Spice Up Your Christmas Shopping at Popular Souks Around the World
Follow the lights of the suspended lanterns, admire the colourful stalls and become immersed in the city's local culture. We've handpicked a savoury selection of beautiful destinations around the globe every shopper should visit. Endorsed for their popular souks, these five cities are a great choice for travellers who want to escape the traditional Christmas shopping and explore some of the oldest markets in the world.
Marrakech, Morocco
The vibrant souks of Marrakech offer a unique shopping experience thanks to the myriad little alleys featuring stalls with colourful fabrics, furniture, ceramics, spices and everything a traveller could possibly imagine.
Combining Moroccan and Andalusian architecture, the stylish Riad Palais Sebban dates from the 19th century and offers a hammam and massage treatments. Guests can relax by the pool or at the rooftop terrace overlooking the city before exploring the labyrinths of the Marrakesh Souks.
Doha, Qatar
The stylish Banana Island Resort Doha by Anantara is situated on Banana Island, just a 20-minute luxury ferry ride from Doha and the famous Souq Waqif, known for selling traditional garments, spices, handicrafts and souvenirs. Combine your visit to Doha’s most beautiful market area with a relaxing stay at a luxurious Arabic design accommodation, featuring a private beach, a lagoon pool, nine dining options, a spa and a cinema.
Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Surrounded by a lush garden with roses and palm trees, the Bosnian National Monument Muslibegovic House is a unique hotel-museum located directly in Mostar's historic city centre within walking distance to the UNESCO World Heritage Old Bridge. Famous for its old Turkish houses, the stunning landscape and the Blagaj Monastery, Mostar is also home to traditional market stalls on both sides of the river selling rugs, Middle Eastern souvenirs, jewellery and handmade products.
Kuwait City, Kuwait
The Souk Al-Mubarakiya Market, is Kuwait’s older and most popular traditional market but not the only one. Travelers can spend their day discovering an array of souks selling different types of goods such as Persian silk carpets, perfumes, traditional wear, antiques and gold. After a full day of shopping, check into the Four Points By Sheraton Kuwait , conveniently situated at Kuwait’s commercial and financial centre. It offers chic, modern rooms and an indoor pool on the 42nd floor, offering panoramic views of Kuwait’s Gulf.
Fès, Morocco
Composed of three 18th century residences, the Algilà Fès is set on a quiet street near the ancient labyrinth in Fès Medina and is a great place to relax after a long day exploring the medieval streets of the medina, thanks to its patio with a fountain and the rooftop terrace. The city of Fès is home to many souks, but the Souk el Henna is one of the most popular, thanks to its henna and spices.