Riad Jaime

Don’t be fooled by the photos. While the staff at this riad are lovely and accommodating, the facilities themselves are quite rundown. I could not take a shower as the bathroom door was halfway fallen off and the facilities overall had not been upkept. For €264 for the stay of 2 nights this was extremely disappointing. The rooftop offers a nice view of the Medina but there is very little shade there so after a very short while you are baking in the Marrakech sun.

Marrakech cannot be inexpensive. This riad seems rather expensive for what it is. We found the two rooms we had rather tiny, but of course one cannot change the layout. The manager had sent us to a different one of his riads (Mazaj, a 10 minutes walk away) because there was no room available for 1 more night at Jaime. Once at Mazaj, after the staff spent some time trying to figure out what we were doing there, the manager told us on the phone that he had “forgotten” to inform us that finally a room was available at Jaime … where the staff is very nice and helpful. The room was cleaned every day and the towels changed. A special mention for the bathrobe, much appreciated. The location is excellent, pay attention to the last shoe shop on the left just before arriving at Jemaa El Fna Place, “Art Marracuir”. They make the most incredible shoes, excellent quality at fair prices.

I've stayed at 2 different roads during my 10 days in Marrakech. One was more plush and updated. Riad Jaime (formerly Gem if you're looking for a sign at the airport) was the more authentic and relaxed friendly. As a solo woman traveler I felt safe and looked after. The traditional rooms with lovely carpets are a bit frayed but clean with comfortable beds. My bedside lamp didn't work but was replaced when I spoke up about it and the lid of my wastebasket was broken. But the welcome and warmth of the 3 hosts & kitchen and cleaning staff was top notch from a welcome with mint tea to different breakfasts on the rooftop terrace which has a good view to the High Atlas Mtns.
Don't be put off by the walk in. It's all part of the true experience. It's also absolutely quiet. A real plus after hours of public Marrakech.