When I first arrived, it was a total “coup de foudre”; I fell in love with this magical place in an instant - reveling in the scent of oranges and lemons as I lay looking at the stars in the night sky.
Hearing the call to prayer five times daily reminded me of the deeply entrenched religion and traditions of the Moroccan people. At dusk I explored the main square, Djemaa el Fna, astonished to see storytellers, musicians, healers, snake charmers and boys with monkeys touting for business. Listening to the sounds of the Berbers (Morocco’s original inhabitants), local people and visitors flocked to the aromatic food stalls, tempted by the enticing Berber dishes. The food was superb, freshly cooked and spicy and some of it, very unusual!
During that first day I immersed myself in the hustle and bustle of the famous souk wandering through the narrow twisting streets, watching the tourists bargain as the local people go about their daily chores.
My senses were assaulted by the fragrance of a thousand and one spices and herbs but I had no fear of getting lost in the mazes of tiny alleys; for a small tip, youngsters will take you wherever you need to go.
Temptation to spend is everywhere, with stall-holders calling you to their wares, persuading you to buy from them (they each have the best!) There are richly beaded, silky fabrics, exquisite Moroccan and Berber jewellery, babouches (slippers) lamps, carpets, leather goods, dried fruits, cakes and so much more.
Ryad Laarouss has been completely renovated to provide
the peace, fragrance, colour and warmth of Marrakech.
In the privacy of a family home you can experience in style a unique combination of friendly Berber hospitality and Western comfort .
Let me explain why I decided to settle in this delightful city ....
My first sunset, with the Koutoubia Mosque proudly silhouetted against the golden sky was a revelation and as I meandered through the souk the next morning to buy sweet croissants and fresh oranges for breakfast, I knew I had come home.
I know you too will be enchanted with Marrakech and I look forward to introducing to you the beauty of the Medina and the graciousness of the people.
Come to Ryad Laarouss and find your“oasis in time”
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