This charming Moroccan city has many types of hotels, from traditional authentic riads to vast luxury resorts. Having just returned from my first visit to Marrakesh, I’m happy to tell you about some magical places I stayed at during my last trip…Of course, I’m always going to advocate booking a boutique hotel – they’re usually personal, beautiful and carefully selected for the warm welcome they provide. But in a city like Marrakesh, this ‘above-and-beyond’ approach is especially valuable. On my most recent trip, I visited a selection of medina-based boutique riads. The first one was Riad BE.

The whole experience felt so otherworldly right from the beginning. The staff of Riad BE picked us up from the airport and met us with mint tea and traditional sweets upon arrival. Mohammed, Nicole, and the staff really go out of their way to connect with you and make sure you have the best time; they are genuinely helpful and kind people. This was the first hint that the following days would turn out to be phenomenal.

We hadn’t slept the previous night because our flight was very early in the morning. But the staff at Riad BE and the way they treated us made us forget all the fatigue. Who actually cares about a sleepless night if you know that the next day you can spend time at the cutest swimming pool and watch the best sunsets on the rooftop?

Our room was on the first floor. It was super relaxed with the most beautiful smell and a great bathroom containing the most relaxing bath. I loved the original features and carefully chosen accessories. We looked forward to breakfast every morning and it never failed to be a great start to each day. Riad BE offers a selection of bread and pancakes with butter and jams as well as yogurts and various fruits. We were given freshly squeezed orange juice every morning and had the option of coffee or tea.

The hotel is located in the heart of Marrakesh, in the historical medina. The Riad is within walking distance to most sites that you’d visit on your trip to Marrakesh. Founded nearly a thousand years ago, Marrakesh is an enchanting whirlwind of labyrinthine alleyways, ancient culture, rose-coloured buildings, eclectic stalls and baking sun. From piles of fragrant spices, to butchers preparing their cuts, in the medina you’ll see it all.

One disadvantage for people who work online: the Wi-Fi was weak in the suite and sometimes required us to go into the lounge/dining room area for a good connection. This was not a huge problem for us because we were out enjoying the city the majority of the time. All the words in this post were written with charged feelings of nostalgia. I’m awash with nice memories from Riad BE. We were sad to leave, but on the other hand, I knew I was privileged to have experienced such a homely atmosphere. I hope it won’t be long before I go back again.

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