My husband had business in Morocco get more details : http://www.invest.gov.ma/?Id=1&lang=en recently and we decided to add a long week-end to his business trip. He left the planning up to me and I discovered the beautiful Riad in Marrakech ,and booked us in for three nights with Riad Al Rimal : http://www.riadalrimal.co.uk/ What a great experience!
To get to the Riad,Al Rimal you have to walk through the souk, a dark alleyway, which is a bit intimidating the first time you do it. We walked down this winding little Derb, which means dead-end, and suddenly there we were at the front door of the Riad. I was getting nervous that I had made a poor choice — until we walked in.
From the moment we stepped inside the Riad in Marrakech, we were both extremely impressed by this beautiful property and the friendliness of its staff. Although the Riad only has eleven sleeping rooms, it feels much bigger. All the rooms were occupied during our visit but the way the property is designed you feel like you have the entire place to yourself.
If you want to get a first-hand experience of the magic and charm of narrow alleys and streets of the Medina in Marrakesh along with the traditional modes of transportation, the street vendors and the exotic scenes of everyday life then riads are the best accommodation options. Hotels and riads are poles apart in the sense that the former is modern-looking while the latter is traditional-looking complete with ethnic decorations.
Since riads are generally located on tranquil and quiet streets therefore they provide privacy as well as tranquility to the guests. In contrast to these peaceful riads are hotels which are generally noisy and hectic because of the location they are based in. A stay at a riad is quite comfortable and it is a refreshing change from a stay at the hotel, so why not give it a try?
We had a beautiful suite with stunning decor and elegant touches. The ceiling over the bed our bed contained a beautifully carved unique plaster dome, which made us feel as though we were sleeping in a palace. We liked the way the room felt secluded. I was particularly impressed with the pastries and mint tea which were not only delicious but addictive — especially after a long day of exploring the city.
Each morning we had a wonderful breakfast on the roof terrace. We also enjoyed a glass of wine there in the evening and a superb meal on my husband’s birthday. The staff surprised us with an ice cream cake which was really special.
One of the things I felt was the most charming about the Riad was the way the staff tried so hard to make you feel welcome. Repeatedly we were told that the Riad was our home. Indeed, the service was perfect. The staff seemed to be ever present, but never obtrusive. My husband said he felt like we were privileged guests in someones home. What a nice way to put it and such a compliment!
When you visit the Riad in Marrakech be sure to take the guided walk around the city — we found it very personal and informative. And the massage at the end of each day was perfect! I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this place to anyone!