Hotel Riad Dar Nael (Marrakech, Morocco)

The host and the staff are, by all accounts, extremely friendly and helpful. Whether it is to give you directions, plan excursions, organise your stay or pick you up if you get lost!

Guests love the authentic feel of this riad and its feeling of calm. The traditional features and décor go down a treat - in particular the patio and terrace where you can take in the views or stargaze.

If you're travelling on a budget you will get a good return for your money according the guests. Although relatively cheap, you won't get the impression that you are in economy class!

Although the more adventurous guests love getting lost in the back streets and experiencing the real Marrakech, some are not ease. Far from the centre and the Jamaa El Fna, the riad is very difficult to find and not accessible by car. According to some, it is in an unpleasant area or slum. To make matters worse, guests are often hassled by locals to give them directions, which some can find intimidating. However, once over the initial culture shock and equipped with a map and advice from the host, guests feel a lot more confident.

The traditional style of the rooms is all well and good. However, not having a separation between the bedroom and the bathroom/ toilet is taking the concept too far for some! There is precious little intimacy to say the least!

Some feel that the extras charged by the hotel are above and beyond what can be found elsewhere. Dinners, excursions and transfers are more expensive than you can book yourself. However, it is perhaps the price to pay for some reassurance.