Morocco

We’ll begin by stepping through the looking glass into the treasure-filled souks of Marrakech, exploring (and shopping) in depth and on foot with our expert guide.

Later, you’ll marvel at the modernist Jardin Majorelle and an exclusive tour of Yves Saint Laurent’s Villa Oases, both next door to the new must-see museum devoted to the late, great French fashion designer. Dinner at Plus 61 is a highlight, as is lunch at the opulent French brasserie Grand Café de la Poste. Stay in one of the multilevel suites at the palatial Royal Mansour hotel, conceived by Morocco’s king as an ultra-luxe escape, or at another favorite boutique property, such as La Sultana or Villa des Orangers.

A mere 45 minutes away from the bustling city, you can hike or bike among the tranquil Berber villages of the Atlas Mountains, basing yourself at the luxury outpost of Kasbah Tamadot owned by British billionaire Sir Richard Branson. Join local guide Samir on a custom hike to his village for tea on the rooftop of his home, overlooking the snowy Mount Toubkal, the highest peak in North Africa. Then visit the local women’s craft cooperative set up by Eve Branson, Richard’s mother, where you can purchase extraordinary, one-of-a-kind hand-embroidered housewares.

A scenic drive through argan tree orchards, or a short private jet journey, brings you to wild Atlantic beaches and the whitewashed fortified city of Essaouira. A stay at Relais & Châteux’s Heure Bleue Palais in the middle of town makes it easy to head out on curated walking tours, stopping at all the top carpet and wood-working shops, as well as the real “castle made of sand” about which Jimi Hendrix sang. (He supposedly took inspiration from the ruins of the city’s Borj El-Berod watchtower.)

For the ultimate desert finale, don’t miss the date-palm oases and dunes of Ouarzazate, spending a night under the stars. Salam alikom!