Assouline Marrakech Flair

It is said that Marrakech awakens all the senses. Whether it is seeing the intricate zelliges; smelling the different spices sold in the souks; hearing the call to prayer from the nearby mosques; touching the supple leather used to make a pair of babouches (leather sandals); tasting a spicy tagine, Marrakech never fails to delight. Located to the west of the Atlas mountains, the city has been inhabited by Berber farmers for centuries. It has been dubbed the 'ochre city' because of the abundance of red sandstone buildings and the red ramparts that now surround the medina, home to the Jemaa el-Fnaa, one of the busiest squares in Africa.

Overflowing with culture, Marrakesh has been inspiring visitors for decades. From Yves Saint Laurent to Talitha Getty, Winston Churchill to Mick Jagger, Marrakech has attracted great icons inspired by its eternal spirit and sweet, beautiful life. Yves Saint Laurent's intimate relationship with the city led to the opening of a museum dedicated to his legendary work. The annual Marrakech International Film Festival attracts a celebrity crowd. Museums abound, showcasing Moroccan art, photography, carpets and the Andalusian design aesthetic that pervades the city's architecture. La Mamounia Hotel, which opened in 1923, has a rich history that includes hosting the likes of Winston Churchill. Vanessa Branson's El Fenn is a collection of traditional riads that make up a stunning boutique hotel. There are countless ways to immerse yourself in the culture of Marrakech, but perhaps the best place to start is with a simple glass of mint tea.