Riad Tchina

“We loved this Riad”

We loved this Riad. Me and my two children stayed here for three nights in May 2012. After our hectic introduction to the Medina's street life (which is initially quite shocking for the children who had never left Europe) the Riad was a haven. Incredibly clean and calm with both a plant fille… more

We loved this Riad. Me and my two children stayed here for three nights in May 2012. After our hectic introduction to the Medina's street life (which is initially quite shocking for the children who had never left Europe) the Riad was a haven. Incredibly clean and calm with both a plant filled roof terrace and a little pool in the central courtyard where a bird filled tree grows right up to the sky and there are numerous well attended plants in pots. The children adored the pool and were in it as often as possible. The lady running the Riad was very thoughtful, informative and friendly (in french). The breakfast was delicious. Incredibly light fresh crusty bread with creamy butter and honey, fresh orange juice and coffee. What could be better? We were the only guests in the hotel which is small in any case and had the whole place to ourselves in the evenings which was magical. I tended to watch the moon and stars and enjoy the calls to prayer on the roof terrace, and the children played in the pool or surfed the internet with the efficient WiFi. I imagine they do evening meals in the busier periods but not on this occasion so we were a little lost as to what to do for supper as the main square and restaurants are a little way off. I would have appreciated some coffee/tea making facilities for a reassuring beverage! The Riad is situated near one of the Medina Gates which means there is a walk through the old Medina streets before arriving at the more touristy area around Djemma el Fna. We enjoyed this short daily walk which gave us a fascinating glimpse into the real day to day life of Marrakech. The next time we come to Morocco we will definitely return.

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“An Oasis of Peace in Marrakesh”

Riad Tchina was an unexpected delight in the heart of Marrakesh. From a narrow alley through a black door there was an oasis of calm. We were greeted warmly by Fatima who had arranged a transfer from the airport for us. All the rooms were immaculate and colourfully decorated. Bed linen and towels w… more

Riad Tchina was an unexpected delight in the heart of Marrakesh. From a narrow alley through a black door there was an oasis of calm. We were greeted warmly by Fatima who had arranged a transfer from the airport for us. All the rooms were immaculate and colourfully decorated. Bed linen and towels were changed each day. The aircon was very efficient. Everything we needed was there, and Fatima or one of the staff were always on hand to provide anything else we wanted. They were very helpful, gave us advice, and arranged taxis and excursions for us. The pool, although small, was a welcome addition after a hot, dusty day sightyseeing. A roof terrace provided a perfect place to relax with a drink in the evening. The Riad is situated in the heart of the local community, away from touristy areas, but we viewed this as a positive. The daily walk through the local area to the Place gave us the opportunity to experience real Marrakeshi life (about 20 mins). It was well worth it and much better than staying in a characterless hotel. We had the pleasure to meet the owner while we were there, and were able to tell him personally how wonderful we thought his Riad was. This is a real gem!

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“Not disappointed but wouldn't book it again”

This riad was very clean and a wonderful place to return to after a day's exertions in the city. It was cool, incredibly clean and we found the staff to be friendly and helpful although Fatima and Saida spoke only French and Arabic. So, you need to have some French! Our biggest problem was the loca… more

This riad was very clean and a wonderful place to return to after a day's exertions in the city. It was cool, incredibly clean and we found the staff to be friendly and helpful although Fatima and Saida spoke only French and Arabic. So, you need to have some French! Our biggest problem was the location; one felt a bit of a prisoner at times because it was an effort to get out easily to eat at the Jemaa el Fna.Whilst arguably quaint, the alleyways were rutted and very polluted with motorcycle fumes and dust from roadworks. The walk to the Jemaa took 20 minutes and we ended up walking to the Bab Aylen and getting a taxi. Those who don't sleep well might be bothered by the call to prayer in the small hours from the mosque next door but to me, that's part of the experience. If we went again, we would look for a riad closer to the Jemaa.

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