BOUTIQUE & BEAUTIFUL 43
One of the most lavish boutique hideaways in the city is Maison MK, a chic and luxurious six-bedroom hotel located just steps from the Medina, the old Arab quarter. Maison MK is a true expression of globalisation – the toiletries are from Paris, the water is from Norway and the coat hangers are from Marseille – yet this pitsized retreat embodies the ancient city of Marrakech. Our pick is Bedroom 2, a double in welcoming green hues and traditional teak, with an indulgent bath and rain shower, as well as an iPod docking station, 600-thread count linens and thick, fluffy bathrobes. The pampering continues at the Spa MK, where treatments fuse traditional and contemporary wellness practices with indigenous methods and locally-sourced argan oils. After a day exploring the Majorelle Gardens or listening to the story tellers of the Djemaa El-Fna, try a massage conducted in the dark room, complete with the lights out, or by candle light in the colourful room. Also leave time for an authentic Moroccan cooking class held in the hotel’ s kitchens. www. maisonmk. com
Located at the heart of the Medina,
AnaYela, a Design Hotels member, is hidden away within a 300-year old palace that’ s surrounded by the bustling souks, cafes and lounges of the Red City district. A homage to Moroccan history, the palace’ s restoration was conducted using traditional Moroccan craftsmanship, with over 100 artisans working together to create a truly special urban gem. Look out for custom furniture designed by owner Bernd Kolb and designer Yannick Hervy, and silver calligraphy panels telling the story of Yela, the hotel’ s namesake, a young girl who once lived in the royal household, and who left behind an intimate journal. With just three doubles and two suites, guests are ensured privacy and intimacy; the brick bath tubs of the suites are the perfect place to soak as the shadows grow long in the markets below, as is the courtyard swimming pool. Be sure to leave time for a tipple on the rooftop terrace and if time allows, sign up for AnaYela’ s unique Experience Programmes, which were inspired by the film The Game. www. anayela. com www. jetsetter. hk