Today, we received the following email from an old friend in Morocco:


"Greetings from Marrakech!

We are delighted to inform you that Riad Kniza has been recently ranked as #1 Hotel in Africa and #4 Worldwide by Tripadvisor in its 2012 Traveler' s Choice Hotels Awards.
Warmest Regards,
Kamal Bouskri
Director"
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http://www.luxurylink.com/fivestar/h...id=19198&len=4

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The Riad Kinza offered us the perfect experience for our first four night stay in Marrakech. We were welcomed into the riad and immediately felt as "members" of the Bourski family [owners of the Ria]), rather than "hotel guests."

Our lavishly decorated second floor suite would have easily satisfied the most discriminating traveler. Kamal, the manager, accommodated our every whim and wish, while his father, Mohamed (a professional guide of more than 30 years to heads of state, assorted celebrities and VIPs....and even "commoners" such as ourselves) escorted us on a fabulous walking tour of the sights, sounds and fragrances of the ancient souks.

Safety and personal security were never an issue; by the second day and evening, we ventured on foot through the dimly lighted and crowded alleyways of the old Medina and conducted our own explorations. By day three we were introduced to the best 'authentic' Hammam in Marrakech. Although a bid timid at first, we submitted to the water and scrubbing rituals and eventually immersed ourselves into the ancient traditions. Totally relaxed and exhilarated we made our way to a roof top seat at Cafe Alhamra overlooking Djemaa El-Fna ...as the sun began to set, and the market begin to come alive, we enjoyed a deliciously spiced meal and the best free entertainment available in Marrakech.

Local restaurants served exceptional food and provided continental service (Le Pavilion and La Trattoria were two favorites). Our most enjoyable dinner [honoring a birthday] was prepared by the house chef of Riad Kinza and served on the roof top [how in the world did they manage to present an ice cream cake with candles for the grand surprise}. We sat on pillows, gazed at stars and listened to the sounds of the city....there was magic in the air in Marrakech that evening!

Kamal also arranged for a driver and private car for an overnight visit to the famous Kasbah du Toubkal, where we enjoyed trekking in the foothills of the High Atlas Mountains and drinking hot mint tea with the local Berber villagers.

Ww look forward to a return to Riad Kinza, a longer stay and more exciting explorations.