Travel

	Riad Laora Although inconspicuous from the outside, it is like the best Riads, absolutely beautiful once in side the shelter of its walls. Only seven rooms grouped around the cool courtyard, designer interiors and a roof terrace if you want sunshine. You can pre-select the room you want on the straightforward website.
	Jamal will meet you at the airport and guide you through the maze of traffic-proof alleys of the medina. The staff are polite and charming; the proprietress, Mme. Bontoux delightfully French and helpful. Although it is possible to eat in the Riad, there are dozens of restaurants within walking distance.
	Marrakchi Just off Jemma Al Fnaa, the only restaurant in the area serving alcohol, so obviously a favourite with us. Fantastic view of the Place by day or night; romantic any time. Between £30-£60, depending how much wine you drink and whether the waiter feels like giving you a discount because he likes you!
	Le Sabal Stunning elegant, bar, restaurant complex with belly dancers (not the tacky tourist type), a log fire (it was December) and the scent of incense. Fantastic menu with the best of Moroccan and French cuisine, but only (excellent) local wine. Rather pricey (£100 for two) but worth every penny.
	La Mamounia Supposedly a gem and demonstrably playground of the rich and famous. As you would expect, botoxed wannabes, more interested in their mobiles than each other and certainly not the food. Staff doing their best to be equally distant and appearing unfriendly and intimidating. Shame, because the food was excellent and not too outrageous given the beautiful gardens etc.
	Les Jardins de la Koutoubia Another one just off the Place and another haven of tranquility (being a hotel does serve alcohol) so it is possible to enjoy chilled rosé in the gardens, only seconds from the chaos of the medina.