I explored the Moroccan hotels that are poised to become popular spots for the well-traveled and informed.

      I recently traveled to Morocco for the first time, visiting the Royal Mansour Hotels located in Tamuda Bay and Casablanca. These locations are deeply connected to Morocco, being a passion project of King Mohammed VI, who initiated the country’s first hospitality brand in 2010 with the opening of its first property in Marrakech. With each hotel, the king seeks not only to highlight the best aspects of the kingdom but also to familiarize leisure travelers with the less explored areas of Morocco. The Royal Mansour Marrakech was recently awarded the title of the best hotel in Africa and ranked 13th globally by The World's 50 Best, showcasing the high standards and luxurious experiences offered by this expanding hotel group. The new properties in Tamuda Bay and Casablanca opened in 2024 and, while they are less known, they are equally deserving of attention. Below is an insider's look at the Royal Mansour Hotels in Tamuda Bay and Casablanca, along with essential details for an upcoming visit.

      **Hotel Overview: Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay**

      Opened in September 2024, the hotel in Tamuda Bay is the newest addition to the Royal Mansour Collection. Situated on Africa's northern coast, Tamuda Bay is not typically the first destination for travelers to Morocco; Marrakech often takes that spot. However, Tamuda Bay, while lesser known, is a hidden treasure that retains an air of exclusivity. My visit to this region and hotel felt like discovering something entirely new, which is becoming increasingly rare in today’s travel landscape. I anticipate it will soon become a trendy destination among seasoned travelers.

      Known as the Moroccan Riviera, the region is celebrated for its stunning views, clear waters, and sunny weather. The luxury resort features a 3000-foot private beach, the country's inaugural medical-aesthetic spa, and dining options led by Michelin-star chefs from around the world. Every aspect of the property—from the spacious villas to the serene spa pool adorned with a mother-of-pearl chandelier—exudes luxury. The small touches, such as the Land Rover Defender that picked us up from the train station and the local Medjool dates and regional desserts paired with handwritten notes left in our room daily, contributed to the overall experience.

      Tamuda Bay also serves as a great base for day trips to explore Morocco's rich diversity. Many guests began their journey in Tangier to explore the vibrant community of fashion, art, and home décor. Others made excursions to nearby Chefchaouen, known as The Blue City, or Tetouan, which boasts one of the best-preserved medinas in the region.

      **The Finer Details**

      A highlight of my visit was the newly opened spa—the first medical-aesthetic spa in the country, which launched in 2025. Every corner of this exquisite space is impressive, featuring a tonic bar, fitness center, mosaic-tiled floors, private treatment rooms, and tranquil daybeds along with multiple pools. I enjoyed a full-body massage that left me feeling relaxed and eager to explore more treatments at the spa. Guests can choose from a variety of à la carte treatments or opt for seven- to 14-day retreats focusing on longevity, metabolic balance, physical fitness, nutrition, sleep, and emotional well-being.

      Each morning began with breakfast in a stunning marble-decorated restaurant filled with local pastries, alongside western options such as made-to-order eggs. There are several restaurants featuring diverse cuisines by acclaimed Michelin-star chefs, including Coccinella for Italian curated by the Alajmo brothers, La Table for French dining by chef Éric Frechon, and Le Méditerranée, where Michelin-starred chef Quique Dacosta specializes in Spanish classics like paella and grilled seafood.

      **What to Pack**

      For my three-night stay, I used a carry-on suitcase and a small leather duffel bag. During my time there, I alternated between swimsuits and sarongs paired with sandals for beach days, while opting for light linen attire for daytime excursions. For evenings, I chose dresses and heels for dining experiences on the property. The location is perfect for fashion inspired by local designers, with many guests sporting beautiful kaftans they picked up in Tangier prior to arriving.

      **Hotel Overview: Royal Mansour Casablanca**

      The Royal Mansour Casablanca, which opened in April 2024, revitalized an iconic hotel originally built in 1953. The renovation aimed to maintain the essence and allure of the original property. The details of the original art deco design were both respected and enhanced, blending timeless elegance with contemporary luxury. Upon entering the lobby, this blend is apparent in the architecture and décor, as well as the staff dressed in a variety of 1950s-inspired uniforms reminiscent of what the original employees wore when the hotel first opened. The Casablanca property notably contrasts the more modern coastal design of Tamuda Bay.

      When in Casablanca, I highly recommend scheduling a private city tour through the hotel. During our half-day tour, the guide took