Despite its '70s build, the Hotel Chems has managed to maintain itself as a well-presented, if slightly characterless, modern resort-style hotel. The three-story pastel-toned property is set within large and well-tended (though far from manicured) gardens dotted with palm trees, sculpted shrubbery, and pretty bougainvillea. There are a few Moroccan-style touches both inside and out, including ornate wrought-iron detailing and patches of traditional geometric patterning here and there. While somewhat dated overall -- a few spots are in obvious need of renovation -- the overall vibe is unpretentious. It's a good choice for families who need more space than the typical riad offers, and a large pool for the kids to splash about in. 

The hotel is located in the southern end of the medina, about a 15-minute walk to Djemaa el Fna square -- the Old City's bustling heart. The Koutoubia mosque is about a two-minute walk from the hotel, and there are plenty of restaurants in the surrounding area, including Le Comptoir Darna, famed for its spectacular belly-dancing shows. Marrakech Menara International Airport is about 15 minutes away by cab.

The hotel has 145 air-conditioned rooms arranged over two floors, all of which are decorated with Moroccan touches, including "tadelakt" polished limestone plaster and traditional rugs. Despite the dark accent walls and wallpaper borders, the overall look is generic and no-frills. Rooms include flat-screen TVs with satellite channels (only one English-speaking), and while Wi-Fi is free it can be very slow. All rooms open to furnished balconies overlooking the gardens. Clean, green-and-white tile bathrooms have shower/tub combos, wall-mounted hairdryers, and toiletries in sachets. 

The hotel's buffet-style restaurant is open daily for breakfast, offering a range of Moroccan-style pastries, yogurts, and fruit, which can be taken on the terrace overlooking the pool -- breakfast is included in the room rate. Lunch and dinner buffets are also available, but guests will probably do better sampling some of the restaurants nearby. The swimming pool is large, with the water temperature posted daily. Spa services, including the hammam, are available to guests, and there's a clay tennis court, which, along with the large pool, is a rarity in medina hotels. A small on-site boutique sells clothes, sunglasses, and souvenirs. W-Fi is free, but the signal is touch and go, especially in the rooms.