Marrakech, Morocco...

Ourika Valley is just outside Marrakech, it was a really relaxing day - and nice to spend some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city - it's quite high up in the Atlas Mountains and has stunning views and really lovely, welcoming people. It's full of gardens, palm and fruit trees and very scary man made bridges!! It had cafes and tiny stalls all the way up the valley - I even passed one tiny cafe that had table and chairs actually in the river so that you could eat and keep your feet cool at the same time!

Koutoubia Mosque...

Towering the main square in Marrakech is the Koutoubia Mosque, the tallest building in the city. These lovely signs were dotted all over the city.

Shopping at the Souks, Marrakech...

The best part of the trip for me was the Djemaa el Fna (the main focus of the city) it's a large open space full of entertainers and food sellers. Along the alleyways adjacent to Djemaa el Fna are the souks, these are alleyways with shops side by side, which are the soul of the city. The different souks are for different items. The Souk Smata is for leather goods such as slippers, bags and belts. Souk Addadaine is full of metal works and crafts. Each little stall is full of beautiful colours and a very deter mind little man who wants to sell you his traditional slipper, lantern or pot! - visiting the souks was a truly worthwhile experience and if I had space in my suit case - I would of bought one of everything!

Portobello road ...

I visited Portobello Road for the first time a few weeks ago - which i really loved! Every Saturday the Road plays host to one of the most prestigious markets in England. Although, known for its Antique market, it was full of a very young, flamboyant crowd! These Victorian multi - coloured houses just looked so beautiful!

Beautiful Umbrellas...

I love this umbrella by Partners & Spade - its made from fabric found in India - not sure how well it functions as an umbrella though, but it's beautiful!