Morocco Retreat
Inside Morocco’s Only Black-Owned Hotel, Jnane Tamsna By Parker Diakite
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Meryanne’s Garden at Jnane Tamsna Boutique Hotel in Marrakesh, Morocco
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ituated on nine acres of land in Marrakesh is one of the most stunning boutique hotels that captures the essence of the city’s beauty. Founded in 2001 by Meryanne Loum-Martin and Dr. Gary Martin, Jnane Tamsna is the only Black-owned and woman-owned hotel in Morocco. Loum-Martin was born in Cote’ D’Ivoire, but spent her childhood in Cote D’Ivoire, Ghana, London, and Moscow because her father was a Senegalese diplomat. Once settled in Paris, she followed her West Indian mother’s footsteps by studying law. And while she always loved studying law, her true
passion was interior design, art, and architecture. The Parisian lawyer turned hotelier wanted to marry her unique experiences and rich African identity in a way that guests could experience the rich culture of Morocco. Inside, you will find Western modernity meets Moroccan tradition in the 24-bedrooms spread over five houses, five pools, and a tennis court. In an interview with Travel Noire, Loum-Martin discussed more about how her hotel has managed to stay afloat during the pandemic:. Travel Noire: It’s been more than 20 years since you and your husband purchased the land to build Jnane Tamsna. I know this pandemic is unlike anything we’ve seen before. How are you
24 | ABA Publications | Africa TRAVEL | May 2021
