Good morning Mimi,

Imagine 1000+ people who are creative, passionate, full of energy and inspiration about creating unique experiences, and for two+ years they were not able to do what they do best. And for three years they were not able to see each other to connect. 

And then they did. 

That is what the PURE Life Experiences conference in Marrakesh is all about. It is about connecting the most innovative, passionate people focused on experiential travel. And it is non stop OTT (over the top).

Today is day 3 of waking early, meeting 1:1 for 20 minutes with 15 people I selected ahead of time, based on who is most aligned with the travels I plan, and squeezing in meetings with others during break, meals and the evening parties. So many incredible people who help me create fun, inspiring trips for you. 

A few of my favorites...

Milagros (above), she represents Hotel AWA and we met each other 2+ years ago during PURE's virtual conference. We finally connected in person and spent the night dancing away. Hotel AWA is my list to visit in Chilean Patagonia. It's stunning. 

JP from Explora, also in Patagonia. With access to the most beautiful hikes, overnight treks, mountain biking, incredible food, wine and spectacular views. 

Nico, my absolute favorite person in Peru. A dad, athlete, adventurer and well connected in the country that he grew up in and loves to introduce you to. 

Drew and Amanda, two of the most creative, fun partners I work with in Australia to bring you up close to wildlife (koalas, kangaroos, crocodiles, whale sharks, blue whales) in their natural environments. 

Augustina, from the Dolomites. We talked all about the best via ferratas (including one where you climb through WW1 tunnels - history and adventure blended! A great idea for history buffs or those of you with kids studying WWI), refugio to refugio hiking trails and mountain top restaurants. 

Cristina, the most energizing, incredible Colombian partner who I've worked with on previous trips and can't wait to plan the next one.

Erika from Belmond, a hotel brand that I love so much, with many hotels in Peru, Italy and other parts of the world. 

Andrew, from the US, a serious adventurer, who helped me create the incredible Telluride trip mentioned in last week's newsletter. 

And so many others from NZ, Africa, US, Scotland, Maldives, Middle East, Bhutan, Vietnam and more. I am beyond energized for this year and the years ahead!

In Marrakesh, I've seen so many properties. Here are a few...

Kasbah Tamadot, Richard Branson's very special place in the desert. He bought it because his mom fell in love with the property. After some expansion, restoration and renovation they welcomed travelers seeking a quiet respite outside of Marrakesh.

La Mamounia

Four Seasons

Selman 

Royal Mansour

Sofitel Palais Imperial

and many tiny riads

Tonight's closing celebration begins at the Royal Monsour and ends with a psychedelic chic after party starting at 12:30a, going until 4a at the Mandarin Oriental. Then up for my flight to Madrid, 4 hours with Paloma, and a 12:40a overnight flight to Colombia to spend the weekend in Cartagena with my friends and then a day with Cristina. 

I've barely touched on Madrid...

My sites visits at the Four Seasons, Madrid EDITION and the Rosewood Villa Magna were so valuable (the history of the Four Seasons deserves to be highlighted...one day). I love seeing the hotels in person to feel the vibe, see the street they are on and visit many room categories to see how they compare (and which have the best views). Might there be someone who would love to stay at all three? I think not. Although all are 5* luxury hotels, there are big differences and depending on you, one would suit you best (or a different one - Madrid has some great 4* boutique hotels too). 

The rest of the newsletter is abbreviated today (and you will see I spent a lot of time reading the Financial Times), because it's time for my appointment with Russell from Scotland!

Warmly,