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Another new star in Marrakech, Maison MK is boho cool, with its own cinema and small but sweet spa. The atmosphere is organic groovy and it’s great for a gang of friends as well as couples. The curvy-walled design is something different—because who needs straight edges?

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The younger, southern sister to Paris’ trendy Murano hotel, this new property in the Palmeraie feels like a sexy mini-resort with thirty-seven rooms spread amongst five riads. Though Philippe Starck was not involved with the design, there is a distinct Starckian coolness to the public spaces. Blood-red bed-like chaises surround some of the five pools. The bar has jet-black ceilings and matching counter-top in a a room of glossy white walls. This is definitely the hippest place to stay in Marrakech but for those who don’t relish the idea of sharing space with a late-night party crowd, it may be better just to come for dinner and/or drinks. Rooms from $275 per night.

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New Yorker Thomas Hays is just one amongst a new breed of style-obsessed global nomads who has decided that a well-lived life must include a home in Marrakech. Thankfully, the major antiques collector has decided to share his five-bedroom riad with other visitors so now you can check into his private home and live among his treasures. The former banker turned hotelier spent years working with craftsmen to create this supremely comfortable retreat. The magic is in the mix of Moroccan traditions with modern flair in walls that were prepared in the centuries-old process of tadelakt but in a purple tone or the customary courtyards that are now overgrown with bouginvillea or the antique carpets juxtaposed with modern abstract paintings. Hays’ photograph collection mixes with textiles from western Africa and objects that he picked up on his many travels to Asia. The atmosphere is quirky in the most refined way and if the service feels more like that of a private home, it’s because that is how Hays and his wife like it. Two wonderful couples, one English and one Moroccan, cater to guests needs, so you will never rest long by the courtyard pool, without someone delivering a cool drink. Among the amenities that can be arranged: a private chef, belly dancers and hammam treatments. Rates from $300, depending upon the season.

Who it’s right for: Discerning couples and design snobs.

Who it’s wrong for: Families.

Probably one of the prettiest new openings of 2008, this riad is gorgeous without being pretentious, thoughtful without being clever, clever. Stay in the Chameau Suite, with its canopied four-poster and round sunken bath; it’s deeply romantic.

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One of our most plugged in friends in Marrakech has told us that she loves the just opened Riad Tarabel. “It would be perfect for your type of clients,” she raved. “It is very stylish and great on exclusivity, very easy access at the entrance of Dar El Bacha.”