A true bubble of relaxation, Riad Bab Firdaus' design is guided by the theme of water, a revered resource in the deserts of Morocco. A fountain takes centrestage on the riad's patio, while the Spa's hammam and jacuzzi offer cool respite. The hammam boasts a barrel-vaulted brick ceiling that enhances the enchantment and mystery of the space. With 6 richly furnished rooms and suites, a stunning central courtyard ornamented with gabs (picked-honeycomb-like plasterwork), tagguebasts (cornices of sculpted plaster) around its central columns, our Thai restaurant in the courtyard and a rooftop sun deck, Riad Bab Firdaus lives up to the promise of its Arabic name - the "Gateway to Heaven".