What a fantastic place to stay whilst in Marrakech. If you are looking for an authentic place to stay, offering quality, great service, a beautifully restored traditional environment in the heart of life in Marrakech then look no further.

Booking - just email the Riad and arrange everything with them. The rooms are all individual so have a look through them and then try to book the one you want. For example, we like a large bed so booked a room with a king size. We were fortunate to be staying in the Riad when no-one else was there one night so we looked in every room and I have to say that they all offer personality, charm and are unique in their design.

Airport transfer - in a nut shell, you need to arrange this with the Riad. We have travelled widely but no matter how good your navigation skills are you'll not find this Riad. The airport transfer was great. As you come through the airport there is your taxi / mini bus driver holding a sign with your name on it. The transfer takes around 20 minutes depending upon traffic. As you get closer to Marrakech it is almost like being on a ride at a theme park. I would imagine there are some rules but you try to work out who has right of way on a round-a-bout. Once you arrive in Marrakech you are then greeted by one of the Riad staff who takes you through the spice market to the Riad - even this is eye opening.

Riad Azoulay - 9 bedrooms arranged around a central courtyard with a roof terrace, central plunge pool, hammam and lounge / breakfast room. As stated previously, we went in every room and they all are beautiful.

Noise - Be prepared for a relatively noisy local environment. You are staying in a vibrant, close knit community were local people live and work. This is (thankfully) not some faceless all inclusive resort on the outserts of a the city. On our first night it took a little getting used to however the second night we slept very well and woke to the sound of our alarm clock. The beautiful mosque next door opens for business at 5.30am......its all part of the experience so smile as you listen!!!!

Hammam - We were not quite sure what to expect with this and booked it when we arrived rather than prior. What an experience. Many people take this experience at various Riad's throughout the city however having it at your own means that after it was finished you can just relax rather than having to get dressed and walk home. After the Hammam (body scrub, black butter and gallons of hot water) we then had a 30 minute, all over body massage which again was wonderful - highly recommended

Dinner - following the Hammam we had booked dinner and just asked for a traditional Moroccan meal. The three courses were served in the breakfast / lounge area as it was cold on an evening outside (February). The food was delicious, piping hot, tasty and beautifully presented.

Service - The staff couldn't do enough for us but were also discreet. For example, on our first day Rida walked us back through the spice market, making sure we knew our way back to the Riad before we headed off into souk. The staff will arrange day trips, advise you of places to visit and even the typical prices to pay. Rida also offered to come with us to haggle the price down if we wanted him to......but that would have spoiled the fun!

Lounge service - one thing we found very enjoyable was having a little time around the plunge pool in the late afternoon. After a hard day shopping or sight seeing we would return to the Riad, have a beer, glass of wine or just some mint tea and there was always a tray of 'nibbles' to try, something different every day. You can also use the free wifi connection as it didn't work in our room through the thick walls and doors.

All in all a fantastic place to stay, great service, very clean, comfortable, relaxing and very quickly becomes an 'Oasis' in what is just a fabulous place to visit - Marrakech

Hope this helps!