The exotic sights, scents, and sounds of Marrakesh are captured in one festival happening here in Metro Manila.
Ongoing until Sept. 1, Rustan’s is staging its second Moroccan festival, Fall in Love with Morocco.
The festival, happening at Rustan’s Makati and Rustan’s Shangri-La, lets shoppers and curious mall-goers discover charming pieces for the home, fashion items, and local food that are distinctly Moroccan.
The upscale department store has scoured the souks and boutiques of Marrakech to bring delightful service ware and drinkware such as beautifully embellished tea sets, plates, bowls, saucers, and the widely regarded national treasure, tagines.
Masterfully crafted rugs and carpets with their intricate Arabian designs, as well as poufs and pillow covers made from luxurious fabrics also await gracious homemakers. The iconic designs of Morocco come fully alive through the colorfully embellished lanterns and lamps with tables and fountains, which blend perfectly well with vibrant cactus plants that add that pop of green.
In the fashion section, bejeweled shawls, slippers, kaftans, and D’jellaba are available to offer comfortable and luxurious everyday wear.
Argan oil, harvested straight from the heart of the desert, is also available to lend its miraculous beautifying benefits to every woman.
A special culinary presentation will take place at Rustan’s Makati, on the 5th level, as Café Casablanca, which will open soon, will be headed by Moroccan chef Rachida Bousta. Diners can travel through their taste buds, starting from the richly spiced lamb and beef roasts, to sweet and nutty deserts.
On August 27, restaurateur Happy Ongpauco-Tiu will lead an intimate, hands-on workshop exclusive to HSBC premier cardholders about how to create their own Moroccan-inspired spread. While interior decorator Rachelle Wenger will share tips and techniques on tablescapes on August 30 at the Grand Atrium in Shangri-La Plaza.
A heart-thumping belly dancing performance is happening at Rustan’s Makati on August 31. Complimentary tickets will be given to customers with a minimum single-receipt purchase worth P10,000 of Moroccan merchandise bought from August 7 to 31.
Meanwhile, HSBC offers its cardholders 0 percent interest for six months for minimum single receipt purchases of P10,000 and X10 FSP points on Moroccan merchandise. While those who wish to fly to Morocco may check out the travel fair at Rustan’s Makati on August 24-25 and at Rustan’s Shangri-La on August 30-31.