Moroccan Digest

20/01/2024

Morocco through Gilles Bensimon’s lens for Elle US, January 1994.

10/01/2024

We need to embrace the timeless spirit of kindness , cultures and eras. In the heart of humanity, let us draw inspiration from this vintage photo of Jews in Morocco, celebrating the power of kindness during these challenging times. We need more compassion, understanding, and support to make the world a brighter place for everyone.

31/12/2023

El Morocco nightclub by Cecil Beaton, 1935.

The El Morocco, known as the Elmo or Elmer on 54 East 54th Street, was owned by Italian immigrant John Perona and his sidekick Martín de Alzaga.

From the riveting 1930s to the dramatic demise of café society in the late 1950s, the glamorous joint attracted the crème de la crème, the rich, and the famous. Nothing says sophistication like a NYC nightclub.

The speakeasy was known for its iconic blue zebra-stripe motif, courtesy of the design genius Vernon MacFarlane, and esteemed photographer Jerome Zerbe.

During the repeal of prohibition, El Morocco was the place to be in the Big Apple. From Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz, who immortalized their love with a wedding reception at this pinnacle of sophistication, to snagging cameos in 1970 blockbusters - no one could resist the charm of its draw of fashionable society, politicians, and entertainers. Even Woody Allen threw in a nod to El Morocco in "Radio Days" (1987), proving that this nightclub is the gift that keeps on giving – at least in his films.

In 2012, a decade ago, Vincent Coppée revived the club concept in Tangier, Morocco at the El Morocco Club Tanger

Here's to the El Morocco club, the historic glittering jewel in the crown of New York’s historical social scene and Tangier’s new Elite.

Here’s to romance and the ball dropping tonight.

Happy New Year 🎩

30/12/2023

What the New Year will bring to you, depends a great deal on what you bring to the New Year ✨

30/12/2023

Reflecting on such a crazy year in Morocco - and around the world. The recent earthquake has left some communities devastated, especially the resilient children who now deal with the incredible challenges. ��From disrupted education to the psychological toll, the struggles of children (universally) today resonate with all of us globally. ��Grateful that Moroccan Digest was able to collaborate with .elmoutii for ‘s with the extended team .lafilleaucaftan to rebuild and uplift the beautiful spirits of the Atlas. ��Here’s to building better communities in 2024. Locally and globally. ��• Photo of “Young Berber Shepherdess” by Irving Penn, in 1971 courtesy of the Irving Penn Foundation.

Recently, children have been the soldiers of society. They have been fighting wars, both wars of mother nature, and wars of human nature.

28/12/2023

Mohamed El Baroudi and Meryem Senhaji, are the dynamic duo behind The Moroccan Botanist, a luxury tea brand that has managed to blend an array of posh plant infusions on their farm, just a leisurely 20-minute drive from Marrakesh.

Mohamed El Baroudi and Meryem Senhaji, are the dynamic duo behind "The Moroccan Botanist," a luxury tea brand that has managed to blend an array of posh plant infusions on their farm, just a leisurely 20-minute drive from Marrakesh.

22/12/2023

From Casablanca to Hollywood, Moroccan-born, Mehdi Bennani builds cinematic realities on the silver screen as a rising Production Designer.

19/12/2023

Café Claridge: Where the stars on Google shine brighter than its faded glamour. Once iconic, now just a faded memory still holding on.

19/12/2023

Step into the new year softly on a beni with Beni Rugs, Mrirt the rug and Sana Benzaitar - these top brands are your answer to conquering the upcoming colder months and revamping your home.

Rooted in the nomadic Beni Ourain tribe's heritage, these are the 3 top Beni rug brands to revamp your home for the upcoming year.

14/12/2023

The Cultural Kaleidoscope: The Jebala people, heirs to a legacy woven by the sands of the Arabian Desert, residing in the northern and western urban enclaves of Tangier and Tetouan reaching towards Spain’s embrace and extending down into Fez.

Their ancestors, rocked the migration game with grace, as they navigated and mingled with the indigenous Berbers, transforming into an undeniably distinct group. Witnesses to suave urbanites, descendants of the Moors, the rugged rural souls, and Berbers.

14/12/2023

Succumb to Christian Schallert’s, Maison Brummell Majorelle. The mesmerizing house where design and luxury team up in the heart of Marrakesh to create a stay that’s genuine and unforgettable.

Maison Brummell, the ultimate retreat for design aficionados seeking a luxurious escape in Marrakech. The boutique hotel is a harmonious blend of bohemian culture and well-being.

12/12/2023

Getting into the grittiness of history, two Jewish-Moroccan women hauling water in Tinghir, Todra Valley, in 1958. Beyond borders, we need to celebrate the rich diversity of Morocco and break the chains of stereotypes.

This is a reminder that while we are Standing strong for Gaza, we need to untangle the global political mess we’re in to acknowledge the importance of separating geopolitics from the essence of faith.

10/12/2023

Get into the groove of 1960s glam meets Marrakech with Talitha Getty, the Dutch fashion maven who made Morocco her style playground.

Blending fashion, art, and the mystique. Marrakech wasn't just a city for Talitha; it was her canvas. Talitha and her husband, American-British heir, John Paul Getty Jr., mixed oil fortune with bohemian flair, creating a vibe that still echoes through the Medina today.

Circa of anuary '69: picture Talitha on her riad's rooftop, rocking culottes and white boots like she invented them. Wrapped in a splash of colors with hubby John Paul, shades on, and a hooded burnous, they owned the scene.

Talitha's untimely departure at the tender age of 30 leaves us with a legacy of style and an enduring connection to the enchanting vibes of Marrakech.

This epic moment captured by Patrick Lichfield is now a prized gem in London's National Portrait Gallery.

09/12/2023

Step through the timeless halls of the Medersa Ben Youssef from the 14th century.

Crafted by the visionary Marinid Sultan Abu Inan Faris and originally conceived as a bastion of Islamic knowledge, this architectural marvel transcended beyond its purpose, by the convergence of a mosque, library and educational sanctuary.

02/10/2023

From Pandemic to Petals, Laura Pronk's The Bloom Room Marrakech - Laura near the Majorelle, is a floral paradise like no other! Step into the enchanting world where nature's resilience meets artistry.

Get to know The Bloom Room a flower shop near the Majorelle, Laura Pronk's magical emporium; a flower shop in Marrakesh.

11/09/2023

Morocco, especially the southern region has always been one of fashion's most iconic destinations, where tradition meets trendsetting allure.

From the vibrant souks of Marrakech to the timeless beauty of the Sahara Desert, this country has been home to inspired designers and influencers alike.

We must ensure this creative haven rises stronger than ever after the recent earthquake.

• To support victims of the September 9th, 2023 earthquake please donate via the link below and join Moroccan Digest, .elmoutii and on our mission to get those in need help.

https://supportmorocco.squarespace.com/

PHOTO: Catherine Deneuve by André Ray for Yves Saint Laurent

10/09/2023

Remembering the 1960 Agadir earthquake on February 29th at 11:40pm shaking the very soul of Agadir by the Atlantic. Despite its modest magnitude of 5.8, its fury unleashed an extreme force, leaving devastation.

Between 12,000-15,000 lives were lost, a city shattered and 35,000 residents found homeless.

The memories still remain, a reminder of the destructive power of nature. Let's never forget.

• To support victims of the September 9th, 2023 earthquake please donate via the link below and join Moroccan Digest, Hanane El Moutii and Éclat Public Relations on our mission to get those in need help.

https://supportmorocco.squarespace.com

09/09/2023

Moroccan Digest is teaming up with Hanane El Moutii and Éclat Public Relations. We are responding to the deadly 6.8 magnitude earthquake that took place in Morocco overnight on September 8, 2023, leaving families and communities shattered. As they try to piece their lives back together, they need your help and compassion. Your donation can make a real difference.

Together, we can provide essential relief to those affected, including shelter, food, clean water, medical aid, and emotional support.

CLICK HERE TO DONATE

https://www.paypal.com/donate/?hosted_button_id=QQF3HUL6V2VLS

08/09/2023

Haley Badenhop Artwork, the rising Artist takes on Marrakesh.

For an artist like Haley, Marrakech isn't just a city; it's a canvas painted with the seamless blend of old-world Moroccan charm and modern trends.

25/08/2023

The Beldi Country Club is your next stay...

The Beldi Country Club indulges its guests with a curated collection of amenities that redefine opulence. Exquisite swimming pools, a rejuvenating spa, clay tennis and padel courts, a state-of-the-art fitness room, and even a private home cinema await your indulgence.

24/08/2023

Embracing the essence of sustainable luxury, Palm Basket's handwoven straw bag, the "Palm Basket," is the ultimate accessory to grace your arm this season.

22/08/2023

Alma began as a heartfelt endeavor by founders, Lamiae and Seif, who shared a vision of creating a place where people could come together to appreciate the fresher things in life.

For coffee enthusiasts, Alma is a dream come true. From a rich and velvety espresso to a perfectly crafted cappuccino, Alma's coffee offerings are a delightful way to kick-start your day or unwind in the company of friends.

06/08/2023

For devotees of beatnik poets and the rich tapestry of literary history, this is a pilgrimage to make. Linked to the famous Hotel El Muniria, where the brilliant mind of William S. Burroughs birthed his groundbreaking work "Naked Lunch," the pub stands as a living testament to the literary legacy that surrounds it.

Step into the past to embrace the bohemian allure of the legendary Tangerinn, in where literary giants once gathered to create, share ideas, and live life on the edge.

05/08/2023

Salon Bleu: The house's elevated location grants an unparalleled vantage point, allowing patrons to gaze upon the charming Kasbah, with views of the iconic Gibraltar Straits, and the picturesque Bay of Tangier.

Nestled just a few steps away from it’s hotel, Dar Nour, this restaurant offers an extraordinary dining experience that combines breathtaking panoramic views with rich and tantalizing flavors of Moroccan food and cuisine.

03/08/2023

The August cover story is here with Hanane El Moutii. The visionary Founder and CEO of Éclat Public Relations lets us dive into her journey and thoughts on Éclat.

Hanane El Moutii is the visionary force behind a luxury global PR agency, Eclat. Founder and CEO. She talks about her dynamic enterprise, and how she crafts an impeccable reputation for excellence, redefining the world of PR with her creative prowess and determination.

16/01/2023

The Pan Priape: From Balenciaga’s fashion house to Hermès’ house of gardens, Morocco’s top landscape designer, Marius Boulesteix sets the aesthetic GREEN in the red city.

From Balenciaga’s fashion house to Hermès’ house of gardens, Marius Boulesteix, known as the Pan Priape sets the aesthetic green.

12/01/2023

Yennayer Amrvouh ⵉⵎⴰⵣⵉⵖⵏ, ⵎⵣⵗ