A photo shoot in Marrakech ended up being life-changing for former model Josie Maran. While exploring the ancient city, she encountered an older woman who possessed a preternaturally youthful complexion that she attributed to regular application of argan oil. The information led Maran to enlist local women’s cooperatives to harvest the argan tree’s fruit and extract the oil—allowing them to live and work independently—which she would bottle for what turned into a very successful beauty and skincare line.
Since that fateful trip, Maran has returned many times to the city she calls “enchanted and full of treasures.” Here, she shares with us her insight into Marrakech’s best hotels, food, shops, and more.
Stay at Riad Al Idrisi
“I really love the Riad Al Idrisi because its eclectic and vibrant style seems like authentic Marrakech. I felt like I was a bohemian writer in the ’60s traveling around in search for meaning and purpose in life. I met really cool travelers whom I still call friends. All in all the vibe was exactly what I had imagined my dream Moroccan adventure to be.” (Derb Sidi Lahcen Ou Ali N 66, Bab Doukkala)
Get your juice fix
“Marrakech is a wonderland. Whether you're a boho traveler or a chic fashionista, the city has a special way of bringing all types together yet offering a unique experience for everyone. My first time there, I just remember walking around the busy markets not noticing the mad rush of gypsies and snake charmers all around me and then having the most delicious sip of freshly pressed orange juice from a beautiful market stand.”
Shop at small boutiques
“The souks are great, but I love these chic little shops best. Moor is a beautifully curated shop with heavenly beaded and embroidered tunics. And Michele Baconnier sells jewelry, hand-dyed shoes, clothes, and a selection of suzani textiles for your bed or couch.” Also—buy tiles, Maran advises: “Morocco has the best tiles in the world so I try and collect a few every time I go. Someday I'll make a beautiful room with all my collected Moroccan tiles.”
Explore El Badi Palace
“I love to explore the ruins of the El Badi Palace. I pretend I'm in a land far away and run around the enchanted palace.”
Walk among the fruit trees of the Royal Palace
“There are some amazing orchards of fruit trees in the back of the Royal Palace. I love to walk through the orange, fig, olive, and grapefruit trees. It’s so peaceful and seems miles away from the hustle and bustle of the gypsy madness.”
Visit Essaouira
“The fortified city of Essaouira is two and a half hours away by bus. It’s on the ocean and just gorgeous. You can eat delicious seafood, buy beautiful artisan gifts, and visit the nearby argan forest.”
Drink tea at Djemaa El-Fna
“Visit one of Djemaa el-Fna rooftop cafés and sip on a cup of sweet Moroccan mint-tea as you inhale the aromas wafting from the food market below.”
Eat Tagine
“Food is definitely a delicious treat in Marrakech. It's cheerful and very tasty. The Djemaa el-Fna transforms into a food market every night. Dozens of stalls sprout all over the square as the sun sets. All sorts of local delicacies are on offer. Sample Moroccan delicacies like couscous, kebabs, and Harira soup, or my favorite, tagine, a soothing stew-like dish in a beautiful clay pot. I love the fish and vegetarian varieties.”
Catch a show at the Théâtre Royal
“The Théâtre Royal is an open-air amphitheater where they have really fun cultural events like opera and dance.”
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