This hotel, around the corner from the Mansour Eddahbi and next to the conference center, is the best choice for the conventioneer who can't afford a room at the Sofitel yet has no intention of sleeping on a rope bed overlooking Djemaa el-Fna. At the bottom of acceptable standards, this adequately maintained operation offers few frills and a sullen staff to service them.
Beyond the colorfully accented Moroccan reception area is an octagonal atrium rising four stories through the center of the building. Ugly, dated wicker appointments make comfortable lounging out of the question, although the provision of a welcoming mint tea is a traditional grace strongly appreciated by tourists here. Menacing echoes plague jetlagged guests aching for a sorely needed nap, but the fresh breeze is a pleasant escape within the confines of these protective walls.
The modestly priced restaurant is large and comfortable and serves good food. Meals are also available at a poolside barbecue set in inviting gardens, as well as in a Moroccan restaurant in a separate building. Most of the package rates include breakfast and either lunch or dinner, chaining guests to the property most of the time. However, wary travelers who prefer the comfort and familiarity of their hotel for meals will find this a pleasant addition to their itinerary.
The heated pool provides diversion thanks to plenty of lounge chairs and shady escapes. The meeting room seats up to 700, and the social staff keeps guests busy and amused. An all-hours Internet station keeps guests connected with home or the office.
The straightforward accommodations have air-conditioning, green tile floors, built-in sofas (many tucked into alcoves under arches), phones, one or two comfortable beds with latticework headboards, and pretty mosaic baths with marble sinks. TVs and phones are available in all rooms free of charge. A few units have been renovated with bright neo-tropical Moroccan decor in rainbow hues. These are the ones to request. The 20 suites have spacious tiled sitting rooms and small bars and come with fresh fruit baskets and floral arrangements.
Small dogs are permitted, but short stays are not, since most rates are weekly. Overall, guests with business at the convention center will do better at the Le Marrakech or Safir Siaha, from which they can walk or take a taxi. The only people unfortunate enough to get stuck here are unassuming tour groups or package-favoring Europeans.