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Meet Franck Schmitt: A Creative Soul and Our Morocco Tour Co-Host

©Franck Schmitt our Morocco Tour Co-host

When we first started planning our Morocco tour, we knew we wanted it to be more than just a visit to beautiful places, we wanted it to be an experience full of inspiration, connection, and creativity. We also knew right away that we wanted to create this tour in partnership with Franck Schmitt.

Franck is not only an incredibly talented photographer and journalist, but also someone with a deep, genuine love for Morocco. He has travelled the country for more than two decades, capturing its colours, textures, and people through his lens. His curiosity and eye for detail are contagious, and the way he speaks about Morocco (and Marrakesh in particular) is enough to make you want to pack your bags immediately.

Sharon Santoni, who will be leading the tour, and Franck make the most wonderful team. They’ve been friends for years, and Franck has supplied the photos for several of Sharon’s books. Their shared appreciation for beauty, craftsmanship, and authenticity is at the heart of this itinerary. Throughout our days in Morocco, you’ll discover Franck’s favourite hidden spots, meet local artisans, and enjoy moments of calm and wonder.

We asked Franck a few questions ahead of the tour, about what drew him to Morocco, the places that continue to inspire him, and what guests should expect from this unforgettable adventure.

Rustic interior of a Moroccan style room, filled with natural light, hanging lanterns, and ornate furniture.
Elegantly crafted amber and green glasses placed on a wooden shelf.

©Franck Schmitt

  1. You’ve travelled the world as a photographer and journalist. What was it about Morocco, and Marrakesh in particular, that captured your heart?

I discovered Morocco almost 25 years ago and I’ve been there more than thirty times since. I immediately loved the landscapes, the colors, the simplicity of human relationships, and the joyful and creative spirit of the Moroccan people. The first time I left, I cried on the plane because I didn’t want that first trip to end. That’s why I go back every year.

 

  1. You’re known for your eye for beauty in interiors, gardens, and lifestyle. What kind of inspiration do you personally find in Morocco’s design and culture?

Morocco is a country that sparks creativity. Handicrafts are everywhere, and it’s so exciting to discover all these talents and to be able to imagine objects and have them made. Every year, I’m amazed by the way they interpret design using natural materials.

Moroccan style archway of Marrakesh boutique hotel decorated with lanterns and and lounge chairs.
Moroccan pottery house with stacked traditional red clay cookware.

©Franck Schmitt

  1. You’ll be guiding us to some of your favourite hidden spots in Marrakesh, tell us one place that always surprises people when you take them there.

Soufiane Zarib’s boutique, a rug designer and interior architect, is a place that fascinates and amazes me. Behind the door of an old riad lies his Aladdin’s cave. He creates decorative scenes with furniture and handcrafted pieces. As you walk through the space, you go from one surprise to another. There’s even a pool in the patio, where the displays and rugs are constantly changing, unlike anything you’ll find anywhere else. I truly admire his talent.

 

  1. What part of the Morocco tour do you secretly look forward to the most ?

I love the architecture in Morocco and the Moroccan people, their joy of living and their childlike spirit. I can’t wait to share my favorite places, my favorite shops, but above all, a village just a few kilometers from Marrakech where the entire village works for a cooperative. In this village, you can go from house to house and see artisans weaving blankets, embroidering cushions, and weaving rugs… It’s a truly authentic place where you can feel the endless creativity of these people.

Luxury swimming pool in desert setting, surrounded by mountains and white lounge chairs.
Ornate Moroccan green and white painted plates organised on a green table.

©Franck Schmitt

  1. How would you describe the ‘soul’ of Marrakesh to someone who’s never been?

Marrakech is a city with many facets. The one I find most interesting is the old medina. You can do everything on foot and go from one surprise to another. The atmosphere is really pleasant. The souks are bustling with life, and the smells, colors, and textures are fascinating. You want to experience the city with all your senses fully awake. It’s a complete change of scenery!

 

  1. What’s one thing guests must pack for this tour that they might not think of?

You have to open your heart and mind to another culture, not look for your usual points of reference, and be willing to understand a different way of living and thinking. You should come with space in your suitcase, because you’ll want to leave with lots of souvenirs and handcrafted pieces!

 

  1. You are known as a successful cookbook writer, what do you love most about the cuisine in Morocco?

I’m a big fan of couscous and tagines, I can eat it everyday. The combinations of flavors and spices are especially rich in Morocco. The pastries are amazing too, and I have a soft spot for gazelle horns, which blend almonds with orange blossom water. A real delight!

 

  1. During our Morocco tour, you are offering a portrait session to each of our clients! Merci beaucoup! What advice do you give to someone who’s not used to being photographed?

Being photographed is about opening up, it’s about accepting to reveal a part of yourself and your soul. It’s much easier when you trust the photographer, when a dialogue has been established, and it becomes the result of a friendly exchange. We’re going to do these portrait sessions in a stunning location, a Garden of Eden where the vegetation is lush and enveloping. It will be a special and unique moment. I can’t wait.

A tiled stone pool at the center of an ornate Moroccan courtyard.

MFCH Travel Experiences

Join Us in Morocco in 2026

Step behind the scenes of Marrakesh with Franck and Sharon as your guides. From hidden gardens and artisan workshops to unforgettable meals and inspiring encounters, this tour is designed to awaken all your senses.

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