In celebration of a Kingdom

The rich culture of the Magreb comes to Bangkok next month in the form of a Moroccan Festival being hosted by The Sukosol Bangkok from this Saturday through October 11.

The event, which celebrates 30 years of diplomatic relations between Morocco and Thailand, is the fruit of a close collaboration between Abdelilah El Housni, the ambassador of Morocco to Thailand, and Kamala Sukosol, president of the Thai-Moroccan Friendship Association, which has 35 local members.

The two will host a gala dinner “A Moroccan Night in Bangkok” on Friday night at the hotel, which will be attended by diplomats of both countries, along with members of the foundation and their guests. The menu features the country’s unique cuisine, which was listed by Unesco as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2010. Guests will also enjoy a glimpse of the latest collection by renowned Moroccan fashion designer Albert Oiknine and a performance by the famous Moroccan Sufi singer Thami El Harrak.

“For more than 15 years, I have held Morocco and the people of Morocco in very high regard. I was fortunate enough to be invited to the wedding of His Majesty King Mohammad VI in 2002, so I truly value this long friendship. The Kingdoms of Morocco and Thailand are similar in many ways; both countries have a constitutional monarchy held in great respect, as well as a richly deserved reputation for excellent hospitality,” Kamala tells XP.

The festival features the Kingdom’s signature dishes prepared to perfection by a talented Moroccan chef at Patummat Restaurant, and a showcase of couture creations based on Morocco’s traditional dresses including the caftans so loved by the late film star Elizabeth Taylor, as well as traditional takchitas.

Other highlights include a typical Moroccan wedding ceremony, an exhibition of renowned argan oil, exceptional local handicrafts, traditional henna tattoos and the chance to enjoy exotic and splendid tours of Moroccan’s stunning cities.