Privacy policy

This privacy policy applies between you, the User of this Website and Hipmarrakech.com LTD, the owner and provider of this Website. Hipmarrakech.com LTD takes the privacy of your information very seriously. This privacy policy applies to our use of any and all Data collected by us or provided by you in relation to your use of the Website.

This privacy policy should be read alongside, and in addition to, our Terms and Conditions, which can be found at: http://www.hipmarrakech.com/booking-terms.php.

Please read this privacy policy carefully.

Definitions and interpretation

  • In this privacy policy, the following definitions are used:

Data

collectively all information that you submit to Hipmarrakech.com LTD via the Website. This definition incorporates, where applicable, the definitions provided in the Data Protection Laws;

Cookies

a small text file placed on your computer by this Website when you visit certain parts of the Website and/or when you use certain features of the Website. Details of the cookies used by this Website are set out in the clause below (Cookies);

Data Protection Laws

any applicable law relating to the processing of personal Data, including but not limited to the Directive 96/46/EC (Data Protection Directive) or the GDPR, and any national implementing laws, regulations and secondary legislation, for as long as the GDPR is effective in the UK;

GDPR

the General Data Protection Regulation (EU) 2016/679;

Hipmarrakech.com LTD, or us

Hipmarrakech.com LTD, a company incorporated in England and Wales with registered number 5584448 whose registered office is at Unit F Whiteacres, Whetstone, Leicester, England, LE8 6ZG;

UK and EU Cookie Law

the Privacy and Electronic Communications (EC Directive) Regulations 2003 as amended by the Privacy and Electronxic Communications (EC Directive) (Amendment) Regulations 2011;

User or you

any third party that accesses the Website and is not either (i) employed by Hipmarrakech.com LTD and acting in the course of their employment or (ii) engaged as a consultant or otherwise providing services to Hipmarrakech.com LTD and accessing the Website in connection with the provision of such services; and

Website

the website that you are currently using, www.hipmarrakech.com, and any sub-domains of this site unless expressly excluded by their own terms and conditions.

  • In this privacy policy, unless the context requires a different interpretation:
    • the singular includes the plural and vice versa;
    • references to sub-clauses, clauses, schedules or appendices are to sub-clauses, clauses, schedules or appendices of this privacy policy;
    • a reference to a person includes firms, companies, government entities, trusts and partnerships;
    • “including” is understood to mean “including without limitation”;
    • reference to any statutory provision includes any modification or amendment of it;
    • the headings and sub-headings do not form part of this privacy policy.

Scope of this privacy policy

  • This privacy policy applies only to the actions of Hipmarrakech.com LTD and Users with respect to this Website. It does not extend to any websites that can be accessed from this Website including, but not limited to, any links we may provide to social media websites.
  • For purposes of the applicable Data Protection Laws, Hipmarrakech.com LTD is the “data controller”. This means that Hipmarrakech.com LTD determines the purposes for which, and the manner in which, your Data is processed.

Data collected

  • We may collect the following Data, which includes personal Data, from you:
    • name;
    • contact Information such as email addresses and telephone numbers;
    • demographic information such as postcode, preferences and interests;
    • financial information such as credit / debit card numbers;
    • IP address (automatically collected);
    • web browser type and version (automatically collected);
    • operating system (automatically collected);
    • a list of URLs starting with a referring site, your activity on this Website, and the site you exit to (automatically collected);
    • in each case, in accordance with this privacy policy.

How we collect Data

  • We collect Data in the following ways:
    • data is given to us by you;
    • data is received from other sources; and
    • data is collected automatically.

Data that is given to us by you

  • Hipmarrakech.com LTD will collect your Data in a number of ways, for example:
    • when you contact us through the Website, by telephone, post, e-mail or through any other means;
    • when you enter a competition or promotion through a social media channel;
    • when you make payments to us, through this Website or otherwise;
    • when you elect to receive marketing communications from us;
    • when you use our services;

in each case, in accordance with this privacy policy.

Data that is received from third parties

  • Hipmarrakech.com LTD will receive Data about you from the following third parties:
    • Booking.com;
    • Expedia Group;
    • Airbnb Inc;
    • Other travel agencies or tour operators;

Data that is collected automatically

  • To the extent that you access the Website, we will collect your Data automatically, for example:
    • we automatically collect some information about your visit to the Website. This information helps us to make improvements to Website content and navigation, and includes your IP address, the date, times and frequency with which you access the Website and the way you use and interact with its content.
    • we will collect your Data automatically via cookies, in line with the cookie settings on your browser. For more information about cookies, and how we use them on the Website, see the section below, headed “Cookies”.

Our use of Data

  • Any or all of the above Data may be required by us from time to time in order to provide you with the best possible service and experience when using our Website. Specifically, Data may be used by us for the following reasons:
    • internal record keeping;
    • improvement of our products / services;
    • transmission by email of marketing materials that may be of interest to you;

in each case, in accordance with this privacy policy.

  • We may use your Data for the above purposes if we deem it necessary to do so for our legitimate interests. If you are not satisfied with this, you have the right to object in certain circumstances (see the section headed “Your rights” below).
  • For the delivery of direct marketing to you via e-mail, we’ll need your consent, whether via an opt-in or soft-opt-in:
    • soft opt-in consent is a specific type of consent which applies when you have previously engaged with us (for example, you contact us to ask us for more details about a particular product/service, and we are marketing similar products/services). Under “soft opt-in” consent, we will take your consent as given unless you opt-out.
    • for other types of e-marketing, we are required to obtain your explicit consent; that is, you need to take positive and affirmative action when consenting by, for example, checking a tick box that we’ll provide.
    • if you are not satisfied about our approach to marketing, you have the right to withdraw consent at any time. To find out how to withdraw your consent, see the section headed “Your rights” below.
  • We may use your Data to show you Hipmarrakech.com LTD adverts and other content on other websites. If you do not want us to use your data to show you Hipmarrakech.com LTD adverts and other content on other websites, please turn off the relevant cookies (please refer to the section headed “Cookies” below).

Who we share Data with

  • We may share your Data with the following groups of people for the following reasons:
    • any of our group companies or affiliates – to ensure the proper administration of your reservation;
    • our employees, agents and/or professional advisors – to help with reservation;
    • third party service providers who provide services to us which require the processing of personal data – to help third party service providers in receipt of any shared data to perform functions on our behalf to help ensure the reservation runs smoothly;
    • third party payment providers who process payments made over the Website – to enable third party payment providers to process user payments and refunds;

in each case, in accordance with this privacy policy.

Keeping Data secure

  • We will use technical and organisational measures to safeguard your Data, for example:
    • we store your Data on secure servers.
    • payment details are encrypted using SSL technology (typically you will see a lock icon or green address bar (or both) in your browser when we use this technology.
  • We are certified to SOC 2. This family of standards helps us manage your Data and keep it secure.
  • Technical and organisational measures include measures to deal with any suspected data breach. If you suspect any misuse or loss or unauthorised access to your Data, please let us know immediately by contacting us via this e-mail address: contact@hipmarrakech.com .
  • If you want detailed information from Get Safe Online on how to protect your information and your computers and devices against fraud, identity theft, viruses and many other online problems, please visit www.getsafeonline.org. Get Safe Online is supported by HM Government and leading businesses.

Data retention

  • Unless a longer retention period is required or permitted by law, we will only hold your Data on our systems for the period necessary to fulfil the purposes outlined in this privacy policy or until you request that the Data be deleted.
  • Even if we delete your Data, it may persist on backup or archival media for legal, tax or regulatory purposes.

Your rights

  • You have the following rights in relation to your Data:
    • Right to access – the right to request (i) copies of the information we hold about you at any time, or (ii) that we modify, update or delete such information. If we provide you with access to the information we hold about you, we will not charge you for this, unless your request is “manifestly unfounded or excessive.” Where we are legally permitted to do so, we may refuse your request. If we refuse your request, we will tell you the reasons why.
    • Right to correct – the right to have your Data rectified if it is inaccurate or incomplete.
    • Right to erase – the right to request that we delete or remove your Data from our systems.
    • Right to restrict our use of your Data – the right to “block” us from using your Data or limit the way in which we can use it.
    • Right to data portability – the right to request that we move, copy or transfer your Data.
    • Right to object – the right to object to our use of your Data including where we use it for our legitimate interests.
  • To make enquiries, exercise any of your rights set out above, or withdraw your consent to the processing of your Data (where consent is our legal basis for processing your Data), please contact us via this e-mail address: contact@hipmarrakech.com .
  • If you are not satisfied with the way a complaint you make in relation to your Data is handled by us, you may be able to refer your complaint to the relevant data protection authority. For the UK, this is the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO). The ICO’s contact details can be found on their website at https://ico.org.uk/.
  • It is important that the Data we hold about you is accurate and current. Please keep us informed if your Data changes during the period for which we hold it.

Transfers outside the European Economic Area

  • Data which we collect from you may be stored and processed in and transferred to countries outside of the European Economic Area (EEA). For example, this could occur if our servers are located in a country outside the EEA or one of our service providers is situated in a country outside the EEA. We also share information with our group companies, some of which are located outside the EEA.
  • We will only transfer Data outside the EEA where it is compliant with data protection legislation and the means of transfer provides adequate safeguards in relation to your data, eg by way of data transfer agreement, incorporating the current standard contractual clauses adopted by the European Commission, or by signing up to the EU-US Privacy Shield Framework, in the event that the organisation in receipt of the Data is based in the United States of America.
  • To ensure that your Data receives an adequate level of protection, we have put in place appropriate safeguards and procedures with the third parties we share your Data with. This ensures your Data is treated by those third parties in a way that is consistent with the Data Protection Laws.

Links to other websites

  • This Website may, from time to time, provide links to other websites. We have no control over such websites and are not responsible for the content of these websites. This privacy policy does not extend to your use of such websites. You are advised to read the privacy policy or statement of other websites prior to using them.

Changes of business ownership and control

  • Hipmarrakech.com LTD may, from time to time, expand or reduce our business and this may involve the sale and/or the transfer of control of all or part of Hipmarrakech.com LTD. Data provided by Users will, where it is relevant to any part of our business so transferred, be transferred along with that part and the new owner or newly controlling party will, under the terms of this privacy policy, be permitted to use the Data for the purposes for which it was originally supplied to us.
  • We may also disclose Data to a prospective purchaser of our business or any part of it.
  • In the above instances, we will take steps with the aim of ensuring your privacy is protected.

Cookies

  • This Website may place and access certain Cookies on your computer. Hipmarrakech.com LTD uses Cookies to improve your experience of using the Website and to improve our range of services. Hipmarrakech.com LTD has carefully chosen these Cookies and has taken steps to ensure that your privacy is protected and respected at all times.
  • All Cookies used by this Website are used in accordance with current UK and EU Cookie Law.
  • Before the Website places Cookies on your computer, you will be presented with a message bar requesting your consent to set those Cookies. By giving your consent to the placing of Cookies, you are enabling Hipmarrakech.com LTD to provide a better experience and service to you. You may, if you wish, deny consent to the placing of Cookies; however certain features of the Website may not function fully or as intended.
  • This Website may place the following Cookies:

Type of Cookie

Purpose

Strictly necessary cookies

These are cookies that are required for the operation of our website. They include, for example, cookies that enable you to log into secure areas of our website, use a shopping cart or make use of e-billing services.

Analytical/performance cookies

They allow us to recognise and count the number of visitors and to see how visitors move around our website when they are using it. This helps us to improve the way our website works, for example, by ensuring that users are finding what they are looking for easily.

Targeting cookies

These cookies record your visit to our website, the pages you have visited and the links you have followed. We will use this information to make our website and the advertising displayed on it more relevant to your interests. We may also share this information with third parties for this purpose.

  • You can find a list of Cookies that we use in the Cookies Schedule.
  • You can choose to enable or disable Cookies in your internet browser. By default, most internet browsers accept Cookies but this can be changed. For further details, please consult the help menu in your internet browser.
  • You can choose to delete Cookies at any time; however you may lose any information that enables you to access the Website more quickly and efficiently including, but not limited to, personalisation settings.
  • It is recommended that you ensure that your internet browser is up-to-date and that you consult the help and guidance provided by the developer of your internet browser if you are unsure about adjusting your privacy settings.
  • For more information generally on cookies, including how to disable them, please refer to aboutcookies.org. You will also find details on how to delete cookies from your computer.

General

  • You may not transfer any of your rights under this privacy policy to any other person. We may transfer our rights under this privacy policy where we reasonably believe your rights will not be affected.
  • If any court or competent authority finds that any provision of this privacy policy (or part of any provision) is invalid, illegal or unenforceable, that provision or part-provision will, to the extent required, be deemed to be deleted, and the validity and enforceability of the other provisions of this privacy policy will not be affected.
  • Unless otherwise agreed, no delay, act or omission by a party in exercising any right or remedy will be deemed a waiver of that, or any other, right or remedy.
  • This Agreement will be governed by and interpreted according to the law of England and Wales. All disputes arising under the Agreement will be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English and Welsh courts.

Changes to this privacy policy

  • Hipmarrakech.com LTD reserves the right to change this privacy policy as we may deem necessary from time to time or as may be required by law. Any changes will be immediately posted on the Website and you are deemed to have accepted the terms of the privacy policy on your first use of the Website following the alterations.You may contact Hipmarrakech.com LTD by email at contact@hipmarrakech.com .

Attribution

  • This privacy policy was created using a document from Rocket Lawyer

25 May 2018

Cookies

Below is a list of the cookies that we use. We have tried to ensure this is complete and up to date, but if you think that we have missed a cookie or there is any discrepancy, please let us know.

Strictly necessary

We use the following strictly necessary cookies:

Description of Cookie

Purpose

csrftoken – Instagram

Helps prevent Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) attacks

Analytical/performance

We use the following analytical/performance cookies:

Description of Cookie

Purpose

Google analytics

We use this cookie to help us analyse how users use the website

Targeting

We use the following targeting cookies:

Description of Cookie

Purpose

Google Adwords

We use this cookie to enable us to show you adverts while you are browsing our website and other websites on the internet.

Facebook Pixel

We use this cookie to enable us to show you adverts while you are browsing our website and other websites on the internet.

Twitter

Collects anonymous data related to the user’s visits to the website, such as the number of visits, average time spent on the website and which pages have been loaded, with the purpose of personalizing and improving the Twitter service.

DoubleClick

Used by Google DoubleClick to register and report the website user’s actions after viewing or clicking on e of the advertiser’s ads with the purpose of measuring the efficacy of an ad and to present targeted ads to the user.

The word “Caleche” may not be familiar to you, if you’ve never spent a week or two in Morocco before. The word itself is a french, feminine noun which found it’s way to Morocco during the French Colonisation in the 1950’s.  The term Caleche is now a commonly used name for what is formally known by most as a Barouche, or horse-drawn cart.

A caleche is a type of horse-drawn carriage with a retractable cover for sun-protection. These fanciful modes of transport became popularised in 19th century France, and were mostly used for leisurely journeys in the summer.
The Caleches of Marrakech are light carriages with small wheels at the front, and two larger wheels at the rear, with inside seats for four to six passengers. The carriages are usually drawn by two medium-large horses of equal height.

In Marrakech you can take a tour of the city by Caleche, which can last from 20 minutes up to 2 hours depending on the time you have designated. There are several main pick-up points within the medina and the New City; which you can find by using our free Marrakech Riad Travel Guide App. This is a great way to explore the city if you are tired from walking, as the caleches can often reach areas of town which are not accessible by car. The open top of the carriage, and the slow moving nature of the caleche ride allows for some brilliant photo opportunities of major landmarks and historical features.

In previous years, the horses used to draw Caleches in Morocco, were not well kept. Often malnourished and dehydrated, they were thin, lame and in constant pain from untreated harness wounds; which caused an uproar amongst animal activists. Thankfully, attention around this issue caused a charitable organisation called SPANA to step in and take action.
SPANA is an international charity which supports working animals around the world, and their Morocco branch based in Doudiat is a literal life-saver for so many animals in Marrakech. SPANA’s Caleche Horse Programme has influenced major improvement in the overall care, health and wellbeing of the working horses in Marrakech. By teaming up with local authorities, SPANA created a licensing scheme whereby horses must be regularly inspected on various health factors, for their owners to be able to continue using them for work. They must be well fed, well cared for and have access to farriery, dentistry and veterinary care before the owners can obtain or maintain their Caleche license.
You might notice that many horses have a blue “SPANA” tag around their ankle, which indicates that they have been micro-chipped and are being thoroughly monitored. The charity have also installed several free-to-use water troughs around the city, to combat animal dehydration.
Bravo to SPANA for all their hard work in improving the lives of working animals around the world.

So, next time you visit Marrakech why not try out a Caleche tour for yourselves?
Contact us today to book your accommodation.

 

 

Whilst exploring all that Marrakech has to offer, it’s highly likely that you will come across the works of world renowned artist Hassan Hajjaj. His creations can be found gracing the walls of numerous venues in the red city, but his work branches out much further than Marrakech,

Hassan Hajjaj is a Moroccan born, contemporary artist – better known as “The Andy Warhol of Morocco”. Branching out from his roots, Hajjaj (born Larache), now works between the cities of Marrakech, London and New York; making a name for himself on both the underground and mainstream art worlds.

His contemporary works come in the format of film & photography, as well as a combination of mixed media pieces in a vibrant “pop art” genre. Hassan Hajjaj spoke in an interview with ArtNet News about his influences, and although naturally inspired by a range of photographers who’s images have appeared in various magazine spreads; the majority of his influence comes from music and his presence in the underground music scene over the years of his life. His photographs and films take on an aspect of story telling, documenting the present moment, or taking a look into the potential of the future, always giving the viewer an impression of the human characters involved.

As Hajjaj’s career has taken off, he has made many notable achievements as an artist. In 2009, Hajjaj was shortlisted for Victoria & Albert Museum’s Jameel prize, and in 2011, he was awarded the Sovereign Middle East and African Art Prize. In 2013, Rose Issa Projects published a monograph of the artist exploring his upbringing in Morocco and London, focusing particularly on the significance of his experiences in fashion, interior design, the music scene and his highly-acclaimed photographic creations.  Recently he shot the front cover for New York magazine, featuring music artist Cardi B. He describes this type of commissioned work as being much more about meeting the brief of the client, than exploring his own creative intuition; however he remains true to his very distinctive styling, namely brightly coloured motifs and borders which pay tribute to his African, or more specifically Moroccan heritage. In fact, these pop-art style borders and motifs, particularly mimic the traditional Mosaic which is seen repeatedly in Moroccan architecture; but have evolved to often also have a similarity to the bold patterns of West African prints.

As his art career progresses, Hajjaj remains connected to Morocco and the influences which inspired him from the beginning. Largely, his personal creations (which are not commissioned by other clients) still feature characters and attributes of the Maghreb.

In fact, Hajjaj’s studio in Marrakech is open to the public and is found under the name of Riad Yima, located just behind Rahba Lakdima, more commonly known as the Place des Epices (Spice Market). The space is now a dedicated gallery for the vibrant photographic pieces, as well as a tea room and boutique. A must see for all art enthusiasts staying in Marrakech.

During the Marrakech 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair, held on the last weekend of February 2018; Riad Yima housed performances by Hassan Hajjaj himself, as well as an exhibition of photographic works by Yassine Aaoui Ismaili, also known as Yoriyas. Yoriyas is an up and coming, Casablanca-based photographer. This particular exhibition focused on showcasing a more honest view of the city of Casablanca, beyond the Colonial impression which was so famously publicised in the 1942 feature length film.

Be sure to visit Riad Yima, and keep your eyes peeled for Hassan Hajjaj’s iconic works on your next visit to Marrakech. Contact us today at Marrakech Riad to plan your trip!

The dyers district covers two sides of the main path, through Souk Sebbaghine. If you choose to take the “needle and thread” walk, then you can use our Marrakech Travel Guide App to help you along your way. The app is free to download to your phone or tablet and functions without internet connection, so you may never need to lose your sense of direction when navigating the labyrinth of the ancient Medina!

You might wish to take a guide with you when you visit the dyers souk, to have somebody who is multilingual and can give you an explanation in your native language, as to the processes taking place here. You should view this as a service, and expect to make some payment for it. Alternatively, any one of the dyers in the souk will be happy to give a demonstration of their work for you.

As you head along the route past the Mouassine fountain, you’ll meet a fork in the road and take the path to your left. Take another left and you’ll be led to the dyers district via several shops selling colourful textiles and tagine pots! Here you have the option to take a hidden path to your left which opens out into the larger of the dying areas, or a hidden path to your right which opens into a tiny nook filled with wool-dying workshops. If you are looking for a calm, hassle-free experience, then you are probably best taking the right hand path, which runs just between the mosque and the row of stores. You will know you are in the right place because the walls are covered with brightly coloured patches of dye & handprints.

In this little opening, you might find artisans sitting enjoying a mint tea on their lunch break or busy activating the large dying pots. You will notice that their hands are stained a dark grey shade, which is created by a combination of the natural dyes they handle as well as the charcoal used to heat the vats of boiling water.

Within each workshop, a different task is undertaken. The largest of the tiny spaces is occupied by the dying apparatus, which includes several large metal pots or vats for dip dying, boiling and setting the colour, as well as a kind of washing machine drum for spinning and draining wool, all hand driven.

Other workshops focus on making sections of felt from the wool, using the black olive soap and a technique of scrubbing wool strands layer upon layer. This method is known as “wet felting” and is used to create a variety of final products such as bags, shoes and decorative pom-poms.

Waiting on the sidelines, you will find merchants with chariots and buckets; bringing raw wool strands and taking away bundles of coloured wool to sell in the market. Apprentices help to carry heavy loads, and bring pots of tea for the artisans.

Of course, it is possible to dye any organic textile in this souk and if you take the left hand route then you will see examples of natural leather being dyed. As the dyes are made with natural colourants, synthetic textiles wont take the colour with the same vibrancy as the organic textiles.

It seems that the small regions within the dyers souk, focus on one specific colour each day. This is because the vats need to be cleaned in between each colour used, as to not let the dyes become muddy or mixed. This makes for great photos of vibrant, rich coloured cotton threads hanging out to dry. The dyers souk transforms every day, as the colour in the pots is changed.

To experience this for yourselves, contact us today and book your trip to Marrakech.

The 1-54 fair is a leading international art event founded by Touria El Glaoui in 2013. This dynamic and sustainable art fair celebrates contemporary art from Africa and African artists dispersed from the motherland, and has hosted events in London and New York City.  The next event launches at La Mamounia, Marrakech between the 24th-25th of February 2018 and features 17 iconic galleries from Africa and worldwide. Prepare to have your senses awakened by the works of over 60 international artists in partnership with local galleries and venues.

We are very excited to see this globally recognised event brought to the city of Marrakech for the first time. On the 24th & 25th of the month; viewers are invited to experience an array of fabulous and emotive works from a variety of artists, including performances by Elisabeth Efua Sutherland and photographic works by photographic works by artists such as Ishola Akpo, Joana Choumali, Namsa Leuba, Nicola Lo Calzo, François-Xavier Gbré, Mouna Karray and Lebohang Kganye.

A multi-faceted celebration awaits us, with the international launch of The Museum of African Contemporary Art Al Maaden (MACAAL), beginning with a new exhibition “Africa Is No Island” (curated by Afrique in Visu). The exhibition will open on Sunday 25th February and runs until the 24th August 2018. You will find this art venue located in the area of Sidi Youssef Ben Ali, Marrakech.

Afrique in Visu is in essence a collective photography project established in 2006, which captures a glimpse of Africa in a light which challenges and aims to shut down the misrepresentations of Africa and life within this vibrant continent. The ‘Africa Is No Island’ exhibition will be featured alongside a presentation of the project’s latest book release ‘Le Métier de Photographe en Afrique 10 ans d’Afrique in Visu’ with a view to encourage international visitors to immerse themselves in the creativity of Africa.

Follow this link to learn more about the 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair Marrakech event.

This is truly an event not to miss, so why not catch your last minute flights to join us in the red city?

Contact us to book your luxury accommodation today. Our stylish riads are placed in the heart of it all, and the perfect tranquil venue to enjoy the exhibitions which will be dotted around us.

As you pass through the ancient medina, with your senses being overwhelmed by sounds, smells and colour, you might miss a few small details. A detail which is particularly worthy of noting, are the small signs which are dotted around the walls of various attractions or industrial areas which read “Initiative Nationale pour le Developpement Humain”. These signs are indicative that the project or co-operative it is mounted onto, is backed and maintained by the Moroccan Government’s National Human Development Incentive.

The incentive was launched in May 2005 by His Majesty the King Mohammed VI in an effort to reduce poverty, instability and social exclusion for Moroccans. The project aims to make steps in changing these factors by way of providing activities which aim to combat unemployment. Examples such as training programmes, job creation, sports leadership and income promotion have been cropping up all over Morocco, and are designed to spark motivation for generating income without participating in criminal activity. The programme promises to be accessible to all Moroccans, and inclusive of the most impoverished areas.

There are four programmes at play, which all strive to benefit different targets and these are as follows:

  1. Fighting against rural poverty in all regions of Morocco.
  2. Fighting against social exclusion in urban areas of Morocco.
  3. The program of fighting against precariousness (unstable situations such as homelessness, the poor elderly and street children).
  4. The transversal project which aims to support unemployed people living in non-target communal spaces.

The project has a budget of 10 billion dirhams and in time, this incentive aims to lift the human development index of Morocco which has been ranked as relatively low; due to low rates of literacy, life expectancy and income.

Partially due to the Arab Spring in 2011 and the marginalisation it caused for young people from the labour market; the role of growth in reducing unemployment is key in Morocco.
Morocco is a low medium income country and the majority of income in the economy comes from services and tourist trade, followed by agriculture, industry and lastly construction.

The good news is that in the years since the project was launched in 2005, Morocco has made huge steps in addressing poverty and improving living situations for Morocco’s poorest residents. In the last decade, Moroccan economic growth patterns have been increasingly stable; and in the past 15  years the growth of Moroccan economy has been continuously positive.

In terms of statistics in the past decade, each year has recorded on average 123,000 new entrants into the labour market within Morocco and beyond this, approximately 164,000 jobs were created each year between the years 2000 and 2008. The sectors of construction and service are recorded as being the most efficient in creating jobs; but the incentives aim to increase jobs in the industrial sector too. The leather industry is one of the oldest historical industries in Morocco, but it has been shrinking since 2005 – so the government are backing training programmes which will ideally introduce young Moroccan’s to this sector and promote a sustainable career in the field.


There are also many grass roots organisations cropping up, which aim to make a change in the structure of Moroccan employment and education. Non-profit organisations such as Henna Cafe Marrakech, provide free classes to Moroccans and refugees of all ages in various subjects such as literacy, numeracy, languages, study-groups and kids club.

Your tourism has a great impact on the economy of Morocco, so contact us and plan your visit today. It’s time to see all that this diverse country has to offer…

 

The ancient tanneries of Marrakech are the perhaps crude, but very functional industrial areas where animal skins are put through the stages of a process called “tanning”. Essentially, it is where animal skins undergo the transformation from raw animal to workable leather.

For many years, the tanneries have been an attraction for visitors who wish to learn more about the process of creating leather; as well as the industry in Morocco. Unfortunately in more recent times, the tanneries have become the subject of several negative reviews online. A quick google search of “Marrakech tanneries”, will surely give you copious terrible accounts of the experiences other travellers have had. These experiences and reviews are undoubtedly off-putting for other’s planning to holiday in Marrakech; but we would implore people to not be afraid of venturing into the tanneries, provided they read this article first!

Throughout history, the tanneries of Marrakech have remained the same in an architectural sense, but have dramatically changed in their infrastructure. Once owned exclusively by several families; the houses surrounding the tanneries were only inhabited by the men who worked in the industry, along with their wives and children. Nowadays, many of these houses have become co-operatives and leather shops, in an effort to keep up with the tourist industry within Marrakech.

We recently visited one of these co-operatives, Chez Hassan Berbere. Hassan (known locally and by friends as Hassan Berbere) is the over-all owner of the house in which this co-operative was established. The house and the rights to the use of the tannery, were passed down to him by his father who had been a tannery worker all of his adult life. In an effort to create more income for his community, Hassan established the co-operative set up. The house comprises of two shops stocking a variety of leather goods from belts to babouche, poofes to purses, as well as two terraces with fantastic views over the tanneries and beyond (you can even see the backdrop of the Atlas mountains).

We decided to take a tour with Mohammed Al Hala, one of the members of the co-operative. He had a really relaxed and friendly approach to showing us around, as well as being very knowledgable and well versed in English.  He told us that he likes to take a “no pressure” approach to showing people around, as he understands that it is very problematic for people to be hassled. He explained that for him, it is very important that the visitors first and foremost feel that they have learned something from their tour. His motto is “If someone arrives smiling, they should leave smiling”, that way when they recall the experience they will be encouraged to return and bring their friends.

To begin our tour, Mohammed guided us up to the terrace viewing point. Through a large window, we were able to get a decent birds-eye view of the tanneries; and looking out beyond the tannery we could see the beautiful red hues of Marrakech, with dotted palm trees and a backdrop of the Atlas Mountains. This makes for a great photo opportunity, so be sure to bring your camera along!

Following this, we headed downstairs to the entrance of the tannery. At the door, Mohammed handed us a generous handful of mint leaves and instructed us to crush them and hold to our nose. This proved to be very effective in masking the stench coming out of the tannery pots – but we did visit on a cool day (a hot day would likely be significantly stinkier)!

Mohammed gave a clear, step-by-step description of the process of creating leather from start to finish. We saw a demonstration of the raw skins (with hair) being rubbed in sea salt to clean off any bacteria. The sodium chloride in sea salt is a powerful anti-bacterial substance and so this is a very effective, natural cleansing routine. Removing the bacteria means that the skins will not rot or go mouldy once they’re used as leather.

 

 

The skins are then coated in a thick paste made from water and powdered limestone (‘jia’ in local dialect). They sit coated in this paste for 15 days, which improves elasticity of the skin so that it can be stretched into whole pieces of leather, without tearing.

 

A natural ammonium chloride solution is made by a fairly unpleasant technique. Pigeon droppings are left in a vat of cold water for several days, to create a liquid solution in which the leather is soaked. We already know that pigeon droppings contain uric acid, because we can see the effect it has on our cars! This ammonium chloride solution (although stinky) is the best option in terms of not leaving a foul smell on the leather. It serves as a natural bleaching agent to take the natural colour out of the skins, in order for them to be dyed later. We found several dogs and cats were taking a rest on the edge of the large ammonia filled vats, clearly the odour wasn’t unpleasant to their senses!

The skins are then hung out to dry, before the hair and flesh is removed with a sharp scraping tool. The pieces are then stretched by hand and sold by the kilo. The leather is not dyed in the tanneries, but many pieces are taken to the dyers souk (named Bab D’bah).

After our tour, we were given a sweet Moroccan tea to enjoy and had an opportunity to browse the shops. Mohammed showed us examples of products made from different kinds of leather. It was really interesting to be able to feel the difference in quality of leather from a range of animal skins; including sheep, goat, cow and camel leather! We didn’t ever feel under pressure to make a purchase, but with so many beautiful items on offer it is difficult to resist. We even felt that we wanted to leave a tip with Mohammed, for the tour and his time.

After the tour, Hassan explained that he has a long term aim to expand the co-operative. The house next door belongs to his sister, and she would like to be able to convert her place into a business alongside her brother. Due to the large production of leather in Marrakech, it is necessary for them to also compete in the tourist industry to make a fair living wage. He hopes that visitors will be encouraged to find his place and take a tour of the tanneries, as for him it is very important that this industry is kept current and alive.

You can find Chez Hassan Berbere on the “leather route”, by using our FREE Marrakech Riad Travel Guide app.

Contact us today to book your Marrakech holiday.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For Moroccans, food is a big deal! A full belly is the key to a full and happy mind, and within the framework of this culture; a person takes immense pride in cooking delicious, fresh meals.

When in Morocco, you will find that the most accessible groceries in the local markets are the required ingredients to make a tagine. This can feel quite limiting to a Western visitor, who may be used to a wider range of options at their fingertips. Fear not, for there are many restaurants in Marrakech serving world foods from all corners of the globe. Moreover, an abundance of tagine recipes exist; and you can try them all!

“Tagine” refers to the vessel in which the meal is prepared, rather than the ingredients. The tagine is an earthenware (terracota) pot which has a conical lid to seal it when cooking. Traditionally the tagine pot would have been placed on an open fire but in the modern age they tend to be placed on a gas hob at a low heat, with a heat diffuser in between. These pots might be glazed, but often in a Moroccan household the presentation tagine pots are glazed, whilst the preferred pot for cooking is not. Over time, the non-glazed clay will absorb the spices and flavours of the meals prepared within it & this adds a beautiful depth to the flavour of the food prepared thereafter.

You might find recipes online which refer to a tagine as a “stew”, and although it is fair to draw comparisons; it is inaccurate to state that they are the same. A stew and a tagine are both slow cooked dishes, but where a stew might have a thick sauce made predominantly with water, a tagine is (in most cases) prepared solely with an oil base to the sauce.

In this post, you will find the recipe for a tagine with fish, the local Darija Arabic word for this is “mqualli”. You can use almost any type of white fish for this one, but we used shark meat! Shark is known locally as “l’kash” and is available in many of the small fish markets located within the walls of the old medina. When buying meat in Marrakech, you can always ask the fishmonger or the butcher to portion it into “tagine sized” pieces.

The ingredients (to serve 4):

  • Approx 1kg of white fish (“hout” in Moroccan arabic) of your choice, in this case shark.
  • 2 green bell peppers (fiflah heloa, meaning sweet pepper).
  • 5 medium white potatoes (patatas – that’s an easy one).
  • 3 large tomatoes. (matisha)
  • 6 cherry tomatoes.
  • 2 carrots (hizou).
  • 1 fresh bunch of parsley (l’kzoh).
  • Juice of 4 small lemons (hamt, meaning bitter).
  • 3 cloves garlic (tuma).
  • 2 hot birds-eye chilli peppers (harra, meaning burning hot)
  • 2 tablespoons cumin (l’kamun).
  • 2 tablespoons turmeric (l’ krqum).
  • 2 tablespoons paprika (tt’Hmira).
  • 3 to 5 tablespoons of vegetable oil (zeet).

Preparation: 

  1. Begin by peeling and soaking the potatoes and carrots in a bowl or pan of cold water. Then cut the green bell peppers endways to create round, chunky slices. Add those to the cold water too. You can also soak the hot chilli peppers whole.
  2. Once the carrots have been soaking for a few minutes, cut out the middle section from the carrots. You can see how this is done in the photos within this article. In Moroccan food preparation, the centre of the carrot is always removed to allow the carrot to cook faster and become softer.  Then proceed to cut the carrot lengthways into thin sticks. 
  3. Wash and finely chop or dice the parsley.
  4. Peel and finely chop the garlic cloves.
  5. Rinse the tagine pot with cold water & leave a splash of water in the base.
  6. Wash the shark meat (or white fish of your choice) under the cold water tap & place the pieces in the centre of the tagine pot.
  7. Scatter all of the parsley over the top of the meat, followed by the garlic and a generous helping of vegetable oil.
  8. Squeeze the lemon juice from all 4 lemons over the ingredients in the tagine pot. Be liberal, the lemon juice really activates the flavours of the white fish.
  9. Sprinkle the spices onto the top of the ingredients and mix everything together by hand so that the spices, parsley and garlic are equally distributed.
  10. Remove the marinated meat from the tagine pot and place onto a separate plate or bowl for the moment. Leave some parsley and garlic in the oil at the bottom of the tagine pot.
  11. Cover the base of the tagine pot with the carrot sticks, these need to be closest to the heat source as they take longest to cook, then the green bell peppers to follow.
  12. Re-assemble the meat into the tagine pot, upon the carrots and green pepper. Then add slices of large red tomatoes over the meat, followed by thick slices of potato.
  13. Finally place the cherry tomatoes and hot chilli peppers on top of the other ingredients, and cover it with the tagine lid.
  14. Place on a low-medium flame for 2 1/2 hours. You can cook the tagine on as low of a heat as you like, but adjust the time accordingly. Once the tagine starts to cook, it is advisable to create a small gap for air between the base and the lid. A simple and effective way of doing this, is to place a large metal spoon in the opening.
  15. Enjoy the tagine with fresh baked bread and a cup of mint tea!

 

If you are interested in Moroccan cuisine, then you should consider participating in one of our fabulous cooking classes at Riad Star. We have an abundance of delicious recipes at the ready…

Contact us to find out more.

A rare and spectacular sight is occurring in Southern Morocco right now (early February 2018), with snow falling on even the driest, lowland regions.  As far south as Zagora (known as the gateway to the Sahara), residents are facing the first recorded snowfall in 50 years. Following decades of hot & dry weather, the region is at a standstill with 2 to 3 inches of snow settling on the ground.
The snow in Zagora has arrived at a time when children have a national holiday, so it has been a new and exciting experience for many of the young residents who might have never seen snow before in their lives. It is a warming sight to behold as they play with sledges in the street!
On the other hand, the homes just aren’t built for such weather conditions; meaning that the nights are dangerously cold for those living in Zagora. The palm trees are also suffering, and although it is told that many species of palm trees can survive even sub-zero temperatures; the palm trees of the Sahara Desert are not accustomed to such a climate.

This snow fall isn’t unique to Zagora. In fact; these freak snow storms have been affecting the Sahara and low lands of Morocco throughout January. The first snow in the Sahara region was recorded at the beginning of the year on the Algerian border, followed closely by Ouarzazate and Taroudant receiving their first recorded snow in 30 years. The aesthetic of these lush palmeries and dry plains covered with the white snow is really quite incredible. It is reported that the cause of this snow fall is a mass of air blowing in from Northern Europe.

Weather reports show that the current forecasted temperatures are ranging between -04 and 1°C, with a mazimum of 9°C in Ouarzazate. Despite the freezing temperatures and the damage to crops; locals are still counting their blessings and finding ways to enjoy this new climate!

Snow fall in the Sahara Desert.

If you plan on visiting Marrakech, now might be the perfect time to make an excursion to the South. You can reach Ouarzazate from Marrakech, in just 4 hours – perfect for an overnight excursion. If you’re feeling more adventurous, then why not try a Sahara desert road trip? But be quick, this weather will not last long and before you know it the snow will have melted away!

Contact us to book your Marrakech holiday today.

A shop selling and repairing second hand shoes in Marrakech, Morocco.

A credit is due to the Marrakchi (local Moroccan) people,  for their ability to restore and salvage materials and items which we might usually disregard or replace. There is really no disposable attitude towards possessions. If something is acquired, it is generally worked hard for and therefore treasured. Not only plastic bottles and bags, electrical equipment and appliances are mended – clothes and shoes will usually have a second or third life.

Hand-me-downs are valued highly within the family home in Morocco. If something can be passed down to a younger relative or a peer, then it will be without question.

Buying second hand clothes in the market (such as Bab el Khamis, the Thursday market) is also a popular choice amongst locals. It’s a great place to visit and pick up bargains, you might be very surprised by the obscure things you can find there.

If you happen to find a pair of shoes you like, but they do not fit you – it’s not a problem. You will find several shoe repair shops in Riad Laarous where for a few dirhams, the shoe maker will place your shoes on a special vice for some hours to resize (stretch) them! He will also have many piles of second hand shoes for sale, it can be so fun to see the eclectic mix of footwear he has acquired.

If you are someone who enjoys the thrill of finding a bargain in a charity shop, thrift store or a car boot sale, then you will find so much fun to be had at the second hand markets of Marrakech.

Book your trip with us today! Contact us for more information on your visit…

 

Available for purchase, local organic virgin olive oil in recycled plastic bottles.

Looking at the topic of recycling in Marrakech, there are several ways in which the locals maintain a “waste not, want not” mentality. It is wonderful to behold the reality of a community in which people salvage what they can use again & look for practical solutions to step away from a throw-away, disposable society.

As well as the plastic bag ban, another great example of these waste combating incentives is the trading of plastic bottles in exchange for household items.

During a week, the Moroccan household is likely to accumulate an abundance of plastic bottles from various products, such as 5l water bottles or vegetable oil containers. Rather than casting away the bottles into the trash, the family have a much better solution available to them. It is possible to trade the plastic bottles for essential household cleaning products, at a variety of small outlets which are dotted around the ancient medina and surrounding suburbs.

These tiny trade spots specialise in homemade cleaning products, such as floor cleaner, bleach, dish and laundry soap. The products are very strong and often have a heavy perfume. Amongst the housewives of Morocco, they are favoured over the branded products which are also available.

The more plastic bottles you offer to the shop keeper, the more product you can take away without any monetary payment. The merchant will use these bottles for future customers or, if he has enough, will sell the excess bottles on to olive farmers who re-fill them with their olive oil . 

If you’re just visiting Marrakech, you probably wont be doing much cleaning – but you certainly should be drinking plenty of bottled water! Look out for the stores selling only cleaning products or olive oil & offer them your empties. Alternatively you can always leave them with your local shop keeper or the housekeeper, as they will be ready to make the trade on your behalf.

Come and be a part of it all, contact us to book your stay today!

The end of 2017 brought us a sequel to the award winning Planet Earth; and along with this visually stunning nature series came a general mass-awakening to the human responsibility of preserving the planet we live upon.

A hot political topic in January 2018 has been the damaging effects of plastic waste on the ecology of sea life, as well as the consequential damage to all of our environments. There are several efforts being made to create change in the way that Morocco uses plastics & opportunities for people visiting Marrakech to minimise their “plastic footprint”.

Back in November 2016, Marrakech was the chosen location for Cop 22; the twenty-second session of The Conference Of Parties, in a discussion about how to move towards a multilateral co-operation about climate change. Although just a small step in the right direction, this meeting and the festivities around it have sparked a dialogue amongst residents of Morocco & created a wave of up and coming projects which focus on creating a more “green” Morocco.

One of the consequential law changes made in Morocco following Cop 22, was the national ban on disposable plastic bags. Unlike the laws in much of the EU, which allow the continuation of plastic bag production, but at the cost of the consumer; the governing body in Morocco aims to completely eradicate the presence and production of disposable bags in the entire country. This movement has been in play since early 2009, but reached a real progression point following this festival.

This legislation is known as “Zero-Mika”; mika meaning plastic in the local Arabic dialect. The implementation of this law was one of the first of it’s kind in Africa, with Rwanda being the only other African country at the time to support a blanket-ban on plastic bags.

According to a few news sources; Moroccan authorities seized in excess of 420 tonnes of plastic bags in the year after the law was implemented. To put that into some perspective, that’s around the weight equivalent of 30 double-decker buses! This fact alone is surely a testament to the time when Morocco was named the world’s second-largest consumer of plastic bags and a strong indication of the importance of this ban.

So naturally, the public of Morocco required a suitable alternative to plastic bags. There are essentially two “green” options currently available in the world and those are recyclable or biodegradable. The Moroccan parliament have moved in favour of encouraging re-usable carrier bags, rather than biodegradable. These re-usable bags are now readily available (gratuit!) from many convenience stores in Marrakech.

It is really important that these options are carefully considered when finding solutions to cut-down the use of non-recyclable materials. The steps we take now are pivotal in influencing climate change and establishing a balance between consumerism, capitalism and environmentalism! Biodegradable bags are problematic, because of the time time it takes for them to decompose, as well as where they eventually settle to begin this process. Re-usable bags are a great solution, provided we follow suit and vow to re-cycle them so that their production will be minimised.

Look out for these free re-usable carriers on your next visit to Morocco and dare to refuse disposable plastic bags when offered to you by shop keepers. The only way that these incentives can work is if we (the consumers) engage with them. If you are traveling and you find that you are left with an excess of re-usable carrier bags, consider taking them back to your local shop before you leave as they will certainly be used again. Alternatively, the large re-usable bags make ideal laundry bags for your travels.

Bravo Morocco, for taking responsible steps and leading by example!

The majestic winding streets of Marrakech and their aesthetic are only improved by the “Zero-Mika” project. Come and join us in the heart of it all and contact us to book your trip today…

Marrakech is an ever popular destination for celebrities, and as the popularity of this fabled red city grows year on year it is becoming the choice of destination for important celebrations.

This year was no exception. Ronaldo was just one of a host of celebrities who chose to see in the New Year in the red city.

Star footballer Christiano Ronaldo was spotted in Marrakech with his family in April and has invested in property in Morocco . Popular Instagram blogger Maria Dolores snapped a photo of Ronaldo’s family enjoying a caleche ride around the city of Marrakech.

Marrakech is easily accessible from Europe with many flight options and the popularity of the city continues to rise.

If you would like to experience the star treatment in Marrakech contact us to arrange a stay at one of our boutique riads where you will find an oasis of calm and relaxation.
Just relax and let us arrange Spa treatments, caleche rides, romantic dinners and perfect hospitality.

 

 

 

The 29th edition of the  Marrakech marathon will take place on the 28 th January 2018.

His Majesty King Mohammed VI is the patron of this event, where more than 8000 runners from all around the world will take part in a most prestigious marathon. The stunning circuit in Marrakech is considered to be one of the fastest in the world, and the mild January climate makes it an exceptional setting.

Accommodation will be at a premium during true event, so please contact us to discuss availability.

Participants can register to take part in the event via the Marrakech Marathon website.

The awards ceremony will take place on 29 th January, where medals will be awarded to participants.

Marrakech Riad wish all participants a wonderful event, and great finishing times!

 

Moroccan pastry chef, Said Lâouaouda, could enter the Guinness World Records thanks to the gigantic 140-kilogram pie.

The young Chef from Morocco has created a vast Panettone; a traditional Italian cake made with candied fruits and pearl sugar.

The mammoth task took four days of work by four people.  The recipe required 69 kilograms of flour, 27 kilograms of butter, 18 kilograms of sugar, 15 kilograms of egg yolks, 18 kilograms of raisins and 11 kilograms of candied orange

The Panettone weighs 140 kilos, and is 2 meters high and 1 meter and a half wide.

The initiative hopes to raise funds for charity as well as hitting the history books by being entered into  the Guinness Book of records.

Everyone at Marrakech Riad Cookery school wishes Said Lâouaouda and his team the very best of luck with this project. Always aim for the stars!

If you love cooking and learning new recipes from other parts of the world, contact us to arrange a cookery lesson while you are visiting beautiful Marrakech.

Fodor’s Travel Guide is the world’s largest and professional travel guide book.

Marrakech has been placed at the top of its “Travel Go List for 2018.” beating 51 other renowned world holiday destinations to top the 2018 list.

“This romantic desert oasis is set to be one of 2018’s most fashionable vacations,” Fodor’s said.
“Marrakech really is a magical world that deserves to be explored,” said Jeremy Tarr, the editorial director of Fodors.com.
“Marrakesh is a dreamy maze of spice-scented streets filled with vendors, cafes, and hidden palaces.”

Given its alleyways and winding labyrinths full of home-made crafts, Marrakech is a city full of secrets and the best way to explore it is by getting lost. We at Marrakech riads have developed the free  Marrakech Riad Travel app which will help you to ‘get lost’ but to safely find your way back to your Riad home.

Marrakech is a famous city, both within Morocco and worldwide, it holds peoples hearts and captures a deep sense of historical and cultural wealth and many great tourist attractions.

Fodor’s website suggest some must-see places in the ochre city, including “the lush Jardin Majorelle, outside the walls of the city centre, is a respite from the sensory overload of the medina” adding that “The Bahia Palace and the Ben Youssef Medersa are a step back in time through Marrakech’s royal past, with breathtaking architecture and attention to detail.”

For 80 years, Fodor’s Travel has been a trusted resource for travellers.

Contact us to reserve your Marrakech trip today!

The first time that Josephine heard a news report of her own death, she was lying on a chaise relaxing whilst enjoying the scent of the fragranced trees upon the rooftop gardens of Mohamed Menebhi’s palace. The very same complex of buildings are today Riad Star in Marrakech. 

Josephine’s response, as reported by Ollie Stewart, a journalist for the Afro American; was witty and sharp. “There has been a slight error, I’m much to busy to die!”
Her gay smile and French accent showed that Josephine was playfully amused by the news, as she relaxed with her face uplifted towards the eternal snows of the distant Atlas Mountains.

Today the roof gardens once loved by Josephine still bask within sight of the majestic snow capped  Atlas Mountains, with the addition of a spa and hammam the roof gardens of Riad Star are now more than ever the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Contact us to arrange your visit to Josephines former residence in Magical Marrakech.

We all have different motivations to travel, and we all have different styles of doing so.  To take a break from daily routine, to relax, to experience something new, to learn, to challenge our understandings of other places and other cultures, to step outside our daily norms and broaden our awareness of the world and also to be looked after and rest.

We believe that a stay in Marrakech can perfectly fulfil those ideals when staying in a riad. A riad is a traditional Moroccan courtyard house situated in the original and ancient walled city (Medina). A riad is a perfect oasis of calm situated within the fascinating souks and alleyways of the Medina.  With no need for transport and with no precious holiday time wasted you step out of the door of your riad and you are instantly immersed in the richest and most vibrant environment.  Wander in the souks, visit ancient monuments and museums, enjoy the cafe culture and watch the theatre of daily lie unfold around you. Then when you are ready for a rest, some pampering or maybe to learn to cook a delicious Moroccan dish in our in house cookery school; simply wander back to your home in the souk.

The staff at the riads are at your service at all times, we offer a wonderful concierge service to our guests, we really do go the extra mile to ensure that you get to enjoy your holiday your way. Contact us today to arrange your perfect break in the magical red city of Marrakech.

 

Marrakech Riad are thrilled to be sponsoring  TEDxMarrakesh for the third time.

This year the theme will be “Tribes & Trolls”, focusing on digitalization and how our lives are impacted by social media, artificial intelligence, virtual reality, block chain, bitcoins and psycho-graphics. Where are we standing now and even more important – where are we heading to?

The speakers will be sharing ideas about the benefits as well as the dangers of living in a digitally connected, global world. But also on how we define our world and how we ourselves are being defined. Who are our “real” friends? What do we really “like”? What it means growing up in a digital world for the next generation, etc.

TED stands for Technology, Entertainment and Design and is an organization founded 1984 in the spirit of spreading good ideas. TED later created a program called TEDx, a program of local, self-organized events that spark discussions and create new thoughts. TEDxMarrakesh mission is to bring people together to share live inspirational speakers and artistic performances mixed with TED-videos. TEDxMarrakesh has produced five successful TEDx-events since 2011 and is part of the global TEDx-conversation of powerful people who believe that spreading ideas can stimulate change!

The sixth edition of TEDxMarrakesh will take place on Saturday October 21 2017 at Es Saadi Palace.

For accommodation in Marrakech during the TEDx event please contact us. 

Iftar or Ftour is the shared meal eaten at sunset during Ramadan to break the fasting of the day.

Muslims break their fast at the time of the call to prayer for the evening prayer.

Iftar is often done as a community, with people gathering to break their fast together.

Iftar is taken around sunset. Feeding others at Iftar is a form of charity, which was first practiced by the Prophet Mohammed and is seen to be an act of good Muslim faith.

Many Muslims break their fast by eating three dates, as this is said to have been the way that the prophet began his iftar.

An Iftar meal generally includes fruit juices, harira soup, boiled eggs, dates and sweet pastries along side other favourite family dishes.

If you are interested in learning about the food of Morocco you may enjoy our Flavours of Marrakech tour.

Contact us to make your reservation, we are on hand to make your visit to Marrakech perfect for you.

 

 

 

Lonely Planet and the Daily Express have voted Morocco as a perfect destination for the month of May. Their Darling buds of May selections urges travellers to visit in the spring.

The Kingdom of Morocco made it to the listing thanks to its “ideal temperature”, marvelous landscapes and flower festival.

Marrakech hovers in the high 20°C perfect for wandering the souks; coastal Essaouira is a refreshing 20°C (68°F); and the Sahara is hot (30°C+; 86°F+) but still at a temperature where it is comfortable to make a visit.

Special seasonal reference was made to the Valley of the Roses, in the High Atlas Mountains for being “particularly pretty during its May flower festival.”

In addition, it highlighted Mount Toubkal which, reaching 13,671 feet high, offers an adventurous hikes for adrenaline junkies and promises an unforgettable experience to whoever visits it.

A base in Marrakech which is served by the beautiful new Menara Airport is the perfect start to your Moroccan adventure. And what better way to enjoy the authentic Morocco than a stay in a traditional riad. Experience true affordable luxury at one of our four beautiful riads.

Contact us with your wishlist, and let us make it a reality for you.

At Riad Star we have considered all of the aspects which make running a retreat simple and effective for group leaders.
We offer:

  • A seamless arrival service for your guests , with private airport transfers
  • Private Hammam and Spa
  • Delicious meals made with healthy locally sourced ingredients
  • Concierge service for all guests
  • Dietary plans to suit many requirements
  • Luxuriously appointed rooms which can all be arranged to create twin shared accommodations
  • Rooms with meditation spaces are available upon request.
  • Complimentary mobile telephone communication systems in place for tour leader and guests while in Marrakech
  • ……………and most importantly space. Calm spaces to practice, to meditate and to simply be.

If you are a yoga group leader and would like to discuss the requirements of your group please contact us to begin planning a Yoga trip of a lifetime for your group.

On November 28th 1973 Josephine Baker sang at a very special event.

A fashion show was organised to raise funds to restore King Louis XIV’s palace of  Versaille in France.

Created by Eleanor Lambert and Versailles curator Gerald Van der Kemp, the show pitted French designers (Yves Saint Laurent, Pierre Cardin, Emanuel Ungaro, Christian Dior, and Hubert de Givenchy) against American designers (Oscar de la Renta, Stephen Burrows, Halston, Bill Blass, and Anne Klein, who brought along her assistant, Donna Karan).

The guest list to this unique show was an array of the social elite such as Princess Grace, Marie-Hélène de Rothschild, Jacqueline de Ribes, Gloria Guinness, Andy Warhol and Liza Minnelli, the event became legendary.

Each designer was to submit eight designs for consideration. The French designers viewed their competition as mere sportswear designers. The American designers used ten African American models, an unprecedented number at the time. The American designers and their models stole the show.

By the end of the evening, the Americans had officially taken their place on the world’s stage, prompting a major shift in the way race, gender, sexuality, and economics would be treated in fashion for decades to come.

After the Show Josephine asked to meet model Billie Blair.  Those present recall this tender moment ” Josephine Baker reached out and touched her face. She said, ‘I came to Paris in 1922. And you came to Paris tonight.’ ”

We would like to welcome you to visit the former home of Josephine Baker in Marrakech.

Riad Star is a celebration of the life of this amazing, kind and talented woman. A collection of Josephine Memorabilia is available to view. Please contact us to learn more.

 

 

Welcome to our Marrakech Riad Website. We have four fantastic riads with one standard of service, perfect for English speaking visitors to Marrakech, all provide a warm Moroccan welcome.  Choose your riad above or contact us if you would like more information about Marrakech and the riads! You can contact our reservations team + 44 207 570 0336 or email contact@ marrakech-riad.co.uk and we will do our best to help you.

 

Explore the fabulous souks with a personal guide, visit monuments and museums, a real highlight will be the opportunity to see Marrakech from a horse and carriage.

Contact us with your preferred dates to check availability.

THE CULTURE BREAK INCLUDES:

*  Three nights sharing a double or twin bed Luxury Riad room with en suite shower.

*  Private arrival and departure transfers from Marrakech Airport.

*  Delicious and healthy arrival evening dinner, suggested menu: seasonal moroccan salads;  lamb tagine; followed by fresh fruit.

*  Your room equipped with fine cotton sheets, towels and bathrobes, room safe, hairdryer, and airconditioning.

*  Fantastic Moroccan breakfasts served at the time of your choice.

*   Full use of the Riad facilities including the stunning roof terrace, lounge,  and traditional Riad Courtyard with dipping pool.

*  Complimentary Mint tea throughout your stay.

*  A morning walking tour with a registered Marrakech guide

*  A morning Tour by horse and carriage, following the ramparts of the walled mediaeval city with stops at palaces and gardens.

*  The loan of a local pay as you go phone for the duration of your stay (one per room).

*  The support of our Riad staff providing a complete concierge service.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS:

+  Extra night £40 (Euros 48) per person.

+  Add a one day private excursion (8 am to 7pm) to the charming fishing port of Essaouria £50 per person (Euros 60). Lunch not included.

NOT INCLUDED:

–  Flights

–   Travel Insurance

–  Other drinks and meals, items from the minibar etc.

OUR CULTURE BREAKS ARE POPULAR THROUGHOUT THE YEAR, MAKE CONTACT TODAY TO SECURE YOUR PREFERRED TRAVEL DATES.

Even in winter Marrakech enjoys an average of 7 hours of sunshine each day. Relax your mind and body and enjoy the fabulous roof terrace with views to the snow topped Atlas mountains on a clear day.

Contact us with your preferred dates to check availability.

THE PAMPER BREAK INCLUDES:

*  Three nights sharing a double or twin bed Luxury Riad room with en suite shower.

*  Arrival and departure transfers from Marrakech Airport.

*  Delicious and healthy arrival evening dinner, suggested menu: seasonal moroccan salads;  chicken pastilla (a marrakech specialty filo pastry parcel); followed by fresh fruit.

*  Your room equipped with fine cotton sheets, towels and bathrobes, room safe, hairdryer, and air conditioning.

*  Fantastic Moroccan breakfasts served at the time of your choice.

*   Full use of the Riad facilities including the stunning roof terrace, lounge,  and traditional Riad Courtyard with dipping pool.

*  Complimentary Mint tea throughout your stay.

*  One hour private hammam in the luxurious Riad Star Hammam.

*  Half hour massage, our masseuse is one of the best in North Africa, we recommend you enjoy your massage inside the hammam immediately after your hammam treatment.

*  The loan of a local pay as you go phone for the duration of your stay (one per room).

*  The support of our Riad staff providing a complete concierge service.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS:

+  Extra night £56 (Euros 67) per person.

+  Add a one day private excursion (8 am to 7pm) to the charming fishing port of Essaouria £50 per person (Euros 60). Lunch not included.

NOT INCLUDED:

–  Flights

–   Travel Insurance

–  Other drinks and meals, items from the minibar etc.

OUR PAMPER BREAKS ARE POPULAR THROUGHOUT THE YEAR, MAKE CONTACT TODAY TO SECURE YOUR PREFERRED TRAVEL DATES.

Our Riads have twin and triple bed rooms, all with en suite facilities so you can be sure that everyone will be comfortable and no one left on their own even if there are an odd number of people in your group.

Taking a whole Riad is a fantastic way to enjoy Marrakech.   Magical Riad Papillon sleeps 11 (2+2+2+2+3); the elegant Riad Cinnamon sleeps up to 16 in five spacious suites (3+3+3+3+4); and Riad Star sleeps up to 38 and Riad Spice up to 30 guests.

 

After we have confirmed availability it could not be easier to arrange payment and secure your booking. Either your group leader can pay for you all or we can send each individual a personal email linking to our secure online payment gateway. Just let us have a list of email addresses and we will arrange the rest.

Contact us with your preferred dates to check availability.

THE GIRLS WEEKEND PACKAGE INCLUDES:

*  Airport transfers for you and your luggage (based on all guests arriving and departing on the same flights).

*  Three nights in the Luxury Marrakech Riad most appropriate for your group.

*  Dates could be at the weekend or midweek, subject to availability.

*  Arrival evening banquet with a variety of Moroccan specialities usually including a traditional Marrakechi Tanjia of Lamb. Our Riads are true boutique hotels, we prepare each meal to order and cater for most dietary requirements at no extra charge.

*  Complimentary entertainment for the arrival banquet when the group is six or more, this could be Simohamed the tanjia cook and charismatic gnawi musician, subject to his availability.

*  Your room or suite will be equipped with fine cotton sheets, towels and bathrobes, room safe, hairdryer, and air conditioning (essential for the Marrakech summer).

*  Fantastic Moroccan breakfasts served at the time of your choice

*   Full use of the Riad facilities including the stunning roof terrace, lounge,  and traditional Riad Courtyard with dipping pool.

*  All our Riads have complimentary Wifi in the patio and shared areas. Please note that Wifi reception can be variable inside the rooms- our Riads are converted medieval buildings with walls up to four feet thick!

*  Complimentary Mint tea throughout your stay.

*  The loan of a local pay as you go phone for the duration of your stay (one per room).

*  The support of our Riad staff providing a complete concierge service.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS:

+  Extra nights £40 (Euros 48) per person.

+  Lunch on the day of your choice at the Henna Cafe a not for profit organisation which we are proud to support with the option of an authentic natural Henna tattoo. Lunch  approx £5 per person, henna tattoos from a menu priced between £5 and £25

NOT INCLUDED:

–  Flights

–  Travel Insurance

–  Drinks and meals other than the arrival banquet.

–  Xmas and New Year supplement 20%

MAKE CONTACT TODAY TO SECURE YOUR PREFERRED TRAVEL DATES AT THE GREAT RATE OF £149 (EUROS 175) PER PERSON.

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