Riad Amirkesh and Pool

The rooms were clean and just as advertised, and the hosts were helpful with everything I asked. Rashida was especially sweet. She greeted us with tea and biscuits when we arrived and cooked breakfast.

Our room was comfortable for two, and we even managed a morning swim before checking out. Riad Amirkesh is decorated beautifully in a traditional style, and the gated community has free parking, which was reassuring with our rental car. It’s just a couple of minutes from the medina walls, so we could reach the lively center easily and still come back to a peaceful spot. Shops, restaurants, a mosque, and a pool are all close by. We especially liked Chez Samir for a really good meal at a great price. The hosts made the stay. Even with our last-minute booking, they replied quickly beforehand, adjusted our check-in, and welcomed us with mint tea and biscuits. The staff were lovely and went out of their way to help. We had a delightful short stay and would happily recommend it.

I left feeling humiliated and extremely disappointed. I paid the same as any other guest, but was not given equal respect or access to the services included in my booking, including the pool. Before I arrived, they asked if I had a European passport. When I said I was Moroccan, I was told I couldn't stay and should cancel. Later, I was told I could stay only if I checked in discreetly so nobody would see me. As a paying guest, being treated differently because of my nationality was unacceptable.

The online photos and description gave me a very different impression, and the quality was a real disappointment. The place is far out in an unpleasant neighborhood, and the pool is quite a walk away. Inside, the room felt cramped and stuffy, with too much morning light because there are no shutters. It locks with a padlock, and there’s no safe for belongings. The bedding was stained, furniture dusty, and a bad smell lingered. Sheets and towels stayed unchanged throughout my visit. The bathroom was in bad shape, with no hot water, a broken shower, damaged tiles, and no curtain. Some electrical parts are close to water, which seems hazardous. I wouldn’t recommend staying here.