We love to travel for leisure as much as anyone, but on a recent research trip to Marrakech, our Head of Sales, Alex, immersed himself in an experiential travel show featuring the industry's most inspiring suppliers. When he wasn’t learning about sustainable vessels in the Galapagos, Alex sampled the sweet life at some of our handpicked riads and explored the buzzing medina. Interested in hearing more about a week spent between a travel trade show and the wonders of Marrakech? Read on…
Where did you visit?
I spent five days in Marrakech, a colourful city in western Morocco.
What did you get up to?
I spent the week at a trade event, meeting with the very best experiential travel suppliers. Talking to over 50 of them gave me valuable insights into travel trends, industry updates and new hotels opening around the world.
What made your trip special?
Spending time in the city. Marrakech is a wonderfully vibrant place with such a creative edge. Yes, it can be chaotic, but at the same time, it feels safe. In the evenings, I would walk back from the medina and feel completely comfortable surrounded by the well-lit, busy pavements and roads. I’m already planning my next holiday here!
Image by Stefan Volk/LAIF-REA.
Did you learn about any hidden gems?
I spent a night at a wonderful riad, La Villa Nomade, a peaceful haven away from the bustle of the city. Breakfast in their charming courtyard – complete with dates, homemade jams, sweet bread and the chatter of birds – was a calming way to start the day before the quick 20-minute walk into the heart of the medina.
Image by Alex Carey.
What’s your favourite thing you ate?
While I didn’t have much time to explore the city’s cuisine, the entire dining experience at La Villa des Orangers was my food-related highlight. I was served drinks and canapes while lounging by the pool and relaxing in the gardens; a blissful experience made all the better by impeccable service.
Image by Marc Plantec/La Villa des Orangers/Relais & Châteaux.
What new things did you learn?
I learnt so many exciting things from my meetings with the travel suppliers. For example, plans for a new hybrid expedition vessel in the Galapagos that will be the first of its kind in the region. This innovative ship will hopefully inspire a movement toward more sustainable vessels, helping to protect the local habitat. I also learnt about once-in-a-lifetime experiences in the Sea of Cortez, such as spotting orcas and sleeping on a catamaran... my travel bucket list is growing!
What’s something you’d never done before?
Unsurprisingly, I’ve never been to a party with over 1,000 people in the middle of a stone desert before. It was a great night and a brilliant opportunity to network with others within the travel industry.
What’s one thing that can’t be missed?
Simply slow down, stroll around the medina and discover the boutique shops filled with handmade crafts and trinkets. Make sure to leave room in your suitcase, as you’ll definitely come home with more than you left with.
Did anything surprise you about the destination?
What always surprises me about travel is the incredible connections you make with the local people. On my first day, I had mint tea with one of our Concierges, Hanane. It was lovely to spend time with a local, swap stories of living abroad and celebrate our desire to travel.
What’s a top tip you’d give to clients?
While a stay in Marrakech is essential, there's so much more to explore in Morocco. Issy, one of our Conde Nast specialists, has travelled the country's length and recommends extending your stay to visit the Atlas Mountains. More and more travellers are heading to trekking lodges in the mountains, and you might even learn about our charity partner, Education for All. They run boarding houses in Asni, providing education for young women in the Atlas Mountains, which wouldn't be possible otherwise. They're doing incredible work and need continued support from tourists, especially after the earthquake in September 2023.
Header Image by Birgit Sfat.
