What is a Riad and How do I Stay in One?

One of Morocco's defining characteristics is its riads: homestays with a traditional twist. Riads give travellers everything from convenience and comfort to cultural immersion, all presented in a unique, distinctive package.

Riads derive from the Moroccan tradition of multiple family generations living together, and thus requiring enough space to comfortably house often 15-20 people, or more. As per tradition, the exterior of a riad is typically very understated, hiding its secrets within. Once through the door, you may likely face another winding passage or two before you get to the central courtyard. Once there, now you discover the startling beauty and open concept of a riad, like an oasis within the bustling medina.

Think of a three-dimensional square, or an open box with thick sides. Rooms and corridors line the four sides of the box, often with stairwells in each corner. A large kitchen can easily occupy one entire side of the box. A dining room and sitting room may be found off to the side on the ground floor. Bedrooms are interspersed throughout; or depending on the footprint and size of the property, the riad may still be square-shaped yet only have rooms on two sides, the other two sides being outer walls.

The highlights are the inner courtyard, typically with a bubbling fountain, flowers and greenery, sparkling decorations lining the walls and comfortable couches. Meals will often be served here, where the couch and adjoining table double as a dining table.

To top it off, although often not literally!, is the roof. Many riads have no roof over their central courtyard, it is largely open to the elements. Of course, the furniture at the ground level can easily be protected if the rain gets heavy. Some riads have glass roofs, and some have even been able to install retractable roofs that open up to the fresh air, or can easily close when the weather turns. The chatter of birdsong coming into your bedroom, overlooking the courtyard, keeps you company from above, along with the scent of fresh bread and that evening's pastilla cooking in the oven from down below.

Many people are curious as to what to expect when staying in a riad, how did they evolve in Morocco, how do they compare to hotels and why do they come so highly recommended. In the recent Destination Morocco podcast episode, "The Allure of Moroccan Riads," Azdean shares lots of info and get you excited to discover myriad riads yourself.

The Allure of Moroccan Riads - Ep. 34

Each one is different, which is inherent to the idea and concept. Each offer authenticity, space, privacy and modern amenities, typically within walking distance to the medina and souks.

Riads are an amazing option for families thanks to their warm, welcoming nature, in a safe and secure environment. Indeed, the owners/hosts of a riad typically live there themselves, so what better way to learn more about the Moroccan home and society.

Why stay anywhere else? Genuinely: you are far better served staying in a unique, comfortable and convenient riad in any Moroccan city rather than a generic hotel in the outskirts, far from the action and activities and well beyond walking distance from the medina.

It's a little overwhelming trying to figure out what to look for and what to request for accommodation, when you book your Destination Morocco tour. Let Azdean and his team know what you're looking for in a riad, and they'll put their resources and connections to work to find something that meets your criteria, including activities like cooking classes or in-house hammam spa treatments. Many riads offer these and more.

After a busy day sightseeing, there is nothing better than relaxing on a comfy couch in a peaceful inner courtyard, sipping on mint tea and enjoying genuine Moroccan hospitality at a traditional riad.

In this episode, you're about to learn:

How riads different from AirBnb's.
How a riad can offer personalized, individual service designed around your interests and needs.
The history of riads, why they were built, who they were for and their impact upon Moroccan society.
Comparing costs between riads and hotels, and the difference in value.
Some of the activities available at a riad, or that can be organized by your hosts.

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With Appreciation,

Your Host

Azdean Elmoustaquim

Your friendly local Destination Morocco expert.

Check out our podcast, and join me on YouTube every second Wednesday of the month for our live Q&A session!

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