Riad Ma Bandra & Spa

This is difficult because the staff are lovely but I would not stay again. The riad is hard to find. It is in a dead-end narrow run down walkway. No cars can access it. Indeed, it is in an area where the local kids pester you for money. The ground floor rooms get very little daylight and only have “mood” lighting. So they are always gloomy. You cannot read or apply make-up. It is too dark. The fittings are not of high quality. I would equate this as a 3-star accommodation.

At the time of booking, we requested the possibility of an early check-in (to which no one ever responded), and we mentioned being interested in some of the activities offered by the riad. We wish we had never done that! As soon as we arrived at the riad, we were told that the reserved room was unavailable due to a bad smell (which sounds a lot like an excuse for overbooking!) and were forced to stay at another riad (Riad Teranga, where, on the contrary, the staff was particularly kind and attentive). Additionally, we were held for over 40 minutes and threatened to choose the dates and pay in advance (of course, only by cash!) for all the activities we had merely expressed interest in. Feeling practically held hostage and just for being “released” and to find a compromise, we agreed to participate in only a few activities, including the taxi service for the arrival (which we had already used) and for the departure, which we hadn’t used yet. The night before our departure the riad informed us that the taxi service for our departure was not been paid and that we would have to pay (for the second time) directly with the taxi driver. Of course, we tried to ask for explanations, but, unsurprisingly, we have not received answer either by phone or in person, despite ringing the doorbell for over 10 minutes (we could hear people talking inside, who then literally disconnected the doorbell!). Finally, they even attempted to cancel the Booking reservation as a “no show” (!!). Fortunately, we promptly informed Booking during our stay, and they will take the necessary actions. I believe that the beauty of places is, as too often happens, spoiled by the behavior of individuals who, thinking they are acting cleverly, achieve the opposite result. I hope this review helps future visitors stay away from this Riad.

The property was very clean, the meal on the rooftop was exceptional and the staff was great. They arranged transport from the airport and as they were down an alley the car could not get to they walked to meet us and lead us to the hotel. We were allowed to relax in the lobby with some mint tea (very good) and then given a full tour of the property while our bags were taken to our room. Located a very close walk to the market, the side streets (alleys) leading to it are full of vendors and shops of all kind. Use caution with the motorcycles cutting through around you.

The Riad is lovely, the location wonderful - being in the beating heart of the casbah is amazing - exotic, yet homey - authentic. But, it's the staff that are the real jewel here, helpful and friendly beyond the call of duty. Thank you, Na'ima and Anis!

From the moment Mariam met us & walked us to the riad, we had the most wonderful experience! Riad Iklil is in the perfect location- just a few minutes walk from the medina. Mariam drew us a map & walked with us many times to make sure we did not get lost and to introduce us to her friends- always a connection for a great place to eat, or where to get the best deal on rugs or whatever. She went above & beyond to make sure we had everything we needed, were having fun & were staying safe, she was available day & night to help us in any way. The riad is clean, beautifully decorated, had washer for laundry, great breakfast, excellent price, etc & Mariam she is a very accommodating host- she goes above & beyond for her guests - so kind & genuine, can’t wait to go back! High recommendations to anyone considering a stay at Riad Iklil!

Fantastically helpful and friendly staff, they could not have been more attentive. The Riad was clean and modern with a tranquil feel. The team helped sort out boarding passes for us at short notice, organised an in-house massage short notice and an an excellent guide and excursion at short notice. Always with a smile. Thank you Hamza, Anas and Miriam, you could not have done more.