Equity Point Marrakech, sometimes referred to by its old name of Riad Amazigh, is a hostel that has been made out of a traditional Moroccan riad. It's a great way to experience more of the local culture and you get to stay in the middle of the medina. Reception is open twenty-four hours.
The Location
The hostel is very difficult to find in the middle of the medina. It is not safe to walk to this hostel alone at night, especially for females. Be sure to carefully follow the directions on the Equity Point web site for getting to the hostel, and if arriving at night, bring a flashlight as the alleys are completely dark. Beware of asking locals for help -- many of them purposely mislead people trying to get to the hostel. Just be patient, and carefully follow the directions from Fnaque Berber to make your way down the alleys to the hostel. There is no transportation nearby, but Bus 19 from the airport will drop you off in Djemma el-Fna Square and you can walk from there. Don't even think about driving to the hostel!
Rooms and Bathrooms
The dorm rooms range from four to eight beds, along with single and double privates. The eight bed dorm and the reception area are the only parts with A/C. There are no keys provided to the dorm -- you just walk into the rooms. Lockers are provided in the reception area for free. The front door is usually closed and locked, so just use the knocker and staff will quickly open it. The bedrooms are in traditional Moroccan style. Most are bunks, but some are single beds in the eight-bed dorm. The beds are a bit short and can be uncomfortable.
The bathrooms are clean, and most are en-suite (all except in the eight-bed dorm, which has a sink and the bathroom upstairs). Bathrooms are clean, and the shower area is a bit different but water pressure and temperature is fine. There is lots of room for clothes and for putting soap and shampoo bottles. Towels are provided.
Common Spaces
There are many common spaces throughout the hostel. The larger dorms are spacious, and have seating in the middle. There is also seating in the reception area, common area just outside the main floor courtyard, the second floor outside of the dorms (where smoking is permitted), and on the rooftop. A traditional Moroccan breakfast is made fresh and served at your table on the roof level on the inside part. It consists of coffee, freshly squeezed orange juice, bread, and typical Moroccan crepes or other items. There is no kitchen, TV room, Wi-Fi, or game room. Two computers with free internet are available near reception. Luggage is just stored openly near reception, and they will store it for you for a day if you go on an excursion through the hostel, and will even let you keep your locker.
The hostel is full of young people in their twenties and early thirties. It is very social. Some wine drinking is permitted on the roof, but do be cautious due to local sensitivities toward alcohol. The hostel also runs an excellent typical Moroccan dinner once a week which includes music.
Summary
Overall, this hostel is an excellent find in a country like Morocco. The traditional riad style is a nice way to get acquainted with the local culture. The hostel is clean and spacious, and definitely worth staying at, even if a bit pricey.
— Avis exclusif de Hostelz.com
September 2009
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