Thaïs Martin
Marrakech, Morocco
L’mida
With jaw-dropping views of the Atlas mountains, this beautiful, incredibly well-located restaurant has it all: style, vibe and flavor. The Moroccan fusion menu boasts delicious reinterpretations of local classics, made with fresh ingredients and perfectly balanced spices. No matter how much of this dish you’ve already had on your trip, their green herb and pistachio couscous is an absolute must. The desserts, which incorporate traditional flavors like rose, amlou (ground roasted almond, honey and argan oil) and mint tea, are perfect for a refined sweet tooth. Tip: book a table on the terrace at dusk.
La Maison de la Photographie
As a photographer and all-round lover of still and moving images, I never grow tired of visiting this unique little museum. Its permanent collection has over 10,000 original prints of photos taken in Morocco during the late 19th and early 20th century, with some dating to the 1860s. It’s amazing, after spending the day wandering the Old City’s enchanting alleys, to see images of how they looked a hundred years ago. Some magic never fades.
Jardin Secret
In the midst of the hustle and bustle of the Marrakech Medina lies a haven of serenity called the Secret Garden. Located within the walls of a restored palace with an intriguing history dating back to the 16th century, this space remains a hidden gem in one of the city’s busiest areas. Designed by British landscape architect Tom Stuart-Smith, it comprises two gardens: one Islamic, the other exotic. A perfect metaphor for the city’s rich blend of cultural influences.
The Moroccans
Drawing on the ancestral beauty rituals of Moroccan women, this brand is a must for advocates of self care. Known for the quality and purity of their ingredients, they are my go-to for local natural cosmetics. I swear by their amber argan oil and their unisex perfumes are divine. A stone’s throw from the Majorelle gardens, the boutique also sells their own clothes and accessories together with pieces from other local designers. Pop around the corner into their MORO concept store and restaurant for more shopping or to get a fresh pick-me-up from their homemade salad bar.
Born hundreds of years ago from the crossroads of trade routes, Marrakech remains a site of exchange to this day. With its calendar of film, music and art festivals, Morocco’s cultural capital attracts foreign visitors and diaspora alike, with many globetrotting creatives calling the city their second home. To feel its creative pulse, I venture into these neighborhoods: Sidi Ghanem (the Industrial Sector) to check out the workshops of local designers, Gueliz (our Downtown) for restaurants and bars, Majorelle for its famed gardens and the YSL museum, the Palmeraie for a serene escape into the oasis, and of course, the iconic Medina (Old City). My favorite way to experience the Medina is to get (a little) lost, letting my senses be roused by the scent of spices and the spectacle of lively characters you’ll find at every turn of its winding alleys. The stunning Atlas Mountains serve as a striking backdrop for a sweet “atay” (Moroccan mint tea) or a refreshing sunset cocktail after a day of exploring the Red City, so make sure to end your adventure on a rooftop terrace.
I am a photographer, filmmaker, writer and creative spirit currently anchored in Marrakech, though I am frequently in London where I am developing various short film projects. I am pretty much obsessed with music, art, food and culture. I co-founded Batfish Films, a woman-led London-based documentary production company seeking to drive positive social change through film. I help run Jnane Tamsna, our family owned boutique hotel in Marrakech.