Riad Al Ansari

Our main reason for staying at this Arabian riad was to experience an authentic Arabian-style residence. The manager was incredibly welcoming and personally came out to meet us from the alley, which was a huge help because, as first-timers in Fes's labyrinthine Medina, we might never have found it otherwise. Once we got our bearings the next day, we realized the location was actually quite good, very close to the northern kasbah. Breakfast was also excellent; the dishes were rarely repeated over our two-day stay. The fried eggs especially deserve a shout-out – perfectly runny yolks and a perfectly round shape, something I could never achieve myself! Before we left, we also met the owners, a lovely couple from France, who were also very hospitable. The manager even helped us arrange a taxi to the train station. Their service was truly top-notch.

First, thank you to the housekeeper for his service. He delivered our suitcases to our room and then carried them downstairs to the parking lot when we left. He was also busy serving breakfast every morning (very good, including fried eggs). This hotel is very conveniently located, near the parking lot, the old town, and a high-rise for panoramic views of Fez. (If you drive, park at Ain Azliten Parking. After exiting, look for a small alleyway next to a beautiful bougainvillea tree. Just keep going along the path until you reach the end.) Although it's a B&B, the hotel lives up to five-star standards and was probably the most comfortable accommodation we stayed in along the way. The room was spacious and high, without the usual stinky sewer smells common in riads. It was spotlessly clean. Besides disposable toothbrushes, there was a safe, makeup remover pads, and local black soap and volcanic mud (which seemed to be very effective for oil control). The room was beautifully decorated, and all the window and door hardware was in perfect working order. The shower had a strong, hot water flow, and there was a smoke alarm. Thank you to our host, a French lady. It was a pleasure to share some insights into the world of today's young people. I will miss your beautiful Riad. Thank you to our housekeeper, a handsome young man from Chefchaouen.

Because it's a labyrinthine city, Google Maps couldn't guide me to the riad, but a local resident who helps foreigners in need did (a tip was required). I'm glad it turned out well, since I wouldn't have been able to find it without their help, but I think if I'd contacted the riad, they would have picked me up at a known location. The beautiful courtyard and Moroccan-inspired interior were captivating the moment I entered. The value for money was excellent. The manager was also very kind, even calling to change the meeting point for the next day's tour near the riad (I forgot to get his name). The only downside was that the shower didn't drain well.

Very nice Riad. Comfortable beds. Cleanliness is 10. Breakfast is hearty, one of the best in Morocco during our whole trip. The location is very good, two steps from the Medina. Parking is 250 meters from the Riad.