Romantic Hideaway

An unassuming door on a quiet back street in the northern medina might not look like much, but this city is not a place where a book should be judged by its cover. Insider Lauren Steventon stayed recently at Noir d’Ivoire and reports … Exquisitely furnished with an African vibe inspired by owner Jill Fetchmann’s Read More

A Chic, Eco-friendly Hotel

Beyond the hustle and hassle of Marrakech lies the rest of Morocco: mysterious, magical and ripe for exploring! Bab Ourika-in the Ourika Valley, a lush green gateway to the majestic Atlas mountains-opened formally Spring 2009 and is on its way to becoming one of the region’s most loved properties. Its authentic, chic and simple Moroccan Read More

Spicy, Exotic Dining

Mystery and glamour loom large in these exquisite dining spots in the Red City. Make one of these cosmopolitan gems a part of your perfect Arabian night.

La Roseraie’s Table
You know what they say about a rose by any other name. You can say the same thing about La Roseraie, a hotel in Read More

A Stylish Villa Retreat

This was the first place I ever stayed in Morocco years ago-in fact, it was the first stylish, upscale retreat in the Palmeraie, masterminded by talented owner Meryanne Loum Martin.  If your idea of Marrakech is all bustling market places and crowded streets, it’s time to redefine the city. Jnane Tamsna is totally serene, with Read More

Souk Shopping with a Pro

I so thoroughly enjoyed my afternoon with well-known personal shopper, the French born, internationally savvy, Laetitia Trouillet, I cannot recommend her more highly. There is quite a lot of top-notch quality and design from interiors to jewelry to be snapped up, but will not be found without her expert navigating and connections.

Believe the Read More

Beware Riad el Fenn

I’d bet the reason Riad el Fenn gets press is because the owner is Richard’s Branson’s relative. Don’t believe the hype. There are a handful of stunning, well-serviced riads in which to stay-this one lacks atmosphere and good vibe, both aspects very much a part of the riad experience. The scruffy style may get vamped Read More

Riad Farnatchi, An Ultra-Romantic Hotel in Morocco

For a secluded and sultry haven in the middle of the bustling Medina, slip through the discreet door of the exclusive Riad Farnatchi, a nine-suite hotel set within five traditional courtyard townhouses. This is a riad with wow factor, and it’s ultra-romantic (don’t bring the kids). It is one of only a few Riads I Read More

Just back from… Morocco

Early December we spent a week in/around Marrakech. Since my last visit 8 years ago, I had a lot to check out and experience. With all that has opened and the progression of service and great food (plus ease of getting here), I rate Morocco highly for a long weekend or holiday. A relatively Read More

Eight Great Boutiques

Paris remains a wonderful city in which to shop. Have the time? Get lost wandering the good neighborhoods to find your finds. Here is a short list to warm up your credit card …

Merci
A discreet emporium in Le Marais created by Marie-France and Bernard Cohen, founders of the children’s Read More

Lancaster Hotel

After a hectic day on the Champs Élysées, you’ll find a perfect hideaway in the nearby Hotel Lancaster. Housed in a 19th-century private mansion, with 57 rooms and suites, this charming and discreet property is ideal for privacy-seekers—no wonder Marlene Dietrich was a frequent guest. It’s been a hotel since the 1930s and Read More