In a short two year time period, Banyan Tree Group, headquartered in Asia has branched out into Marrakech. The development of a sister company, Angsana Resorts and Spas has led to the recent creation of Angsana Riads and Riad Si Said. This brings the total of Angsana properties in Marrakesh Morocco to six. There are two more slated for openings later this year. One will be in Marrakech and another in Essaouira.
Riad has a literal meaning of garden house and is looked upon by many to be a serene place of tranquil escape from every day life. This is identical to what are known as boutique hotels in Marrakesh. Riads feature a layout with several rooms situated around a common courtyard area protected from the outside.
Out of the six current Angsana riads in the region, five are located in close proximity to the Bahia Palace. One of the older riads, Lydines, sits within a mere walking distance to the Kasbah area. Here, several rooms open out into a common courtyard area that also contains a pool. Other areas of the property include a dining area and library. Like other Angsana riad properties, this one features Moroccan decor in many of the rooms.
Although there are many similarities to the six riad properties, each one contains individualistic aspect as well. The newly created Riad Si Said, for example, features historic 19th century atmosphere. Another, Riad Blanc, showcases lavish stained glass windows in some rooms that let natural sunlight flow through for a breathtaking window display.
Another highlight to staying at one of the Angsana riads is the visit to the spa. Each riad offers guests a spa environment where relaxing treatments may be received. There is also a full scale hammam on each property. These elements provide guests with the opportunity to engage in Asian and North African spa treatments.
Spa employees receive training from Banyan Tree specialists and hamman training from Moroccan staff members. After a relaxing body scrub with handmade black soap, the treatment comes to an end with a massage centered on boosting the body’s circulation points. The guest is provided with a cup of ginger tea and gently eases back into the surroundings.
A three night package for any of the Angsana riads starts at £518. This includes stay in a superior room, breakfast, three course dinner and 60 minute spa treatments. All guests are entitled to use the facilities at each of the remaining five Angsana riads.
by Sam Mitchell
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