Olivier de Kermel, General Manager of STORY Rabat Boutique Hotel & Spa, has led the prestigious property to its second Luxury Lifestyle Award, earning the title of Best Luxury Boutique Hotel in Morocco 2024. Located in the Embassy District of Rabat, STORY Rabat blends contemporary Moroccan architecture with Andalusian influences, offering a sanctuary of elegance and luxury. Renowned for its personalized service and eco-conscious initiatives, the hotel delivers an unforgettable guest experience in both leisure and business travel. Today we spend some time with Olivier, to learn a bit more about what makes this timeless little hotel such a wonderful place to be.

Luxury Lifestyle Awards: STORY Rabat recently won its second Luxury Lifestyle Award. What does this recognition mean for you and the hotel?

Olivier de Kermel: This award is more than just a trophy; it reflects our dedication to excellence and delivering exceptional experiences for our guests. It reinforces our vision and motivates us to continually enhance our offerings.

LLA: The hotel is known for blending Moroccan architecture with Andalusian touches. How does this aesthetic influence the overall guest experience?

OK: Our design ethos combines local cultural influences, creating a unique look that not only pleases the eye but also gives our guests a true sense of Morocco. Each corner narrates its own story, contributing to a profound and immersive experience. A homage to Zyriab, the influential figure who harmonized Moroccan and Andalusian cultures, adds a layer of depth to our aesthetic, enriching the guest experience in ways that inspire them to explore further.

LLA: STORY Rabat places a strong emphasis on personalized service. Could you share examples of how you tailor experiences for your guests?

OK: Personalization is at the heart of our hospitality philosophy. From the moment guests secure their reservations, we attentively consider their preferences and design tailored itineraries. Our boutique property, with its intimate size, allows us to offer a truly personal and friendly approach, where each guest feels like they are being uniquely cared for. A recent example from last week highlights a guest from South Korea who booked one of our luxurious suites for her mother’s birthday. To make the stay truly special, we arranged a private spa experience, decorated the suite with a fresh bouquet and a handwritten note, and surprised her with a custom-made birthday cake featuring her favorite flavors. This attention to detail not only made her mother’s stay magical but also left a lasting impression, resulting in heartfelt gratitude. These moments of genuine connection are what set STORY Rabat apart, making every guest feel uniquely valued.

LLA: Sustainability plays a key role in your operations, as seen with your Green Key Certification. How do these initiatives shape the hotel’s offerings?

OK: Sustainability is woven into our operations. We’re committed to eliminating single-use plastics and using only local organic ingredients. We believe luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand, and our guests appreciate that their choices contribute to a better planet. In line with our commitment, we are further developing our solar energy program, which will significantly reduce our energy consumption, enhancing both our efficiency and environmental impact.

LLA: How do you ensure that every guest feels at home?

OK: We focus on creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Our team is willing to anticipate guest needs for a smooth experience. By building genuine connections, we create an environment where guests feel cherished, as though they’re visiting friends rather than staying in a hotel.

LLA: Could you tell us more about the philosophy of Zyriab and how it is reflected in the hotel’s design and services?

OK: Zyriab was a genius musician and scholar, known for founding Arab-Andalusian music and revolutionizing elegance, gastronomy, and the art of the table. At STORY Rabat, we embody his legacy by blending culture and hospitality. Our design reflects the visual beauty of his era, while our services celebrate the luxurious lifestyle he championed. Just as Zyriab transformed cultural life in Andalusia, we aim to create a warm and sophisticated experience for all our guests here in Rabat.

LLA: Le Safran restaurant offers a unique culinary journey. What makes the dining experience at STORY Rabat stand out?

OK: Dining at Le Safran is a flavorful experience that reflects culinary artistry. Under the expertise of Chef Youssef Zeroual, who has been recognized by the World Gastronomy Organization among the top chefs, each dish beautifully blends traditional Moroccan flavors with modern touches. Additionally, we are proud to use seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, ensuring that every meal not only delights the palate but also supports our commitment to sustainability and community, while the peaceful garden setting makes the dining experience even more enjoyable.

LLA: What future plans or developments can guests look forward to at STORY Rabat?

OK: We are committed to continuous innovation, ensuring that our guests can look forward to a range of new offerings that enhance their experience. But we believe that part of the magic is letting our guests discover these enhancements for themselves, adding an element of surprise and anticipation to their journey with us.

Thank you, Olivier, for sharing insights into the exceptional offerings at STORY Rabat. To discover more about the hotel’s luxurious accommodations and personalized services, visit their website at https://www.story-rabat.com/