A crossroads for bohemian Europeans in the last century, a city that welcomed artists such as Jean Genet, Paul Morand, Pier Paolo Pasolini and Keith Richards, and a haven for all the writers of the beat generation, Tangier is now turning to luxury tourism. Morocco's second economic hub after Casablanca is expecting two new luxury hotels which will soon be adding to its hotel offering. The first of these is due to open very soon, in the fourth quarter of this year.
The luxury brand Fairmont, part of the Accor group, is to continue its expansion in Morocco with a 133-room and suite hotel, in addition to those already opened in Marrakech and TaghazoutAnother is planned for Rabat in the coming months. Located in the residential area of Boubana, 10 minutes from the city centre and the Corniche, and around 20 minutes from the airport, the Fairmont Tazi Palace is part of the renovation of a historic palace with Arabo-Andalusian architecture, acquired by one of Accor's main partners in the development of its upmarket offering, Katara Hospitality.
" With its deep history blended with contemporary Moroccan architecture, the Tazi Palace will become a true icon of hospitality." said Andrew Humphries, interim CEO of Katara Hospitality. Nestled on a wooded hillside with views over the whole of Tangier, the venue blends Moroccan tradition with contemporary design while remaining true to its roots. In addition to several restaurants and bars and a spa, the future Fairmont hotel will play on one of the brand's strong points, its MICE offerwith a wide range of conference and banqueting facilities.
As for the second luxury hotel announced for Tangier, travellers will have to wait until at least 2025 to discover it. The Hilton group has just announced that it has signed an agreement with Star Hill Tangiers to manage a Waldorf Astoriawhich is currently under construction. " Bringing this luxury brand to Tangier is a step we are proud of, as it supports the development of the tourism sector in Morocco and the city of Tangier." said Zaid Ali of Star Hill. Unlike the Fairmont, the Hiton brand will be located away from the city centre, with a resort located near the Cap Spartel reserve. In addition to an immense spa and five restaurants, the resort will offer 115 contemporary-style rooms and suites, including 21 villas with private pools and a 1,250 m2 royal villa. The Waldorf Astoria Tangier is also positioned to host corporate events with multifunctional meeting spaces and conference rooms.
