Nestled in the heart of Tangier’s historic Kasbah, a fortified inner citadel overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and Spain, lies the enchanting secret known as La Maison Blanche. Meticulously renovated, this traditional five-story townhouse, centered around a serene courtyard, boasts nine uniquely appointed rooms. Each of these light-filled havens, named in honor of distinguished Kasbah visitors, showcases the distinctive touch of the renowned French interior designer, Regis Milcent.
Every room, adorned with exquisite French fabrics and timeless antiques, harmoniously complements the classical Moroccan architectural features. Handcrafted ceramic tiles grace the floors in traditional Moroccan fashion, while the ceilings are adorned with hand-painted masterpieces, each bearing the signature of the artist.
Stepping through the charming door of the bustling Kasbah, you will find yourself instantly transported to a realm of tranquility. Here, the gentle murmur of a fountain, the fragrant allure of roses, and the captivating beauty of your surroundings welcome you with open arms.
Mr. Aziz Begdouri, the proud owner of this splendid hotel, shares a deep connection with Tangier’s diverse heritage. With Sephardic roots in his ancestry and a childhood filled with cherished Jewish friendships, his attachment to this establishment runs generations deep. “This building has been a cherished part of my family’s legacy for four generations,” he revealed, shedding light on the origin of its name—a nod to the rich tapestry of Tangier’s culture.
In an exclusive conversation with NYJTG, Mr. Begdouri unveiled the meticulous journey of restoration that spanned six years. Delving into the intricacies of the project, he explained, “Planning every detail consumed a significant amount of time because my vision was to faithfully capture the essence of traditional Moroccan culture and aesthetics.” Collaborating closely with a dedicated team comprising engineers, architects, and designers, Mr. Begdouri remained committed to using locally sourced materials. Exquisite plasterwork and artisanal ceramic tiles, all handcrafted, were the chosen elements that would breathe authenticity into this 14th-century riad.
This exquisite riad, a quintessential Moroccan dwelling characterized by its central garden or courtyard, offers a total of nine guest rooms, eight of which are double rooms, with one designed as a twin. Stepping into these guest rooms, visitors are enveloped in an opulent European-Moorish ambiance. Notable features include intricately carved cedarwood entrances, antique wooden doors, and striking white plasterwork arches fashioned in the distinctive horseshoe shape.
The bathrooms, a testament to thoughtful design, showcase marble sourced from the nearby Rif Mountains. The bathrooms have been tastefully updated, featuring bathtubs adorned with delicate accents of vibrant red coral tiles—a nod to Morocco’s celebrated tradition of coral craftsmanship.
Tangier, a city that has been a muse to renowned artists and painters throughout history, such as Henri Matisse, the Tisch family, and Rick Steves from the American Tour TV show, lends its creative spirit to the riad’s modern amenities. Each room is equipped with flat-screen TVs offering an array of satellite channels and complimentary Wi-Fi. Additionally, a personal computer is provided in every room, ensuring convenience for the discerning traveler.
In alignment with the riad’s authentic style, the hotel intentionally forgoes the use of an elevator. Mr. Begdouri expressed his desire to preserve the genuine Moroccan culture and the true essence of Tangier. He envisioned his guests experiencing life in a manner reminiscent of days gone by.
To enhance comfort without compromising authenticity, the hotel has introduced several thoughtful features. These include a rooftop deck, modernized bathrooms, picturesque courtyards adorned with soothing fountains symbolizing peace and tranquility, and mosaic tiles that add to the charm.
The hotel serves as a living tribute to Tangier’s rich and diverse history, featuring elements from its European, Italian, French, and Spanish influences—a true reflection of the city’s unique “melting pot” identity, as aptly noted by Mr. Begdouri.
Every piece of furniture in the hotel exudes either an antique charm or is meticulously crafted right here in Morocco. From the bedside tables to the wardrobes, each item has been chosen with great care to ensure that every guest’s stay is as comfortable and authentic as possible. The floors, a testament to craftsmanship, are a harmonious blend of parquet-patterned brick inlaid with traditional handmade mosaic tiles.
As part of the enchanting experience, guests are treated to a complimentary breakfast served on the rooftop terrace, offering a breathtaking vista that extends over the bustling medina and sweeps down to the graceful arc of the bay. This delightful meal includes a delectable selection of French pastries, freshly baked Moroccan bread, and more. On a clear day, the view is nothing short of spectacular, offering glimpses of the iconic Rock of Gibraltar and the coastal town of Tarifa, Spain, just a 35-minute boat ride away.
Among their illustrious guests is the acclaimed actor Daniel Craig, best known for his iconic portrayal of James Bond 007. Daniel Craig chose to make La Maison Blanche his temporary home during the filming of “Spectre.” In conversation with NYJTG, Azziz enthusiastically shared, “Bond’s presence in Tangiers has been an incredible opportunity for our city, casting the historic and exquisite Kasbah into the international limelight.”
During their stay, both Daniel Craig and his “Bond Girl,” Dr. Madeleine Swann, played by Lea Seydoux, were meticulously prepared for their on-screen appearances by the dedicated film crews responsible for wardrobe, hair, and makeup at La Maison Blanche. The enchanting setting for Bond Girl Lea Seydoux’s make-up preparations was none other than the Régis Milcent room, named in tribute to the late French interior designer whose creative genius crafted the hotel’s luxurious ambiance. In this room, the walls exude a soft peach coral hue, painstakingly hand-painted to perfection.
For your upcoming visit, I highly recommend making a reservation in one of these Bond-themed rooms. Mr. Begdouri possesses an impressive depth of knowledge about the city and is more than delighted to provide travel guidance in a remarkable six languages. La Maison Blanche stands as a serene and tranquil haven in the heart of historic Tangier, and it unquestionably stands out as the paramount choice for accommodation. This establishment is a genuine gem, ensuring an unforgettable and authentic experience during your stay.
For more information, visit:
To plan a trip to Morocco, contact the Moroccan National Office of Tourists or log on to http://www.visitmorocco.com/en.
Fly Royal Air Morocco: https://www.royalairmaroc.com/us-en/
Ride with Train Al Boraq, a high-speed rail service between Casablanca and Tangier.
(https://myticketservices.com/tgv-morocco-al-boraq-high-speed-train-e-tickets/)
Story and photography by Meyer Harroch, New York Jewish Travel Guide, and New York Jewish Guide.
The author took part in a press trip sponsored by the Moroccan National Tourist Office.
