”, where they make pizzas, pasta and other basics. For a Morrocan atmosphere go to eat among the bustle and  noise of the Jemaa el Fna, where there are several bars and cafes that offer  delicious cheap meals.

Local Restaurants

My advice is to go to one of the local restaurants at least once, because it is a good way to discover the essence of the Moroccan food and to  know what, and how, people eat in Marrakech.

New in Marrakech

Big things are happening in Marrakech. Or rather, small things, as aging Moorish mansions and palaces are being transformed into guesthouses, and chic hotels are springing up like oases in the desert

Although it's just steps from Marrakech's teeming souks, Riad Maji—one of the many new guesthouses deep within the ancient walled medina—is the epitome of tranquillity. Breakfast is served on the tented roof, an enchanting aerie with a view of the Atlas Mountains. 

Pacha Marrakech

Pacha established as the worlds first superclub, originally opening it’s doors in Barcelona in 1966, before moving to Ibiza in 73 where it gained international notoriety. As the house explosion took the world by storm, Pacha Ibiza was caught up in the middle – inspiring clubbers year after year from every corner of the globe.
By the late 90s things started to expand at a phenomenal rate, sister venues opened with Pacha London, Pacha Portugal, Barcelona, Munich and Hamburg to name but a few…
The new ideal setting for Pacha since 2005 is Marrakech – for more information, please visit their website below.
http://www.pachamarrakech.com/