Special Sections: Interview with Morocco’s leading Tastemakers. Trendsetters in their fields of Art, Design & Cuisine. Fans of all things Quintessentially Moroccan. Hear What they Have to Say!
Morocco Travel Blog with Tastemaker Amanda Ponzio-Mouttaki
Amanda Ponzio-Mouttaki is a Mararkech based Freelance food and travel writer, blogger and entrepreneur. She is a curious world-traveling mother of two busy boys, a foodie, social media geek and lover of all things Moroccan. Amanda is Editor of the Maroc Mama blog, a fearless guide to food and travel.
Morocco Travel Blog:
What are some design, cuisine or artistic trends you foreesee for 2016?
Amanda Ponzio-Mouttaki:
A change in the way people dine, travel and experience life. A transition away from “big” ventures towards smaller, more intimate settings. Gone are the days of a one-for-all experience. People are seeking something more personal.
Morocco Travel Blog:
What is your personal favorite place to be?
Amanda Ponzio-Mouttaki:
Secluded with an ocean view. I adore the Moroccan Coast. It’s my favorite place to be. The sound of the waves, long walks on the beach, and quiet.
Morocco Travel Blog:
What is the secret equation for the perfect Morocco weekend?
Amanda Ponzio-Mouttaki:
Do not try over-do-it. Part of the experience of living in Morocco is just being, not checking things off the list. Take time to sip a mint tea, sit on a terrace, or wander aimlessly.
Morocco Travel Blog:
What was the last picture you took on your phone?
Amanda Ponzio-Mouttaki:
A picture of my two-year old nephew who was visiting our “spice man”.
Morocco Travel Blog:
What is on your personal bucket list to do or see in 2016?
Amanda Ponzio-Mouttaki:
I would love to see Dahkla in Morocco’s far south and fly a helicopter (this has always been a dream of mine).
Morocco Travel Blog:
What is your favorite lunch spot in Morocco?
Amanda Ponzio-Mouttaki:
La Famille in Marrakech.
Morocco Travel Blog:
What is your greatest achievement?
Amanda Ponzio-Mouttaki:
Earning a master’s degree while working and raising two kids.
Morocco Travel Blog:
What is the last book you read?
Amanda Ponzio-Mouttaki:
“Ursula Under,” by Ingrid Hill
Morocco Travel Blog:
Name a Moroccan tradition you will never try?
Amanda Ponzio-Mouttaki:
I don’t think I’ll ever be up to wearing my pajamas outside with a polar fleece djallaba.
Morocco Travel Blog:
What is the name of your favorite Moroccan artist, writer or designer?
Amanda Ponzio-Mouttaki:
Malika Oufkir was one of the first authors I read (my background is in political science) and her book was my first introduction to Morocco. It intrigued me and made me want to discover more. I also love Laila Lalami.
Morocco Travel Blog:
What is your greatest indulgence?
Amanda Ponzio-Mouttaki:
Whenever I travel I try to order room service breakfast in bed. The simple luxury of it makes me smile.
Morocco Travel Blog:
Is there anything I should know?
Amanda Ponzio-Mouttaki:
The one tip I would give to visitors to Morocco is to get out of the cities and see the rural areas are where you will discover a different side of the country.
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