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Tastemaking French-Moroccan entrepreneur Touria El Glaoui founded the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair in 2013, bringing works by established and emerging African artists to London, New York and Marrakech. Just ahead of 2025's first 1-54, in Marrakech, Touria shares an insider's guide for anyone visiting the dazzling Moroccan city.

 

BY TOURIA EL GLAOUI | CABANA TRAVEL | 30 JANUARY 2025

 

My Favorite Place to Stay: La Mamounia

A real oasis of luxury and charm near the Medina, La Mamounia is always my first choice for its impeccable service and serene gardens.

My Favourite Restaurant: La Grande Table Marocaine

The perfect place to experience Moroccan cuisine at its finest is La Grande Table Marocaine at Royal Mansour. Every dish is a celebration of flavors and tradition.

 

 

My Favourite Café: Bacha Coffee

Bacha Coffee inside the Musée des Confluences serves the best coffee, and I love pairing my visit with a stroll through the museum’s current exhibitions.

My Favourite Cozy Bar: The Churchill Bar

Tucked away and beautifully designed, the Churchill Bar at La Mamounia [named after Winston Churchill who was a regular guest] is a hidden gem where I can unwind in an intimate and elegant setting.

 

 

My Favourite Museum or Gallery: MACAAL

The Museum of African Contemporary Art Al Maaden (MACAAL) is a must-visit for its incredible exhibitions. For galleries, I adore Gallery 38, Loft Gallery, and MCC Gallery - each of them offers something unique and inspiring.

My Favourite Place of Architectural Interest: Musée des Confluences

Once the palace of my grandfather, the Pacha El Glaoui, Musée des Confluences showcases exquisite traditional Moroccan craftsmanship. From the zellige tiles to the intricately carved plasterwork, it’s a masterpiece of design and heritage.

 

© National Foundation of Museums of Morocco, Museum of Confluences, Dar El Bacha, Marrakech

 

My Favourite Thing to Do:

I love exploring the vibrant galleries, museums, and cultural landmarks that Marrakech has to offer. For an 'insider tip', I recommend a day trip to R'MATT [a country club on the road to Ourika with a restaurant, vegetable gardens and two pools]. It has breathtaking views of the Atlas Mountains and incredible fresh vegetables paired with delicious grilled meats.

My Favourite Shop: El Fenn 

The Shop at Riad El Fenn always leaves me so inspired with their thoughtfully curated selection of items. I rarely leave without finding something I love.

My Favorite New Find:

Moroccan-French designer, Sophia Kacimi, and her new creations, Zoubida.

 


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Marrakech | 30 January-2 February 2025

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