Reviews For Essaouira Holiday house - Property 84145

Holiday Rental Location: World, Africa, Morocco, Marrakech - Essaouira Region, Essaouira
Country house in GHAZOUA ( a happy place ) Essaouira
Country house in GHAZOUA ( a happy place ) Essaouira
Spacious self-catering house, roof-terrace, Berber village location.
For a taste of the real Morocco, this is as good as it gets! Romantic self-catering traditional spacious house in the Berber village of Ghazoua ( a happy place) only 5 miles from Essaouira airport , m...
 4/5

quiet holiday
an,lil,kriis,isa   belgium.
Date Submitted: November 22, 2009   Date of Stay: November 2009
09/11/09-18/11/09 <br/>we (4 women) had a nice holiday in ghazoua. the berber village people are very friendly. it was an experience to almost live between them. the neighbours children, as well as the dogs, the goats, the cats, the chicken came to visit us... and the donkeys, we heard them before the immam in the morning... <br/>the house is basic, but you find everything you need to have nice stay for 4 people. the roof-terrace keeps the wind away (but there was no wind!) so it was very hot during the day. we sometimes wanted to climb over the wall, because you cannot see anything of the surroundings. naturally, it gives a lot of privacy that way. <br/>one remark maybe: the shower gives not all the time a lot of water. <br/>and to close, one tip: the sunbeds on the terrace would be more comfortable with cushens. <br/>but we had a good time at the house and we will recommend it to our friends.

Recommended for: Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Girls Getaway, Families with Young Children, Pet-friendly

Owners Response: Thank you for your review and valued comments. During your visit you experienced hot weather,and very liitle wind,but the water levels were low supplying the wells in Essaouira.We do recommend in our " house book" short showers,as water is precious in Africa.As for the cushions for the sun-beds,we are still working on a solution,having tried both fabric and plastic,being affected by the heat,sun tan lotion,and red wine.However,you had a good time at the house, a reasonable price, and thank you for any future recommendations to your friends. Warmest regards, Martyn
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 4/5

Ramadan Holiday
Caversham   reading.
Date Submitted: October 04, 2009   Date of Stay: September 2009
I have to say we were a bit worried that a strict observance of Ramadan might be a bit of a problem with certain aspects of the holiday. However our fears were totally unfounded, Taibi who looks after the house was a legend, there was nothing he could not find and no problem he could not solve. He is an excellent cook and gave us a couple of great lessons on Tajine cooking. The house is comfortable and well appointed. It is conveniently situated for restaurants, shops the town and beaches. We had a car which was very useful and convenient but not essential as there are plenty of taxis and buses.

Recommended for: Sightseeing, Families with Young Children

Owners Response: Many thanks for your comments, and even during Ramadan, restaurants are open serving wine to tourists. Our "house book " contains details of respectful conduct during this time, and our friends will always make you welcome.
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 5/5

A wonderfully relaxing retreat
alice loves morocco   london.
Date Submitted: August 26, 2009   Date of Stay: August 2009
We spent the last eight days of a three week trip to Morocco at Villa Tazmin and it was wonderful. The property is beautiful and well maintained and even more spacious than you can tell from the website. The neighbouring families were lovely, their children made instant friends with ours and took them off to see all their animals. <br/> <br/>We found Moroccans to be friendly, helpful and hospitable everywhere, but Taibi the caretaker surpassed any notion of this. He looked after us so well and yet never intruded in any way. He took us for a camel ride on the beach at Essaouira (the highlight of our holiday), and came promptly with mechanics when we had a problem with our hire car. <br/> <br/>The house is a wonderful rural retreat within easy reach of Essaouira, a vibrant and bustling town with great places to eat and a wonderful fishing port. We ate better in Essaouira then anywhere else on our trip - although the tagine Taibi cooked for us was also superb. <br/> <br/>I would wholeheartedly recommend this place to everyone it's a great way to see Morocco and we hope to return some time soon.

Recommended for: Sightseeing, Age 55+, Families with Teenagers, Adventure Seekers, Families with Young Children

Owners Response: Thank you very much for your kind comments. I am pleased that you,and your children enjoyed village life, Taibi's hospitality and help, plus the wonderful cuisine available locally, and in Essaouira. We hope to welcome you back to the Kingdom of Morocco soon.Warmest regards, Martyn
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 5/5

You won't want to leave!
S&S&J   Webridge, Surrey, UK.
Date Submitted: July 08, 2009   Date of Stay: June 2009
Spent only a mere week at Villa Tazmin with two female friends, and I must say, despite our concerns about being three girls aged 25, we were blown away by how friendly Moroccans are! Transtar taxis from and to the airport are definitely worth taking, very good value for money, and well worth stopping off at Marjane (sp?) large supermarket on the way from airport, we stocked up on breakfast stuff, water and wine of course! Taibi was there to greet us despite arriving an hour late (delayed flight) and immediately organised for us to catch the last night of the Gnaoua Music Festival, so glad we went and had Taibi as a fantastic guide as it was very busy! Neighbours all delightful, donkeys are noisy but become part of the charm, I missed them as soon as I was home. Riff (the adopted house dog) is a sweetheart and very friendly. Getting the bus into Essaouira was easy and v cheap, 4MD a head. We chose to get Grande Taxis (find them at the gate of the Medina) back as was only 30MD so was worth it instead of cramming on the bus with all our purchases! The Villa is gorgeous, much more spacious than we invisaged, and very tidy and clean and welcoming, with Moroccan music on the CD player for when we arrived! (as well as ABBA, couldn't live without ABBA!) Taibi cooked us a fantastic Tagine, he is also very helpful when organising activities and got us a discount on Camel Riding. All food was good, nice fresh fish at the Harbour in Essaouira (only 12 mins away by bus) and KM8 the local restaurant has fantastic chocolate pudding! Some have commented that it's pricey, but nothing more than UK and food is superb, they now have an alcohol license too. The Sun terrace is glorious, and its so very quiet. We didn't even feel the need for a pool as the wind is just enough to keep you cool, even in July! Thoroughly recommend this house and area, Martyn has been extremely helpful with advice and always quick to respond. Will DEFINITELY come back as soon as poss, I never realised how friendly the Moroccan people were, and it's certainly on my list of favourite places. Just book it and go! You'll have a fab time and won't regret it!!!!! Thanks again to Martyn and Taibi, from Sophie, Sarah and Jackie :)

Recommended for: Sightseeing, Girls Getaway, Age 55+, Adventure Seekers, Families with Young Children

Owners Response: Thank you all for your valued comments,and the fabulous photoghraps you have sent me, you obviously had a great time.I also believe that moroccans may well be the friendliest people on the planet.Come back soon, warmest regards, Martyn & Co.
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 5/5

Delightful, unusual and restful...
Rob & Alison   Warwickshire.
Date Submitted: July 04, 2009   Date of Stay: June 2009
We'd certianly recommend Villa Tazmin for a restful, away-from-it-all break. Martyn and Taibi were incredibly helpful with re-arranging taxis when our flight from the UK was delayed by 6 hours, and Taibi was wonderful throughout our stay. <br/>Local shops, though tiny, seem to stock everything and be open all hours. Friendly neighbours - especially the children - but take your French phrase book! <br/>Great service from Martyn before and following our stay.

Recommended for: Romantic Getaway, Tourists without a Car

Owners Response: Thank you for your valued comments, and despite your nightmare journey, you arrived safely in Morocco. Taibi(our concierge)and Hilali (our friend from TRANSTAR taxis) were just happy to greet you.
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 4/5

No sightseeing, but living!
Piet & Roos   Middelaar, Pays Bas.
Date Submitted: May 14, 2009   Date of Stay: April 2009
Staying in Villa Tazmin is feeling, smelling and experiencing the region of Essaouira. You may stay there as easy as you want: no hurry and no time table. Rent a car and live in your own scheme. The house gives full comfort and the environment is as real as it can be in a Berber village. Modern world is near, because Morocco is a modern country, although some aspects go 50 years back in time. <br/>It is modern, old, genuine and a pleasure to be there. <br/>No goal for the day? Stay at the roof of the house and enjoy the environment: great!

Recommended for: Age 55+, Families with Young Children

Owners Response: Thank you Piet and Roos for your wonderful comments.Even though the modernised,traditional Berber house is in a village where time has stood still? There are many new and old attractions nearby to suit every budget and taste, and the environment is free, enjoy.warmest regards,Martyn
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 4/5

April in Ghazoua
ktg   Manchester.
Date Submitted: May 09, 2009   Date of Stay: April 2009
The house really is in the heart of a moroccan village, - dirt tracks for roads, noisy donkeys outside the door, friendly children, neighbours and dogs - including, should you wish, your very own for your stay - Riff, who we affectionately named Riff raff. The goats and sheep pass by on their way to pasture. If you can speak French you will enjoy the additional benefit of conversation with the locals - our skills were limited! We were offered food and gifts despite our lack of language skills and made to feel at home. The traditional, modernised, house has no windows, just an open roof light (with cover for the colder days - and heaters if needed) and a lovely roof terrrace with high walls for privacy - remember this is muslim country so ladies must be modestly dressed at all times - so the roof terrace for sunbathing was ideal (watch out for neighbourly boys peeping over the top!!), but unfortunately this also means no pretty view - see photies. Taibi was an excellent host who helped us with any queries and difficulties at any time, and Martyn was also available via text for queries and valuable assistance. We had a lovely week - fine sunny weather although rather windy, pottering around Ghazoua and Essaouira and doing generally very little. This house is perfect for those who really want to get away from the tourist tracks. <br/>If driving remember the roads are much slower than Europe, due to donkeys, dogs, villages and villagers - often on donkeys, and the mandatory police halt in/out of each village. The trip from Marrakesh really is 3-4 hours. Personally, i wouldn't have liked to be without a car here. <br/>Eating out was excellent - but more pricey that we envisaged. We enjoyed KM8 and la Plage restaurants - both recommended by Taibi. Fresh food for at home is easily purchased from the village shops. The local children very much enjoyed our offer of coca cola and crisps. We enjoyed (?) their offerings of thistle flower hearts - hot off the stem. <br/>If you are travelling down from Marrakesh it is worth taking the time to do a serious shop at the large supermarket just outside Marrakesh on the main Essaouira road - especially if you enjoy a glass of wine or beer on your holiday. <br/>Do give it a try. <br/>Cheers!

Recommended for: Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Age 55+, Adventure Seekers, Families with Young Children, Pet-friendly

Owners Response: Thank you for your review,with helpful tips on driving in Morocco, and stocking up at the MARJAN Hypermarket in Marrakech prior to getting away from the tourist tracks. Even a little "schoolboy French" goes a long way, and there are FREE French lessons for tourists available on line, plus we have dictionaries, and 1 day French cd's in the house. Having no windows, traditional Berber Riad design, and metal doors, gives further peace of mind for maximum security and privacy. The high, roof terrace walls add protection on sandy/windy days, enhancing sunbathing,dining al fresco, and privacy. <br/>warmest regards, Martyn
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 5/5

Fantastic house, fantastic location
Lindlou   Cardiff.
Date Submitted: March 23, 2009   Date of Stay: March 2009
Arrived at Marrakesh airport from Bristol thanks to Martyn and Colin, the owners who kindly advised me that it’s a new Ryan Air route, so thanks for that, a much easier route for me :-) They also arranged my transfer to Ghazoua and as promised I was met in the airport by a driver displaying a sign for Villa Tazmin, he took my bags and escorted me to an air conditioned minibus, which made my transfer very comfortable. Fab start to a fab holiday <br/>I arrived at the house….WOW…it is lovely, very spacious with two bedrooms, (the twin room even has a dressing room !), a large lounge with another lounge with sofas off that, a large shower room with toilet and a separate toilet, a well equipped kitchen and the roof terrace is fantastic for soaking up the sun and gazing at the stars, its surrounded by high walls so you have total privacy, has 4 sun loungers and a table with chairs and even a barbecue. The neighbours all so very friendly they always greet you with a "bonjour" and a big smile:-) their children are a delight and will take you to see their donkeys, chickens, goats and even a turkey that they keep! <br/>The house is in a great location to explore Morocco with Essaouira, the Medina and Sidi Koki beach all only a short bus or taxi ride to away. <br/>Taibi, Colin and Martyns concergie is very helpful and is a mine of information. He will cook for you if asked, he makes a lovely tajine! (and much cheaper than eating out), arrange camel/horse rides and he also let me use his notebook to send emails. <br/>This is my second visit to Essaouira but not my last! My first was last October where I stayed in Hotel Des Iles, the hotel was nice enough but I found staying at the house so much better, there is more comfort and so much space and is much better value and far more freedom. <br/>I loved wandering around the Medina with all its hustle bustle and haggling was so much fun, then enjoyed returning to the tranquillity Villa Tazmin. <br/>I honestly cant wait to return, no more staying in hotels for me ! <br/>Thank you Martyn and Colin for all your help, arranging my transfers and all the information you gave me, answering my countless questions promptly by return email. <br/>I cant wait to return to Villa Tazmin :-)

Recommended for: Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Girls Getaway, Age 55+, Families with Teenagers, Adventure Seekers, Families with Young Children, Tourists without a Car

Owners Response: Thank you so much for your kind comments, your e-mail with full details on Ryanair,Bristol-Marrakech, and your next visit enquiry. Having stayed at the Hotel des Isles several years ago, we had a wonderful stay, being cheap and cheerful, but how prices have changed! Self catering is like marmite, you either love it,or hate it. Indeed I have friends who prefer hotels, cest la vie. We are able to offer you the house last minute, subject to bookings,with a 10% discount as a returning house guest. We sincerely hope to welcome you back to wonderful Morocco soon. warmest regards, Martyn
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 5/5

Back again!!!!!!
Foden   Rhyl.
Date Submitted: February 02, 2009   Date of Stay: January 2009
We have returned to Villa Tazmin for the third time. We have never been in January before. It was totally amazing to see how green the whole area was. There were fields full of cows,goats were eating from the fields and not the trees! The atmosphere was still as exhilarating at this early time of the year and the weather was unbelievable-we were actually sunbathing.Always remember to take woollens for the evenings as they can become chilly, especially if you visit Essaouira.The house was very cosy of an evening, we would remove the tent from the terrace, light the fire, allowing the smoke to escape and then replace the tent-and relax away the evening in front of the glowing fire ------------ <br/>We found excellent food in the medina at "The Jolly Coin" -highly recommended and all home made. We even purchased a spit roasted chicken to take home with us from the medina -Excellent!! <br/>KM8 in Ghazoua is worth a visit too,but can be a little more expensive than most restaurants, but the food is excellent. <br/>The local dogs are excellent watch dogs and only bark when they see or hear someone, please do not be afraid of them, simply refer to them by their names and they will come to you willingly -the children will tell you their names. <br/>The healthy black dog is called "Riff" and she loves cuddles and any excess food you may have for her, she will also escort you anywhere in the area! <br/>Finally the flight from Luton to Marrakech with Ryanair is cheap and cheerful, it may be a good idea to take your own snacks as they tend to be rather pricey,otherwise they take off on time and arrive on time, if not early. <br/>Locals are friendly and never pass you without saying hello.Total strangers also stop and offer you lifts-very friendly folk. <br/>Taibi is excellent and will provide you with anything you ask for including hiring cars and driving them for you if you are unsure. <br/>Sincere thanks to Colin & Martyn for the wonderful home they have available for rent -it is a great joy to visit such a beautiful, well equipped and clean home and we look forward to our next visit.

Recommended for: Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Age 55+, Adventure Seekers, Tourists without a Car, Pet-friendly

Owners Response: Thank you for your review,and embracing the Morrocan culture,village life,our neighbours, and their animals.Ghazoua is a safe haven,which you have experienced before,and now you are even included in our house inventory!It was a pleasure to arrange and book your flights,hotel and transfers during your move to North Wales,and good luck in your new home.We have been fortunate in renting our home to guests like yourselves through holiday-rentals,and we look forward to welcoming you back for 8 weeks in January/February 2010.Martyn
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 5/5

New Year in Morocco
Cranleigh   Surrey.
Date Submitted: January 12, 2009   Date of Stay: January 2009
We had a wonderful holiday and spent New Year at Villa Tazmin which is a well kept and comfortable base from which to explore Morocco. The locals were smiley friendly people and did their best to make us welcome. The property is situated in a village 8km outside the fishing port of Essouira, easily reached by both regular local bus or taxi. There are local shops from which to buy all you need, but exploring the area on foot is the best way to find what you seek. <br/>The Medina in Essouira is full of 'secret' hideaways and there are delicious restaurents, shops and markets galore to find local produce or keepsakes. Everyone is helpful and friendly and bartering for everything is part of the fun for both vendors and buyers! The beach is miles and miles of sand and a windsurfers paradise. <br/>Top tips: Remember to respect the religious aspects of people here. Ladies should dress discreetly as it is offensive to reveal too much flesh! Alcohol can be found but is not widely available in restaurents or supermarkets. Locals will tell you where to buy. Brush up on your French as this is spoken everywhere as the second language. <br/>We would wholeheartedly recommend this peaceful and relaxing holiday for those who want to return to reality and experience a cultural reminder of how life used to be.

Recommended for: Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers, Families with Young Children, Tourists without a Car, Pet-friendly

Owners Response: Thank you for your kind comments,and e-mail,where you mentioned all the healthy delicious food available locally,and that you only needed half of your luggage due to there being a washing machine in the house.Martyn
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 4/5

Villa Tazmin
SusanLiz   London.
Date Submitted: January 06, 2009   Date of Stay: December 2008
My friend and I (two women of an uncertain age) spent Christmas week at this house. It is a very lovely house with plenty of space and a wonderful roof terrace. It is the heart of a berber village, so you will have to enjoy living amongst rural Moroccons (very friendly) and their goats, donkeys, dogs and chickens to appreciate it. We did and it gave us an extra dimension to our holiday. <br/>The proprietor is really helpful and always prepared to be contacted if there is a problem. He gives full instructions, directions etc and lots of useful info on the area, car hire and so on. There is a local caretaker who is on the spot to take care of guests and give lots of useful information and even cook you a tagine if you like. <br/>Essouria is only a short bus ride away and is a wonderful unspoilt seaside town with fabulous beaches, a working port, a vibrant town centre with medina and souks and some wonderful restaurants.

Recommended for: Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: Thank you so much for your kind comments, I am pleased that you enjoyed Christmas at the house, and the local village life. Essaouira is probably one of the safest, friendliest regions in Morocco, where you can explore to your hearts content withour being hassled. Prior to any house guests departure we aim to answer all questions, and any doubts you may have, and provide current,factual information. Both Taibi ( our concierge in Ghazoua) and myself can be contacted by text whilst on your holidays 24/7 offering further peace of mind. <br/>Martyn
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 5/5

What a holiday!
Ruth Elisabeth   Southampton, Hants., UK.
Date Submitted: December 23, 2008   Date of Stay: December 2008
We spent 11 days in Villa Tazmin and had a fantastic time relaxing and enjoying the sun on the terrace. <br/> <br/>The house is very comfortable and tastefully decorated in a traditional Morroccan way. There is a lovely fireplace which we used every evening when it got cold. <br/> <br/>Taibi, the concierge, looked after us very well. He cooked three meals for us which were delicious and much better in value and taste than what we got in the restaurants in Essaouira. <br/> <br/>We did not want to spend a lot of money on our holiday so this place was perfect as we did not need to rent a car and were able to cook sumptuous meals in the very well equipped kitchen of Villa Tazmin. <br/> <br/>We used the buses and grand taxis to go into Essaouira which was good fun. Everytime it was a squeeze (7 persons in a Mercedes!!!). And it is soooo cheap. <br/> <br/>All the people, we met, were extremely friendly and helpful. <br/> <br/>We certainly will recommend Villa Tazmin to our friends and relatives. It is a great place to relax and to get to know the Moroccan way of life.

Recommended for: Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Families with Teenagers, Families with Young Children

Owners Response: Thank you for your kind comments, and self catering at Villa Tazmin does offer exceptional value for money,and an introduction to the Moroccan way of life. As the winters are getting colder, indeed worldwide, we have now added further radiators to the house, so now it will be even cozier during the winter nights.As a valued guest, any friends or relatives will receive a 10% discount booking a holiday via your recommendation, and through holiday-rentals. Martyn
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 5/5

Thank You!
Teal and Anna   Romsey, Hampshire.
Date Submitted: December 10, 2008   Date of Stay: November 2008
What a wonderful place to stay in in a fantastic part of the world! The Villa was very clean and and in fantastic condition. The large roof terrace was great for a relaxing day away from the crowds! Facilities were superb, with Taibi on hand to meet all our needs. He was extermely helpful with organising a walking guide for us and a camel ride to his home where we were presented with a hearty tagine for lunch! The area had a lot to offer and would be a great place for people of all ages to visit. We hired a car and found it invaluable as it meant we could explore at our leisure. We covered 2000km in just two weeks and we could have seen more!! We would highly recommend Villa Tazmin to anyone who wants to visit Essouira, the Villa is beautiful and means that you can take your holiday at a pace that suits you rather than the hotel breakfast time restrictions! It is in a good location from the town and the main routes to Agadir and Marrakesh, enabling easy exploring. So many thanks for a superb holiday and we have no doubt that we will return to Villa Tazmin.

Recommended for: Sightseeing, Age 55+, Adventure Seekers, Families with Young Children, Tourists without a Car

Owners Response: Thank you both for your comments, exploring the Essaouira region,and Atlantic coastline,offers wonderful surprises and hidden treasures.We have ventured up to Casablanca, and down to Tiznit via Agadir, the costal route through Bananna Valley, the mountains, and sand dune layered beaches is amazing.Using Villa Tazmin as a base offers a wealth of trips and exploration possibilities.I sincerely hope that you will return to the Kingdom of Morocco.Martyn
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 5/5

Really great place in Morocco for children

Durgan   Salisbury, Wiltshire, England.
Date Submitted: October 31, 2008   Date of Stay: October 2008
When my Mummy and Daddy said that we were going to spend our holiday in Morocco I was really excited. We then started the search for a villa. My sister and I wanted to be close to the sea but not in a busy town or city. We wanted to have lovely bedrooms and lots of space. Mummy immediately found Villa Tazmin and we booked. <br/> <br/>When we arrived at Ghazoua which didn't take that long from the airport, we really could not believe it. Firstly we were greeted by lots of children from the village who were really nice and welcoming and then we opened the door onto just an amazing place. So big! So beautifully decorated and looked after. The beds were just so comfortable and everything was so clean. Mummy was very pleased that both loos were western - we were soon quick to realise why she was pleased when we found the local loos! <br/> <br/>The best part of Villa Tazmin is the roof terrace. There are sun loungers, tables and chairs, a B-B-Q and a shaded area if it is too hot. It was really lovely in the mornings and evenings listening to the village wake up and then watching the stars in the evening. <br/> <br/>We were well looked after by everyone in the village. We were invited to go to school which was really fun. And we had tea and nuts with the neighbours and petted their goats. <br/> <br/>The coastal town of Essouria is just a few Km's away and is wonderful for playing on the beach and with care in the sea, riding horses or camels along the sand dunes. We did a lot of walking around the area which was great. The Medina is so exciting and such fun. We got lost everyday but it really didn't matter. We had some really yummy lunches and lots of delicious ice creams. Mummy enjoyed her mint teas. <br/> <br/>We spoke a bit of Arabic - saying hello, goodbye and thank you and the locals really enjoyed this. The rest of the time we spoke some French and English. <br/> <br/>My sister and I want to go again and would say it is the best holiday house we have ever stayed in. Thank you! <br/>Sophie and Hettie (Age 9 and 7)

Recommended for: Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Age 55+, Families with Teenagers, Adventure Seekers, Families with Young Children, Pet-friendly

Owners Response: Thank you Sophie and Hettie for your wonderful review, and I am so glad that you enjoyed the house,the neighbours and village life as much as we do.
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 4/5

Just what we needed
Kevin&Kim   West Yorkshire, UK.
Date Submitted: September 30, 2008   Date of Stay: September 2008
We much appreciated the owner, Martyn's helpfulness throughout the booking process and leading up to travel. All arrangement re; transfers went to plan, and Taibi was a real boon, providing breakfasts most days and two excellent Tajines which he cooked at the villa.on two separate evenings. <br/>We very much enjoyed the space to relax at the villa, both indoors and up on the roof terrace. On a couple of rainy days, the absence of any window on the outside world was felt, but we appreciate that this is the way with these Moroccan properties. We also enjoyed a decent (mainly French) meal at K8 restaurant (by the cross roads) one evening (about 500 MD inc wine) <br/>Electricity went off one day in village and villa but we got by with candles. The locals (i.e. men & boys) at the shops were warm and friendly, and we got most our supplies there. We enjoyed Essaouira, which we visited by taxi several times, on one occasion walking there from Diabat, after carefully crossing the almost knee-deep river, and thence along the sands picking our way past the camels and footballers! <br/>The village of Ghazoua does not feel like a tourist area at all, although we gather there are othjer holiday homes there. It feels like a real taste of semi-rural life, North African style, and we enjoyed the calm contrast to the buzz of Essaouira and Marrakech..

Recommended for: Romantic Getaway, Age 55+, Adventure Seekers, Families with Young Children, Tourists without a Car

Owners Response: Thank you Kevin and Kim for your review, and Ghazoua is not a tourist area, offering a real taste of Morocco. Having just returned from Morocco, and calling in to greet our guests at VILLA TAZMIN, and drink some Moroccan whisky, September is RAMADAN, and only the hotels and restaurants sell alcohol. <br/>Several minor issues that you have mentioned by e-mail, have been rectified, and we hope to see you soon in wonderful ESSAOUIRA. <br/> <br/>Martyn
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 5/5

Out of this world
isis-k - witch of the west   Londn.
Date Submitted: August 31, 2008   Date of Stay: August 2008
What can I say? The villa is stunning: spacious (deceptively so from the outside), tastefully decorated and well equipped. A genuine oasis in a dusty largely undeveloped countryside. The only noise you'll hear is that of goats and donkeys as they attempt a friendly chat (or - in the case of the goats - an ascent of the nearest tree in search of food). <br/>The owner was helpful from the start, answering all our questions promptly and efficiently and Taibi was on hand at the villa when needed without being pushy or intrusive. <br/>I think that what made the holiday for us, was the neighbours, who we got to know (despite their only speaking Berber Arabic) through our children. They were hospitable and generous and showed us a taste of the 'Real' Morocco which we - as tourists - feel we were lucky to see. <br/>I strongly recommend you go well equipped with coloured pens and paper as the kids enjoyed sitting around with us drawing, though to be honest - they were probably more enthralled by my teenage daughter's' DS and Ipod (sorry!)

Recommended for: Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers, Families with Young Children

Owners Response: Thank you for your review, and village life is full of surprises, making any holiday special, with memories to share forever.
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 5/5

Week in Ghazoua
Richard & Rachel   Preston, Lancs.
Date Submitted: April 25, 2008   Date of Stay: April 2008
We have just returned from a week at Villa Tazmin and have to agree with the other reviewers - the house is wonderful, Taibi the caretaker is a real gem and the setting is perfect. We will definately stay again and can't fault Villa Tazmin, Taibi or Martyn in any way. The house itself is even better than the pictures and was absolutely spotless

Recommended for: Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Age 55+, Adventure Seekers, Families with Young Children, Tourists without a Car

Owners Response: Many thanks for your review, and we hope to welcome you back to mystical Essaouira soon.
Did you find this review helpful?  Yes   No Helpful votes: 296/298
 5/5

A great stay
Abigail   UK.
Date Submitted: April 15, 2008   Date of Stay: April 2008
A lovely house in a traditional village with quad biking, camel riding and the wonderful resort of Essoauria close by. The Supratours bus from Marakesh is extremely cheap (approx £4 each) and comfortable with a terminal next to the rail station and we did not find that not having a car posed a problem. Highly recommended and thanks to Martyn for all his help and support.

Recommended for: Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Age 55+, Families with Teenagers, Adventure Seekers, Families with Young Children, Tourists without a Car

Owners Response: Thanks for your review, and the inside information on Supratours.
Did you find this review helpful?  Yes   No Helpful votes: 311/313
 5/5

Villa Tazmin
EW96   Leicester.
Date Submitted: April 10, 2008   Date of Stay: March 2008
Four of us went to stay in Morocco Villa Tazmin, the villa was very traditional and nicely decorated. the neighbours were very friendly as was the local shop owners. Went regularly visited Essouirra which was fantastic. Our concierge Taibi was excellent, he gave us advice, helped us with anything we needed, generally made the whole experience very special. I would definetly want to visit again as we had such a brilliant time.

Recommended for: Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Girls Getaway, Age 55+, Families with Teenagers, Adventure Seekers, Tourists without a Car

Owners Response: Thanks for your review, and we look forward to seeing you soon in mystical Essaouira.
Did you find this review helpful?  Yes   No Helpful votes: 310/312
 5/5

A real taste of Morocco
Linda, John, Sally and Peter   Aberystwyth.
Date Submitted: April 05, 2008   Date of Stay: March 2008
Linda, John, Sally and Peter – March 2008 <br/>On a cold, dark December day, I happened upon a very inviting advertisement for Villa Tazmin, Morocco and on a whim decided to enquire about booking a week’s holiday for my husband, myself, our daughter and her boyfriend. <br/>We have booked accommodation independently many times before but never had the level of help provided by the owners of Villa Tazmin. <br/>Our initial email was answered within hours and from then on booking the villa, arranging transfers from Marrakech and finding out all we needed to know, before travelling, was made so easy. It was like having a personal travel agent. <br/>Inevitably our flight out was delayed and we arrived at Marrakech much later than anticipated, our taxi (arranged by the owners) was still waiting for us, and the driver even stopped at a café en-route so that we could get something to eat and drink after our long day travelling. <br/>Despite the late hour the concierge, Taibi, was waiting at the Villa to show us around and ensure we were settled in. <br/>For the rest of the holiday nothing was too much trouble for Taibi, he brought us breakfast, with a smile, every morning. Car hire was arranged and delivered to the door. He organised camel rides and escorted quad-bikes (safety equipment and a photographic record provided) all at very reasonable rates and with personal service. <br/>A truly lovely man and very patient with my poor attempts at speaking French. <br/>The villa is a real taste of Morocco, providing everything you need and set in the small village of Ghazoua. The roof terrace is a delight and the fireplace in the cosy salon very welcome for cool nights in March. <br/>If you don’t want to venture far afield, we found a couple of good restaurants in the village and the local shops are well stocked and friendly. <br/>Only a fifteen minute bus ride away is Essaouira with its’ bustling Medina and long sandy beach. The French influence shows in the street cafes and variety of food available. <br/>The same taxi driver arrived spot on time for our return journey to Marrakech airport, a very comfortable drive, not like some of the hair raising taxi rides we have experienced in the past in foreign parts. <br/>All in all a great holiday made extra special by the lovely Moroccan people, I wish we could have stayed longer. <br/>Thank you Martyn and Collin for a hassle free, great holiday experience.

Recommended for: Romantic Getaway, Age 55+, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: Thank you for your review, and Welcome back to Wales. <br/>Every client is treated as a personal friend, and our aim is for their holiday to be a stress free as possible, in wonderful Morocco. We also offer our valued guests a 10% discount on any future bookings made via Holiday-Rentals.
Did you find this review helpful?  Yes   No Helpful votes: 320/321
 5/5

Wonderlust
Ghazoua fan   London.
Date Submitted: March 27, 2008   Date of Stay: February 2008
I rented Villa Tazmin for 1 month after a trip to Kenya fell through. I was looking for somewhere peaceful and warm, where I would be safe with only my 2 year old son for company. Coming to Ghazoua exceeded my expectations. We hired a car at Marrakech through delightful Charaf at Gardenia Tours (who also provided a taxi service from Marrakech to Essaouira for my visitors). The car proved very useful for nipping in and out of town, and exploring the region - especially a beautiful drive to Agadir through villages of bananas, and amazing sights at every turn. Sidi Kaouki beach (try Massimo's Italian cafe),and beyond it a quiet beach at Aitidir with a beautiful waterfall are must-sees. Villa Tazmin itself made a great functional base for our adventures. Expect to see tortoises,goats, sheep, donkeys and a friendly french pony wondering past your door! If there was a problem it was fixed quickly, and the owner is kind and helpful. One could easily laze about the house all day - terrace for sun, fireside for after dark. The neighbouring community is made up largely of close-knit families, who welcomed us with open arms. It was as if we had always lived there. The children played together, we were taught Berber words, and shown how they make Argan oil, wool, bread and so on. Save your food scraps for the donkeys! One of the older girls also helped us with babysitting and household chores, which proved invaluable. Just ask! We miss them greatly. <br/>The local shops are good. The kids will show you their school too - it's delightful! Le KM8 is great for a little French treat, and Tajine Cafe has a deceptively beautiful garden to dine in. The staff at Hotel Villa Damonte were incredible. It is a rather eccentric hotel (worth looking at the rooms!) where you can swim in the pool, use the wifi, or ask them to fix you some lunch. There is also a lovely campsite 'Le Calme' about 20 minutes away, with a big pool. <br/>Essaouira town itself was wonderful again. Coffee and croissants by the beach for breakfast is great. The fish stalls in the port are a must. There is also a bit of glamour if you want it, with some good restaurants. Shopping is really super here - get it or you'll regret it! There are many things I wish I'd brought back. I recommend visiting 'out of season' if possible, as I suspect one gets treated more as an individual than as a 'tourist'. Having said that, Essaouira is comparatively very laidback. <br/>Much more to write - suffice to say we'll be back!

Recommended for: Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Adventure Seekers, Families with Young Children

Owners Response: Thanks for the review Polly. There is so much to see and do for the independant traveller in this wonderful region of Morocco, and the location of Villa Tazmin creates a truly Moroccan experience.
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 5/5

surprise holiday
john & anne-francoise   aberystwyth.
Date Submitted: February 28, 2008   Date of Stay: December 2007
This was a surprise pre christmas holiday for my partner as we would not be spending christmas together. I wanted to spoil her, I could not have chosen better. <br/>The house is beautiful, very tastefully decorated respecting the morrocan style, spacious yet cozy. The roof terrace is a delight during the day, in the evening having a glass of wine under the stars was a romantics dream...as was the open log fire in the lounge. <br/>The locals are very friendly and the local shops are well stocked even for vegetarians. <br/>Essaouira is about 15 minutes by local bus or taxi and you will not have to wait long for one or the other. The town is full of so many different experiences,the ramparts, the harbour, the lively markets and all the local craft shops. <br/>The holiday was an incredible experience, a true taste of morocco.

Recommended for: Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Age 55+, Families with Teenagers, Adventure Seekers, Families with Young Children, Tourists without a Car, Pet-friendly

Owners Response: This holiday was arranged within a week! and John used all the links and contact details on our home site to book the insurance, flights, airport parking etc, and printed a copy for reference on holiday.bon idea. Thanks for the review,and at least the weather was better than the Lake District holiday you had considered,and much cheaper.
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 5/5

Absolute Santuary
Freespirit   Wales.
Date Submitted: February 22, 2008   Date of Stay: August 2007
After studying for four years at university,and this being my last year, I wanted somewhere away from the maddening crowd, to write my dissertation, on my own.I rattled around the well equipped, spacious Villa Tazmin,loved the village and neighbours, and the medina in Essaouira was magical. The local bus even stopped for me on my walk in to Essaouira,and all the petit taxi drivers knew my name. <br/>I had wonderful Tajines,and rose wine on the star lit roof terrace,with canine company, being an animal lover,I was in my element.What a humbling experience ,my first visit to Morocco,and certainly not my last!

Recommended for: Sightseeing, Romantic Getaway, Age 55+, Families with Teenagers, Adventure Seekers

Owners Response: Thank you for your review, and congratulations! <br/>The location and spacious house make Villa Tazmin an ideal safe retreat for any single independant traveller,male or female,especially for a longer stay of 3 or 4 weeks.
Did you find this review helpful?  Yes   No Helpful votes: 346/348
Reviews are the subjective opinions of Holiday-Rentals travellers and not of Holiday-Rentals Limited.