Marrakech revisited

In 2016 I visited Marrakech with the Morocco Tourist Board and wrote a blog about where you can stay. I advised that the best way to experience Marrakech is to stay in a traditional Riad - a traditional house with guest rooms. They are tucked away in the historic alleyways of the medina and have character and style. I would recommend them as you get a sense of the real Morocco when you stay in the heart of the city.

I enjoyed my visit so much that this year I returned with my family. We stayed in Riad Karmela. The Riad was hidden down an alleyway and was a calm oasis amongst the mad buzz of Marrakech. My sons were given a large twin room with lattice windows looking into the courtyard. My wife and I were given an amazing room with its own private balcony overlooking the courtyard. Inside was a spacious room with a 4-poster bed and numerous ornaments which created a homely feel.

The Riad is in the heart of Marrakech about 10 minutes’ walk from Jemaa el Fna square and is beyond where cars can reach. On arrival the Riad sends someone to meet the car and to show us the way for the last 100 metres. A warm Moroccan welcome with local sweets and mint tea is offered as you complete the registration forms.

Having settled in we decided to go and explore. Stepping outside the Riad doorway we were straight into the alleyways with the buzz of people busy about their daily lives. We quickly learned to keep to the right at all times as the mopeds hurtle along missing you by fractions as they rush to wherever they are going.

Look out for my other blogs that are coming soon – “The Medina, the Souk and the madness that is Marrakech” will try to describe the wonderful atmosphere of the city, and “The Ourika Valley – where the Moroccans go on holiday” will suggest an amazing Marrakech escape so you can see the real Morocco.