It turns out you lovely lot really love hearing about where I’ve been travelling, and honestly, I love sharing it. It's so nice to reflect on my trips and have them all written down somewhere. Looking over my travels, it's funny how much a change of scenery really sparks something in me creatively, especially when it comes to my jewellery designs. So, I thought I’d tell you a bit about my trip to Morocco at the end of last year, and how it shaped a few ideas I’ve worked on/been working on since.
Marrakech: From Midnight Arrivals to Rooftop Cafés
I flew solo into Marrakech in December 2023 on a very delayed flight (classic), and landed in total darkness. A bit nerve-wracking when you're on your own, but thankfully I had a lovely taxi waiting. I stayed at Riad Dar Ten (@riaddarten), a little gem tucked into the heart of the medina. My room was simple but very beautiful. For those of you who don't know, a Riad is a traditional Moroccan house or palace, the perfect place to stay if you're heading to Morocco for an authentic experience.
A wonderful man called Salah, from the Riad, greeted me with warm tea and genuine hospitality, and instantly made me feel safe and my environment cosy - I cannot fault the hospitality of Moroccans, they're incredibly kind.
The medina was just as bustling and colourful as I remembered. I'd been there before with friends, but this was my first time travelling alone. It felt different, but in the best way. A couple of days later, my family, Sue and Phil joined and took the room above mine, and we started exploring together.
We met up with some other friends of mine who had come from Ibiza, and hit the souks for Secret Santa shopping (the shopping in Marrakech is next-level). Think lanterns, homeware, colourful textiles, and yes, you absolutely have to haggle. It's half the fun and I must admit, I'm a bit of a pro at it now!
We spent afternoons lounging at rooftop cafés like Shtatto (@shattomarrakech), sipping juices in the sun, and evenings eating tagines and watching belly dancers at Comptoir Darna (@comptoirdarna) in the newer park of Marrakech. Marrakech has this amazing mix of tradition and glamour that I find so creatively inspiring.
Design Inspo Everywhere
It was impossible not to be inspired by the tiles, patterns, and colours. The black-and-white mosaics at Badi Palace, the iconic blue of the YSL museum and gardens - Jardin Majorelle (@jardinmajorellemarrakech), the layered arches of ancient riads - all of it stirred ideas which ultimately resulted in my beaded gemstone collection made up of Marrakesh Sunrise, Sevilla Dream and Essaouira Blues pieces. Texture and contrast are big themes right now in my work, and Morocco is just full of that visual richness.
I'm quite particular and fussy about restaurants/bars, etc, but I can highly recommend Plus 61 (@plus61marrakech). It's stunning - I would go back to all of the places I've mentioned within this blog.
While in Marrakech we also had one night at El Fenn Hotel (owned by Richard Branson or some connection to him @elfennmarrakech) - it has an amazing rooftop garden!
I felt incredibly safe as a woman on my own - taxis are also really affordable. While you're there, you also have to try a hammam - it's sort of like a Turkish spa. It's not for the shy and retiring, but you will feel incredible after.
From Marrakech to the Coast: Essaouira Magic
After a few days in Marrakech, we headed west to Essaouira, a beautiful walled city on the coast with a laid-back, almost French vibe. On the way, we saw all these argan oil trees, and there were so many goats in the trees, it's so bizarre but quite fun. When we arrived, my friends stayed in a villa with a pool (ideal with kids), and I found a traditional riad nearby. Essaouira feels more rustic than Marrakech but equally captivating. You’ve got harbour views, oyster stalls, winding alleyways, and stunning boutiques. It’s also the home of gnawa music, which gives the whole town a rhythmic, soulful energy. They have a festival there every June, it's a local tribal style music, it's quite a lively place.
One thing about Essaouira is there are loads of cats - they are quite brave too so if you don't like cats, you probably won't like it as much!
We celebrated Christmas there at my friends villa with homemade turkey and champagne under the sun, and spent Christmas Day beachside at Ocean Vagabond (@oceanvagabond.essaouira) where camels literally strolled past as we ate. That blend of European chill with Moroccan flair is something else.
If you go, there's an amazing taxi service, Youssef (WhatsApp +212 668 254602), he speaks the best English, and I had the best experience with him.
Sunsets, Surf Vibes & Solo Moments
New Year’s Eve was spent at Taros - good music, good drinks, and a chilled atmosphere. After everyone else left, I stayed on and explored solo again. I went on to stay at Palais des Remparts (@palaisdesremparts), which was right by the harbour and perfect for wandering.
I wasn’t quite ready to leave, so I extended my stay and made my way down to Taghazout, which is a gorgeous coastal town and surfer hotspot. It was paradise, so much warmer, calmer, and absolutely what I needed. I stayed at the Radisson Blu Taghazout Bay (@radissonblutaghazoutbay) and honestly, it felt like heaven and one of my favourite places in the world I've ever visited. Morning yoga, beachfront views, and the friendliest people. I didn’t even surf but still fell head over heels for the place - great for some winter sun.
Why Morocco Stays With You
Whether it was the goats in argan trees, hammam spas, or patterned ceramics that caught my eye, Morocco left its mark. I felt safe as a solo female traveller, met the kindest people, and had the kind of soul-filling trip that lingers long after the flight home.
If you're ever looking for travel inspiration, want a dose of winter sun, or simply need a break that sparks something in your creativity, I couldn’t recommend Morocco more.
And if you spot a few Moroccan influences weaving their way into my next jewellery drop, now you know why.
