MURANO ORIENTAL RESORT

Where: Marrakesh, Morocco

The crowd: Europe's fabulous design-loving crowd, out for a very good time

How's the water? Hot. This scene is as steamy as the blood-red tiles that line the main pool—especially when sunset's rays magnify the effect. The hotel's centerpiece attracts the most action during Sunday brunch, when a DJ spins and the cool crowd descends. For a more secluded rendezvous, try one of the other three exterior pools.

Poolside tipple: Papapaa, a signature concoction with vodka, white chocolate, fruit, and strawberry liqueur

The hotel: Located in the hip 'hood of La Palmeraie, just outside the medina, this oasis mixes traditional Moroccan style with long white-leather sofas, black marble bathrooms, and Murano chandeliers (natch). Opt for one of the top-floor deluxe rooms with open fireplaces, private terraces, and views of the snow-tipped Atlas Mountains. Next fall brings a new spa with indoor pool and hammam.

Murano Oriental Resort
Tel: 212 2432 7000
Doubles from $300

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