This past November, the city of Marrakesh unveiled its La Mamounia hotel after a three-year renovation. The historic hotel has long held legendary status as the place to stay inside the Medina - or ancient walled city. However, years of cheesy attempts at facelifts left it a remnant of its former magical self.
That was before French designer Jacques Garcia got a hold of it, and restored it to the sort of opulent splendor one associates with Morocco.
Call me Penny Lane, but I've always had an obsession with all things Moroccan, and the recent images of the virtual oasis have done nothing to diminish my wanderlust...

The foyer and entrance into one of the deluxe suites - resplendent in traditional moorish tiles, dark wood, and ottoman arches.

And inside the suite - what a view! Supposedly, hotels and riads (villas) purposely keep the decor of the rooms dim, to help provide respite against the blazing North African sun. Whatever this formula is, it works.

The courtyard of one the four gourmet restaurants - I can just see myself sipping mint tea out of silver cups while wearing a gorgeous caftan and babouches!

That is, if you could pull me away from the spa or swimming pool.

There is so much lore associated with Morocco, the famous souks being a large part of it. The souks are vendor stalls which make up the ancient labyrinth market where you can find many inexpensive berber items such as baskets, pottery and spices, alongside fine carpets. Outside the flea markets of Paris, I really cannot fathom a more amazing shopping experience.

Unfortunately, the famed city is not in my travel itinerary anytime very soon, so whenever I see designers bringing home the Ottoman vibe, I get a little thrill, and the chance to live vicariously.

There's Windsor Smith's fabric, Riad - a take on Moroccan tile - seen here on a sofa and chair in her home. This fabric has moved beyond "It" to "Classic" status, in my opinion.

This bathroom by Robin Bell, featured in House Beautiful is clearly an homage to classic Moroccan elements: arches and tile.

Designer Cathy Kincaid used Ann Sack's Moroccan Cross and Star tiles to bring in a distinct ethnic style to this bath.

Ann Sacks tile might be out of budget for most of us, but a special feature in a vanity or stove alcove might be feasible.

Design by Erin Gates of Elements of Style

And, if a bath or kitchen overhaul is still beyond budget, I've spied any number of discount spots (HomeGoods, IKEA, Ebay) with items similar to these that can instantly add a touch of "been there" to a space.