Sounds Of The Souks

Tag: riads

An exploration of The Red City known as Marrakech.

  • RIAD ZOUHOUR.

    Riad Zouhour is an absolutely charming riad in the medina.

    It is visually stunning  with  blue and white zellige tiles and exotic plants.

    Intricately carved wooden doors and ornate traditional window frames.

    Interior courtyard of riad Zouhour/images Freebird Tracey.

    The rooftop is an oasis of wonderful flowers and tropical plants, with plenty of places to sit and admire the beautiful surroundings.

    There is also a small pool for cooling off in.

    Rooftop of riad Zouhour/images Freebird Tracey.

    The rooms are spacious and beautifully decorated in a traditional yet modern style, with large private bathrooms containing nice fragrant products for use in the shower.

    A room in riad Zouhour/ images Freebird Tracey.

    The food is also very good.

    I loved the vegetable tagine and seasonal salad that I had served to me on arrival at the riad.

    My flight had been delayed, yet it was still hot and beautifully presented despite the time of night I eventually arrived.

    The staff are attentive and kind, going out of their way to make you feel welcome.

    Nothing is any trouble, and the overall atmosphere is relaxed and professional.

    The riad exudes luxury, yet it’s affordable and in a strategic location close to the centre of all the action.

    Riad Zouhour is a popular riad and gets booked up quickly, so booking in advance is recommended.

    As with most riads in the medina, they can also organise tours and excursions for you.

    The address is;

    33 Derb Snane,

    Medina 40000

    Marrakech Morocco.

    Check-in time is,

    00:00 until 23.30 hours.

    Check-out time is,

    5.00 until 00:00

    This is a riad I would highly recommend.

    I enjoyed my stay here, and I wouldn’t hesitate to go back.

    I loved the views from the rooftop, the pretty flowers and plants, and the overall treatment of the guests.

    It truly is a gem in the busy medina, a haven of peace and tranquillity.

    It is beautifully restored, and cleanliness is a priority here..

    For more details about places to stay in Marrakesh, contact me via the email address below:

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • RIAD BOHEMIAN JUNGLE.

    The Bohemian Jungle is a beautifully choreographed riad, close to the spice square in Marrakech.

    It exudes charm and authenticity.

    The interior decor is simply captivating, with several tastily put-together nooks and crannies to sit and take in its splendour.

    Interior of the Bohemian Jungle/ Images Freebird Tracey.

    The little pool in the centre of the courtyard is ideal for cooling off in.

    The green tiles and exotic plants make it a stunning focal point of the riad.

    Interior pool/images Freebird Tracey.

    The rooftop is magical. Surrounded by pretty, draping flowers, plants, and lanterns.

    There are several areas to hang out in.

    A balinese bed for relaxing on and a cerise, romantic boudoir area, where the staff play traditional tuareg music.

    There are areas to catch a spot of sunshine and places to sit where you are shaded.

    This is perfect for when the hot morroccan sun reaches its highest temperature in the day.

    Photos of the rooftop at the Bohemian Jungle/image Freebird Tracey.

    The staff are relaxed and friendly, and the vibe is laid back and chilled.

    The riad is run by three professional, yet charismatic young men from the Sahara region.

    Their knowledge of the area is invaluable, and they enjoy sharing a little piece of their fascinating culture with guests.

    The breakfasts are varied and wholesome, consisting of a mix of traditional pancakes, honey, and jam.

    Fresh bread, fruit, yoghurt, and eggs.

    Fresh orange juice and coffee.

    Image Freebird Tracey.

    When you arrive at the riad, you are treated to the complimentary mint tea and biscuits, whilst you are given useful advice and a map to help you navigate the souks.

    This is helpful for finding your way back to the riad.

    The fragrance inside is intoxicating.

    Orange blossom and cinnamon oil gently floats on the air, the lamps glow, and  Berber music plays subtly in the background.

    I never wanted to leave..

    I was so happy sitting in the riad, taking in the beauty and experiencing the wonder of such a magnificent place..

    Riad Bohemian Jungle gets booked up quickly.

    If you are looking for TVs and a modern approach to your trip to Marrakech, you won’t find it here.

    Riad Bohemian Jungle is all about experiencing true, authentic riad culture, lost in time with the distant echos of camel traders and a strong spirit of the past.

    It is close to the Madrasa Ben Youssef, Marrakech museum, and several nice shops and restaurants.

    The address is;

    Derb al Maada

    Hay azbezte

    39 Medina, Medina 40030

    Marrakech, Morrocco.

    Excursions to the Sahara desert and other popular places of interest can also be arranged by this riad.

    They are good value for money and well organised.

    Enjoying a moment of tranquillity at the Bohemian Jungle.
    Sunrise from the rooftop of the Bohemian Jungle/image Freebird Tracey.
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  • RIAD BLUE BERBER.

    A 17th Century Riad In A Great Location.

    Courtyard with original tiles.

    Riad Blue Berber is a traditional riad close to some great places such as Bahia Palace, Dardar rooftop bar, Le Pegola, and a variety of restaurants and shops.

    It is situated on my favourite side of the medina because it’s still lively yet a little less manic.

    I find it easier to locate riads here than negotiating the souks late at night.

    The riad is authentic and pretty with typically morroccan furnished suites.

    There is a more intimate feel about this riad because it’s slightly smaller.

    The owner, Habi, is a knowledgeable man who enjoys a chat with his guests. He is very hospitable, and the riad has a homely feel about it because of its staff.

    Mona, the lady who cooks breakfast, doesn’t speak English, but every morning, she prepared a hearty breakfast for me.

    The riad can organise tours, runs cooking classes, and will store your luggage after checking out.

    The rooftop was large with different tiers to sit on and was being updated during my stay.

    The rooftop of Riad Blue Berber.

    However, it would benefit from a lick of paint to make it perfect.

    I always felt safe walking to and from Riad Blue Berber. This is also a bonus, especially for female solo travellers.

    The traditional 17th century tiles on the floor of the courtyard give it a sense of character and charm.

    Riad Blue Berber has four rooms.

    Three of the rooms have air conditioning, and two have fans and heaters.

    It is approximately 200 metres from Jamaa El Fna,

    The address is;

    5 Derb Jdid, Riad Zitoun Lakdim, kadim، 40040, Morocco

    Courtyard in Riad Blue Berber.

    For more information about places to stay, contact me via the email address below;

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • RIAD JARDIN DE LEA.

    An Authentic Riad In The Medina.

    Riad Lea, as it is also known, is a traditional mid priced riad only 10 minutes walk away from the main square.

    There are 5 suites, and they are authentic and comfortable.

    The courtyard is peaceful with the sound of birds chirping.

    It’s a nice place to sit and cool down after a busy morning exploring the city in the heat.

    The rooftop is a great place for a spot of sunbathing, and there is also a jacuzzi.

    The staff at Riad Lea were especially attentive. They couldn’t do enough for their guests.

    They even offered me some of their food they were breaking their fast with during Ramadan.

    It’s the little touches like this that make a traditional riad such a charming place to stay.

    While there are plusher places with modern amenities and more recently renovated riads, it’s the personal touches that stand out for me.

    The staff at Riad Lea made sure that their guests felt comfortable and happy.

    There was a lovely atmosphere in the riad, and everyone seemed to be having a great experience.

    Reaching the riad was like heading down a hobbit hole, and the doorway was not made for tall people, but once you got used to it, you remembered to duck.

    The breakfast at Riad Lea was a typical Morroccan breakfast, but as good as I’ve had in the more expensive riads.

    I loved their homemade yoghurt.

    The walk to the main square was enjoyable, passing by lots of interesting little shops on the way.

    I enjoyed my stay at Riad Lea. It’s not a fancy 5 star accommodation, but it’s good value for money.

    It was clean, I had everything I needed, and the staff were a credit to the riad.

    Riad Lea can be found at,

    41 Derb Sidi Bou

    Amar Marrakech 40000.

    Courtyard at Riad Lea.

    For more information about places to stay, contact me via the email address below;

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • RIAD LAILA.

    A stunning riad with a large swimming pool.

    Riad Laila is a stunning riad with the most beautiful courtyard.

    It is larger than most riads, and the courtyard is full of exquisite plants, including mandarin trees and hibiscus.

    This is a newer riad, and the rooms are tastefully furnished and relatively modern. They are a generous size with plush bathrooms.

    The rooftop is well maintained, a great spot for sunbathing or relaxing with a beer or refreshing mint tea and looking at the views over the medina.

    The rooftop.

    This is the perfect riad for those people who are looking for a more modern, spa like feel to their Morroccan experience.

    The staff exude professionalism and wear uniforms. They keep a keen eye on guests, and the place is run immaculately.

    Everything is spotlessly clean, and it’s the kind of place where you can spend ages just relaxing by the side of the pool.

    Riad Laila is a high-end accommodation at the most northern side of the medina.

    It is close to the bus station and around a 25-minute walk from the centre.

    The Jardin Majorelle is a short walk away.

    I found Raid Laila fine for a couple of days but did miss the charm of a more relaxed, traditional, family run riad.

    The food was mediocre, I’m a vegetarian, and I was disappointed with my meal. It wasn’t worth the 20 euros I paid for it.

    I wasn’t given a choice of food or asked about allergies or dietary requirements.

    The overall impression was that everything felt slightly clinical and lacked the laid-back, homely feel that Marrakech is known for.

    However, if you’re looking for a complete break away from the excitement and sensory overload of the medina, Riad Laila may be perfect for you.

    It is visually appealing and one of the nicest gardens boasting 840m2.

    Inside the high walls of this riad, it is tranquil and relaxing.

    They have a resident tortoise called Laila who loves you to feed her hibiscus flowers.

    Laila the riads namesake.

    The surrounding streets are very quiet, and so I preferred taking a taxi during the evening.

    Riad Laila is at,

    104 Diour Jdad

    Zaouia Abbassia

    Marrakech 40000.

    For more information about places to stay in Marrakech, contact me via the email address below;

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • RIAD DOMBARAKA

    Riad Dombaraka is a beautiful place to stay.

    It has a tranquil courtyard with a small pool for guests to cool down in.

    The pool has an exercise bike inside it.

    The plants are exquisite, and listening to the birds singing amongst the foliage is so relaxing.

    Every inch of riad Dombaraka is tastefully decorated with beautiful paintings and furniture. It feels as though you are staying in a royal palace.

    The rooftop is spacious with great views. It’s great for sunbathing with plenty of spaces to sit soaking up the hot, morroccan sun.

    View from the rooftop.

    There is a wonderful library with an assortment of books and fine furnishings.

    The library.

    The riad is kept spotlessly clean, and the staff are friendly and happy as they go about their job.

    Riad Dombaraka is owned by a French woman called Dominique, who gives her guests the warmest welcome on arrival.

    She suggests places to eat and visit, also arranging transport through the souks to get to them. I always felt safe and well looked after.

    The breakfast was lovely. It was traditional Morroccan food with plenty of variety and very filling.

    Riad Dombaraka is not particularly budget accommodation, but it is definitely good value for money.

    It is an elegant riad whilst maintaining its traditional character and charm.

    Guests are offered fresh water for free and asked if they would like mint tea.

    Relaxing by the pool, listening to soft music and birds singing, you would never know the craziness of the Souks was literally a stones throw away outside the door.

    The courtyard.

    Outside the riad door, there is still evidence of the earthquake in 2023.

    There are locals selling vegetables and fish, giving a true picture of morroccan life.

    Inside the riad, you experience a whole different world. One of decadence and serenity.

    I highly recommend Riad Dombaraka.

    It is absolutely stunning, and guests are treated well.

    It’s like staying in a warm, homely environment, and the food is delicious.

    The address is,

    47.Derb El Qadi medina. Medina Azbezt 40030

    For information on places to stay or eat in Marrakech, contact me:

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • A TRADITIONAL MORROCCAN HAMMAM.

    Experience a true taste of Marrakechi culture.

    One thing that is central to Morroccon culture is the Hammam.

    A Hammam is similar to a Roman bath and dates back centuries in morrocco.

    It was a ritualistic cleansing that people did before prayers, and many Hammams can be found near a mosque.

    Before homes had plumbing, a Hammam was a place local people could come to get cleansed.

    Seperated by gender, they were a space for people to socialise, relax, and detoxify.

    During a treatment, morroccan black soap is used to scrub the body.

    It is a grainy soap made from olive oil and macerated olives, perfect for exfoliating the dead skin cells.

    The scrubbing is quite vigorous.

    This is followed by buckets of water being thrown over you to wash off the black soap.

    A clay called Rassoul clay from the Atlas mountains is used to cover the body as it’s rich in minerals like silica,magnesium, and calcium.

    After this, your whole body is lathered thoroughly, including your hair with a gentler soap or gel.

    The next treatment is an all-over massage using exquisite oils like rose oil or argan oil..

    The treatment always begins in a dry steam room.

    Relaxing in heat opens the pores and prepares the body for the scrubbing.

    Once the treatment is finished,  you can relax in a separate area with mint tea and morroccan pastries..

    The fragrance of incense wafting around the room adds to the ambience.

    There are two types of Hammam in Marrakesh.

    The public or private hammam.

    The public Hammam is a true taste of Morroccan life, with many local people bathing together and chatting in their native language.

    In a public Hammam, you have to take your own soap, towel, and oils in.

    These are much less expensive.

    The private Hammams provide you with everything you need, including disposable underwear, a bathrobe, and sandles.

    Treatment options vary, including the length of the treatment and the type of massage and oils you prefer.

    You can relax for as long as you want to after the treatment has finished.

    The underwear for women is very flimsy, and some women ask for the male underwear instead.

    Nubies can feel slightly vulnerable or uncomfortable being so exposed with just a disposable thong hiding your modesty.

    The rooms are dimly lit, and the women known as Kassalas working in the hammam are very professional.

    Most women do get over their initial shyness pretty quickly.

    Hammam Mouassine is the oldest Hammam in Marrakesh. It opened in 1562 and can be found by the Mouassine fountain, close to the secret garden.

    Many riads have a Hammam room and offer this service.

    Other popular hammams are,

    . Hammam de la rose.

    . Mamounia Hamman..

    . Les Bains Ziani.

    Palm oil is often used to wash people’s hair, so if you don’t agree with the use of it,  check beforehand.

    Experiencing a traditional Hammam is a welcome break from the chaotic souks and Jamaa El Fna.

    It’s a relief from the baking heat of the morroccan sun and a chance to slow down the manic pace for an hour or so.

    Many tourists feel unsure about wearing virtually nothing in front of strangers, but this is an ancient ritual that has been part of Morroccan culture for centuries.

    Visitors to Marrakech have said that they experienced the most invigorating and relaxing time in a hammam and would definitely do it again.

    I would recommend paying a little bit more for a private Hammam if it’s your first time.

    However, if you want a taste of authentic Marrakechi life, go for a public hammam.

    You can buy Morroccan black soap and other toiletries you’ll need inside the souks, near the spice square.

    You can book a Hammam through Get Your Guide or Viator.

    Riads organise their own..

    Don’t forget a towel, bathrobe and fresh underwear..

    For more information;

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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  • STAYING IN A TRADITIONAL RIAD.

    The best way to immerse yourself in the culture of Marrakech.

    Library inside a riad

    No-one should come to Marrakech and miss out on the wonderful experience of staying in a riad.

    If you truly want a taste of Moroccan life, spending time in a riad with traditional tadelakt tiles and gurgling water features will give you just that.

    Riads are the homes once lived in by the well-to-do of Marrakech. They are built around a central courtyard and have various citrus trees and foliage in the middle, reaching up through the open rooftop.

    The roof top can be reached by climbing the tiled steps, where you will be greeted by colourful seating areas to escape from the heat and admire the views of the medina below.

    The rooms are traditionally decorated in Moroccan lamps and Berber fabrics, including cushions and bedding with the most exquisite patterns and colours.

    I prefer to stay in the mid- range priced riads because they still maintain their original appearance, and it’s like being immersed into a tale from 1001 nights.

    The higher priced riads are also very beautiful but tend to lose some of their authenticity for me.

    Many riads have been renovated by Westerners to appeal to the needs of tourists. They are modern and have televisions and bidets in the rooms.

    My choice of riad is a family owned property, one that still has it’s old world charm and feels as though I’m staying with a Moroccan family.

    Some of the riads I have stayed in have a slightly rustic quality. They cook delicious home cooked food and offer a Hammam service.

    Waking up to the sounds of birds singing in the trees, and the gentle flowing of water from the fountain is such a wonderful start to the day.

    The early morning sunshine reflecting off the beautifully tiled floors, puts you in a happy mood for the day.

    Most riads provide their guests with breakfast, which is often sweeter than we are used to in the west. Some riads cook omelettes and there is always fresh orange and homemade yoghurts and jams served with traditional bread.

    I love sunbathing on the rooftop, listening to the call to prayer from the Koutoubia mosque and the musicians in the square.

    In the evening, I like to watch the sunset as the Jamaa El Fnaa comes alive with thousands of visitors. You can hear vendors calling out to beckon them into their food stalls, the aroma of the food cooking catches your breathe and the merry throng of the street performers entertaining the masses can be heard.

    The rooftop of Monriad

    Back in the courtyard, you feel as if you are in an oasis. The calm, peaceful environment is a far cry from what is happening outside the big heavy wooden door of the riad.

    The sound of Moroccan music plays at low volume, adding to the spirit of the surroundings, creating an authentic experience.

    Courtyard of a traditional riad

    When I stay in a riad, the people working there can’t do enough to ensure I have a brilliant time. They are kind and helpful, and nothing is too much trouble. They are always smiling and happy to chat with their guests about Marrakech and it’s history.

    They suggest places where you can eat and can arrange excursions for their guests.

    Many of the larger riads have swimming pools. They are a welcome retreat after the exhausting heat of the hot African sun.

    I like to spend a few days having what I call a ‘riad experience’ just relaxing by the pool amongst the flora and fauna before heading off to do activities.

    Whichever type of riad you choose to stay in, you won’t be disappointed.

    It’s one of the most delightful experiences you can have whilst visiting Marrakech.

    I can’t wait to return..

    Many riads have a resident tortoise

    Ask for recommendations.

    tracey.wright1963@googlemail.com
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