Smelling of spicy incense throughout, Le Ryad has a 19th-century Moroccan theme to its layout and decor. The boutique property occupies five floors, reached by a winding staircase with red banister posts, which can be dizzying for those on the top floor. Many of the doorways are scooped arches, with vibrant red brush strokes adorning the lobby and restaurant walls for a look that falls somewhere between Van Gogh and graffiti. The tiny lobby is flooded with natural light, and is eclectically decorated with colorful abstract artwork, a small lavender love seat, a charming mosaic table, and a black ombre rug. The restaurant has antique-ish dark wood tables and chairs that can also be found in the back garden, a peaceful jungle oasis protected from the street and sounds of the city.

The hotel sits about a block from the high street near the upper edge of La Canebiere, just over a 10-minute walk from St. Charles railway station. The area is somewhat gritty, with the occasional prostitute or two walking the street, but there is a wide range of restaurants in the Cours Julien area that surrounds the hotel. It's about a 15-minute walk to the Vieux Port and the old city harbor, and within five minutes of the metro. Saint Vincent de Paul Church is a five-minute walk away, while guests can reach Musee des Docks Romains, La Vieille Charite, and Abbaye de Saint Victor within 20 to 25 minutes on foot. 

Like the rest of the hotel, the nine air-conditioned rooms -- ranging from Standard and Superior rooms to Junior and Duplex Suites -- possess a rustic Moroccan elegance. Even the Standard Rooms have vaulted ceilings and tall windows, with dark wood antique furnishings, hand-woven rugs, and lantern-style lamps playing nicely off of white walls and clay-color tile floors. Suites each have both an upstairs and downstairs, the latter featuring a sectional couch with ornately woven, golden upholstery. Each room comes with Wi-Fi (that can be spotty in some areas of the hotel), a flat-screen TV, minibar, and Nespresso coffeemaker. Each also has a full bathroom with beautifully rugged stone tiles, but showers -- with tubs in some rooms -- can feel a little drafty because they lack doors or curtains.

The fresh breakfast is truly delightful -- with Moroccan crepes, fig jam, fresh fruit, juice, and warm croissants – and is served in the hotel’s peaceful back garden (for a fee). There is free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel, and the staff is accommodating and helpful with tour and booking assistance, as well as with carrying bags to guest rooms.