Lonely Planet Review
What's left to say about the Mamounia, Marrakesh's most famous luxury hotel? It's a Moroccan Art Deco dream concocted back in 1922 when kings and colonials sashayed through its grand entrance. In 1986 a kitsch makeover transformed its Old World elegance into something a little more brassy and brash. Sure the fittings glitter, but has it lost its soul?
Nowadays the Mamounia is Marrakesh's slice of Vegas, a world unto itself of endless corridors, amusement arcades, manicured gardens, a casino, restaurants, bars, boutiques and beauty spas. In total there are 171 rooms, 57 suites and three exclusive three-bedroomed villas. like Vegas, the Mamounia experience is a must for many and it's still the hotel of choice for the King. This may explain the frostiness of many staff members, who reserve their best face for those who look the part. Between 10:00 and 16:00 the hotel generally opens its doors to the riffraff, allowing them (well, us) to wander the lobby and lush gardens. Sneakers and shorts are not allowed; 'bouncers' in fezzes enforce the dress code at the door.
Review by author
Paula Hardy