Hivernage, west of the Medina, hosts a number of big chain hotels.

Many of these chain hotels claim to be five-star, although what passes for five-star in Hivernage is roughly the equivalent of four-star elsewhere in the world.

Hivernage, moreover, is a nondescript neighbourhood, remote from where you'll want to be, and cabbies in Hivernage will often take advantage, refusing to use the meter, and demanding high fares.

There are two main reasons why you might want to stay in a package hotel in Hivernage. The first is if you use a wheelchair, as most big chain hotels are wheelchair-accessible, and many have wheelchair-adapted rooms.

The other reason you may prefer a chain hotel is if you have children in tow who want a big swimming pool and familiar food. Or indeed if you do.