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74 Derb Laalouj, La Kasbah
Essaouira , MOROCCO
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- Price Range:
Mid-range
- Neighbourhood:
La Kasbah
- Atmosphere:
Heritage and Low-key
Lonely Planet Review
The Teahouse is a classic Souiri town house. Once owned by a wealthy trader in fabrics and spices, he spent his money well on stylish living in a grand house. The current owner, Alison, has retained that link with the past with her own brand of sensitive restoration and style.
The antique furnishings have accummulated from Alison's years of travelling Morocco - antique Fassi beds, Venetian mirrors, French colonial crockery, painted doors and wonky kitchen stools. The details reveal layers of Alison's life: she's a fascinating hostess, speaks fluent Arabic and is immersed up to her elbows in Souiri life. Not least because her husband, Jandal, is a local tadelakt master who executed the silky smooth plaster throughout the house. The rooms are rented as two separate apartments, each with two ensuite bedrooms, a sitting room with an open fire and a kitchen. It's a peaceful, thoughtful place, popular with intellectuals, writers and film-makers who obviously enjoy Alison's razor-sharp observations about local life, politics and, of course, shopping!
Review by author Paula Hardy
How to book this property
This property has been reviewed and recommended by a Lonely Planet author. However it is not bookable online either with Lonely Planet or with a recommended hotel booking provider. In order to book this property please contact them directly.
- Email: teahouse@iam.net.ma
- Website: www.theteahouse.net
Author Tip
Take up Alison's offer to accompany you around the souk. Her fluent Arabic, friendly contacts and sharp eye for a bargain are a godsend. She also runs a fantastic art trip, whereby you can meet and work with local craftsmen. With an able translator at your side, it includes four days in Marrakesh and six days in Essaouira.