FollowHotel LaMamounia in the heart of Marrakesh was once royal grounds, now an elite compound where Churchill’s suite can only be viewed by select residents. We weaseled around automatic gates blocked by suited guards in dark sunglasses and earpieces.
“A visit?” Jay inquires in french.
“No visitors, reservations only.”
“A Cafe?” we questioned.
“A cafe?” dubiously, he ushered us through gates and onto the compound.
A Hollywood reprieve- where stars, diplomats, ambassadors of foreign affairs mingle. Strolling through the lush gardens with intricate fountains, birds, marble tiles and guards, guards everywhere.
Large brass doors mark the entrance- the first, second and third bellman adorned in elaborate Berber costumes allow us deeper into the hotel. Finally, the inner lobby and a red carpet burning under our dirty sandals.
“May I help you?” the hotel manager steps forward, an intervention perhaps.
“A Cafe…” we choke, Jay removes his tattered NH ball cap.
A dress code- no jeans, no caps, no sandals.
“Perhaps tomorrow would be better.”
“Perhaps,” we nod and bid adieu.
December 6th, 2011 by Luxury Hotel Morocco
All Luxury Hotels have a class and they won’t allow just anyone in. This is important from security point of view too.
October 11th, 2009 by Jay Wright
Now when I say, “I’ve been thrown out of better places than this…” I will think very specifically of this hotel in Marrakesh.
October 10th, 2009 by Elliott
Thank god they still have standards and don’t just allow anyone in!
October 9th, 2009 by Mom
Wow! to be able to see the cafe of the rich and famous must have filled you guys up that you weren’t hungry any more. hee, hee,
Got your postcard. thanks.
MOm