Guest User
November 27, 2022
Literally an oasis in the desert! What an amazing find! We were in Marrakesh for my brother-in-laws 50th and not having anything to do with booking the accommodation, I wasn't sure what to expect. We were met by Adil at the point when the taxi from the airport stopped. The taxi ride was about a 20 minute journey but then we had to walk through some side streets to get to a door in a wall. You would not know that behind the door is an amazing Riad. Adil met us at the taxi drop off with a typical Marrakesh cart for our luggage and he took us to the door in the wall and let us into what I think must be one of the best run Riads in Marrakesh. The staff are amazing. Nothing is too much trouble and they will do anything to make your stay as enjoyable as it can be. The location is perfect. It is away from the busy main streets but close enough to be in the thick of it within 10 minutes. Marrakesh can initially look very confusing but it doesn't take long to get your bearings. I read before I left the UK to not take any jewellery, leave technology at home, be prepared to be hassled in the souks etc. Not once did I feel like we would be mugged or pick-pocketed. Quite the opposite, the experience I had was a warm, friendly super welcoming city. Of course the shop keepers are going to hassle you to go into their shops and once you are in they do not want you to leave until you have spent some money, but leaving without spending and saying no thank you is part of it. Equally, haggling for a price if you do want something is also very much part of it. Embrace it, have fun, know what you want to pay and walk away if you don't get the price you want, they will soon call you back if there is a deal to be had. Its all part of the experience. Have fun and just be street wise. Back to the Riad, all of the staff were amazing but I have a special call out for Adil and Jalil......two guys who will do anything for you. Asma, (the manager) was so so helpful and the owner of the Riad (a French Doctor) was amazing when we needed some medical help. We were lucky he was their on vacation and didn't mind helping out. You will not be disappointed with Riad Shanima......if you are looking for a true Marrakesh experience, this is the place to stay. Oh, and you won't go hungry there! The breakfast is very generous.