Morocco's Imperial City  

By Mary Elizabeth Pitz

In a corner of the park bordering a very busy five-way intersection, six camels sit on their haunches. Mercedes and BMWs whiz by while horse drawn carts, "petit taxis," motor scooters, and bikes proceed at their own speed. The midday sun beats relentlessly. In the distance the snow-capped Atlas Mountains reach into the deep blue cloudless sky. Welcome to Marrakech, the apricot city, the city of intriguing contrasts and beauty, the imperial city of Morocco.

Where to Stay 
There's no better place to stay in Marrakech than the 171-room, 57 suite, three villa La Mamounia - The Rose Hotel. More than 1500 freshly-cut, long-stem roses fill the lobby areas, float in the fountains, decorate the coffee and restaurant tables. Bowls of fresh roses are in each guestroom and guest bathrooms.

Sheraton is the only American chain hotel in Marrakech. Each of the 291-rooms of the Sheraton looks out over the large swimming pool. The Sheraton is within walking distance of the Congress Center, and a twenty-minute walk to the main square and the souk. 

Restaurants
Even if you opt not to stay at La Mamounia, you should still have dinner at one of the four restaurants or luxuriate in the full service spa. The Moroccan restaurant, Le Maroccain, serves a selection of delicious, traditional fare with superb entertainment, including the most beautiful dancer's in town.

For a romantic dinner, make a reservation at L'Orangerie and dine on the terrace facing the gardens; the soft lighting, perfumed night air, and the gentle breezes from the swaying palm trees create a magical environment. Their menu offers a choice of international fare.

Golf
A short fifteen-minute ride from the center of town is Palmeraie Golf Palace, a multi-faceted, 314-room resort with an 18-hole, 72 par championship course designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr.

Attractions
Sites not to be missed are the magnificently restored Koutoubia, the Saadian tombs, the Majorelle Gardens of Yves St. Laurent, and Jemaa el Fna.

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