Luxury in the heart of the hustle and bustle of Marrakech
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by Katie Alston
Unspoilt by tourism, Marrakech upholds its traditions
and ways of life, welcoming newcomers to share in its customs to
create a city break like no other.
Due to play a starring role in the up-and-coming Sex and
the City film (although rumoured to be under the disguise of Abu
Dhabi), Marrakech marries modern with tradition, as it becomes a
fashionable getaway for those looking to consign cooked breakfasts
and kiss-me-quick hats to the past.
Having back-packed through Morocco at the age of 16,
I was excited to see the North African city in a completely
different light. My exploration was to be viewed from the luxury
which lies behind the medina walls.
Boarding the Royal Air Maroc flight from Heathrow and
turning left into business class, the scene was set for a lavish
and relaxing trip.
The champagne began to flow and before I knew it the plane
had stopped off in Casablanca and we were embarking upon the final
leg of the four-hour journey.
In the blink of an eye we were in the heart of the hustle
and bustle of the ancient medina, where donkeys pulled carts and
mopeds raced past. We were led up what looked like an old dusty
alleyway to an ancient and impressively decorative gold
door.
It was difficult to know what to expect as we headed
through the elegant and smart reception of La Sultana & Spa,
member of the small Luxury Hotels of the World, but I was soon to
realise that hiding luxury away was normal practice. It was in
stark contrast to the charming yet rough-around-the-edges world on
the other side of the wall.
The luxury dissolved as I stepped into the heartbeat of
Marrakech. Although a little daunting to an unseasoned traveller,
the excitement of being in the centre of the souks, bartering for a
bargain and watching snake charmers was an unforgettable
experience. It was a rush to be away from the usual European
holiday resort but rather in among the people that make the
city.
I was almost run over on countless occasions but as
long as I kept my wits about me and kept firm against offerings
from locals, the medina and Djemaa El Fna square were refreshing
places to be.
Observing the rich culture is not all Marrakech has to
offer, however, as in the side streets are out-of-this-world dining
experiences and yet more opulent hotels and spas.
In the shadow of the Atlas Mountains I was lucky enough to
be able to relax in the magnificence of Terrake Spa at the Kenzy
Menara Palace, which overlooks the ancient city walls and royal
gardens. With no hint of shyness, my clothes were whipped away and
a full-body massage and hot-stone treatment washed away any tension
or thought of home.
Whether it be shopping in the medina or drinking mint tea
in the many luxury tearooms in the city, Marrakech is full of the
charm and culture needed for an unforgettable and unique
trip.
Thursday, May 13 2010
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