Riad Shaden

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I brought my daughter here for her first holiday abroad. She had an absolute ball, as did both of us. The staff are so friendly and helpful with everything and anything. Nothing seems too much for them at all. From booking taxis, for us, or excursions, absolute amazing experience. The ally way up to the riad is a little intimidating at first, but it is as safe as houses, would definitely be back and would highly recommend to anyone.

If you’re looking for an authentic experience, then this is the place to stay. On booking, the riad quickly responds to communication via whatsapp and this allows you to ask any questions you may have. From living in the UK, it is quite a surprise on arrival but you soon get used to it all. The airport experience (arrival and departure) was a total nightmare, it took 3 hours of queueing. Our transfer dropped us at the nearest entrance which is a 5 minute walk away from the riad. This is a little overwhelming as you are thrown straight into the mix of local life. The streets are like wide allies with shops, mopeds and lots of people. Top tip, always walk around on the right hand side and stay tucked in. It really is dangerous when walking around as mopeds are constantly zooming past. With this in mind, it is a lovely gesture that the riad team welcome you at this point so that you know where to go etc. The final street of the riad was a little daunting at night as there were usually groups of teenagers around. We were however never threatened by anyone. Children regularly asked us for money and teenagers tried to sell ‘ash’. But we just said no thank and carried on walking - no problems. On entering the riad, we were welcomed with such warmth. The court yard truly is stunning and is a wonderful surprise on getting inside. We were sat down and offered tea and biscuits. We were then given a little information about the riad etc. The hotel tax for the week was £27. Our room was on the ground floor next to the entrance area and the court yard where breakfast is served. Sadly, we did not sleep well throughout our week stay. Being on the ground floor, you regularly heard water pipes and footsteps from upstairs. Other guests alarms also woke me up (often 5:30am when tripping). Breakfast tables being set up would also wake me. If I thought there was an opportunity to move rooms, I would have asked. I would not recommend staying if on the ground floor, it really was too noisy. I believe that we would have slept better on a higher floor. The room was pretty to look at, particularly the tiled walls. The room was very small and often had a sewage smell. It was however always cleaned daily and this service was fantastic. Clean towels each day with shower gels etc topped up. Our shower head didn’t move so my partner had to hold this for me for the duration. There was a hairdryer and dressing table. Storage was also good for clothes and cases. I wasn’t comfortable with the thought of not having our door locked with a key when out for the day, but on spending time there, I truly did not find this to be an issue. The court yard area for breakfast was stunning. The tables were so pretty. Breakfast tea, coffee and orange juice was lovely. Each day, there would be 2 types of bread and a pancake. Served with either a banana OR yogurt, and cheese spread and jam. If staying for a short break, this was great. If staying for longer, more variety would

We stayed here for 4 nights, our first trip to Marrakesh, about 20 min walk from main square. Like an oasis of calm, staff were fantastic. We had a waterfall excursion booked with the hotel driver. Slightly more expensive than booking with an agent in the city but worth it. The waterfall excursion took us to a few tourist stops selling highly priced gifts etc (be polite but buy them on the city markets, same stuff but cheaper) but the stops were interesting explaining local culture. The hike to the waterfall is not for the faint hearted or anyone who isn’t part mountain goat. It was beautiful when you reach the top. Breakfast was nice, fresh bread and pancakes, fruit, juice tea and coffee.

Such friendly, helpful and welcoming staff. Small hotel full of Moroccan character. Roughly 25 minutes walking distance to the main square, but I would recommend staying in the Riad Shaden for a real Moroccan experience. Thank you to all of the staff!