Welcome to ‘Travel Talks’, where the world’s foremost explorers, hospitality experts, and wanderlust aficionados share their stories, tips, and insider perspectives, guiding you through the destinations they know best. Did you miss our last one with the GM of the Four Seasons Miami?

This week we chatted with Mr. Karim Toufelaz, the GM of the Nobu Hotel Marrakech to talk about the hotel’s wellness and spa offerings. For travelers seeking warm, luxurious, wellness escapes this spring— the Nobu Hotel Marrakech is the ultimate destination for relaxation and rejuvenation. The hotel recently completed extensive renovations to their on site spa, The Pearl Spa making it a must visit for anyone traveling to Morocco.

Mr. Karim Toufelaz is a seasoned hospitality professional with 15 years of industry experience. His expertise spans key leadership roles across Morocco, France, the USA, and Tanzania, showcasing his adaptability and ability to thrive in diverse cultural environments. Him and his team at Nobu Marrakech aim to help every guest experience the magic of the Red City!

What do you love most about the Nobu Hotel Marrakech?

One of the things I love most about Nobu Hotel Marrakech is how seamlessly we blend Moroccan craftsmanship with Nobu’s signature Japanese aesthetic. Our location in the heart of Marrakech’s Golden Triangle offers guests an immersive luxury experience, combining world-class hospitality with the vibrant culture of the city. From the stunning rooftop views to our iconic Nobu cuisine, every detail is designed to offer an unforgettable stay.

What sets The Pearl Spa apart from other spas?

The Pearl Spa is a true fusion of Moroccan and Japanese wellness philosophies, creating a one-of-a-kind sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. We blend the ancient art of Moroccan hammam rituals—known for their purifying and detoxifying benefits—with the precision and tranquility of Japanese spa techniques. Guests can experience the best of both worlds, from traditional black soap and ghassoul clay treatments to zen-inspired massages and silk-infused therapies. Combined with our stunning 25-meter heated mosaic pool, 14 private treatment suites, and a serene spa lounge, The Pearl Spa offers an immersive wellness journey unlike any other. 

Recently, we completed an extensive spa renovation to elevate the guest experience further. As part of this transformation, we have partnered with Natura Bissé and Nectarome to introduce new, exclusive treatments that blend the finest skincare innovations with time-honored Moroccan rituals. These enhancements bring a fresh dimension to our wellness offerings, ensuring a truly indulgent and revitalizing escape.

If you could only choose one spa treatment which would you choose?

It’s difficult to choose just one since all of the treatments offer something unique, but I would recommend our Japanese Silk Ritual—a treatment that uses gentle exfoliation, hot stones, and a full-body massage to enhance circulation and energy flow. We’ve also introduced new offerings, including the Nobu Zen Massage, which is perfect for relieving stress and restoring balance.

Beyond the spa what are some other wellness offerings or experiences guests can take advantage of?

The wellness offerings at Nobu Marrakech go far beyond the The Pearl Spa. Guests can enjoy our 24/7 state-of-the-art fitness center, participate in custom fitness and dance classes, or simply unwind in one of our three stunning pools. For those looking to explore, we can also arrange curated wellness excursions, from yoga retreats in the Atlas Mountains to guided meditation experiences in the desert. The property has a variety of wellness offerings fit for every type of traveler.

What is your favorite restaurant or bar on property?

Without a doubt, Nobu Restaurant is the crown jewel of our dining experience. It’s where Japanese precision meets Moroccan flavors, creating a one-of-a-kind culinary journey. Signature dishes include Black Cod Miso, Rock Shrimp Tempura, and Wagyu Beef Tataki, each crafted with the finest ingredients. But I also love spending time at our Rooftop Garden, where guests can enjoy creative cocktails and delicious bites while soaking in breathtaking views of the city. It’s the perfect spot for a sunset drink.

What is your favorite thing to do on property during peak season?

During peak season, the rooftop pool is my go-to place. There’s an incredible energy here as guests relax, socialize, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. It’s also the best time to explore our curated Nobu experiences, from live DJ sets to exclusive culinary events. These events often feature special tasting menus, where guests can enjoy unique pairings of Nobu’s signature dishes with premium wines or cocktails. It’s a wonderful way to experience Nobu’s fusion of Japanese and Moroccan flavors in a lively, upscale setting.

What is your favorite thing to do on property during the off season?

During the off-season, I love retreating to The Pearl Spa, where the peaceful ambiance makes it the perfect place to unwind. It’s an ideal time to indulge in one of our signature treatments or enjoy a quiet afternoon by the indoor pool. The off-season also enhances the dining experience at Nobu Restaurant, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in every exquisite detail of the menu. The Riad, a hidden gem, becomes even more enchanting with fewer crowds. Guests can embrace its tranquility, relax in serene courtyards, and unwind in private plunge pools, all while experiencing the harmonious blend of Moroccan and Japanese design. Whether seeking a secluded escape or a deeper luxury experience, the Riad offers an unparalleled retreat.

Anything new and exciting that travelers should check out?

Absolutely! We are always evolving to offer fresh experiences to our guests. Recently, we introduced new spa treatments, including the Nobu Zen Massage—a personalized massage that blends techniques from around the world, tailored to guests’ needs. With a custom-selected aroma oil blend, this treatment melts away stress and tension for deep relaxation. The Japanese Silk Ritual, inspired by Japanese body care traditions, begins with an exfoliation to prepare the skin, followed by a nourishing full-body massage with hot stones. The experience concludes with a luxurious scalp massage and hair mask for total renewal.

In addition to these treatments, we’re launching exclusive Nobu wellness retreats, which will combine spa treatments, fitness experiences, and curated dining options. Keep an eye out for seasonal events and special offers designed to make your stay even more memorable.