Hotel Marrakech le Tichka

This is one of the oldest hotels in Marrakech, and the first sight visitors have of the Tichka Hotel is its pristine, pastel pink facade with lovely Moroccan architectural features. These include a striking Mashrabiya-style enclosed balcony and elegant arabesque entrance fronted by a charming blue-tiled fountain. Stepping inside, the lobby is a superb octagonal atrium decorated with traditionally styled motifs and pairs of pillars that rise up to an intricately patterned ceiling dome. Originally conceived by famous American interior designer Bill Willis, the property is a fine blend of Moorish-style architecture and timeless Arabian influences, with arched whitewashed doorways complementing vibrantly colored tadelakt (polished limestone plaster) and hanging lanterns. The hotel overlooks pleasant rear gardens with well-tended lawns dotted with palm trees, where a mixture of leisure and business guests relax in relatively peaceful surrounds away from the hubbub of Marrakech.

The hotel is located in a largely quiet and residential neighborhood in the north of Gueliz -- Marrakech's New City district. While there's little in the way of tourist attractions within walking distance, many of Marrakech's schools and medical facilities can be found in the immediate surrounds. The 11th-century medina -- which draws most of the city's tourists -- is around a 10-minute drive away, and there are usually plenty of taxis just outside the hotel which can also connect to Menara International Airport in about 20 minutes (though it might be cheaper to hail one from the main road).

The hotel's 130 air-conditioned rooms and eight suites are all decorated with a mix of smart, modern furnishings and traditional touches with carpeted flooring and arabesque artworks. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, and mini-fridges while bathrooms come with modest toiletries, shower/tub combos, and wall-mounted hairdryers. Most rooms have balconies overlooking the pool, although not all are furnished and birds in the garden-side climbing shrubbery can be noisy in the mornings. Also, while rooms are spacious and generally well-maintained, there are a few signs of wear and tear.

The hotel serves a buffet breakfast each morning in the Ambar restaurant, though options are fairly limited and it's not always included in the rate. The second restaurant -- Johara -- serves a menu of Moroccan cooking in fabulous Arabian palace-style surroundings, while the hotel bar has a good range of international beverages. Half-board rates are available. Food and drink can also be enjoyed on the terrace next to the large outdoor swimming pool -- also lined with loungers -- while a traditional hammam offers steam baths and massage treatments. Wi-Fi is free throughout.