Amanjena: The Serene Charm of Africa's Only Aman
During my recent trip to Marrakech, I had the privilege of staying at three iconic properties: Royal Mansour, La Mamounia, and Amanjena. As the only Aman resort in Africa, Amanjena ("Peaceful Paradise") embodies the brand’s signature tranquility—but does it stand out in a city brimming with luxury? Here’s my honest take. 🏛️ Design & Ambience Amanjena’s minimalist elegance contrasts sharply with the opulent grandeur of Royal Mansour and the historic drama of La Mamounia. Designed by Ed Tuttle, the resort channels Moroccan palatial architecture with: Terracotta walls echoing Marrakech’s "Red City" heritage. Reflecting pools and olive groves that evoke a desert oasis. Earth-toned interiors with hand-carved cedar and Berber textiles. While beautiful, the aesthetic felt quieter than its competitors—ideal for solitude seekers, but lacking the "wow" factor of La Mamounia’s emerald pool or Royal Mansour’s secret-door theatrics. ⚠️ The Rough Start My stay began with frustrating hiccups: 1️⃣ Room issues: A malfunctioning AC, nails embedded in the carpet (ouch!), and debris floating in the private pool. 2️⃣ Service delays: Though staff resolved problems quickly, the initial impression was dented. Thankfully, the Aman magic soon kicked in—proof that even top-tier hotels can stumble but recover gracefully. 🌟 Highlights That Shone 🍽️ Dining: Limited but exquisite options. The Moroccan tasting menu (served in a lantern-lit pavilion) was a standout. Breakfast by the pool: Fresh orange-blossom pastries and saffron-infused omelets. 🌿 Grounds: 32 acres of gardens, perfect for meditative strolls. The Pise swimming pool (one of Morocco’s largest) is a serene escape. 💡 Final Verdict Amanjena is not Marrakech’s most dazzling hotel, but it offers something rarer: a sanctuary. If you crave meditative luxury over spectacle, this is your haven. Just pack closed-toe slippers (lesson learned!). #Amanjena #LuxuryTravel #Marrakech #HotelReview #AmanResorts
