Marrakech

In the Moroccan subcontinent surrounded by majestic seas in three directions and the Sahara desert in the fourth, the Red City of Marrakech is now a vibrant urbanscape fizzing with life and yet drenched in the richest cultural heritage you will ever come across. Feel the worlds resonate with the echo of soulful prayers at the mosques in the mornings or with the blaring music of the night parties, gawk at the age-old imperial architecture and admire the best works of art in their many galleries, hustle through the busy market streets to experience ancient artistry thriving alongside contemporary art and design marvels in a city that is a fascinating blend old and new.

How to reach: Connecting flights available from India Marrakech, via Frankfurt or Casablanca, with packages starting at INR 78,490.

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Where to stay: For a taste of unparalleled luxury in the heart of Morocco, spend a night in the unbeatable Mandarin Oriental or live like a king at the grand La Sultana, with its renowned spas and saunas while the seekers of solitude can find an abode in the opulent suites of The Palmeraie. If you’d rather choose to empty your bank over shopping but also long for authentic Moroccan hospitality, crash at the royal Riad Le J for lush gardens, relaxing spas and sprawling pools or check into Dar Sbihi for an eye pleasing combination of contemporary and ornate.

Where to eat: Destination: Falafels and baba ganoush! Revel in the sensational flavours of Arabic cuisines at locations that will convince you to give up on your mundane life and just stay there. Get high on culinary pleasures at the green oasis of Le Jardin or go for some wine dine and wine under the stars at Kechmara while you tap your feet to live jazz. Add some belly dancing to the mix at Le Comptoir.

Where to shop: Wander along the crisscross of lanes in the Souks to pawn off some spices, trinkets and structured leather goods. Get a glimpse of the rich tapestry of cultural textiles in Souq Cherifia and splurge on the fabulous assortment of home décor in Mustapha Blaoui and lounge in luxury boutiques to bag in as much of the Moroccan fashions as you can.