MARRAKECH Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces has established its presence in North Africa by entering into a management contract with JK Hotels to operate Taj Palace Marrakech.
The 161-key hotel is set to launch this fall, increasing Taj’s international portfolio to 17 hotels. “Taj Palace Marrakech is our latest venture into the African continent and is in sync with our strategy to continue our vision of growth in key international destinations,” says Raymond Bickson, managing director and CEO of Taj parent The Indian Hotels Co. Ltd. “The hotel will fit perfectly in our portfolio with its meticulously crafted and vivid blend of Moroccan, Indian and Asian themes. Marrakech is rich in culture and tradition and is increasingly becoming a most desired leisure destination.”
The property is designed by American artist Stuart Church, with guestrooms inspired by the noble Berber Kasbahs of Morocco, the splendor of Ottoman architecture, exotic Oriental influences and Indian pageantry. Taj Palace Marrakech offers panoramic views of the Atlas Mountains and palm gardens of the lush Palmeraie district.
The hotel will feature several restaurants and bars serving cuisine ranging from Moroccan specialties to the flavors of Mediterranean and Asia. The hotel will also be home to a 40,000-sq.-ft. Jiva Grande Spa and a state-of-the-art fitness center.
This is the second Africa property for the Taj brand, joining Taj Cape Town, which opened earlier this year.