The Bohemian Jungle

The Bohemian Jungle is a small eclectic riad (a traditional Moroccan house) located in the heart of the old medina in Marrakech and only a ten-minute walk from the renowned Jemaa el-Fnaa. With five individually styled rooms, it had an intimate feel allowing you to enjoy some peace and tranquillity amidst the chaotic charm of this exotic city. Being a fragrance fanatic the first thing I noticed was the remarkable smell of the riad. The moment you enter the air is filled with the most beautiful nuances of orange and cinnamon which somehow had the most calming effect. They even had their own fragrance range which was a great way for me to be transported back to the Bohemian jungle when I was back home in the rain.

I recently stayed in their Sultan double deluxe room located on the first floor overlooking the pool and central patio. Just like Marrakech itself, the room is painted a dusky hue of pink accented with lavish veils of red fabric. A small seating area and uniquely decorated ‘Fes hat’ wall add a fun quirky element to the room but still with a nod to Moroccan culture. Upon the floor laden with carpets, a comfortable four-poster bed is embellished with swathes of fabric and adorned with trailing florals. Everywhere you look there are smile-inducing details from the intricately carved window arches, colourful wooden shutters and a vibrant central Moroccan lamp. The ambient lighting was extremely relaxing and I loved how the colours of the Moroccan lamp danced across the walls. The bathroom decorated in a deeper orange and accented with brass detailing had a darker and richer ambience, allowing you to feel like you had your very own hammam. A huge plus (especially for me being so Scottish) is that air conditioning was provided and included in the price of your stay which was great on those warmer evenings.

The central patio with a small plunge pool was the perfect place to cool down in the heat of the day. I loved laying back in the water and listening to the singing birds that frolicked in the trail of green foliage that hung above me. It was hard to believe that you’re in the heart of the city as it always felt so tranquil. If however, you crave some Moroccan sunshine then the riad caters for this too.

Located on the top floor is the Riads rooftop lounge area where an array of alcoves with comfortable seating all exude that bohemian vibe. Here you can relax on the comfortable day bed and get lost in a good book or enjoy the warmth of the Moroccan sun. If you’re seeking more shade then the vibrant bright colours of the boudoir tent provide just that. Here you can lounge under the canopy of cerise pink and feel like you’re in an Arabian palace. It’s also up on the rooftop that you experience a delicious Moroccan breakfast that is served each morning of your stay. Beghrir and Msemen (types of Moroccan pancakes) are served along with jams, honey and cheese along with fresh orange juice and coffee. In the cool of the evening, you can even enjoy a traditional mint tea as you listen to the ambience of the city in the distance.

Hassan and Yasin, the riads attentive staff are constantly on call for anything that you may require during your stay. From booking trips, ordering a taxi or even recommending the best restaurants, they are filled to the brim with knowledge. Their laid-back and extremely cordial nature, makes it feel as if you are staying in a home rather than a raid. I even got treated to some music from Hassan, and it was so fulfilling to hear just a small part of his beautiful culture.

I booked through booking.com at a fairly affordable rate and I wouldn’t hesitate to go back to this special place. The good news, if you are in Scotland, there are now direct flights to this beautiful city, meaning you can experience the delights of North Africa in just over four hours. Check out my article in Guild Magazine of things you can do whilst staying in this exceptional country.

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Blu Blazer Guy Rating:
Location – 4/5
Interior and Style – 4/5
Facilities – 4/5
Cleanliness – 4/5

Blu Blazer Guy Highlights: stylish rooftop, relaxed vibe, plunge pool, excellent customer service, 10 minutes from medina centre.