My husband and I (2 expats) along with my visiting gal pal traveled to Marrakech during the Bank Holiday from 20-25 March. I made direct arrangements with Jean-Patrick without any difficulty. Before we arrived, at his suggestion, he made arrangements for us to be met at the airport by private car (cost added on to your room bill so no fussing about with money at the end of the trip). In 15-20 minutes we were in the bustling town of Marrakesh. It was dark when we arrived in the town and we had no idea where we were. The driver quickly got our bags out and immediately hoofed it down the street, us quickly trotting behind as best we could, dragging what baggage he didn't take, and not having a clue where we were going plus having to dodge cars and scooters going which way. We then approached what we learned later a "gate" which then brought us down the "street" and to the first alley on the left where we would eventually wind our way to our riad. The three of us thought, "did Bing, Bob and Dorothy experience this on arrival?" The driver rang the bell (a very sweet bird whistle) and Jean-Patrick answered the door and warmly welcomed us to his riad. Our bags were discretely whisked off to our appointed rooms by a friendly staff person and we were asked to sit down in the atrium area for some mint tea and almond cookies (that I got hooked on immediately!). Jean-Patrick gave us a quick orientation to the city in case we wanted to go out that night (was he kidding?!!), but we elected to just have our dinner and relax. I had made arrangements beforehand for us to have dinner at the riad and we were so happy that we did. The food is excellent here and we ended up eating all meals here except for one (Dar Moha) which Jean-Patrick arranged for us. The rooms we had were spotless, very nicely appointed, comfortable beds, but the rest of the riad is what makes this place so special. After a day out in the noisy, chaotic din of the town, you reach the door and when the door is opened and you step in you are pleasantly surprised each time on how quiet and peaceful the place is - the sound of the water from the atrium fountain provides a tranquil setting while soft jazz plays in the background - totally charming and well done. Jean-Patrick is the consummate host who goes the extra mile when needed and is alway willing to give suggestions for day trips or restaurants. My husband had some problems with our bank in paying the bill (long story) and Jean-Patrick was very understanding and accommodating. Another example: I loved the blue breakfast dishes that I saw every morning so much that he offered to get them for me and gave me some bubblewrap to make it easier to get them home. We also had a problem with a driver that had been arranged prior to our arrival to take us on a day trip to the Atlas Mtns. Well, he showed up, obviously had been drinking, and immediately Jean-Patrick found another driver to take us on a memorable trip - the highlight of our trip to Marrakech. We absolutely would come back here again should we find ourselves in Marrakech again. This is the perfect place to stay, to relax, meet some nice people, enjoy the hardworking staff - they are so nice - and to meet one of the nicest hosts we have met in all our travels, and we have traveled all over the world. This place deserves to go back to the Number One spot!

We booked to stay at this riad after reading the reviews on tripadvisor, and we could not fault it. As soon as we arrived we were welcomed with mint tea. Jean Patrick and his staff at the riad were very helpful and always on hand to give advice on places to see, places to eat and booking trips outwith marrakech. All the staff were very friendly, something you don't get in a big hotel!

The riad itself is really relaxing even though its not far from the hustle and bustle of marrakech, the roof terrace was perfect for reading and taking some time out from the madina.

I would highly recommend dar silsila and if we go back to marrakech we would definitely stay here.

We arrived in the evening to tea and almond cookies, followed by a romantic meal by candle light at the Riad Silsila. This is a great place to stay: the rooms are nicely decorated; there are lovely sitting areas, the location is excellent and Jean Patrik and staff are more than willing to help. Every day after touring the town we came back to mint tea and almond cookies served in the courtyard. It was also our 25th wedding anniversary and Jean Patrik made a reservation at an excellent restaurant that suited our needs. I think this hotel is a good choice for any group of travelers. Minette

Got back late last night and just had to add our comments to the many others. The hotel, location, food and particularly hospitality at Dar Silsila are fantastic.

We spent 3 wonderful nights there in the Terrace Suite and the room is very spacious, tastefully decorated and a cool haven from (even in March) the hot sun. Opening straight onto the roof terrace is a bonus and feels very private.

Little touches such as the offer of mint tea/coffee on your return from a hot dusty trip out make this a very special place.

Losing its long held #1 Trip Advisor status is such a shame and all down to one (unjustified) negative review. Let’s hope that all of us who are satisfied keep giving positive reviews and get the Dar Silsila back to its rightful spot!