The austere facades that line the labyrinthine streets of Morocco's ancient walled neighborhoods reveal almost nothing of the luminous residences within. "The Villas and Riads of Morocco" lifts the veil on these secret paradises, from fantastic palaces in Fez and Essaouira to middle-class riads in Marrakech to converted casbahs in the southern oases. With more than 200 stunning photographs, this beautiful volume takes us behind the scenes to explore a side of Morocco that is largely hidden to outsiders. The book showcases exquisite interiors that combine rich materials such as cedar and marble; luxurious carpets and textiles; filigree carving and other handiwork; and vibrant color palettes. Also featured is the remarkable mosaicwork found especially in the central courtyard gardens and patios that form the heart of the Moroccan house. Accompanying these sumptuous views is a vivid history of the country's residential architecture and its fascinating mix of Andalusian, Arab, and Saharan influences. "The Villas and Riads of Morocco" not only offers a feast for the eyes but also illuminates an entire culture.

The Riads of the Medina (the traditional guesthouses) have become as much of a Marrakech attraction as the Souks themselves. These Riads showcase what visitors find inspiring about Marrakech; an oasis of tranquility with refreshing dipping pools and luxury hammams; excellent kitchens serving gourmet couscous and tagines; courtyards of fountains and chirping birds; rooftop terraces offering private sunbathing with panoramic views of the snowy peaks of the Atlas mountains. The Riads in Marrakech are something between boutique design hotels and historic private preservation museums.

It has been said that Marrakech awakens all of the senses. Whether it is seeing the intricate zellige tilework; smelling the various spices sold at the souks; hearing the call to prayer emanate from the nearby mosques; touching the supple leather used to make a pair of babouches (leather sandals); tasting a flavorful tagine, Marrakech never fails to excite. Located just west of the Atlas Mountains, the city has been inhabited by Berber farmers for centuries. It has been dubbed the “Ochre City” because of the proliferation of red sandstone buildings and the red city walls, which now enclose the Medina, home to Jemaa el-Fnaa, one of the busiest squares in Africa.

"Published simultaneously in Canada by Thomas Allen & Son, Limited."

New expanded edition of Hg2's best-selling Marrakech guide.

This unique anthology of crime fiction features 15 original stories of “scandals, smugglers, and other sordid tales” by award-winning Moroccan authors (CrimeReads). At first glance, Marrakech may seem like an odd setting for noir fiction. Contemporary Moroccans call it The Joyful City—a place where locals are happy to joke about gossip and quick to forget stories of crime. But in Marrakech Noir, some of Morocco’s finest authors address old wrong that have been kept hidden behind the city’s ancient gates, and spin contemporary tales of poverty, grift, and violence in this global tourist destination. Marrakech Noir features brand-new stories by Fouad Laroui, Allal Bourqia, Abdelkader Benali, Mohamed Zouhair, Mohamed Achaari, Hanane Derkaoui, Fatiha Morchid, Mahi Binebine, Mohamed Nedali, Halima Zine El Abidine, My Seddik Rabbaj, Yassin Adnan, Karima Nadir, Taha Adnan, and Lahcen Bakour.

The Rough Guides Snapshot Morocco: Essaouira and the Atlantic Coast is the ultimate travel guide to this coastal area of Morocco. It leads you through the region with reliable information and comprehensive coverage of all the sights and attractions, from the Rabat's Hassan Mosque to El Jadida's Cité Portugaise and Casablanca's colonial architecture to the relaxed beaches of Essaouira. Detailed maps and up-to-date listings pinpoint the best cafés, restaurants, hotels, markets, bars and nightlife, ensuring you make the most of your trip, whether passing through, staying for the weekend or longer. The Rough Guides Snapshot Morocco: Essaouira and the Atlantic Coast covers the coastal area just north of Rabat, as well as Rabat itself and its tightly connected neighbor, Salé, before continuing down the Atlantic shore to the commercial capital of Casablanca and the coastal resorts of El Jadida and Safi, and south to the wide beaches of enchanting Essaouira. Also included is the Basics section from the Rough Guide to Morocco, with all the practical information you need for travelling in and around Essaouira and the Atlantic coast, including transport, food, drink, costs, health, festivals and culture and etiquette. Also published as part of the Rough Guide to Morocco.