It was the first time I was visiting Marrakech and hearing stories of its unpredictable nature, I wanted to make sure that at least my accommodation met my expectations. I was looking for a place of calm and comfort, away from the hustle and bustle that is Marrakech but close enough to walk safely to the souks and the medina’s main square.

Deciding between a riad vs hotel, a riad appealed to me more than a Moroccon hotel… they are large scale resorts that come across commercial and impersonal. After reading impressive tripadvisor reviews and seeing it was ranked #2, Riad Badi sounded too good to be true so I booked a room. Honestly, what I experienced deserved an even higher rating, truly first class…

LOCATION
Riad Badi is located close to Palace Badi, hence the name. It is no more than 10 minutes walk from the medina and this was very handy for our tour pickup locations as well as walking to the souks (markets) and main square. Riad Badi is set away from the busy main roads, within a small laneway so all the noise from the whizzing cars and motorbikes are practically gone. We were pleasantly surprised at how the high riad walls can eliminate the sound so well and provide a serene and calm environment!

BEDROOM
The rooms are elegant, spacious with a classic colour scheme highlighted with Moroccan touches which give the room character. I have to add that the bedding was divine, after spending ten hours walking, the pillows and sheets were so inviting!

FOOD
For breakfast, we were served a slight variation each morning of freshly cooked cakes, breads and Moroccan pancakes and fresh fruit and yogurt, all well presented. We ate in a relaxed environment in a beautiful dining area but had the option of dining upstairs in the rooftop terrace. Out of the three nights of our stay, two nights we had dinner at the riad because the quality of the food was high and traditional. The idea of enjoying dinner in a relaxed environment and then unwind on our very own rooftop terrace was hard to refuse.

SERVICE
Why have I taken the time to write an extensive review like this? Because after years of travelling, I have never experienced such wonderful service. This is what makes Riad Badi stand out from the rest. Isabelle and Christian were like family relatives welcoming us into their home. I had read in the reviews that Christian takes their guests out to the markets which was something I found hard to believe but it’s true! Being two girls in our 20s, I really valued Christian taking the time to show us around the Medina, helping us familiarise with the craziness in the markets and feeling safer with a male companion.

Christian also gave us itinerary advice and helped us make the most of our time in Marrakech. Isabelle recommended a Hammam massage house and restaurant which both exceeded our expectations. They could tell that we were not confident to wander alone at night so offered to meet us at the restaurant the night we ate out and Isabelle walked us back to the riad. Who does that?! I have never experienced such kindness and care for guests like Isabelle and Christian.

If you are looking for a place of calm, class and comfort, a stroll to the main square in the medina and genuine care for their guests, then Riad Badi is honestly the perfect place for you!

Perfect, perfect, perfect.
No more to say as I would just be repeating what all the other fabulous, well deserved and accurate reviews say.
Just book it, you'll love it and if you get chance take Isabelle on at Quarto!!!.

Susan & Andy

The reviews we had read prior to our visit were accurate. The Riad is beautiful, modern with a Moroccan design. The bedrooms are all of a high standard with excellent ensuite facilities, very comfortable large beds. Best of all are the hosts Isabelle and Christian who really do go that extra mile to help you to get the most from your holiday. Christian gave us a guided tour that lasted a couple of hours that really helped us to accustom ourselves to this very different experience. We explored the authentic Marrakesh and the souks and crazy square where all manner of activities take place. We were always pleased to return to our peaceful haven. We enjoyed dinner and wine, and chats with our hosts and followed their advice on restaurants.

Breakfasts were excellent, slightly varied each day so we could try different jams and breads,with fruit and yogurt .

There were four of us on this trip, two couples, we were all delighted with every aspect of Riad Badi and would not hesitate to recommend it to others.

On our first visit to Marrakech this Riad was chosen due to the excellent reports on Trip Advisor. It turned out to be perfect, with wonderful french hosts Isabelle & Christian who looked after us very well during our stay. Dont worry if you dont speak french as their english is fine. They will arrange taxis to and from the airport for you which is recommended. Upon arrival we were greeted with refreshments then Christian took us on a local tour to get our bearings for the rest of the week. In fact he will accompany you if required during your stay. We also recommend eating in at the Riad as we did on two nights and were rewarded with a 3 course Morrocan meal which was excellent. Wine & beer are available also. The Riad is well located and is also very quiet if you wish to pop back during the day, have a Mint Tea & relax. The rooms are very good all with en suite facilities. We woud recommend it and would certainly return.