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Two bedroom riad in the ancient Fez Medina

Africa, Fes El Bali, Fes, Fez-Meknès

Pets

  • Tortoise/Turtle(s)

Two tortoises who hang out in the courtyard. They mainly eat lettuce, tomatoes.

Duration

  • Period available: 2 months, 4 weeks
  • Starts: 3 September 2024
  • Ends: 1 December 2024

Testimonials

They have 1 testimonial (view below)

Facilities

They have WIFI

About this assignment

I am looking for someone, or a couple, who will enjoy and appreciate being in my house, Riad Zany and the Fez Medina. Perhaps someone who has a creative project, or works remotely - although this is not a pre-requisite.
It's no problem if you want to travel for a few days during that period, however, I would like you to be at the house the majority of the time.
Here is a link to a video with more photos of Riad Zany: https://youtu.be/CxkjEofWPeE

What responsibilities are required of the house sitter

To use my space with care and respect. Say 'Salaam Alaykum' (hello) to the neighbours. Water the plants on the terrace and in the courtyard. Feed the tortoises.

What are the good features of the property and location

Riad Zany is more than 300 years old, and is in the heart of the Fez Medina, Morocco. It has been renovated to retain its original character, with the addition of updated facilities including modern bathrooms, a well equipped kitchen and air-conditioned bedrooms. There is a spectacular view of the Medina from the roof terrace. There are two large bedrooms and a tiny third bedroom suitable for a guest or a child.
The story of Riad Zany's renovation and my exploration of the culture and history of the city was the subject of my bestselling book, 'A House in Fez'. It has been used in a feature film and documentaries. My family and I lived in Riad Zany from 2006 and have recently moved. We are offering others the opportunity to experience the sense of time travel that life in the Fez Medina provides. The thick walls downstairs and the shady courtyard ensure that the temperatures are always reasonable, even on the hottest days. The main rooms can be heated during winter. The services of our trusted housekeeper are included. She will clean and also cook delicious Moroccan meals for you on request.
Riad Zany is located close to small shops and the biggest fruit and vegetable souk in the Medina. It's also only a couple of minutes from taxis and transport.

What does the house sitter need to consider before applying for this assignment

- The riad has reverse cycle air-conditioning in the bedrooms and a shady courtyard.
- You will be in the Fez Medina, surrounded by people who speak only Arabic and perhaps a little French. English is not widely spoken outside tourist areas.
- The English speaking employee who works at my Fez guesthouse, Dar Malika, will be available if you need assistance.
- My reliable and trustworthy housekeeper will come in regularly to keep the place clean and to cook if you wish.
- There are a couple of cameras on the roof terrace for security. However, I have owned the place since 2006 and there has never been a break-in.
- You will need to contribute €300 per month to running costs. This is only a portion of the overall running cost, and assists towards utility bills and the housekeeper's salary. I will, of course, cover the cost of any possible maintenance that may be needed during your stay.
- The house is comfortable but not luxurious. (Although having air-con in the Medina is unusual!) It is not a guest house, but a family home that is a little worn around the edges. But the patina is what gives it character.

Can I bring my own pets?

No, sorry.

Last updated: 21 August 2023
12 sitters have applied for this assignment

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Testimonials

Magic 2 months in Fez

I had the magical experience of spending 2 months in this beautiful Jewel box of a Riad in the heart of fez's old medina. Where to start... The house itself is a beautiful family home with fabulous central courtyard shaded by orange trees around a fountain. It was here that I spent many happy hours being entertained by the Tortoises and the very sweet cats and cooking up feasts from produce gathered from the the local market just a few lanes away. The next floor was my huge sleeping suite and bathroom (the cats aren't allowed up here), while the roof top terraces have epic views across the medina, an excellent place to sit on the lounges listening to the call to prayer and watching the sun/rise and set and observing the lives of others on their own terraces across the city. Rachida, the longtime house keeper (and absolute sweetheart) came regularly to clean and help with the animals, She was there as much or as little as I wanted and we quickly slipped into a happy rhythm that kept the house clean while allowing me lots of space as I had a writing project I was working on The Medina itself, at first a baffling maze, slowly opened up and became familiar, The people around me were so friendly and inquisitive. I felt gently welcome and very safe. I cant recommend this sit enough, I true once in a life time experience. The animals and the house were a joy and Suzanna the owner was always on hand if I had a question. Id love to return

Veronica, Australia, 21 August, 2023

  • Friendly
  • Reliable
  • Tidy
  • Organised
  • Helpful with problems
  • Kept in contact
  • Gave good instructions

About this home owner

MindMyHouse member since March 2023