"Those who believe that adventures are dangerous, I say try routine; that kills you far more quickly. Enlightens Paulo Cohelo and we agree!
14 years ago, our Alice began making silver jewellery with local Mayan jewellers on a trip to Mexico with just $60 left in her pocket and the adventure hasn't stopped since.
What drew you to Morocco?
I have always wanted to go, but it was a surprise gift from my Mum for mine and my husband's birthdays. This was a chance to be kid free and have an adventure.
OK! We've booked the flights, now where to in Morocco?
Marrakech. I was looking for inspiration as this time of the year is focused on designing new collections. My first port of call upon landing was to visit the Souks and take in the vibrant colours, the aromatic smells, the wonderful sweet tea and the amazing food in the main square. We even had snails off a stall that were magic.
We don't want to miss the best bits, any definite must do's in Marrakech?
I had such an adventure discovering new things down hidden lanes (that I could never find again) but I would say that my favourite restaurant was Le Grand Cafe de la Poste. It is a stunning colonial restaurant with the most delicious food, Moroccan wine called Gris, Moroccan oysters (never thought I'd be eating those) and a gorgeous maitre'de. It takes you to another era. I also loved visiting the riads (walled houses) and would definitely stay in one next time. I found a beautiful one that was great to sit in and have a drink. The perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle beyond the walls! The riads were all over but we liked the ones in Bab Doukala (one of the walled gates). It also had a fantastic market with chickens running around and fresh fish and BBQ's. Sub-Tropical Jardin Majorelle is well worth a visit as it has stunning gardens and was once the home of Yves Saint Laurent
Where there any culture shock moments?
The scary monkeys in dresses and snake charmers on every corner were a little worrying. It took time to acclimatise to the haggling but once you get the hang of it, it is actually quite fun. Initially it was an attack on the senses but then you grow to really appreciate everything you are witnessing. Oh and the lack of booze as it is a Muslim country. We were able to find some amazing bars though “ Cosybar, Cafe Arabe and Sky bar but they were all rather hidden away on the top of buildings with amazing vistas over the desert and Atlas Mountains. We got used to being sent up flights of stairs to discover amazing views and terraces full of westerners sipping on beer and fabulous Moroccan wine. It felt prohibited and added an extra kind of adventure to the trip.
From a buyers' perspective would you recommend travelling to Morocco for inspiration? Why?
Yes absolutely. Everything was incredibly cheap and the leather products were wonderful. I bought loads of lovely pieces including the most stunning leather holdall, two poofs and some camels for the kids.
Since your travels, any (or many?) light bulb moments for new personalised gifts or ideas?
I want to use more leather in our designs as it is so classic and perfect for personalisation. I also loved all the textures and colours and would like to develop that.
Can you sum up the trip in one sentence?
A sensory overload of colours, smells, culture and noise etc. A fab adventure and I can't wait to return. The perfect time for a reheel.
