Travelling in an unfamiliar land can be overwhelming, especially when you are looking to source something specific. It helps, at least, to have the guidance of somebody with extensive and specific local knowledge. Whilst we would always encourage our clients to build their own independent relationships within Morocco, it's advisable to also be careful of where you put your energy. For a non-Moroccan, this country can be a frustrating place to try and achieve the simplest of goals. Imagine you are searching for an antique carpet, for example. You ask somebody in your hotel and they point you in the direction of a person who assures you that they can help you to find what you're looking for. You have a great conversation which fills you with the confidence that you are going to walk into a shop tomorrow, and come out with the carpet of your dreams...
but then tomorrow arrives and a different reality unfolds. This seemingly helpful character, with so much verbal knowledge sends a relative to guide you to your carpet. You are taken to perhaps one, or perhaps five different carpet shops which are all selling newly made carpets. Many hours are spent in a frustrating situation whereby you are feeling under pressure to purchase something which is not what you initially were searching for. The above, is a tale as old as time in Morocco and can be very off-putting when a task should be so simple.
It is this which led us to create and collaborate so that we can assist our clients in sourcing a wide - variety of products. In 2015, we collaborated with Sarah Corbett who is an expert in the field of Antique tribal adornment and more specifically North African antique jewellery.
Alongside curating Museum exhibitions in Europe, assisting in the writing of literatures and hosting talks on the human history of jewellery, Miss Corbett hosts jewellery and textile tours of Morocco.
The tours are designed to meet the needs of collectors and those who wish to gain an education of jewellery and it's trade routes in North Africa. Over the course of two weeks, her tour guests are safely carried across the many stunning landscapes and regions of Morocco in the comfort of private, air-conditioned transport.
As they travel through various tribal regions, Sarah offers an incredibly extensive education on the traditional adornment and practices of the tribes with reference to modern life, and historically.
Stopping for a moment in some incredible shopping districts, both in the city and off-the beaten track; guests can shop calmly without the usual pressure to buy.
Sarah is always there ready to advise and assist tour guests who wish to make a purchase.
It's not all work and learning, though. In between shopping and discovering; guests are taken to some of Morocco's finest dining establishments to enjoy lunches and dinners with the small group of fellow travellers.
You'll rest easily too, in beautiful boutique hotels dotted around UNESCO world heritage sites and in tranquil gardens which contrast with the hustle and bustle of the streets. A little bit of sanctuary to start and end each busy day.
The tours are also flexible, and although an itinerary is set every day, Sarah is happy to take requests within reason. Perhaps you will spend a morning looking at jewellery in the Draa valley, but that doesn't mean you can't request an afternoon looking at Tamegrout pottery or other local crafts. Sarah travels with at least one assistant, which makes it possible for the group to divide and explore separately to meet different interests.
There are also opportunities to participate in, or perhaps lead relevant workshops. On her most recent tour, a guest taught the group how to make traditional scented paste beads with an old age recipe. If you would like to hear more about these tours, or to make a reservation today then please contact us.
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