"It's good craic out here," said Irish heart-throb Colin Farrell of Morocco during his months shooting the historic epic Alexander in the scenic deserts of the North African country.
Though several filmmakers have taken their tales to other arid lands, director Oliver Stone insisted on the unique, sweeping landscapes of this particular part of the world. He admitted, however, that the capricious weather late in the year - which included sandstorms, rain and blistering heat - was "a little tricky".
Though the sand and heat made horse riding and swordplay tough going, once back in the vibrant city of Marrakesh, Colin and the rest of the cast and crew were able to enjoy all the luxury comforts Morocco has to offer.
Colin, who plays Macedonian leader Alexander the Great in the film, reportedly spent his down time amid the plush surroundings of three Marrakech hotels – the Le Meridien, La Mamounia and Les Jardins de la Koutoubia.
The 277-room Le Meridien, nestled in five hectares of gardens, boasts a blend of local and European décor as well as three restaurants, a tea room and bar, the latter of which was where Colin famously enjoyed some serious leisure time with crew members and pals after a hard day's shooting.
He also checked into the chic La Momounia resort – Winston Churchill is said to have once stayed at the luxury getaway – which is set in 32-acres of grounds and offers five restaurants, four bars, and a picturesque pool lined with shady palm trees.
And it was at the Les Jardins de la Koutoubia where he apparently satisfied his famous appetite for nightlife, chilling out in the hotel's red velvet piano bar.
Photo: 2003 Warner Bros Pictures/Alpha
Photo: 2003 Warner Bros Pictures/Alpha
