Forget predictable high streets and online marketplaces. A new generation of British travellers is jetting off on ‘thrift-tripping’ holidays, and the undisputed capital of this trend is a vibrant, sun-drenched city just a three-hour flight from London: Marrakech.
Lost and Found in the Medina
‘Have you got lost yet?’ a stallholder grinned as I navigated a labyrinth of colourful leather goods. In the sprawling medina of Morocco’s Red City, getting lost isn’t a mistake—it’s the method. This maze of thousands of stalls, or souks, is a treasure trove of handmade goods crafted from leather, textiles, metal, and wood.
This quest for unique, vintage souvenirs is part of a significant travel shift. Americana expert Zoey Goto identifies ‘vintage junkets’ as a pushback against generic travel, a trend turbocharged by TikTok where videos of ‘thrifted souvenirs’ garner millions of views. As a self-confessed Vinted addict, I decided to put this trend to the test.
A Three-Day Thrifting Adventure
Touching down in January offered a welcome shock: swapping sleet-grey London for winter temperatures in the mid-20s. My base was the beautifully restored Riad Botanica in the Bab Doukkala district, a tranquil oasis championing local artisans. ‘We help connect travellers, artisans, and culture,’ explained co-owner Angela.
Guided by local expert Soufiane, I plunged into the sensory overload of the souks. Sunlight filtered through canvas awnings, illuminating walls draped with textiles and ceramics. The air was perfumed with spices and the sound of artisans hammering copper. Our first stop was Atelier de Marrakech, where one of the medina’s only three calligraphers, Omar, demonstrated his art.
From the vast, Aladdin’s cave-like Mustapha Blaoui filled with antiques to tiny ceramics shops, the finds were incredible. I secured handmade espresso cups for around £2.15 each and traditional babouche slippers for £15 at L’Atelier Michi. In the leather-focused Souk Cherratine, I haggled for a handmade red leather belt, securing it for 150 Dirhams (£12.75).
The adventure culminated at Bab El Khemis, a sprawling, gritty flea market ten minutes from the city centre. This is vintage shopping in the raw, where 80s phones sit beside used cutlery and skilled woodworkers craft new pieces next to piles of old ones. The contrast with the manicured Jardin Majorelle or chic concept store MORO in the Gueliz district was stark, yet all existed within minutes of each other.
Your Essential Marrakech Shopping Guide
Returning with a full suitcase and a lighter wallet, I learned that the best finds come to those who wander. For your own thrift-tripping success, follow these key tips:
Carry cash: While some boutiques take cards, cash is king in the souks. Note that local ATMs often charge foreign cards around 50dh (£4) per transaction.
Get connected: Most UK contracts don’t include Moroccan roaming. Buy a local SIM or eSIM for essential navigation data in the medina’s maze.
Haggle politely but boldly: Many prices are not fixed. Be prepared to negotiate for the best deals.
Ask about origins: Not everything is locally made. Inquire where items are crafted to ensure you’re buying authentic artisan work.
Embrace getting lost: The main thoroughfares are for tourists; the real gems are down the side alleys.
Stay vigilant: Marrakech is generally safe, but be wary of unsolicited ‘guides’ who may demand payment or lead you to shops for a commission.
Getting there is straightforward and affordable. Low-cost airlines like Ryanair, Wizz Air, and easyJet fly daily from London Gatwick and Stansted, with advance return fares from as little as £30 in January. It makes Marrakech a compelling and accessible destination for winter sun and serious shopping.
My inaugural thrift-trip was a resounding success. In Marrakech, I discovered that the most personal souvenirs aren’t found on a checklist, but by surrendering to the wonderful chaos and getting deliberately, delightfully lost.
