Marrakech is a fascinating destination that is a vibrant mix of Africa, Europe and the Middle East. This city on the edge of the desert is almost a thousand years old, but has a hip, stylish vibe. There are mosques, gardens and souks to explore as well as great restaurants, chic shopping and numerous great hotels, both large, super-luxurious ones as well as more intimate, boutique options. Marrakech seems to have something for everyone.

I visited the city with 3 friends recently and our highlights were a private visit to Yves St Laurent’s home and gardens; a cooking class; camel riding; a hammam visit (similar to a Turkish bath - you are scrubbed while lying on a heated slab of marble - bliss!); dinner in a tent in the dessert and hiking in the Atlas mountains.

The best times to visit Marrakech are fall, winter and spring to avoid the summer heat. Marrakech can easily be visited as a long weekend or as part of a longer trip to Morocco, including locales such as Fez and the Atlas Mountains.