Spending Christmas away from my family, I decided to treat myself to a pamper session. What better place to do than at Royal Mansour? The ultimate in luxury and glamour. Set on 3.5-hectare area, this hotel, a medina in a medina, was built at the behest of Morocco's King Mohammed IV and opened its door three years ago.

I arrived at the main hotel entrance and was swiftly taken to the spa, which is a separate building set in a leafy courtyard.

I was ushered in and offered fresh orange juice as I filled out the health & safety form.

And then I had the hammam, massage and facial. All the stress and grime of London and the desert scrubbed and kneaded out of my body. Being washed, scrubbed, shined, stretched and kneaded left one a very happy baby bunny.

I went to the relaxation area and being the only guest, I face timed my family just to make them a little jealous. I ended up being envious of all the home cooked food and familiar noise.

And then I got dolled up and went back to the main hotel guided by an attendant who showed me the Medina and some of the riads.

I was handed over to the manager of the bars and he kindly showed me to all the bars; going through the drink options and cigars. The service all day was outstanding.

The Chimney Lounge

Humidor in the cigar bar

I settled for the Chimney/Piano Lounge, Cohiba siglo II and a Leopold Gourmel Quintessence. Relaxed and took it all in.

At dusk, I had to leave. A band was setting up for a 7:45 pm performance, I really wanted to stay for it but hours of treatment call for a long period of rest.

This is me wondering why I had to leave.

It was an amazing day and worth every silver dirham paid for it.

xx