STAY MARRAKECH: ZAMZAM RIAD

First I get excited about a destination and then I get excited about the possibilities of my accommodation. Marrakech was very special in that I knew there was so much that it had to offer and I wanted to make sure I made the absolute right choice. Boy, did we luck out with Zamzam, such gracious hosts they were.

The exact moment I knew Zamzam Riad was special was when we walked in, quite late in the day and Faisal (the night manager) who had helped us with finding our way and settling in, offered us delicious mint tea, whipped up what without a doubt is still the best omelettes I’ve had, all served under the stars with cool Moroccan breeze blowing in the night.  You know, it was one of those perfect moments you wish you could bottle up and save somewhere… and release on the really rough days.

Dining: Breakfast is included and you shouldn’t skip it. Moroccan pancakes and anything else you let the kitchen know you would enjoy. Tea is of course limitless and sometimes you get to dine in the company of the other guests. Because it is a small and intimate Riad, we became close with other housemates and will spend mornings and evenings catching up on the days events.  A few minutes walk away is the delightful I Limoni restaurant which is worth a stop for the garden setting and the camel burger. Yes, I had camel burger.

By daylight, we could really take it all in.  The rooftop terrace and the sights, smells and sounds.  Our room and even the neighboring rooms that we got to sneak into to take a peak- all tastefully furnished and not overly designed.  They hit the right balance of chic without being stuffy; luxe without being frilly and design without being impractical.

Location: It was a little tricky to find even though we had the help of a guide. But that’s Marrakech, few street signs if any, a little chaotic but thats what makes it fun. The closest busy area with shops and drinks is but a 7 minute walk away- it’s called Bab Taghzout. It was our point of reference and a place that really comes alive at night, grilled meat, people shopping, music playing, children running around… this is why you travel.

A hotel can be a good hotel, but so many times I’ve realized that it’s the people that make all the difference, they are the icing and the cherry on top. Bookmark this one.