Riad Anyssates, Marrakech. Morocco - Simon Hawkesley. Date of travel: Jun 2009
Shabby chic, delicate creams and a hint of Orientalism are in store at the sensual Riad Anyssates. Riad Anyssated only displays one print in the Orientalist style. However, that one print helps embody all that lies inside Riad Anyssates; the Lloyd Loom patio chairs, the drapes, scatter cushions abundant, pool in centre courtyard, private alcoves, window shutters, polished old cream Tadelikt floors, all little accents which make up an imaginary scene in an Orientalist painting. Whether by design, intervention or happenstance, Riad Anyssates holds a beautiful feel of the Orientalist world.

Riad Anyssates continued.. - Simon Hawkesley. Date of travel: Jun 2009
Riad Anyssates - This evening it rained, not a British downpour but a light drizzle following 3 days of +40 degree temperatures. During a beautifully composed meal the ambient sounds of “Belly Dance disk 3” proved a distraction. Humid drizzle, warm sticky Al-Fresco cuisine in a dusty looking (but in fact clean) colonial Hispano-Moorish courtyard. With light tones of Ottoman imperialism the Orientalist Victorian could have been seated at the next table. From the roof terrace one can see both the Koutoubia, the landmark mosque that marks the centre of Marrakech and the new town of Gueliz (Marrakech’s sophisticated French quarter). The staff are very friendly and welcoming although you may wish to polish your French prior to arrival. Rooms start from approximately £100 which is in keeping with it’s location. Excellent sized air-conditioned bedrooms, a quality roof terrace and a good-sized pool. Bring some books, CD's with your own taste in music.