Riad Daria Suites & Spa

BEWARE BED BUGS! We took a short break in Marrakesh and stayed only at this place. Five days after getting home, we started waking up with new mosquito-like bites every day. It took us a while to work out what was going on. Bites close together are typical of bed bugs. Pest control confirmed they were the African kind, which is the toughest because it resists chemical products. Even if you kill the bugs, their extremely sturdy eggs can hatch a few days later and put you back at square one. AWFUL! We’re on our second full-house treatment and crossing our fingers that this costly, crazy NIGHTMARE ends. Avoid at all costs! Update: It’s been two weeks without these pests. We’re crossing our fingers that they’re finally gone. A few thousand bucks are gone too, that’s for sure.

We booked through Expedia and stayed on the second floor. The room was a good size with a garden view, and there’s a small pool when the weather allows. The riad is pretty, the staff are nice, and Mariam is especially kind and polite. Breakfast was included, but after the first two days they didn’t offer us eggs anymore. It seemed the person serving breakfast was also busy with other jobs at the same time. The Medina location is easy to get around on foot, and felt safe and calm at night. Food stands, kiosks, and shops are all nearby. There’s also a restaurant in the riad, plus hammam and massage services on request. Sometimes the restaurant music was loud around 11 pm, though it was usually off by then; other times it started as early as 11 am. Quieter music would have made it easier to sit outside or go upstairs to enjoy the sun. The bathroom lighting could be brighter, and the table lamps around the room need replacing as they’re falling apart. The hot water tank is small, so after a few minutes the hot water runs out until it reheats. They charge €3 per guest per night for city tax, which is normal at many hotels. What upset me was that although I booked with Expedia and it clearly said the €60 CAD tax could be paid by card on arrival, they wouldn’t take my card and insisted on cash. They should say upfront that they don’t accept cards. I’m guessing it’s because of the fees. Even with those issues, I recommend it 👌.

The riad was beautifully decorated, just as I’d pictured one, and the staff were friendly and willing to help. On my first day, I slipped on the slight change in tile height on the second floor, lost my balance, and hit my right knee hard. A maid saw me fall and rushed to help. She spoke little English but did her best to check I was okay, then told Kawtar at reception. I went to rest in my room, and the two women and another staff member came with ice and a first-aid kit. I had no cut, so didn’t need the kit, but the ice helped with bruising and slight swelling. I really appreciated their care. Breakfast was included and changed daily, with a variety of options. One morning I had traditional Moroccan Mesemmen with olives, mini pancakes with Nutella and honey, homemade-style cake, coffee, and fresh-squeezed OJ. Another day there were crepes, cake, plain Msemmen, and traditional Moroccan bread. Yahya was attentive and made sure meals were enjoyable. He also works at the Eclipse Rooftop Restaurant at the Riad, where he gave the same attentive, excellent service. It’s at least a 20-minute walk to major sights like the Medina Souks, Jemaa El Fna Square, and Bahia palace, so allow for that if you have a tour or a timed visit. Cars can’t reach the riad because the streets are narrow, but my driver dropped me off and picked me up less than a minute away, near Cafe Clock. I didn’t give five stars because after my room was cleaned, the towels weren’t replenished. I didn’t mind the bath towel staying on day two, but the hand towel was taken and not replaced. I also expected basic toiletries like bar soap. I’m sure I could have asked, but managed without. Bottled water in the room would have been helpful too. My fridge was unplugged and empty, and most guests can’t use tap water for drinking or brushing their teeth because it can cause stomach issues. There are, however, plenty of nearby shops selling bottled water.

It’s our first visit to Morocco, and we’re staying at Riad Daria Suites & Spa. The staff have been amazing and make sure we’re well looked after. Breakfast and the rooftop restaurant are both brilliant. It’s an easy walk to the city square. A 10/10 stay, would highly recommend!