Interview with Elvis Pompilio about his stay at La Mamounia in Marrakech
Memories and Stay in 10 Questions
1. La Mamounia? Is this your first time here?
No, not at all. I stayed at this palace hotel over twenty years ago. I remember meeting Yves Saint Laurent there, looking chic but frail, sharing the pool with Charlotte Rampling, and having François Nourrissier as my table neighbor.
2. So, were you disappointed this time?
Not at all! Melanie Thierry, Alex Lutz, and Gilles Lelouche were the guests of honor in December, along with many others, no doubt.
3. Did you find the Mamounia of your memory?
Not so much! I had liked it a lot, but this time I was really “blown away” by the changes: interior decoration, swimming pool, gardens, style of the rooms, not to mention the sumptuous suite I was staying in. What can I say? Wonderful view, tasteful decoration, paradise! Huge dressing room!
4. What was your schedule?
Oh, very simple! I needed some rest because the last few months have been very busy between my teaching position in the Master's program in accessories at La Cambre, my new activities as an academician, and, most recently, the Belgian Post Office's issuance of a series of stamps featuring my image and/or my creations!
5. Rest, but what else?
The breakfast was delicious, and I thoroughly enjoyed it before getting ready for the pool.
I admit that I tried to skip lunch so that I could fully appreciate dinner.
6. A favorite restaurant?
I really enjoyed the Moroccan restaurant nestled in a former king's palace. The decor was extraordinary, and the food was delicious, not to mention the desserts.
I must admit that my favorite was the Italian restaurant masterfully run by chef Simeone Zanoni.
I went back there, by the way.
7. Other activities
Walks in the magnificent park, a visit to the hammam for baby-soft skin, and a little detour to the Churchill bar for the atmosphere, not to mention daydreaming on my terrace facing the snow-capped Atlas Mountains.
8. What about the staff?
Numerous, kind, attentive, and thoughtful!
After two days, they knew that I liked whipped cream for breakfast and that I didn't mind a sorbet in the afternoon by the pool. What else? Perfect concierge service, as well as room service, which I wanted to try.
9. One criticism, though! Make an effort!
I found that the library could have offered more choice, even though there were books in many languages and a good selection of Moroccan literature, but since you insist!
10 And finally
The hotel kindly offered me a chauffeur service to take me to the airport early in the morning! Luxury right up to the last moment.
