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Introduction to the review
At Nomadik Morocco, we are always thrilled to share authentic travel experiences from passionate travellers. Today, we’re featuring a detailed testimonial from Sophia Limam about her visit to Marrakech. This review initially shared on Facebook, provides genuine recommendations and insights into her stay at Riad Shaden, including the charm of the riad, the convenience of local transportation, enriching excursions, and dining highlights.
Riad Shaden & location review
Sophia and her mother had a memorable stay at Riad Shaden. The riad's charm, coupled with its attentive staff, made their visit exceptional.
The rooms were beautifully decorated, with comfortable beds ensuring a restful night's sleep. Situated in a local part of the Medina, the riad is a convenient 15-20 minute walk to Jemaa el-Fna square. For late-night returns, they found the Tuk Tuk rides, costing 70 dirhams during the day and 100 dirhams at night, both safe and convenient.
Comfort and amenities
The riad offered a variety of amenities that enhanced their stay.
Breakfast included a delightful array of bread, pancakes, yogurts, jam, and honey. The air-conditioned rooms were a respite from the Moroccan heat, and the terrace provided a serene, relaxing space.
With only six rooms, the riad felt secure, and Sophia appreciated the option to leave their room unlocked during the day.
Transportation and accessibility
Riad Shaden can arrange airport transfers, though Sophia and her mother utilized EasyJet's service. While vehicles can't reach the riad's entrance, a short 2-5 minute walk through the Medina was manageable.
The riad organized trips and transported local attractions, such as Jardin Majorelle and La Mamounia, at reasonable rates.
Excursions and Activities review
Sophia enjoyed a day trip to Essaouira with a guide who made the journey informative and enjoyable. Highlights included visiting an Argan Oil Cooperative and a tour of Essaouira. Another standout experience was a cooking class, where they shopped for ingredients locally and prepared a delicious three-course meal.
Local tours
Exploring Marrakech, Sophia visited notable sites like Medresa Ben Youssef, El Badi Palace, and Le Jardin Secret. Each offered unique insights into Moroccan history and culture. She found the Madresa Ben Youssef particularly stunning, while Le Jardin Secret provided a peaceful retreat from the bustling souks. Sophia suggests booking online for Jardin Majorelle/YSL Museum to avoid long queues.
Dining recommendations
Marrakech offers a rich culinary scene. Sophia enjoyed meals at:
Dune: Fresh lamb chops and prawn spring rolls.
DarDar: Renowned for its cocktails and exceptional gambas pil pil.
Zitoune Cafe: Kofte sandwich with Moroccan sausage.
Street Food: Affordable and delicious evening street food in Jemaa el-Fna square.
Other notable mentions include:
Kasbah Cafe for its view and tagines,
Le Jardin for a relaxing mint tea,
The luxurious La Mamounia for a special afternoon tea.
Practical tips
SIM card: Sophia advises obtaining a local SIM card at the airport for maps and communication.
Exchange money: She also found having cash on hand for transactions and tips helpful, with Hotel Ali in the square offering favourable exchange rates.
For attire: Sophie recommends dressing modestly out of respect for the local culture.
Overall Experience
Sophie and her mother had a fantastic time in Marrakech. The bustling city and the tranquil Riad Shaden provided a perfect balance. The warm hospitality of the riad staff and the rich cultural experiences in and around Marrakech enriched their trip.
Conclusion
We hope Sophia's detailed review helps you plan your adventure in Marrakech. For more personalized travel experiences, reach out to us at Nomadik Morocco. We’re here to help you create unforgettable memories in this magical city and compare offers you get from other providers.
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