THE PRODUCTS OF MOROCCO
Morocco is known for many things: delicious tajine meals, stunning desert landscapes and a rich history of Arabic, Africa and European intersections. But that’s not all.
For travellers who enter into the many souks (markets) of the cities, they will attest to the many handcrafted products that inevitably present the question, “How much extra space in my baggage do I actually have?”
The opportunity to score some of the colourful and intricate products of Morocco has become a main reason why folks flock to this northern African nation.
Here’s a sample of what one might find.
Serving tea is an ancient Moroccan tradition. And a good teapot is a primary ingredient in a respectful social interaction.
Merchants are quick to inform you that shipping is available. “If you lived on the moon, we’d get your purchases to you,” I was told by Sadki when I visited Palais de la Mensara. (68 Rue Kechachine, Medina, Marrakech)
The Berber rugs are an emblematic item of Morocco, available in all different sizes, colours and patterns.
At Chateau des Souks they have master weavers working on site, so that you can understand just how complex the process of creating a woven rug can be. (44 Souk Semmarine, Medina, Marrakech)
Caftans, Jellabas and Ghandouras are traditional fashion items of Morocco. They often consist of exquisitely embroidered designs and lightweight fabric that is favorable to the hot temperatures.
Mohammed at L‘Ourika Boutique has created garments for many famous people, including Naomi Campbell and Giorgio Armani. He offered this simple, but beautiful, collarless shirt to me as a gift. (77 Daffa Warbaa, Semmarine, Medina, Marrekech)
Spices provide a sensual flair to the experience of wandering the souks. A trip to the Herbologiste will provide the opportunity to find crystalized eucalyptus, black cumin (to clear the sinuses), lavender-scented body bars and Morocco’s famous beauty secret – argan oil.
At Epices Ibno Baytar, one can attend a workshop which provides insight into the healing potentials of the various products. It’s also a window into Moroccan culture. (Dafa Ourbaa Derb Haj Laarbi No 2, Medina, Morocco)
Local art is plentiful, and the folks at Bazar Benchokroun have a big selection of paintings. (119 Souk Semmarine, Medina, Marrakech)
The lanterns help create a perfect atmosphere at night.
Hand painted plates are available in the masses. Chose the colours that work best for your kitchen.
More rugs. So many rugs.
Remember, however, that there is no such thing as a “fixed price.” Keep negotiating until you come to a price that is fair for you, and fair for the producer.
Tea glasses come in all shapes and sizes. Choose a set, or mix and match for a more eclectic collection.
Many interactions will be punctuated with the serving of tea. In Morocco, time is constructed in a different way. Don’t anticipate an “in and out” purchase. The tea, the conversation and the negotiation are all part of the experience.
Good luck!
So, if you’re a tea drinking, rug and plate fetishist, it’s the destination of choice..new to your blog and it’s a great read.
Thanks Jay.
Yes, Morocco could satisfy many fetishes…
The lanterns are really beautiful.
Ryan and I were just talking last night how we want you to send us a whole bunch of lanterns for our gazebo outside… they are gorgeous!
Stunning photos! I think I will have to go check it out (and take a few empty suitcases)
Oooo i went to a workshop at Epices Ibno Baytar during my visit. Was convinced to buy rose oil cream, citrus cream and the black cumin. All which worked beautifully and still do. And i wish other cultures would adopt the serving of tea like the Moroccans do. Wouldn’t that be so much nicer?
Beautiful pics. When I was in Morocco, I wanted to buy so much but didn’t although…. I did find room in my backpack for wooden items, a Fatima hand for the door and a camel skin foot rest (that took alot of room !). If I was returning home instead of continuing to travel, I think I would have bought alot more… so many beautiful things.