Latest news with #Marrakech
The Guardian
a day ago
- Lifestyle
- The Guardian
Women behind the lens: ‘The bridal dress is meant to present her as a queen … but to me it always felt like a cage'
Through my series Dry Land, I explore the deep contradictions embedded in Moroccan marriage traditions – how they oscillate between sacred ritual and social imprisonment. This image was taken on the arid outskirts of Marrakech, where the earth is cracked and open, a stark contrast to the heaviness of the dress the woman carries on her body. It shines beautifully but restricts, almost theatrical in its weight. The woman stands still in a traditional Fassi bridal garment, a piece that is both exquisite and nearly unbearable to wear. It is a dress I grew up seeing and quietly fearing – not just for its grandeur, but for what it symbolised. It is meant to exalt the bride, to present her as a queen for a day, but to me it always felt like armour – or worse, a cage. It was the perfect way to showcase the pressure placed on women: to appear perfect, graceful and silent, no matter how heavy the burden. Even her beauty must obey tradition. That's the paradox I wanted to expose: how celebration can camouflage submission. The fire represents the quiet rage – generational, internalised, contained. In Morocco, marriage is often the turning point in a woman's life, but not always in the way it's romanticised. Beneath the celebrations and garments lies an expectation to conform, to serve, to stay silent. The flames at her feet symbolise the heat of that pressure – the things that cannot be spoken but are always felt. The snake, for me, is the woman herself. Western narratives often depict Muslim women as passive, obedient, in need of saving. But I reject that completely. I believe that you only build walls or cages around something that threatens you. The snake is not weak – it is feared. It holds power and wisdom that unsettles people. In this image, she is not afraid of the snake. She is the snake: dangerous, deliberate, watching everything. I didn't want to stage this in a clean, controlled environment. I needed dust, wind and unpredictability. The landscape itself felt symbolic: unforgiving, exposed and yet enduring. The series title, Dry Land, refers to the Darija term Al Bayra, meaning 'barren land' – a phrase cruelly used to describe unmarried women over a certain age, as if their value disappears with time; as if they stop being fertile, not just biologically, but socially and emotionally. This work is my response to that idea. I don't create these images to be pretty. I create them to spark discomfort, to shift the lens – to reclaim the narrative and to make visible what has long been buried beneath brocade and silence. Sara Benabdallah is a Moroccan visual artist, photographer and film-maker based in Marrakech
Telegraph
29-05-2025
- Business
- Telegraph
Does social media have a problem with women? Dior's latest departure makes you wonder
Maria Grazia Chiuri, the Italian designer who creatively steered Dior to unprecedented success, is to leave, it was officially announced this morning. A short statement from Dior brings to a close months of intense speculation about her position there. The 61-year-old was the first female creative director at the house – an eye-opening state of affairs that speaks volumes about the male-dominated membrane that still encases the upper levels of the top international fashion brands. Chiuri was well aware of this and made it her mission to collaborate with as many other female artists, designers, and creatives as possible during her tenure there. For a Dior show in Marrakech in 2019, she even invited Grace Wales Bonner, the talented British designer, to interpret a Dior Bar Jacket. But it was Chiuri's own work on the Bar Jacket that first made fashion writers take note. A central piece in the famous 1947 image featuring a Dior outfit that became known as the 'New Look', the Bar Jacket represents the essence of Christian Dior's feminine aesthetic. In its 78-year history, designers have repeatedly returned to it, reinventing it in their own ways. The original featured internal corsetry and horsehair padding on the hips. Comfort and movement were not considerations. While its elegance and femininity were a gift to subsequent Dior designers such as John Galliano, who cinched the waist ever more tightly for dramatic effect, and Raf Simons, who turned it into more of a tuxedo, it was Chiuri who understood why very few women actually wore it in real life. By stripping it right back inside and rebuilding it with magical, light-touch tailoring that made it look every bit as snatched as the original – but a breeze to wear – Chiuri placed it on the wanted list of millions of women. Wearing it herself with Dior jeans, Chiuri made it part of a fashion vernacular. It's less easy to mimic than Chanel's cropped tweed jacket because it relies on precision and deft tailoring (expensive and not reproducible in the average factory) rather than an easily recognisable fabrication, so the high street chains borrowed other ideas from her – lace dresses in every weight, kitten-heel slingbacks, and several million riffs on the Book Tote – that canvas tote she came up with in 2018. Chiuri's Midas touch with bags at one point seemed unstoppable, with hit after hit. Under her watch, Dior became the most commercially successful brand in LVMH's extensive fashion stable. The market has slowed recently – but this is true for nearly all luxury fashion brands. For some reason, all of this seems lost on a new breed of social media commentators who constantly mocked the wearability of her clothes, her strong Italian accent and endlessly wished for the announcement of her departure sooner rather than later. Anyone would think they despise older women. These sometimes strident voices might not matter in a world where pluralistic views on all subjects are meant to thrive relatively harmoniously. But the fact that the Chiuri/Dior narrative has played out more or less as they wanted makes you appreciate how difficult it has become to steer any brand through an environment where the loudest voices are often un-nuanced and female unfriendly. All of this must have made her last year there scratchy, to say the least (although there are rumours of a spectacular golden goodbye pay-out) – but in all her encounters with the press – and she was notable for being open and approachable – she remained inscrutably serene. 'I […] am delighted to have been given this extraordinary opportunity,' she said, following the announcement. 'I would like to thank Monsieur Arnault for placing his trust in me and Delphine for her support. I am particularly grateful for the work accomplished by my teams and the Ateliers [...] Together, we have written an impactful chapter of which I am immensely proud.' Delphine Arnault, chairman and CEO of Christian Dior Couture and daughter of Bernard Arnaut, CEO of LVMH, seems to appreciate her contribution however. 'I extend my warmest thanks to Maria Grazia Chiuri, who, since her arrival at Dior, has accomplished tremendous work with an inspiring feminist perspective and exceptional creativity, all imbued with the spirit of Monsieur Dior, which allowed her to design highly desirable collections. She has written a key chapter in the history of Christian Dior, greatly contributing to its remarkable growth and being the first woman to lead the creation of women's collections.'
The Independent
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
The Oberoi Marrakech hotel review
Location Just a 25-minute drive from Marrakech Medina, the historic old city, the Oberoi is close to the foothills of the Atlas Mountains and set in 28 acres of gardens including fragrant olive groves and citrus orchards. It is half an hour from Marrakech Menara Airport, which is a three-hour and 40-minute flight from London. The vibe The hotel's design takes inspiration from Moroccan and Andalusian palaces and a palatial feel prevails throughout, from the open courtyard at the centre of the hotel to its 'grand canal', set against the stunning backdrop of the snow-capped Atlas peaks. Villas come with their own private pool, meaning you can relax without being troubled by other guests. Great care has been taken to cultivate a serene environment with flourishing native gardens creating a home for local birds, and on a clear night, the stargazing is unmatched. Service Service is impeccable at every turn, from check-in to the restaurants and spa. Guests are always greeted warmly, and can expect friendly, helpful staff to be on hand throughout the day, without feeling like they are being hassled. Each room has a 24-hour concierge line, who can help book trips and experiences, from a tour of the city to breakfast in a hot-air balloon and even a flight into the desert, if given the right amount of notice. Bed and bath Some 72 of the 84 rooms and suites are deluxe villas, which have a bedroom with a king-size bed and a large bathroom, both with large windows looking out onto the private pool and garden, with sun loungers. There is a standalone bath as well as a large shower that has a door out to the garden, meaning you can head straight in from the pool. The main suite is open plan and spacious with tasteful decorations in rich jewel tones. It includes a lounge area, as well as a dining table with a door leading out to the pool and garden. There is a separate walk-in closet that has ample room, as well as a desk if needed. Upon arrival, a thoughtfully arranged tray of complimentary cakes, snacks and local wine is laid out. Food and drink The Oberoi has two main restaurants. Rivayat, with a menu curated by Michelin-starred chef Rohit Ghai, offers Indian cuisine that the hotel says is an 'ode to the country's many culinary traditions and delights'. A highlight is the five-course 'Expedition' tasting menu, though there is also an à la carte option. Tamimt, next door in the main building, has food from around the world, including more traditional Moroccan tagines. The desserts were a particular standout, including a tiramisu constructed at the table. Diners can also eat on the terrace with views of the Atlas Mountains. Chefs use olive oil from the grounds' 3,000 olive trees, pressed specially to be used in the hotel's restaurants. There is another restaurant, Azur, by the main swimming pool, for light meals during the day, and also a hotel bar. Facilities As well as a large main pool, there is a spa built over a small lake within the grounds. It has an indoor, temperature-controlled pool, as well as a gym and five spa treatment rooms, plus two traditional Moroccan hammams. There is a range of complimentary fitness and wellness classes available, which can be booked through the concierge, including sunrise yoga, a morning run with the hotel's fitness trainer and high-intensity cross training. There is also a tennis court and bikes are available to use around the grounds. Disability access The hotel caters for disabled guests with facilities including wheelchair-accessible routes, grab rails, raised toilets, and lowered sinks. Pet policy Pets are not allowed. Check in/check out? Check-in is at 3pm, and check-out at 12pm. Family friendly? Children are welcome and the Oberoi has a kids' club with a programme including cooking classes, art workshops and treasure hunts. They can also be shown the secrets of falconry by the indigenous Kwassem tribe, or visit the hotel's donkeys, Brownie and Sugar, who are very friendly and happy to have visitors pop by to say hello. At a glance Best thing: Tranquillity – great service and privacy mean your peace is never interrupted. Perfect for: Mixing rest with an invigorating city break. Not right for: Anyone not looking to leave behind the hustle and bustle of central Marrakech. Instagram from: The hotel terrace at sunset, capturing the hotel's 'grand canal' and Atlas Mountains in the distance.
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Casino to introduce Franprix and Monoprix retail brands in Morocco
French convenience retailer Casino Group has partnered with Moroccan conglomerate H&S Invest to introduce its retail brands in Morocco. The collaboration seeks to establish 210 Franprix and Monoprix stores across the country by 2035. The alliance is part of Casino Group's international growth plan through franchising. The group, with operations spanning 30 nations, already collaborates with 472 franchised outlets outside mainland France, contributing to 3.5% of its net sales in 2024. Casino Group CEO Philippe Palazzi stated: 'This partnership with H&S Invest Holding is fully in line with our strategy of expanding internationally through franchising. It illustrates our ability to leverage the strength of our brands, our logistics know-how and our expertise in convenience retailing in a market as dynamic as Morocco. 'Thanks to H&S Invest Holding's deep local roots and solid operations, we will be able to rapidly roll out a network of high-performance convenience stores in step with changing consumer habits in Morocco.' H&S Invest views the partnership as an opportunity to diversify its retail division. The introduction of Franprix and Monoprix is expected to improve the Moroccan convenience retail landscape. Franprix operates convenience stores in cities and towns while Monoprix offers food, apparel, home goods, beauty products and leisure items. The inaugural stores will launch in 2026 and will offer a curated selection of fresh goods, and a substantial quantity of local products. H&S Invest Holding chairman Moncef Belkhayat stated: 'We are proud to be partnering with a major international player like Casino Group. This strategic partnership will enable us to offer a new customer experience in the Moroccan market. By 2030, we aim to create more than 1,000 direct and indirect jobs across the Kingdom through the roll-out of the Franprix and Monoprix banners.' In the first quarter of fiscal 2025, net sales of the Monoprix brand dropped 0.6% and Franprix's sales by 1.7%, compared to the same period in fiscal 2024. "Casino to introduce Franprix and Monoprix retail brands in Morocco" was originally created and published by Retail Insight Network, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Times
26-05-2025
- Times
La Mamounia hotel review: Marrakesh's grande dame with Moroccan styling and beautiful gardens
There may be hotels in Marrakesh that are more opulent, but none can match this grande dame for its elegance, grace and one of the most beautiful hotel gardens in the world. The rose-hued walls feel knitted into the very fabric of the city. The vast, low-lit lobby leads to room upon room of soft, earthy colours, jewelled zellige tiling and intricate latticework, each filled with brushed velvet ottomans and studded-leather lounge chairs. It's all so effortlessly old school you half expect Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor to swing out of the Churchill Bar. Bars and restaurants blaze with Moroccan artistry at its most exquisite, courtyards glitter with hand-lain mosaics and the quietly charming staff ensure everyone — from young families to American millionaires — feels equally welcome. A masterclass in luxury without excess, Mamounia is a glorious oasis, right in the centre of this most chaotically charming of cities. This article contains affiliate links, which may earn us revenue Score 8/10All of Mamounia's elegant bedrooms are pretty spiffy but, if budget allows, it's worth splashing out on a Deluxe room or above for their private balconies (specify one that overlooks the gardens or Koutoubia, rather than the street). All rooms have a crisp, clean feel with arched headboards, mosaic tiling and sepia-tinged photos of Marrakesh that give a real sense of place — even before you open the curtains to see the Atlas Mountains looming in the distance. Marble bathrooms tend towards the compact in lower room categories, and only larger rooms have a bath, while suites come with spacious balconies and opulent lounges. Score 9/10The perennial complaint about Moroccan food — tagine, tagine and more tagine — has no relevance here. Four restaurants dish up almost every cuisine you might fancy, from Jean-Georges Vongerichten's trademark Asian-fusion at L'Asiatique — perhaps dim sum, followed by a Vietnamese curry or musky, miso cod — to pizzas and pasta at L'Italien. Le Marocain, housed in its own riad with three floors overlooking leafy gardens, serves up classic dishes — crispy briouates, salads with the city's signature flavours of orange, almond and preserved lemons — and an elegant breakfast and lunch buffet is laid out in Le Pavillon de la Piscine. It could take all day to to do justice to the spectacular breakfast — fresh patisserie, handmade breads, jams, eggs a dozen different ways — but leave room for afternoon tea, taken beneath shady palms at the Pierre Hermé salon. It's an indulgence not to be missed. • Discover our full guide to Marrakesh• Best hotels in Marrakesh Score 9/10If you can raise yourself from a shady hammock (or a lounger by the glittering pool) there's tennis, boules and table tennis, with yoga and Pilates classes and personal training sessions at the gym. Kids of all ages will love the Salle de Jeux — a retro games room with pinball machines, pool tables and board games, while gifts can be picked up at the clutch of small boutiques, selling jewellery, clothes and gifts by local designers and famous names. The spa — where pools shimmer beneath scallop-edged archways and exquisite tilework gleams in flickering candlelight — is one of the city's best. There's a private hammam and, with two of the ten treatment rooms set up for couples, it's a wonderfully romantic retreat. Score 9/10Many of Marrakesh's luxury hotels are a taxi journey away from the medina. La Mamounia's location, just in front of the city's Koutoubia mosque, is a major plus. The storytellers, snake-charmers and smoke-tinged food stalls of the extraordinary Djemaa el-Fna are just a few minutes' stroll away, with the labyrinthine medina unfolding beyond it. For something a little less hectic, the calmer streets of the Ville Nouvelle are a ten-minute taxi ride away. Price room-only doubles from £380Restaurant mains from £23Family-friendly YAccessible N • Best riads in Marrakesh• Best restaurants in Marrakesh
