Riad First

Marrakech! The rich, hot smell of the desert hits me as my feet hit the tarmac and I am transported into another world where the plane was merely meant to take me to another country! Cold, grey London does not belong on the same map as this bright jewel shimmering on the crown of Africa and I cannot believe it is only a three-and-a-half-hour flight from England! Excitement fizzing in my veins I climb into my taxi and begin the journey into the heart of the city. I am taking it slowly, easing myself into the overwhelming city, for now I only peer in wonderment through the windows, which I wind right down in order to breathe in lungfuls of hot, spicy air. The terracotta and pinkish walls rise up around me, famed for their earthy shades of red sandstone. Souks, bazaars, exquisitely spiced food, sweet tea, honeyed cakes, carpets, caves of treasures, shaded courtyards, lavish palaces, magnificent mosques, sandy streets, silks, hammams built for kings and a life fit for a queen, all await me in the Red City. Eventually I realise that I am grinning from ear to ear, returning the beams and curious looks from passers-by. I seem unable to compose my face, however, so I give up trying and just keep on smiling maniacally until we reach the hotel. My arrival only makes my smile even broader as I move from the heat into the cool confines of a chic haven that's so peaceful I have the urge to whisper as I enter.

Riad First is comprised of classic Moroccan arches and tiling, its walls painted in muted tones of whites and soft greys, occasionally brilliantly lit by a daring dash of vivid colour. The sophisticated design only serves to enhance the traditional architecture and gently cocoons you in a serene space, allowing you to acclimatise to the dazzling culture it represents and which awaits in all its joyful splendour just beyond the door. It is the second step in my Moroccan immersion and an ideal retreat from the dazzling, dizzying clamour outside. I will be staying in 'Chapitre 6', which turns out to be a spacious suite with soft lighting, warm, chocolatey tones and clean white walls. There is a welcome plate of fruit and pastries on the absolutely huge bed, its own dressing room and open fireplace. I am thrilled as I know the nights can get quite chilly, particularly at this time of year. I have a fabulous bathroom complete with large bathtub and fragrantly scented products by 'Les Sens de Marrachech'. I almost feel guilty having all this to myself and no one to share it with, but not quite!

I find all the usual luxury amenities including a flat-screen television and DVD player, should I wish to curl up at night and watch a film. I wonder idly if I can find Hitchcock's classic 'The Man Who Knew Too Much', which is set here, one of its most famous scenes taking place in the market just minutes from the hotel. I also discover the picturesque pool in the courtyard and a rather tempting Jacuzzi on the terrace, which I cannot quite resist. I have not been here half an hour but I am already feeling like a pampered celebrity. I can quite easily imagine the loveable James Stewart, one of my favourite actors, lounging in similar style all those years ago. I am now deliciously relaxed and ready to freshen up and fully immerse myself in Marrakech.

I am a person who loves to be in the thick of it all, to get a real taste of authentic life wherever I am, yet I cherish quiet moments to myself and I have outgrown the age when a rough bed and a backpack was all I wanted. I have learnt to appreciate living in comfort and style, whilst walking on the wilder side when I feel like it and not because I haven't got two dimes to rub together and have no choice! This hotel offers all the luxury and beautiful style one could desire, whilst being on the doorstep of Morocco's busiest and most famous market, Jemaa el-Fnaa, where visitors can sample street food, revel in the musical hullabaloo and haggle to their heart's content. If you are anything like me, then the Riad First is the perfect answer to your wishes!