Hôtel Central

It felt really bohemian, with a little table and chairs on a balcony overlooking the square below. Just a block from the harbor, it was wonderful sleeping with the doors to the balcony open and feeling the fresh air. The hotel is just inside the medina and a comfortable walk to the Hassan II mosque. We were only in Casablanca for an afternoon and an evening on our way home, and it was all we wanted. Staff was very helpful with lining up early morning transprtation to the airport.

Three of us stayed two nights in late Nov 2024. Weather was mild-chilly. The corner classic colonial building (and surrounding area) was very 'lived in' and atmospheric. I was apprehensive about being between the medina and Port and was concerned about general safety in the area. But it turned out better than expected. Not a lot of tourists at the time. Most were locals -- men and women of all ages -- going about their lives. The location was ideal for transport (rail from Airport, tram terminus, buses to Hassan II Mosque, walkable sightseeing). The immediate vicinity of a small square surrounded by a bank and exchange, convenience shops, eateries was a huge bonus. Brightly lit by nearby main thoroughfare and lanes feeding into the square and above establishments. There's an open rooftop which afforded lovely views and a discrete place to have a cigarette (as women smoking in public is frowned upon, mainly by the older generation). The day and night managers were friendly and helpful as were the cleaning ladies. The ambience of the hotel was that which had seen better days but still managing to capture some of its past glory in snatches of architectural details and its service. It has no elevator but the elegant spiral staircase, comfortably wide and airy, takes you to the spacious landings of each of the four floors above. Our double rooms on the first and second floors had french doors and slatted shutters opening out onto a small balcony with cafe table and chairs. It faced onto the small square but we don't remember being disturbed by noises and would keep the curtains drawn and french doors ajar when we slept. There's a built-in wooden cupboard and two small side tables to our double bed, also a small round table with two chairs and electric kettle with tea sachets. The bathroom was functional with adequate facilities, hot water pressure.

The hotel location was good, you can walk to the mall, to Rick's cafe, even to Hassan II. It's close to train station Gare Casa Port. If you come from the train station, gare Casa Voyageurs you should pay the taxi to the hotel 10dh (1euro) if they put the taxi meter, but if you arrive at night they tried to charge us 10euro, but finally found one with 5euro. (at night they don't put the machine, so you need to bargain). The room was basic, 2 beds and bathroom, but it was very good. The breakfast was good.

This is an old hotel but has a lot of traditional Moroccon character which I really liked. The location is fabulous. It is on the outskirts of the old medina and not too far from the mosque. The staff were also able to answer questions and organised a last minute pick up from the airport (which is definitely worth getting).

I am very grateful for the care of the girl at the hotel reception. She was very friendly and attentive to all my requests. The hotel has a beautiful interior in a traditional style and good, tasty cuisine. I will definitely come again. Booking from February 25 to 26, 2025.