Ava Bay: A Sanctuary for Women in Marrakech
Nestled in the scenic Palmeraie of Marrakech, Ava Bay is a remarkable establishment dedicated exclusively to women from Tuesday to Friday, allowing them to unwind while their children enjoy supervised activities nearby. Co-founded by Inès Fanni, who drew inspiration from her personal experiences and the challenges of motherhood, Ava Bay emerged from a desire to create a space where women could escape the demands of everyday life. As a mother herself, Inès understood the struggle of finding time for self-care without compromising on the care of her children.
Inès Fanni’s journey to establishing Ava Bay is deeply intertwined with her life alongside her husband, former Olympique de Marseille defender Rod Fanni. Over the past twelve years, she followed Rod’s career, moving from one club to another, including stints in Qatar and Montreal, which often left her career aspirations on hold. Despite the challenges, Inès never lost sight of her entrepreneurial ambitions, driven by the need for her days to hold meaning beyond her role as a mother. Her vision was clear: to redefine the stereotype associated with the wives of football players, creating a space that transcended clichés.
Ava Bay: Redefining Leisure for Women
The idea behind Ava Bay took root during her frequent visits to Marrakech, where Inès often found herself yearning for a place to relax while her children grew restless. Recognizing the lack of establishments catering to mothers in a similar fashion, she and Rod decided to create Ava Bay, which officially opened in June. The facility features a stunning property on nearly two hectares, transformed from an old 1980s house into a modern oasis over 14 months of renovations. Inès, with her keen eye for design, took charge of the decor, ensuring that the ambiance reflected her vision of a welcoming, elegant retreat.
Located just 25 minutes from the hustle and bustle of downtown Marrakech, Ava Bay offers an exclusive environment where women can enjoy a myriad of facilities including a pool, spa, and workspace. The culinary experience is also a highlight, with La Table d’Ava serving delicious Mediterranean, French, and Italian dishes prepared by a chef with notable experience. Initially exclusive to women, the venue has evolved to accommodate families on weekends, responding to requests from visitors who wished to enjoy the space together.
A distinguishing feature of Ava Bay is Ava Land, a dedicated children's club conceived from Inès's own experiences as a mother. After facing personal challenges, including postpartum depression, Inès envisioned a safe space where her children could play and learn while she took time for herself. Ava Land provides age-appropriate activities for children, allowing mothers the peace of mind to recharge. Currently, the club caters to children from 12 months to 3 years and older, featuring a variety of engaging activities.
Ava Bay has quickly become a vibrant community hub, attracting not only tourists but also local expatriate mothers seeking connection and support. Inès's commitment to creating a supportive environment has resonated with many, with clients expressing their gratitude for providing a space that meets their needs. Looking ahead, the Fanni couple envisions expanding Ava Bay’s offerings, including evening dining and special events, further enriching the experience for their guests.
Ultimately, Ava Bay stands as a testament to Inès's journey of self-discovery and empowerment, providing a sanctuary where women can embrace their identities beyond traditional roles. “Here, they are not mothers or wives; they are simply themselves,” Inès states, encapsulating the essence of what Ava Bay represents.
As reported by latribunedemarrakech.com.
