Modern Moroccan Hotel Just Minutes From a Bustling Bazaar

With the towering Atlas Mountains spiking up over the horizon, separating the feverish winds of the Sahara Dessert from the lapping warm waters of the Mediterranean and Atlantic, the Palais Soltan Riad and Spa, designated a 5-star resort by Expedia, stands awash in traditional Moroccan and Arabo-Berber décor, a romantic vision of Old Marrakech wrapped in the soft embrace of luxury. As guests stroll the property, elephant statues, ornate oriental carpets, leafy palm fronds, and wishbone-shaped archways compete for attention. Tadelakt walls provide a warm, dynamic tone, and zellij friezes line up alternating vibrant tiles that, together, create geometric masterpieces.

The cool breath of the air conditioning greets travelers as they enter one of the hotel's 30 guest rooms. A silky curtain dangles from a four-poster double or twin bed, and brightly colored walls in vibrant oranges, cool blues, and effervescent greens infuse each living space with energy. Ceramic and copper fitments adorn the lights, and the mirrors and washbasin in the bathroom represent the work of local craftsmen.

Red cushioned benches and chairs and abundant pillows congregate in numerous nooks throughout the hotel. Under the shade of a white umbrella with an epic wingspan, visitors on the terrace can unwind by indulging in an afternoon snooze, taking a dip in the pool, or composing a folk song inspired by the breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains in the distance. The sleek hammam—a sauna/bathhouse—with its green and black glassy stone walls rebounding the light from luminous candles and the smells of eucalyptus and incense, encourages additional relaxation with its well-edited list of treatments and services. Further corporeal comfort can be derived from the courtyard restaurant, which cooks up traditional Moroccan dishes using fresh produce and spices from local markets.

Marrakech, Morocco: "The Red City" That Never Sleeps

One of the largest cities in Morocco, Marrakech is truly the entertainment capital of the south. Just 10 minutes away by shuttle is the Djemaa el Fna, a carnival-esque marketplace cloaked in the smell of exotic spices, the bustle and shout of vendors, and the swirl of street entertainers. By day, the labyrinthine square is filled with fruit stalls and stands showing off traditional crafts, perfumes, basket-ware, jewelry, and elegant carpets.

Come dusk, local performers take the to the streets: storytellers, magicians, acrobats, dancers, and musicians croon to the stars or any ear-giving audience. Medicine men dispense remedies and fortunetellers spin forecasts as snakes dance up from baskets. Photo opportunities with slithering reptiles and the dazzling performers abound, but visitors are expected to tip post-photo.

The medina is not only the epicenter of a vivacious bazaar, but also home to many beautiful mosques, gardens, and courtyards rich in traditional Moroccan architecture. Most of the street signs are either in French or in Arabic, and the twisting and turning alleys of the marketplace are sure to keep travelers on their toes; a guidebook is a must for this area.

Wayfarers seeking a respite from the cacophony of the market and mosques can hit the quiet, tree-lined greens of one of three golf courses near the hotel, including the 27-hole Royal Golf de Marrakech club, whose history stretches back nearly 90 years.

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