I was exceptionally impressed with the Oberoi; I wasn’t prepared to love it as much as I did! I’ve stayed at Oberoi in India; they are gorgeous and quite Over The Top! Oberoi Marrakech is outside the city fray, a calm haven of private villas with deep heated plunge pools. It’s elegant, but not overdone. A peaceful oasis within minutes from the chaos that is Marrakech!  Ranked Number 1 Resort in North Africa and the Middle East. Mind reading staff know your needs before you utter a request!

The stunning arrival courtyard sets the stage, incorporating the design of the historic Medersa Ben Youssef, built in the 14th century; one of Marrakech’s most famous historic monuments. There are picturesque views of the majestic snow-capped Atlas Mountains from the gardens, the restaurants and many of the villas. From the moment you arrive, I was impressed by the architecture, the level of service and the warm hospitality. Quiet elegance with a front row view of the snowcapped Atlas Mountains reflected in a monumental reflection pool.

Thoughtfully laid out to offer privacy, the spacious and luxurious rooms and villas, most with large heated private pools and gardens, the villas incorporate authentic Andalusian design and comes with a butler. Seventy-eight villas are clustered across the acres of lawns and manicured gardens. The Private Villas are decorated in a luxurious traditional Moroccan design with modern comforts and include a striking, landscaped garden, and a large pool within a secluded courtyard. Situated amid Mediterranean orchards of fragrant citrus trees and centuries old olive groves, an oasis outside the busy city of Marrakech. Water features, divine views of the majestic snowcapped Atlas Mountains, the Oberoi is civilized and sophisticated. My beautiful Pool Villa was so comfortable, I didn’t want to leave for meals, alfresco lunch, yes please! I am obsessive about arrivals – to a property or in suite.

Imagine how surprised I was to see a framed photo of myself in Asilah, a sunny stop along my month-long travels! Chocolates, cookies, small books and of course, Champagne! The framed photo – the Oberoi Welcome Committee took the time to follow me along my Camel Caravan and chose the photo as a delightful reminder of my Moroccan Journey! Best Welcome Ever! Did I mention the family history of hospitality?!

Royal Villa with private pool is plopped at the end of the property with a large, heated pool, manicured gardens, and sunny terraces. This is the ultimate two-bedroom Palace! There is a separate living room with a fireplace, a dining room, and a fully equipped kitchen. All the rooms are structured around a central patio with a water fountain; a pure spring that refreshes the entire space and gives life to the soul.

Take a spiritual detour to the Capital S Spa, focused on well-being, the engraved plaster wall of the spa building reads: Eternal Health…espousing a high level of wellness! Traditional Moroccan culture esteems water as a means of spiritual cleansing; a medium for self-reflection, contemplation, and purification. Thus, the location of the spa is highly symbolic. As you cross the lake to The Oberoi Spa, they would like you to leave the outside world behind and turn your focus inwards as you embark upon a unique journey to wellbeing. Resting rooms gaze at a tranquil lake, your pulse drops to a low beat. A resident Ayurvedic doctor and therapists from the Oberoi Sukhvilas Spa are in residence. Large well outfitted gym, indoor pool, and a hammam.  Reserve early, it’s a tranquil haven.

What Else? I never miss a wander through a hotel boutique, especially adore a shop which includes local designers. It is one of my favorites, with well curated selection of musky scented cologne and perfumes, jewelry, local designer clothing and fine ceramics.

On a morning stroll, I discovered a heartwarming sight: a corral with two rescue donkeys! Donkeys in Morocco have hard lives, these two adorable steeds enjoy a five-star life at the Oberoi. What hotel do you know of with rescue donkeys? A visit to Morocco guarantees a love of these gentle hard-working animals. I was thrilled to meet Sugar & Brownie who wear fringed masks to keep the flies off their face. Typical Oberoi elegance and kindness!? They love breakfast fruit or ask your butler for carrots or donkey treats! Sugar loves his back rubbed!

Pillow Menu – Yes! Duck Down pillows, Buckwheat Pillows, Memory Foam Pillows, Dual Zone, Body Pillow! Please call housekeeping to ensure you have a comfortable sleep!

Celebrated for enlightened service, the Oberoi family founded the Grand Hotel in Calcutta in 1939, they can teach quiet understated service. Highly Recommend a leisurely long stay outside the Marrakesh fray.