Hotel Experiences: Riad Star Marrakech, Morocco
Being that I love staying in luxury hotels without spending too much money, A boutique riad was the way to go while staying in Marrakech, Morocco. Riad Star is located in the old Medina. Locked in between the many familiar walls, it can be a bit tough to find at first but once you get used to the area, it’s not so hard.
The designs gave more of a contemporary European feel rather than a traditional Moroccan one like the one I stayed in while in Fes (see my Fes riad here). It had stark white walls with colorful accent pillows that I loved. There was a splash of Moroccan designs in the decor as well as some of the paintings.
We were granted the Ebony Suite which is the largest in the Riad with 2 floors and 2 full bathrooms. Each floor had its own air conditioning which was another plus. The beds were both Queen size and pretty comfortable for a firm mattress lover (Typically, European mattresses are more firm). Breakfast was included every day with unlimited mint tea. It was a great way to start the day before heading out to explore Marrakech.
The indoor pool was much smaller and intimate than the ones I usually go in. But it was perfect to relax in while having some tea after wandering through the medina most of the day.
A fun fact about this riad is it was the home of 1920’s Jazz singer, entertainer and activist Josephine Baker. There was an area in the riad that housed Josephine’s actual clothes available for guests to try on. I fell in love with a pink traditional Moroccan kaftan.
The staff was friendly and always available when needed. I appreciated the riad having a free mobile app (‘Marrakech Riad’ for Android and iOS) with a built in gps map that helps you find your way back from anywhere in Marrakech. The medina can be confusing so this helped a great deal especially at night. I also appreciated the mobile phone provided by the staff. That way, even if I did get lost and the map couldn’t help, I could call and have someone pick me up.
The riad had a spacious rooftop that I enjoyed watching the sunset every evening while hearing the sounds of the call to Prayer (a sound signal to religious members indicating it’s time to practice a prayer ritual). You also have the option to have the staff cook you dinner or you can go to one of the countless restaurants in the main square. I opted for dinner the first night I arrived which was vegetable Couscous. The other nights I chose to have dinner in the main square.
I enjoyed my experience at this riad. It served as a great safe haven from the chaos of the medina. The boutique European feel gave an unexpected vibe that I appreciated. The staff made me feel very much at home and were always available when needed.
I was welcomed as a guest of Riad Star, Marrakech but all opinions, words and photography are my own.
