Hiking and Trekking

Hiking and Trekking

Although rugged, the mountain ranges of Morocco are ideal for hikers and trekkers. The wild beauty of the Moroccan mountains attracts several hikers and trekkers. A network of stopovers including guides and monitors are available throughout these ranges. You can take a bus or opt for a collected taxi in order to reach to the starting point. A rental four-wheel drive can also be ideal to reach the starting point.

One of the most popular trek routes in the area is the route from Imlil, the beautiful and picturesque village to Jbel Toubkal, the highest peak of North Africa. The starting point to this route is about an hour's drive away from Marrakech. Small hotels, refuges and resting places can be found all through the trekking trail. Although trekking can be possible all through the year, April to October is considered to be the best time for trekking. Canyons and gorges become difficult to navigate during the storms, which can be avoided during this period.

More information about trails and refuges can be obtained from:

The Moroccan National Tourist Office or The Club Alpin Français, BP. 6178 Casablanca 01 Tel: +(212) 2 27 00 90 Fax: +(212) 2 29 72 92

Royal Moroccan Ski & Mountaineering Federation, Parc de la Lique, Arabe, BP 15899, Casablanca Tel: +(212) 2 203798 Fax: +(212) 2 474979

Horse Riding

One of the most ideal ways to explore the beauties of Morocco can be on horseback if you enjoy horse riding. You can cut across a trail along the white sandy beaches or through the sand dunes and date trees on horse back in Morocco that can provide you with an experience of a lifetime. The town of Tetouan is one of the best areas to sightsee riding a horse with its fascinating landscapes. Some of the other main riding centers are Agadir, Meknes, Rabat, Casablanca, Ouirgane, Ouida and Tangier.

Horses can be hired in Ad'Dahkla. Exploring the Kasbah Trail or the magnificent surrounding sub-Saharan region can be a wonderful experience on horseback.

Camel Trekking

A ride on the camel can be one of the most memorable experiences during your stay in Morocco. Although it may not be the most comfortable ways of exploring the country, it certainly will be one of the most unique one. Camel trek expeditions Morocco can be of one day or two weeks. September to February is the best time to opt for a ride on the camel. The Erg Chebbi sand dunes at Merzounga, the Draa Valley (Tinfou and Zagora) and the M'Hamid area are some of the most popular areas for camel riding. The ancient trans-Saharan camel caravan trade route stretching from Marrakech to Rissani can also be an exciting experience that combines the use of camels and land rovers. The journey takes twelve days to complete where you can travel down the historical trade route.

Rallying

Some of the greatest international automotive competitions are held in Morocco such as the Atlas and Paris-Dakar rallies. With over thousands of miles of tracks, interested individuals can choose from a number of challenging routes.

Mountain Biking

Some of the spectacular countryside can be explored only through mountain biking, on foot or on horseback. This off-road vehicle is undoubtedly one of the best ways to know Morocco with its deserts, beaches and inaccessible rugged mountain ranges.

Surfing

Surfing along the Atlantic waves or sliding along the snowy slopes of the Atlas or sliding through the sand dunes provide a number of options to choose from for all those who love surfing.

Royal Moroccan Surfing Federation: - Casablanca Tel: +(212) 2 259530 Fax: +(212) 2 236385

Water Sports

The Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts offer several kinds of water sports. Sailing, yachting, rowing, canoeing, windsurfing, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing and water skiing are some of the options tourists can choose from. For more information tourists may contact:

Royal Moroccan Sailboat Federation Rabat Tel: - +(212) 7 670956

Royal Moroccan Yacht Club Rabat: +(212) 7 720264 Mohammedia Tel: +(212) 3 322331

Royal Moroccan Water Skiing & Jetski Federation Casablanca Tel +(212) 2 274938 Fax: +(212) 2 474979

Aerial Sports

Several aeroclubs in Morocco provide aerial sport activities such as gliding, parachuting, aviation, deltaplane and hot air ballooning.

Royal Moroccan Federation for Light Aviation & Aerial Sports Rabat Tel: +(212) 7 708347 Fax: +(212) 7 706958

Golf

Golf has been a national passion of the country for a long time. Several golf competitions are arranged in Morocco, inviting expert golfers from all over the world. The annual Hassan II is the most famous trophy that is played at the Royal Golf Club, Dar Es-Salam, Rabat. Some of the other major golf courses are located in Cabo, Negro, Meknes, Tangier, Mohammedia, Casablanca and Ben Slimane. Also important are Agadir, El Jadida and Ouarzazate.

Fishing

Fishing in the quiet waters can be really enjoyable in Morocco. A number of lakes and rivers are found all over the country that provides a perfect setting for fishing. Pike, Trouts, Roach, Carp, Eels, Black Bass, Barbels and Perchs are available in plenty in these lakes and rivers. Usually the optimum fishing season is considered to be from May to June, although it depends largely on the species of the fish. Tourists can also indulge in deep-sea fishing with an abundance of sea perch, mullet, Bonitos, Chad and sea breams. Ports such as the Sakhla in Sahara and Mohammedia near Casablanca are fully equipped for deep-sea fishing, especially for fishing Tuna, Marlin and Swordfish.

Moroccan National Fisheries Office - BP 20300, Casablanca, Tel: +(212) 2 240551 Fax: +(212) 2 242305

Tennis

Exciting and challenging tennis games can be played at all major resorts of the country. Most of the tennis games are played on clay courts,

Food for mind and body
Tetouan is a lively town where there is always something going on. In the image of its festivals and the access to various sports activities in the surrounding area.
Culture (the mind)

The international Mediterranean film festival takes place in Tetouan at the end of March. On this occasion, the entire Arabo-Andalusian town lives in unison with the seventh art. Since 2008, honouring women through culture and creation, local, national and international artists gather together for three days in July for the "Voix de femmes, voies du futur" festival (women's voices, way of the future). Since 2003, each year in May, the national Fine Arts Institution of Tetouan organises in partnership with the Wallonia-Brussels Delegation, the international Comic Strip festival, an event that will become one of the main yearly meeting places for comic strip producers, creators and fans.
Sport (the body)

Golf lovers can hit the white ball at the Royal Golf in Cabo Negro and take advantage of its magnificent course on the flanks of the Rif mountains, looking out over the sea, twisting in and out of the agaves and mimosas. Another sport, another pleasure: the tennis courts are at your disposal, as well as horses for a ride along the beach. In Tamuda Bay, all water sports are represented: from scuba diving to wakeboard and from fishing to jet-ski. One of the excursions will take you along the Rhomara coast up to El Jebha, with its small deserted bays and its fishing villages. By going further inland in the direction of Chefchaouen, you enter the region of Jbala (mountainous)

HIKING & TREKKING

Trekking The High Atlas of Morocco
7 day trekking itinerary in the High Atlas, with their snow-capped peaks, hidden valleys, and ancient Berber villages, have enticed hikers from across the world. Experience this extraordinary private luxury hiking tour. click to read itinerary

In Morocco, the four mountain ranges including the ATLAS chain and the RIF mountain range, provide an excellent opportunity for those who enjoy trekking, hiking and climbing. All of them are accessible to people in good physical condition. Perhaps the most popular is Le Deren, in the High Atlas. Certain peaks of the High Atlas remain snow-capped throughout the year.

Of all the mountain sports practiced in Morocco, trekking (on foot or by ski) is one of the best ways to appreciate this vast and little-visited area. The mountains are beautiful and wild, yet they are well organised for hikers with qualified guides, a good network of refuges for night stopovers, hire of pack mules and cross country bikes

A list of refuges can be obtained from The Moroccan National Tourist Office or The Club Alpin Français, BP. 6178 Casablanca 01  Tel: +(212) 2 27 00 90  Fax: +(212) 2 29 72 92

Royal Moroccan Ski & Mountaineering Federation,   Parc de la Lique, Arabe, BP 15899, Casablanca  Tel: +(212) 2 203798  Fax: +(212) 2 474979

Steve Coupland - Mt Toubkal Climb June 2002
Steve Coupland is planning to climb Mt Toubkal to raise money for breast cancer care, funding all expenses himself. See his full itinerary and make a donation at his website..

Sports in contact with nature
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From skiing to parachute jumping, a wide range of activities and open-air sports are enjoyed right in the heart of Morocco.

Skiing
The combination of travelling by mule and skiing (known as "mule-skiing") in the High Atlas mountains, cross-country skiing in the cedar forests of the Tabular Middle Atlas and Alpine skiing at the resort of Oukaïmeden or Michlifen, near Ifrane.

Climbing

Morocco is home to several remarkable sites: Aremd, the Djebel Aroudane, the Taghia gorges, the Sirwa Massif and Mount Tidighin in the Rif. Climbing Mount M’Goun (4068m) is still a must, and the ascent of Mount Toubkal, the second highest summit in Africa after Kilimanjaro, takes two days for experienced climbers.

Fishing and hunting
While pike and tench are more common in Lake Tislit, brown trout can be fished in the wadis of Ahansal, Assif Melloul, M’goun and in the upper Tassaoute. For surf-casting and deep-sea fishing, head to Dakhla Bay. Hunters should head for the Bin El Ouidane and Arboua regions, and the ring of Ouaouizert.

Riding

A country of horsemen, Morocco has successfully continued the equestrian tradition. Horse rides are organized in the western High Atlas, the Middle Atlas and the Saghro and Sirwa massifs.

Mountain-biking
The pleasures of mountain-biking are celebrated at all the tracks of the western and central High Atlas, the Saghro and Sirwa massifs, as well as Mount Tidighin in the Rif and in the desert.

White waters
Canyoning at the Aqua-n-Tazart and the Aqua N’Taghia, rafting in the spring in the Ahansal wadi and the Assif Melloul, kayaking in Ourika and Assif Nfiss, the Talembote Wadi and Mount Tidighin in the Rif: a wide variety of pleasures!

Caving
Morocco has an impressive number of caves and underground networks. Among the most famous are the Friouato cave, near Taza – which was opened for visitors at the start of the last century – Toghobeit, to the south of Chefchaouen (713m deep) and the Goran cave, between Oualidia and Safi, which was already explored at the time of the Phoenicians and houses cave paintings.

Bird's eye view
Fly high paragliding in the High Atlas or parachuting in Beni Mellal. Also take advantage of several aerial routes on board a Cessna 207 available leaving from Marrakech. Does a ULM flight tempt you? You can fly over the Marrakech region and/or the Atlas valleys.

To be shared by the initiated
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A paradise for fishermen, divers and surfers, Dakhla is the unspoilt spot south of Morocco. To be discovered ahead of everyone else!
Sea

With a constant water temperature all year round (25°C), it is possible to comfortably enjoy the majority of water board sports. Ideal surfing conditions (a long and perfect right-breaking wave) have led surfers to rank the Foum Labouir spot just behind Hawaii. Thanks also to an equally constant wind, windsurfers and kite surfers have also found a paradise here. The area's wealth also extends underwater. Fishing is the dominant activity, mainly through surf casting. Divers will also discover an unspoilt environment at the other end of the scale to the overcrowded spots visited by too many people. The region is also going to become a national park which will aim to protect endangered species such as monk seals. Calmer boat trips make it possible to discover the lagoon and visit the surrounding islands.
The desert
Camping in the dunes, in a surf camp for example, and waking up by the sea is unforgettable. You can also push deeper into the south of Morocco as part of a 4x4 excursion and so have a completely out-of-the-ordinary experience with the desert nomads.
The sea and the desert

These two themes are celebrated every year in March during the Dakhla festival. This is a chance to listen to and discover the cultures of the Saharan tribes, particularly through nomad music.

Land of hikers
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From the sands of the Sahara to the Atlas mountains, Morocco offers an infinite variety of landscapes. An ideal playing field and one very much appreciated by cross-country hikers, riders and skiers.

A very varied landscape

Undulating dunes, arid and rocky plateaus, secret gorges, lush green valleys, forests of cedar, Alep pine and cork oak… Nature has remained authentic everywhere. A diversity which any walker dreams of, whatever their level or the time of year. The landscape is very diverse over more than 700km. To the north, the mountains in the Rif chain provide slopes for experienced climbers; to the east, plateaus, forests, and stony desert pavements alternate; and finally to the south the Anti-Atlas range takes you to the ergs, the sandy deserts where you can make camp for a night or more under the stars.

The right pace for encounters

There is no shortage of means of covering the thousand and one trails in Morocco. Beginners and children will enjoy short trips perched on the back of a donkey or a camel. The more experienced can attempt the famous combined "mule-skiing" trip. For yes, it does snow in Morocco! This type of cross-country takes place from the beginning of February to the end of April. Doing this sort of cross-country is an excellent way of finding out about an undiscovered Morocco. The Berbers, the first inhabitants of Morocco, are one of the pillars of modern Morocco. They will introduce you to a universe of strong traditions through architecture, costumes, dances and local customs. Travelers who respect local ways are always welcome in accordance with the traditional rules of hospitality.

Authentic stopover

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A cruise is an original and comfortable way of discovering Morocco. The country's four main ports are all unforgettable stopovers for cruise ships and their 400,000 passengers.

Tangier

Walking around the souks and the medina to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the Petit Socco, taste a mint tea at the Hafa cafe, discover Hercules's caves, stroll through the cities of Asilah, Tétouan and Chefchaouen, visit the beaches and play water sports, admire a sunset at Cape Spartel and then try your luck at the casino: this is just a glimpse of the incredible moments you will experience in the region.

Casablanca

A tour of the city will be an opportunity to discover both the medina and the city's modern side with its arts deco houses. Visit the great Hassan II Mosque, as a tour of this contemporary Arab-Muslim architectural masterpiece is a must. Then go and clean out the luxury boutiques in the Anfa quarter. Have a look at the smart beach of Bouznika a few kilometers north of the town. Take advantage of the swimming pools and beaches of Casablanca's La Corniche, the ideal spot for a walk at dusk. In the only dog race track on the continent, watch an evening greyhound race. And finally, dance the night away on the wild dance floors of the city's numerous clubs before getting back on the boat.

Safi

This ancient Portuguese fortified city is especially famous for its national ceramics museum and its potters' quarter. Food lovers come here to sample oysters in Oualidia while the sportier choose surfing on one of the most famous beaches in the world for this sport: Sidi Bouzid. Other will opt for an excursion to the Gorani cave.

Agadir

After a visit to the medina, take advantage of the beach and the three golf clubs around the city (Agadir Royal Golf Club, Les Dunes and Le Soleil Golf Clubs). If not, choose to relax in one of the numerous spas. Outside the town, the Souss Massa national park is waiting to reveal its treasures to you. And finally, explore the preserved world of Berber culture in the group of perfectly conserved towns including Immouzzer Ida Outanane, Taroudant, Tafraout, etc. to experience something completely different.

Morocco’s golf courses
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Enjoy the pleasures of golf throughout Morocco, whatever your level of skills is, in fairways overlooking the sea, or in the greens at the foothills of the Atlas Mountains.


AGADIR :
Golf’s course: The Dunes Golf Club
Number of holes: 27
Address: Chemin Oued Souss - Ben Sergao – 80000 AGADIR
Phone : 00 212 5 28 83 45 59, Fax : 00 212 5 28 83 46 49
Email : agacchef04@clubmed.com
Architect : M. Cabel B. ROBINSON
Par of practice: 108
Length: 2610m
Green Fees (indicative): 400 MAD

Golf’s course: The Soleil Golf Club
Number of holes: 36
Address : Chemin des Dunes – 80000 AGADIR
Phone : 00 212 5 28 33 73 29 ; Fax : 00 212 5 28 33 73 33
Website: www.golfdusoleil.com
Email : golfdusoleil@tikidahotels.co.ma
Architect: M. MUELA & M. COURBIN
Par of practice: 72
Length: 6100m
Green Fees (indicative): 550 MAD

Golf’s course: The Ocean Golf Club
Number of holes: 27 (sur 3 Course)
Address : Chemin de l’Oued Souss – BENSERGA
Website: www.atlanticpalace-agadir.ma
Email: ap-daf@menara.ma
Architect: BELT COLLINS - USA
Par of practice: 36 - 36 - 35 (107)

Golf’s course: Agadir Royal Golf Club
Number of holes: 9
Address: Km 12, Route d'Aït Melloul – 80000 AGADIR
Phone: 00 212 5 28 24 85 51 ; Fax: 00 212 5 28 23 47 02
Email : yalgolfagadir@menara.ma
Architect : M. WILSON
Par of practice: 36
Length: 2934m
Green Fees (indicative): 280 MAD

BENSLIMANE
Golf’s course: Benslimane Royal Golf Club
Number of holes: 27
Address: BP 175 Fath - BENSLIMANE
Phone : 00 212 5 23 29 72 25 ; Fax : 00 212 5 23 29 78 15
Email : royalgolfbenslimane@yahoo.com
Architect: M. David COHEN & M. VAN HAGGE
Par of practice: Course A: 72, Course B: 36,
Length: Course A: 6065m, Course B: 2990m

BOUZNIKA
Golf’s course: Bouznika Golf Bay Club
Number of holes: 9
Address: Km 22, Route secondaire de Bouznika Plage – 13100 BOUZNIKA
Phone: 00 212 5 37 62 53 71
Fax: 00 212 5 37 62 53 73
Architect: M. VAN HAGGE
Par of practice: 35
Length: 3040m

CASABLANCA
Golf’s course: Anfa Royal Golf Club
Number of holes: 18
Address : Royal Golf d'Anfa - Lice d'Anfa – 20050 CASABLANCA
Phone : 00 212 5 22 36 10 26 ; Fax : 00 212 5 22 39 33 74
Par of practice: 70
Length: 5400m
Green Fees (indicative) : 300 MAD

EL JADIDA
Golf’s course: El Jadida Royal Golf Club
Number of holes: 18
Address : Km 7, Route de Casablanca BP. 116 – 24000 EL JADIDA
Phone: 00 212 5 23 35 22 51 ; Fax : 00 212 5 23 35 41 50
Email : katoufgolf@yahoo.fr
Architect: M. Cabel B. ROBINSON
Par of practice: 72
Length: 6226m
Green Fees (indicative): 420 MAD

Golf’s course: Mazagan Golf Club
Number of holes: 18
Address: Mazagan Beach Resort, route de Haouzia, 24000, EL JADIDA
Phone: 00 212 5 23 38 80 70
Email: www.mazaganresort.com
Architect: Gary Player
Par of practice: 72
Length : 6885 m, 6093 m, 5630 m, 4719m

FEZ
Golf’s course: The Royal Golf of Fez
Number of holes: 18
Address : Km17, Route d'Immouzer – 30000 FEZ
Phone : 00 212 5 35 66 50 06 ; Fax : 00 212 5 35 66 50 66
Email : fesgolf@menara.ma
Architect: M. Cabel B. ROBINSON
Par of practice: 72
Length: 6542m
Green Fees (indicative): 400 MAD

MARRAKESH
Golf’s course: The Amelkis Golf Club
Number of holes: 18
Address: Km 12, Route de Ouarzazate – 40000 MARRAKESH
Phone: 00 212 5 24 40 44 14 ; Fax: 00 212 5 24 40 44 15
Email : HCOAMELKIS@menara.ma
Architect: M. Cabel B. ROBINSON
Par of practice: 72
Length: 6657m
Green Fees (indicative): 500 MAD

Golf’s course: The Palmeraie Golf Club
Number of holes : 18
Address : Les Jardins de la Palmeraie - Circuit de la Palmeraie – BP. 1488 – 40000 MARRAKESH
Phone : 00 212 5 24 30 10 10 ; Fax : 00 212 5 24 30 63 66
Website : www.golfmarrakech.com
Email : golf@pgp.ma
Architect: M. Robert TRENT JONES
Par of practice: 72
Length: 6200m
Green Fees (indicative): 500 MAD

Golf’s course: Marrakesh Royal Golf Club
Number of holes: 18
Address: Ancienne Route de Ouarzazate - BP. 634 – 40000 MARRAKESH
Phone: 00 212 5 24 40 47 05 / 98 28 ; Fax: 00 212 5 24 40 00 84
Email : royal-golf@menara.ma
Architect: M. Arnaud MEASSY GUSTAVE
Par of practice: 72
Length: 5888m
Green Fees (indicative): 400 MAD

Golf’s course: Samanah Golf Club
Number of holes: 18
Address: Km 14, Route dAmezmiz - MARRAKESH
Phone: 00 212 5 24 48 31 18
Fax: 00 212 5 24 48 30 80
Website : www.samanah.com
Email : golf@samanah.com
Architect: M NICKLAUS DESIGN
Par of practice: 72
Length: Black: 6735m,
White: 6342m,
Yellow: 6092m,
Blue: 5696m,
Red: 5261m

MEKNES
Golf’s course: Meknes Royal Golf Club
Number of holes: 9
Address: J'nane Bahraouia - Bab Belkari – 50000 MEKNES
Phone : 00 212 5 35 53 07 53 ; Fax : 00 212 5 35 55 79 34
Email : royalgolfmeknes@royalgolfmeknes.com
Website : www.royalgolfmeknes.com
Par of practice: 36
Length: 2610m
Green Fees (indicative): 200 MAD

MOHAMMEDIA
Golf’s course: Mohammedia Royal Golf Club
Number of holes: 18
Address: Royal Golf de Mohammedia - BP. 12 – 20800 MOHAMMEDIA
Phone: 00 212 5 23 32 46 56 ; Fax: 00 212 5 23 32 11 02
Email : royalgolfmohammedia@menara.ma
Architect: M. Hughes LAMBERT
Par of practice: 72
Length: 5870m
Green Fees (indicative): 300 MAD

RABAT
Golf’s course: Dar Es Salam Royal Golf Club
Number of holes: 45 (sur 3 Course)
Address: Km 8, Avenue Imam Malik – 10100 RABAT
Phone: 00 212 5 37 75 58 64/65 ; Fax: 00 212 5 37 75 76 71
Email : golfdaressalam@menara.ma
Architect: M. Robert TRENT JONES
Par of practice: Red: 73
Blue: 72
Green: 32
Length: Red: 5549m
Blue: 5410m
Green: 1895m
Green Fees (indicative): 400 MAD

SETTAT
Golf’s course: The University Royal Golf Club of Settat
Number of holes: 9
Address : Km 2, Route de Casablanca BP. 575 – 26000 SETTAT
Phone: 00 212 5 23 40 21 31/75 ; Fax: 00 212 5 23 40 20 99
Website: www.royalgolfdaressalam.com
Email : golfsettat75@menara.ma
Architect: Collectif d'Architectes Marocains
Par of practice: 37
Length: 3215m
Green Fees (indicative): 200 MAD

TANGIER
Golf’s course: Tangier Royal Golf Club
Number of holes: 18
Address : Route de Boubana – 90000 TANGIER
Phone: 00 212 5 39 93 89 25 ; Fax: 00 212 5 39 93 90 25
Email : golftanger@menara.ma
Architect: M. HARRADINE
Par of practice: 70
Length: 6100m
Green Fees (indicative): 400 MAD

TETOUAN
Golf’s course: Cabo Negro Royal Golf Club
Number of holes: 18
Address: Route de Martil - Cabo Negro - BP. 696G – 93000 TETOUAN
Phone: 00 212 5 39 97 81 41/83 03 ; Fax: 00 212 5 39 97 83 05
Architect: M. Cabel B. ROBINSON
Par of practice: 72
Length: 6834m
Green Fees (indicative): 440 MAD

SAÏDIA
Golf’s course: Palmeral Golf Saïdia
Number of holes: 18
Address : Palmeral Golf Saidia - Route De Ras El Ma - BP 280 - 60600 SAIDIA
Phone: 00 212 6 79 75 75 75 ; Fax: 00 212 5 36 63 00 40
Architect: Francisco SEGALES
Par of practice: 72
Length: 6160m

ESSAOUIRA
Golf’s course: Golf of Mogador
Number of holes: 18
Address : Golf de Mogador - 44000 ESSAOUIRA
Phone : 00 212 5 24 47 92 30 ; Fax : 00 212 5 24 47 23 28
Website: www.golfdemogador.com
Email : Address@golfdemogador.com
Architect: Gary Player
Par of practice: 36
Length : 6558m

Life-size Morocco
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Mountains, deserts, oases or beaches… In Morocco, nature is everywhere. There are also many nature reserves and parks.

A paradise for birds

Along the thousands of kilometers of Atlantic and Mediterranean coast, nature is generous. Discover for example the park at the mouth of the Souss and Massa wadis near Agadir, which form an ideal ecosystem to attract pink flamingoes, cranes and bald ibises… To the south of Sidi Ifni, the sublime white beach extends over 50km of pure beauty. Even further south, Dakhla Bay hosts the last colony of monk seals in the world. Near the Mediterranean, the magnificent Rif nature reserve at the mouth of the Moulaya is also a paradise for birds.

Great diversity of nature

As you approach the Atlas mountains, the landscape becomes greener, the air fresher. You will be surprised to be able to ski in winter while on the same day you can take a swim in Marrakech. Further south stands Ouarzazate, the gateway to the desert, famous for its Kasbahs and ksour (fortified villages). To the east of the city stretches the Dades valley which ends in the Dades and Todra gorges with their sheer rock faces, after crossing the palm groves of Skoura and the valley of the roses. South of Ouarzazate is the Drâa valley which winds up to M’hamid, the last town before the open desert. You will be enchanted by the wide open spaces. This is the ideal place to find peace and calm, with its oasis which spring forth like mirages in a landscape of loose stones and soaring mountains. Their lush green vegetation contrasts sharply with the neighboring desert. The superb dunes of orange-colored sand, such as those of the Chebbi erg can reach 150m high. Magic for camping and being at one with nature.

Beaches for every taste in morocco

Beaches for every taste
Bordered by the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, Morocco has several thousand kilometers of coast whose landscapes are diverse and beaches welcoming.

Atlantic

The most visited beaches are naturally located not far from cities, especially on the Atlantic coast. But there are hundreds of others in places where nature has remained unspoilt. They all make it possible to sample the joys of swimming, relaxing and the latest water sports. On the Atlantic coast, the great majority of beaches appear as long strips of fine sand lapped by the ocean waves. They will be hotter the further south you go until you reach the sublime Dakhla Bay. The north-east trade wind blows regularly from the end of March to mid-September on this corner of the coast: ideal conditions for practicing all board sports, especially surfing. Whether you're a fan of windsurfing, kitesurfing, surfing, wakeboarding or jet skiing, you can sure you will find the right waves here.

Mediterranean

On the more divided up coast of the Mediterranean, between Tangier and Al Hoceima, the sea is warm and calm and the beaches more intimate. Some are close to small traditional fishing villages, tucked into corners of idyllic nature. At the same time, new seaside resorts are springing up such as Tamuda Bay, on the outskirts of Tétouan and Saidia, which is a new Mediterranean coast resort. Facing Andalusia, Mediterrania-Saida extends over 1700 acres with a 6km seafront of white sand. A pleasure port and an 18-hole golf course complete this site which has been developed next to two international airports. The Atlantic is not sitting on its laurels either with new resorts such as Lixus, Mazagan, Taghazout and Plage Blanche.

To remember
Whether you are looking for sunbathing or boarding, Moroccan beaches meet all visitors' desires.

The Oriental Desert Express
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For an unusual journey through magnificent desert landscapes, take the “Oriental Desert Express”!

Oriental Desert Express

The train runs between Oujda and Bouarfa along 305km of railway and offers you beautiful panoramas of the Sahara punctuated by occasional high dunes, nomadic encampments and small isolated villages. The train has three air-conditioned carriages with drinks and a hot meal served on board. Several stops are scheduled to immortalize your journey in photos, including Aïn Benimathar, Tendrara and Bouarfa.

A paradise of well-being
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Regular visits to the hammam are an unmissable ritual to ensure well-being in Morocco: the natural products carefully selected for this purpose guarantee a unique dimension to the treatments handed out. Allow yourself to be pampered by the attentions of our relaxation experts.

An art of living.

Riads, gardens, hammams, everything in Morocco embodies well-being elevated to the level of art of living. Nowadays all the big hotels have a spa or fitness center. Luxury and comfort combine marvelously with Moroccan tradition and art of living. Some of these establishments enjoy an exceptional surroundings, like the hotel spa in Tangier which offers a panoramic view over the Strait.

The country of well-being
Agadir, Marrakech, Essaouira, Fez, Tangier and Casablanca… Several destinations offer vacations focusing on well-being. Agadir and Essaouira, on the Atlantic coast, offer thalassotherapy cures. Marrakech remains the ideal destination to sample the pleasures of relaxation in a balneotherapy, spa or hammam. Fez stands out for its proximity to the famous spa resort of Moulay Yacoub, a center famous for the quality of its sulfur waters. Quality natural products with recognized virtues remain the basis of the treatments offered.

The art of the hammam
You can sample the pleasures of the hammam everywhere. A place to relax and meet people, it is a real institution in Morocco. Often richly decorated, a relaxing atmosphere reigns there. Scrubbing with black soap, coating in henna or ghasoul and massage with essential oils are among the treatments offered.

Sand baths

For direct contact with nature, the experience of sand baths in the desert is being developed around Tinfou and Merzouga, in the Drâa Valley. Again in the desert, several travel companies offer vacations combining discovery of wide open spaces and treatments for the body. In order to better prepare for your holiday, consult the list of hotels offering these services. Morocco's own traditional and charming welcome will ensure the success of your "well-being" holiday. You will sample a unique experience of rejuvenation and relaxation, far removed from everyday routine.

Crafts and Lifestyle in morocco..culture

Crafts and Art de vivre

If there is but one travel tip Journey Beyond Travel can impart before your Moroccan adventure, it would be this: pack light. After all, the less you pack, the more room you’ll have for the endless number of crafts and souvenirs you’re bound to pick up along the way!

Morocco is a treasure trove of breathtaking landscapes, dynamic colors, and amazing diversity, all of which comes through in its art. Even if you think you’re not the type to get weighed down with trinkets, be prepared; your first glimpse of a Tafraouti slipper may convince you otherwise.

Moroccan handicrafts are as diverse and unique as the country itself, and the perfect memento of Fes will be altogether different from what jogs your memory back to Essaouira. What’s more, what you find will truly be in the spirit of the place. After all, Morocco has not fallen prey to mass-produced goods. Indeed, almost everything you see will have come from just a few yards away, where traditional artisans still ply their trade in small workshops and community cooperatives.

The following are just a few of the goods Morocco has on offer:

Slippers – Moroccan footwear, often called babouches, is handmade from locally produced leather. While they are ubiquitous throughout the country, Fes is the place to find some truly unique and well-made slippers. The famous Fes tanneries supply the raw materials, and you can watch as master craftsmen sew their latest creations in the small shops that line the medina alleyways. If you stay further south, Tafraout is also known for its footwear. However, unlike the more monotone Fes variety, Tafraouti slippers are embroidered in bright, almost psychedelic patterns.

Rugs – Marrakech and Fes are both excellent places to hunt down the perfect carpet. A guide can help you pick out the different patterns, colors and sizes, as well as give you some background on the origins of the many symbols and motifs in use. Don’t rush past smaller cooperatives, though. Many small towns have carpet and weaving co-ops that would happily show you their wares. In fact, if you already have something in mind, these smaller outposts are often happy to make a custom rug to order.

Lanterns – Moroccan lanterns are wonderful pieces of craftsmanship and can truly dazzle at night. Marrakech is home to most of the country’s lantern makers, but you can find them almost anywhere. Shop assistants can often help you track down certain shapes, sizes and colors, so be open and honest about what you’re looking for. Even if they don’t have it, odds are they know someone who does!

Wood Carving – This is where Essaouira truly shines. While wood carvers ply their trade throughout Morocco, there is something special to be said about the twuia wood found only on the south coast, and locals have been making good use of it for centuries. From larger chess boards and plates, to small boxes and children’s toys, sculptors have perfected the technique of drawing the beautiful from the seemingly mundane, and few visitors leave without at least a small trinket to remind them of the relaxed Moroccan sea coast.

Pottery – Moroccan pottery can vary wildly from place to place, but a few cities have truly put their mark on the ceramics trade. Safi is perhaps the most notable ceramic city, with large markets dedicated to their sale as well as a wide variety of shops and styles. Safi also offers a more relaxed atmosphere for shopping, and since the pottery is made onsite, you’re often dealing with the very men who created the plate in your hands. Outside Zagora, Tamegroute is known for its unique green-glaze pottery.

All this is to say nothing of the natural oils and dyes, knitwear, cooking supplies, tapestry, leather and innumerable other finds you’ll come across as you wander through the souks. Like so much in Morocco, you’ll get the most from your market day with an open mind and a little curiosity. Be prepared to take your time, and be open to whatever strikes your fancy!





Wandering through the souks, it will doubtless be the everyday objects which grab your attention. Once back home, they will continue to decorate your daily life.

Table decoration
Off an alleyway in the medinas of Fez, Meknès or Marrakech, you will probably find a specialist in zellige mosaics. Once assembled these fragments of enameled terracotta can be used as tabletops to be placed on elegant cast-iron structures. Please give in to temptation confidently and without any hesitation: all craftsmen are well-versed in the export rules.

Exotic crockery
Potters are always happy to demonstrate their handiwork to visitors by inviting them to share a mint tea. Whether pottery or ceramics, you can re-equip your whole kitchen with the dishes, plates, salad mixers, bowls and vases you will find. Your guests will be bowled over by your tajine dish or the elegant ramekins in which you will now present your salads.

Rugs and weaving

At Rabat's markets, admire the sumptuous rugs which are among the most beautiful in Morocco. They are excellent quality and always create the best effect in a living room or hallway. In the south or in hill-top villages, you will find Berber craftsmanship: give in to the crude yet refined simplicity of rugs patiently woven by hand.

Leathers and hides

After an astionishing tour of the famous tanneries of Fez or Marrakech, head to the souk traders. It is soon clear why the French adopted the word maroquinerie (things from Morocco) to describe leather goods, as the work is meticulous and the products high quality. This is your chance to pick up a new wallet or a sturdy travel bag!

To remember
Give in to the temptation of our art of living. Easily take home the everyday or decorative objects which you will find in profusion everywhere on these markets.

Land of festivals
Add to my travel Notes
By taking part in cultural events, you can discover the Kingdom of Morocco's creative energy and proliferation of events in all artistic fields throughout the year.

Culture for everyone

A land which has offered a warm welcome and encounters since Ancient times, Morocco certainly has its share of world festivals. Music, film, popular culture: the main cities offer original events, often addressing the theme of dialogue between Eastern and Western cultures. Tangier, for instance, now celebrates jazz in all its forms with the Tanjazz festival. Take advantage of a trip to Morocco to discover the unique ambiance of these events. Many concerts and film showings take place in historic settings, often outdoors. And the warmth of Moroccan evenings gives these events a very special atmosphere. A friendly atmosphere is guaranteed, like the one at the Timitar music festival in Agadir, and the Mawazine festival in Rabat, which has celebrated world music since 2001.

Dialogue and sharing

The international film festival in Marrakech creates a bridge between the film industries of the North and of the South, with works which combine cultures, nationalities and languages. The festival has welcomed the greatest names in cinema, including Alan Parker, Jean-Jacques Annaud, Jeanne Moreau, Francis Ford Coppola, David Lynch and Constantin Costa-Gavras. For many years now, Essaouira has been synonymous with world music with its Gnaoua and World Music Festival. The festival is rich in emotion and musical encounters. Fez, a very spiritual city, also hosts a fabulous festival of sacred music which is very open to other religions.

To remember
Whether on a local or international level, Moroccan festivals combine genres and welcome outside influences. This cultural identity is far from inflexible!

Moroccan museums: high art
Add to my travel Notes
Our culture is our identity, our history. In every town you can visit these places charged with memories. And discover a heritage of universal interest.

Palaces and riads

Admire the ancient palaces, the riads which have been transformed into our museums. Their magnificent, richly decorated, exhibition rooms are often real works of art in themselves. As is the case in Marrakech with the Dar Si Saïd museum of Moroccan arts! You will be overcome by the exceptional wealth of the collections exhibited there.

Art and memory

At the Dar Batha in Fez, in the surroundings of a sumptuous palace, don't miss the rooms dedicated to arts and traditions, providing a real overview of knowledge. In Rabat, the Museum of Moroccan Art (formerly the Oudaïa Museum) presents unique pieces from pre-history up to the Islamic period. In Marrakech, in the Mnebhi palace at the heart of the medina, magnificent examples of the Koran reflect the richness of Arabic calligraphy. As for Meknès, its Dar Jamaï regional ethnographic museum is an Arabo-Andalusian architectural marvel which houses the essence of Moroccan craftsmanship in all its excellence and refinement.

Culture for everyone
In Morocco, going to the museum is a way of discovering our history and our origins. Every region is proud of its particular characteristics. Embroidered fabrics, ceramics, jewelry, wooden sculptures and leather objects are the pinnacle of our craftsmanship. You can also discover the museums devoted to contemporary art, like the one in Tangier housed in the former British consulate, or to ceramics in Safi, where the national museum has been established in an old citadel erected by the Portuguese.

The active side of the sea!
Add to my travel Notes
Surfing, kitesurfing, windsurfing, diving…Thanks to its exceptional conditions and its two coasts, Morocco is the dream destination for all water sports.

The country with two coasts

More than 3500km of coast on two sides, the Atlantic ocean along a long seafront to the west and the Mediterranean sea along a wide coastal strip to the north… And perfect air and wind conditions everywhere.

More surfing and windsurfing
Come to the long sandy beaches of Oualidia, Dar Bouazza, Taghazout, Agadir and Essaouira, a city where numerous international competitions take place. To the north of Safi, the surf spot of Sidi Bouzid is an international standard point-break for surfers. Regular, fast and powerful, its wave is ranked among the top 10 in the world (a maximum of four meters high for a swell which can reach two meters).

More kite-surfing

Go down even further south, to the protected Dakhla Bay. A long and perfect right-breaking wave has led surfers to rank this Foum Labouir spot just behind Hawaii. Dakhla, like Tamuda Bay in the north, is also famous for its diving. Jet-skiing is also high on the agenda in a wide variety of resorts. In terms of weather, the trade wind blows across the coast from the end of March to mid-September. The consistently mild temperature allows pleasant enjoyment of these sports throughout the year. Add to this the great diversity of coasts, water which rarely falls below 18°C in the depths of winter, and you have a paradise for water sports!

Moroccan Fashion

Does an international designer have to necessarily start from Paris? Why not from Casablanca, Marrakesh, Fez, Agadir, Rabat ...

Well, Moroccan designers choose to showcase their collections in Morocco, as the people are the judge of their work while the place has no relevance for them, specially if the collections reflect originality and modernity of a specific culture and society on one hand, and on the other hand if the design and style are known to be acclaimed all over the world. This is exactly the case of Moroccan Fashion.

In Morocco, fashion preserves its traditional style inherited from various great civilizations that found their way to Northwest Africa. What is important in today's Moroccan fashion is the fusion of modern Western style with the traditional Moroccan fashion. Moroccan fashion has been recognized for its style and has garnered a reputation, winning awards in international fashion shows throughout Europe. This contemporary style responds to today's Moroccan women's needs: authenticity, sophistication, and fluid lines.

Women in the Western world are migrating towards this contemporary Moroccan fashion as it brings the Old World to them in a New World elegance and chic style. The Moroccan Kaftan transitioned from traditional apparel made from heavy and excessive fabric to today's sheer, form-fitting, and bare gowns. Moroccan dress has more westernized arms that are less cumbersome and allow for more natural movement without excess fabric. These are two movements in fashion, which represent a progressive current towards Western dress.

Various ateliers in Morocco design traditional and adopt contemporary fashions to meet customers different taste and needs. There is no dress, which is replicated stylistically, though some may seem similar, each is unique. Moroccan fashion's goal is for various lines of clothing to attract a myriad of different women with different styles and fashion needs.

The process begins by importing high quality fabrics from India, Japan, China, the Middle East, and France. Once these fabrics arrive, they are carefully and personally handled and form a kinetic relationship with designers and tailors, feeling them for motion, pliability, sensuality, and texture, then the process of design for the dress whose inspiration comes specifically from that fabric's aura begins. Thus, it is the fabric, which inspires the design, with an attempt to bring forward this artistic energy in the choosing of colors which range from chartreuse to rich rusts, enhanced often with gold or silver threading or embroidery. Understatement becomes crucial in any presentation. Moroccan tailors often rely on tribal accessories to complete the outfit and bring to it an Old World quality while fusing with New World chic.

As Nader said: "design is like a language”, it is often specific to a place and to a culture as a whole. objects reflects society and the way of life of which they are part. To speak about design in Morocco is the same as speaking about ‘a creative act’ that confronts materials with technical and cultural baggage. It is as well a willingness to find the balance between earned knowledge and the search of new paths. The challenge is to conciliate the richness and abundance of our patrimony with the technical and cultural requirement of the present and the future. If one considers design as a human activity consisting of conceiving objects of daily life, then the culture of design is ancient in Morocco. There is no doubt that it’s one of the world’s oldest professions . Then it is only a matter of researching our roots, our history and the multiple and diverse influences that have made the interior landscapes of past generations.

“What about the relationship between our ancestors and objects?” wondered Nader. “ Personally, I found that there are objects with an intimate sense tied to functions. Some designers would dream to invent an object like the Kasaà . this is a wooden tray on which women rolled grain with an open , hospitable movement, gentle and not emphatic, mute and humble. This same tray would serve as a table for the family and for an always welcome guest. A thousand years old, the Kasaà is not tied to any formal fashion, as one sometimes think about those objects that are either uniquely decorative or uniquely functional. The Kasaà is not the only object where formal Moroccan tradition expresses all its meanings.

There are others like The barouche “sleeper” and the Kaftan. The Tagine plate has become only a serving dish, but before it used to have many uses in cooking the most delicious food of the poor as well as for the very very rich”. The future of Moroccan design is most probably in how it relates of the foundation of the values of Moroccan society.

Morocco Contrast .. Morocco : A Country Of Contrast

Morocco : A Country Of Contrast


Morocco is a North African country overlooking Europe. As late King Hassan II once said, Morocco's roots are in Africa and its branches are in Europe.



The people of Morocco, from early ages until now, have been influenced the political, economic, cultural and artistic environment of a mixture of various ancient civilization, this reality has sometimes even gave birth to new forms of thinking and expression.

I wish somebody else will write about Morocco, but I will write myself about my charming, scenic, and picturesque country, one of the most stable, wonderful and beautiful countries in the world. I always call it The Magic Kingdom.

Morocco, for me, as well as for many other foreigners I have met, visitors of Morocco and readers of Morocco Today, is a real country of contrast.

I know this, and this is a reality. I lived, studied and worked in Morocco before I become a globe trotter journalist, I have seen so many countries in Europe and on the Atlantic Ocean far coasts, and I can say, my country, Morocco, is unique.

Morocco is a nation with all the features this term implies: historic legality, geographical unity, historical continuity and cultural traditions.

Official name of the country : The Kingdom of Morocco

Capital : Rabat
Surface: 710.850 square km

Population: Over 29 million inhabitants, of whom more than half are under 20 years old

Head of state: His Majesty King Mohammed VI

National days: November 18th, Independence Day

Language: Moroccan, French, Berber (Tamazight), Arabic, English and Spanish

Religion: Islam is the religion of the state. His Majesty the King is also the spiritual leader and bears the title of Amir Al Mouminine, i.e. Commander o the faithful.

Currency: the unit of currency is the dirham (DH) which is subdivided into 100 centimes.

Main towns: Casablanca, as economic capital, Rabat, the country and administrative capital, Sale Conurbation, Fez, spiritual capital, Agadir, tourism capital, Laayoune, Sahara capital, Marrakech, Meknes, Tangiers, Oujda, Taroudant,, Ouarzazate, Tan Tan and Smara.

Morocco : A Country Of Contrast

Morocco is a North African country overlooking Europe. As late King Hassan II once said, Morocco's roots are in Africa and its branches are in Europe.



The people of Morocco, from early ages until now, have been influenced the political, economic, cultural and artistic environment of a mixture of various ancient civilization, this reality has sometimes even gave birth to new forms of thinking and expression.

I wish somebody else will write about Morocco, but I will write myself about my charming, scenic, and picturesque country, one of the most stable, wonderful and beautiful countries in the world. I always call it The Magic Kingdom.

Morocco, for me, as well as for many other foreigners I have met, visitors of Morocco and readers of Morocco Today, is a real country of contrast.

I know this, and this is a reality. I lived, studied and worked in Morocco before I become a globe trotter journalist, I have seen so many countries in Europe and on the Atlantic Ocean far coasts, and I can say, my country, Morocco, is unique.

Morocco is a nation with all the features this term implies: historic legality, geographical unity, historical continuity and cultural traditions.

Official name of the country : The Kingdom of Morocco

Capital : Rabat
Surface: 710.850 square km

Population: Over 29 million inhabitants, of whom more than half are under 20 years old

Head of state: His Majesty King Mohammed VI

National days: November 18th, Independence Day

Language: Moroccan, French, Berber (Tamazight), Arabic, English and Spanish

Religion: Islam is the religion of the state. His Majesty the King is also the spiritual leader and bears the title of Amir Al Mouminine, i.e. Commander o the faithful.

Currency: the unit of currency is the dirham (DH) which is subdivided into 100 centimes.

Main towns: Casablanca, as economic capital, Rabat, the country and administrative capital, Sale Conurbation, Fez, spiritual capital, Agadir, tourism capital, Laayoune, Sahara capital, Marrakech, Meknes, Tangiers, Oujda, Taroudant,, Ouarzazate, Tan Tan and Smara.

Festival

The Real Innocent and pure Transcendentalism

A festival of sacred music from the world's main religions is opens every year in the Moroccan spiritual city of Fes to promote understanding between spiritual traditions and focuses mostly on the dialogue of civilizations.

Travelers from all over the world will meet again, next year, in the holy city of Fez, Morocco, for the Annual World Sacred Music Festival, where leading musicians of world caliber will share sacred music from the spiritual traditions of both East and West. They will meet in Fez in the spirit of this unique multi-cultural event and experience the beauty and majesty of the world's most moving spiritual music.

Some places, across this world, are favorable to the enrichment of human beings and the elevation of their soul. Some privileged moments to meet can transform all of us to the essence of a relationship much deeper and real for each other. Some actions, some attitudes, eventually some thoughts can express so many calls to overcome limitation and create the desire of blissfulness.

It is in this theme, The Dialogue of Civilizations, an exchange of ideas and opinions in the path of knowledge that the World Sacred Music Festival of Fes invites us every year. To many contemporary thinkers, our world is entering a new paradigm where divisions between men extend beyond social borders into the realm of culture ideologies. From such a statement, one can expect either the best or worst: a future of conflict or peace.

Since its inception, the Fes Festival of the World Sacred Music has been working towards, a path to peace, a forum for artistic experiences, diversity of thought and spirituality, a place where the people of the World unite and interact, in a open dialogue, about universal values which is defined by the preservation of freedom. This remains the core mission of the Festival and one of its urgent goals.

Morocco Today Special Reports Desk Editor

Moroccan Hotels

Sofitel Thalassa Marina Smir ***** star 5 five stars Hotel Details

Morocco: :

Smir 93200:

Route de Sebta Photo1Photo2Photo3Photo4

This resort hotel is an architectural masterpiece, inspired by a graceful combination of the moorish and andalusian styles. The air-conditioned hotel has a total of 119 rooms and provides facilities including a reception lobby with 24-hour reception, a hotel safe, a currency exchange service, a cloakroom, a café, a bar, pub and a restaurant and a hair dressing salon. There is also a tv room, conference facilities, wireless internet access, room and laundry services, a car park and a children's playground.

Golden Tulip Farah Khouribga ***** star 5 five stars Hotel Details

Morocco: :

Khouribga 25000:

13 Boulevard Moulay Youssef Photo1Photo2Photo3Photo4

Existing on a high plate with 800 meters altitude. The city beneficed of healthy dry climate. Also the area is known and appreciated of all the hunters for abundance of game and the variety of the sites. beside being close to the Lake of Wadi Zem Lac Zamraine Ain Kaicher Zaouia de Boujaadforest of oak Khatouat hunting forest. The hotel is decorated in a pure style art deco our rooms are equipped with the essential elements to assure your comfort bathroom air conditioning access Internet telephone with hot line minibar radio television with reception by satellite.

Sofitel Royal Golf **** star 4 four stars Hotel Details

Morocco: :

El Jadida :

KM 7 Route De Casablanca Photo1Photo2Photo3Photo4

Located in the heart of the most beautiful golf course of Morocco, the Sofitel Royal Golf is a paradise for professional golfer as well as for beginners. The hotel is just 5 kilometres from the city centre. Creating a relaxing and pleasant atmosphere, the 117 accommodation units are carefully decorated, well-appointed and come with all the contemporary amenities to cater to the changing needs of the guests. Business traveller can avail the conference facilities for organising their commercial meetings in the comfort of the hotel. During leisure you can workout in the well-equipped gymnasium to tone up your body and later have a bracing dip in the swimming pool.

Belere Hotel Erfoud **** star 4 four stars Hotel Details

Morocco: :

Erfoud :

Rue Moulay Ali Sherif Route De Rissani Photo1Photo2Photo3Photo4

The Belere Hotel Erfoud is located in a tourist area, and is just 3 kilometres from the city centre. Built like a Kasbah, the hotel offers 140 bungalow style guest rooms that are tastefully decorated and well equipped with modern amenities. The lobby is a perfect place to relax and meet friends or business delegates. Recreational facilities at the hotel include solarium, swimming pool and whirlpool.

Hotel l'Initiale Hotel Details

Morocco: :

Oualidia 24250:

Lagune De Oualidia Photo1Photo2Photo3Photo4

Beautifully positioned between the beach and the lagoon, this charming hotel is found in the small fisherman's village of Oualidia, between Casablanca and Safi on the Atlantic coast. Oualidia is situated one hour and a half of Casablanca Aiport. This newly-opened, family-run residence is close to the beach and features 9 rooms, most of which have a sea view, and each one fully-equipped with all comforts for a relaxing holiday. Triple rooms are possible on request. Boasting a spectacular seafood restaurant, after a long day you can enjoy a varied choice of food, including vegetarian options, and possibility to taste oysters and seafood.

Hotel Assam *** star 3 three stars Hotel Details

Morocco: :

Kenitra 14000:

Km 4, Route De Tanger Photo1Photo2Photo3Photo4

Nestled in the middle of a case of greenery, this 3-star Hotel, one of the best hotels of Kenitra, offers quality of services, charming frame, and an exceptional geographical situation. Decorated with Moroccan tradition and fully-equipped, the 75 rooms of the Assam Hotel are situated around the outdoor swimming pool and magnificent garden where it makes good to devote to the idleness. This hotel offers facilities dedicate to spend a pleasant and relax stay with its restaurants and bars, a night club and a closed and secure car park allows you to park your vehicle in front of your room. The Assam Hotel and all its amenities is an inescapable stage for whom Morocco visits.

Sel D'ailleurs Hotel Details

Morocco: :

Marigha 42150:

Km 59, Route de Taroudant Photo1Photo2Photo3Photo4

Built in an olive grove of two hectares in Marigha, a village in the mountainous region between Marrakesh and Taroudant, this guest house is a traditional Moroccan house with modern comfort. Sel d'Ailleurs bases itself on two architectural form: Arab-Moorish emphasizing an inheritance of inn, and vernacular architecture based on the use of the local materials and the techniques to update the professions of formerly. The house consists of a lounge, a patio and a large outdoor swimming pool with a magnificent sight on the mountain. Sel d'Ailleurs welcome you in an exceptional site which advance the environment, nature and tranquillity. The peace of the house returns your peaceful stay and allows to revitalize you.

Riad Yacout Hotel Details

Morocco: :

Meknes 50000:

22 Place Lalla Aouda Photo1Photo2Photo3Photo4

Riad Yacout houses a dream world… Stay in the heart of the Meknes Medina in a stunning riad: discover a scent, a soul and a lasting memory. Riad Yacout enjoys an ideal location in the lalla Aouda quarter, two minutes away from the El Heddim place, the Bab Mansour gate and Kobt Souk, the heart of the old Medina, as well as from the Meknes Royal Golf. Riad Yacout welcomes you in luxury interiors made of wood paneling and rich materials and in a warm and refined atmosphere. Choose from one of its wonderful guestrooms and plunge yourself into a tale from the one thousand and one nights.

Jnane Tihihit Hotel Details

Morocco: :

Lalla Takerkoust 40000:

Douar Makhfamane Photo1Photo2Photo3Photo4

Discover a different Morocco just 40 kilometres away from Marrakesh. This beautiful guest farm lies within a stone's throw of Lalla Takerkoust Lake and dam. Offering the equivalent of 3-star comfort, it is the ideal venue to explore Moroccan countryside. In addition to the wonderful setting, enjoy the pool and the hammam to relax. For 3-night reservations, transfers from Marrakesh Airport are included in the room rate.

Golden Tulip Farah Safi ***** star 5 five stars Hotel Details

Morocco: :

Safi 46000:

Avenue Zerktouni Photo1Photo2Photo3Photo4

Conceived and realized by respecting the international standards, this 5-star hotel, entirely renovated is the most prestigious of the city and characterized by its modern architecture. Golden Tulip Farah Safi overlooks the Atlantic ocean and the old Medina offering hence a panoramic view either from the terrace or from the rooms. The 90 rooms are equipped with all modern amenities: satellite television, telephone, mini bar and air conditioning. You will appreciate its facilities with a tennis court and an outdoor swimming pool but also the Health Club composed of a multi gym, massage rooms, hammam with steam and hairdressing salon. Surrounding by a large garden, the Golden Tulip Safi is a perfect place for relaxation.

L' Arganier D' Or ** star 2 two stars Hotel Details

Morocco: :

Taroudant 83200:

RN 10 Ouarzazate Road, KM19 Zaouiate Ifergane Photo1Photo2Photo3Photo4

Close to Taroudant, in a site resting for the spirit and worthy of a Renoir's painting, within an orange grove of 3 hectares, is established this nice and attractive house built in the pure architectural tradition. Real haven of peace, of greenery and beauty, this hotel is ideally place for the nature lovers and those who look for the tranquillity. The house consists of traditional decoration with its arches, its fountains and its terrace mixed in place of relaxation with its gardens and its swimming pool. These places also lend themselves to long hikes or to mountain bike. Situated near a Berber village in the ancestral traditions, this privileged stopping place deserves your attention and constitutes an inescapable stage for all the lovers of the Moroccans South

Dar El Jadida Hotel Details

Morocco: :

El Jadida :

7, rue Joseph Nahon Photo1Photo2Photo3Photo4

Located in the heart of the Portuguese Quarter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, This house is a bewitching blend of modern comfort and old-world charm, only 100 meters from the souks. In this architectural surroundings that are unique in Morocco, Dar EL Jadida offers a total comfort, every rooms has a private bathroom and the decoration, completely realized by Moroccans craftsmen, is inspired by the 30's and 40's. Benefiting from panoramic views of the sea and the Old City from the roof terrace, you will appreciate the sight, the light and taste the unique atmosphere of this house?

Kenzi Rissani **** star 4 four stars Hotel Details

Morocco: :

Rachidia 52000:

Avenue Moulay Ali Cherif Photo1Photo2Photo3Photo4

The Kenzi Rissani, part of the Kenzi hotel chain, in the Moroccan South, welcomes you in a magnificent landscape, between its impressive cliffs and its river which flows in an immense palm grove. This charming hotel, in a warm decoration mixing with Moroccan traditions and modern amenities, offers equipped rooms with air conditioning, television and minibar. You will also appreciate its 2 restaurants, its bar as well as its swimming pool to relax you. The Kenzi Rissani is the ideal point of departure to discover the Moroccan South and the Desert.

L' Amphitrite Palace Resort and Spa ***** star 5 five stars Hotel Details

Morocco: :

Skhirat 12050:

Skhirat Plage Photo1Photo2Photo3Photo4

Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, the Resort is located in Skhirat, known for its excellent beaches, only 20 minutes drive from Rabat and the famous Royal Golf Dar Essalam, and 35 minutes from Casablanca. Built on the site of an important historic hotel, L'Amphitrite Palace Resort and Spa is specifically designed to cater to the needs of business and leisure traveller. The hotel offers world class rooms and spacious suites with luxurious furniture and elegant design. You will find a universe dedicated to beauty and body treatments with its Spa of 1600 square meters including one hydro pool, one outdoor swimming pool, one outdoor Jacuzzi, a fitness center and 13 private treatments rooms. L'Amphitrite Palace Resort and Spa embodies completely the traditional values of a luxury hotel which offers comfort, serenity for a unforgettable stay.

La Perle Du Draa *** star 3 three stars Hotel Details

Morocco: :

Zagora 45900:

Hay Amzrou - Zagora Photo1Photo2Photo3Photo4

Located in Zagora, this hotel offers hospitality, modern convenience with a traditional and authentic style and also a typical architecture from the Moroccan south. The typical location and its panoramic view of the Mountains, the palm groves and the Kasbah ensure you a change of scene unforgettable. The hotel provides 48 rooms fully-equipped with bathroom, air conditioning and balcony. You will appreciate its large swimming pool of 235m² with children’s pool and a large terrace. With its situation, The Perle du Drâa hotel is the place of departure for excursions towards the biggest sand dunes, oasis and ksours.

 

Horse Festivals : Morocco

Tissa Horse Festival

The picturesque center of Tissa is located a few miles off the main road No. 302 in the Fez Province, and is the site of a gigantic competition between the various horse breeds. It is held every year in October. Hundreds of riders assemble wearing their finery to present their mounts. Prize-giving and festivities create a very animated scene.

Festival of Fantasia

Another horse festival, known as the “Festival of Fantasia” which has been held every year (usually at the beginning of September) since 1977 is held in Meknes. It offers thousands of horsemen and their mounts the chance to meet and display their skill and the occasion has earned itself a well-deserved success.

Marrakesh

Travel Time | Horse Festivals : Morocco | FEASTS | Agadir City | LE MAROC | Morocco Among Key Tours

The imperial city that, at the dawn of its history, gave Morocco its name

As eternal as the snows on the highest peaks, as impressive as the Atlas mountains, as steeped in history as the palm trees are rooted in the Earth, Marrakesh stands as the finishing touch to a picture of timeless beauty.

The mightiest kings fought for it, a line of dynasties inherited it, sages, craftsmen, architects, painters and sculptors of all ages built magnificent palaces, mosques, gardens and Koranic schools.

The Berbers and the Arabs come together here, to mingle with the nomads and the mountain people. Every imaginable commodity abounds, craftsmanship flourishes, and there are palaces, hotels, restaurants, golf courses and a casino: Marrakesh is the unchallenged capital of Southern Morocco.

For all the beauty gathered here in one thousand years, for the sheer joy of the senses, you cannot miss Marrakesh.
MARRAKESH, CITY OF FASCINATION

Carts overflowing oranges and roasted grains. Women from the Anti-Atlas coming to sell their baskets, storytellers, musicians, dancers, public scribes with their black umbrellas, fortunetellers, potion vendors, healers and apothecaries all contribute to the unreal spectacle that in Marrakesh, is commonplace.

Then, as dusk approaches, the showmen make way for the hot food stalls. One after another, acetylene flames spring into life.

And then, in the starry night, the moon comes out to play the role it was designed for: to be the most magical of the thousand and one lanterns lighting up the Jemaa el Fna Square.

Marrakesh awakens.
Just as it has done every morning for more than 800 years, with the same inflected intonation, the call of the muezzin going out from the 70 meters high Koutoubia, the spiritual beacon of Marrakesh.

Sunrise over Marrakesh.
A multicolored crowd invades the winding streets of the medina. Groups of men jostle towards the Ben Youssef mosque, nestling against the Medersa, the vast and superb Koranic school founded by the Merinide sultan Abou el-Hassan (1331 - 1349) and one of Marrakesh's most remarkable monuments.

The sun bathes Marrakesh in light.
Its rays show up the pink marble of the fountains, spread across the tiled courtyards, are reflected and then bring warmth to the turquoise, greens and whites of the mosaic, to finally be lost amidst the stucco of the Bahia Palace and the Dar Si Said, now a museum housing the finest masterpieces of Moroccan art.

The legendary sun of Marrakesh adds a note of accentuated contrast to the imperious splendor of the Saadian tombs. It illuminates the remains of the Badii Palace where a shimmering mirage may reveal the wonder of these former glories to the dazzled visitor; the gold, the marble and the onyx which were traded for their weight in sugar by the most celebrated Saadian ruler, Ahmed el Mansour (1578 - 1603).

The sun sets over Marrakesh.
Then, against a sky blazing with evening fire bounded by the eternal snows of the Atlas mountains, the perfect proportions of the Menara pavilion may be contemplated, mirrored in the quiet, still waters that stand before it.

Time has passed you by.
In the copper souk perhaps, where the metal is worked by craftsmen following age-old tradition, their faces set in profound concentration. Or perhaps it was in the Laghzal Souk, home of the wool merchants. Or in el Btana with its sheepskin. Or even in the hubbub of the Zarbia souk, where carpets and caftans are sold to the highest bidder...

You are in another world.
Where the smell of saffron, cumin, black pepper, ginger, verbena, cloves and orange flower enchant the nostrils. Among sacks of almonds, ground nuts and chick peas piled high like mountains, with baskets of dates, casks of olives and, on the apothecaries' shelves, pots of henna, ghassoul, flasks of rose extract, jasmine, mint, khol, pieces of amber and misk...

You are in the souks of Marrakesh.
Outside the ochre-colored ramparts, the rhythm is broken, the colors change. The sound of the wind in the foliage, chirping birds, the heady odors of jasmine and honeysuckle and the persistent perfume of the famous Marrakesh roses.

Here, nature is a haven of peace, beauty and contemplation. No doubt it is grateful to man for having watered it since 1106 by means of an ingenious system of collecting and channeling spring water.

13 000 hectares of vegetation, 180 000 palm trees, a world class golf course; this is the renowned Palmeraie (Palm Grove) of Marrakesh.

Further away, behind the Royal Palace, stretch the Agdal orchards, the setting for lavish festivals and celebrations.

The trees weigh themselves down with exquisite fruit as the seasons advance; oranges, figs, pomegranates and olives...

And hear Bab Doukkala stands the Majorelle garden with its abundance of giant bamboo, yucca, papyrus, palm, cypress and banana trees, philodendrons and bougainvilleas, and amazing cacti with natural colors that contrasts vividly with the bright blue façade of the villa.

THE WONDERS OF THE ATLAS MOUNTAINS

Seen from Marrakesh, the vast, imposing mass of the snow-capped mountains seems unreal and unbelievable.

And yet the splendor, other - worldliness and imposing might of the constantly changing Atlas landscape are only 20 kilometers away.

Just head out South East of Marrakesh, through the friendly Berber villages of Aghmat and Dar Caid Ouriki. Follow the road bordered with terraced gardens along Wadi Ouriki until you reach Arhbalou.

From there on, the choice is simply limitless!

Bear right towards Oukaimeden (2,600 m), the famous winter sports resort only 74 km from Marrakesh.

Or else admire Setti Fatma and its hundred-year-old walnut trees and dive into the invigorating coolness of its seven waterfalls.

Or possibly go on to Annameure, village of the Ait Oucheg tribe where you can hire a mule and climb up as far as Djebel Yagour, centre of Moroccan prehistory which boasts over 2,000 cave paintings.
To the South, another change of scene
47 Km from Marrakesh, on the road to Taroudant, in the typically Berber village of Asni, people come to barter in the souk which is held every Saturday.
Towards Ouirgane, the landscape is reminiscent of American canyons. Magnificent gorges lead to Imlil, a charming mountain hamlet. This is the starting point for hikes through Toubkal national park, climbing to the summit (4165 m), North Africa's highest point or, at 3800 m, the Tazaghaght plateau, a stone strewn desert at such an altitude that it looks down upon the clouds.

East of Marrakesh, water, water, everywhere!
The Ouzoud Falls, where the water plunges for more than 100 meters. Wadi Mehasseur, spanned by the natural Imi-n-Ifri Bridge, the "gateway to the abyss" in Berber, which cascades through vast rock formations to end in the artificial Ait-Aadel Lake surrounded by bare, red-colored hills.

Tan-Tan

Morocco Today : Tan-Tan Province

Tan-Tan more ...

In the past few years, Tan-Tan has made enormous strides in its progress and development. The Province has become a thriving center of commerce, trade, fishing and tourism in Southern Morocco.

As privatization resources in Morocco are used in rigorously chosen projects to create additional wealth, the investment stimulation can now depend on the existence of a sound social climate and a constant improvement of the infrastructure of the region where fishing is one of two activities that give life to Tan Tan. Tourism is the other. We encourage you to join us.
His Excellency Mohamed Jelmous, Governor of the Province of Tan-Tan

We are determined to enforce concrete and investment-inducing measures and programs to stimulate productive investments in Tan-Tan. The series of measures adopted in Morocco to support the market economy, make the general atmosphere here more conducive to investments.

The speed of progress in the province of Tan Tan and its region has been exceptionally rapid recently and the foundations of the region infrastructure were developed. Most of the roads, Tan-Tan port and airport, additional hotels, restaurants sports and recreational facilities were promptly erected to cater the progressive development of all sectors of the economy in the region.

Therefore, we found it necessary, in this age of Information Technology and Electronic Media to make Tan Tan Province known to the world, not only because of the rich history and important geographic location of the Province, a fact that has its important significance and we have to make it known to the world, but also because of the huge potentialities of the region unknown so far to investors and to the international business community, and finally because of all the incentives the investment system provides for those who would like to participate in the construction of this Grande future regional capital of the South.

All indicators show that the next phase of the Province development program provides a good business environment for the private sector, with a significant role for the private business and industry to contribute effectively to the development of Tan-Tan. With the support and participation local and regional authorities and the private sector, we can compete with the rest of the tourism and business capitals and enter a new era secure in the knowledge that Tan-Tan will be a truly global and dynamic business and investment center and the future Grande regional capital of the South.

Tan-Tan is adopting a vigorous investment promotion policy to pursue its goals of accelerated economic growth in additional to the traditional activities related to trade, transport, tourism and fishing. Efforts will continue to further expand and upgrade the Province's infrastructure in keeping with the growing needs of the economy. Areas that would receive special attention are the airport, the port, roads, electricity and water, transportation, housing and urban services. Programs and policies would be adopted to maintain good environment conditions in the Province. A better public awareness about the environment will be created through special campaigns and education.

Information technology is fast developing into he world and its use in trade and industry, economic and financial analysis, administration and management is extremely beneficial. We give a very high priority on its development in the region as well as its applications in order too improve the quality of products and services as well as the efficiency of trade and industry. and efforts are made to put this information technology industry on a sound footing in the Province.

Morocco : The Country

Information | Geography | Weather

Some facts & figures

Area: 710,850 sq km (274,461 sq miles)

Population: 26,069,000 (1993 estimate)

Population density: 36,7 per sq km

Capital: Rabat - population : 1,397,000 (1993 estimate)

Geography: Morocco is located on the westernmost tip of north Africa, bordering Algeria to the east and Mauritania to the west. Running through the middle of the country is the Atlas mountains range, which leads to the fertile plains and sandy beaches of the Atlantic coast. The Middle Atlas range sweeps up from the south, rising to over 3000 m (9850 ft), covered with woodlands of pine, oak and cedar, open pastureland and small lakes. The Rif Mountains run along the north coast. The ports of Ceuta and Melilla on the north coast are administered by Spain.

Language: The official language is Arabic, Berber and French are widely spoken throughout the country, while Spanish is more predominant in the northern regions. English is also understood particularly in the north and around Agadir.

Religion: Predominantly Muslim with Jewish and Christian minorities. Morocco's population and culture stems from a cross section of origins including Berbers, Arabs, Moors and Jews.

Time: GMT

Climate: The coast as a warm, Mediterranean climate tempered on the eastern coast by southwest trade winds. Inland areas have a hotter, drier, continental climate. In the South of the country, the weather is very hot and dry throughout most of the year, with the nights coolest in the months of December and January. Rain falls from November to March in coastal areas. Mostly dry with high temperatures in summer. Cooler climate in the mountains. Marrakech and Agadir enjoy an average temperature of 21 C the winter.

Currency: Moroccan Dirham (DH) = 100 centimes. Notes are in denomination of DH 200, 100, 50, 20 and 10. Coins are in denomination of DHS 5 and 1 and 50, 20, 10 and 5 centimes. Credit cards: Major credit cards are accepted (Visa, MasterCard, JCB, Eurocard, Amex, Diners Club...).

Travel: How can I travel to and in Morocco ?

AIR: Royal Air Maroc (RAM), the national company provides many international and domestic flights between cities in Morocco, using Boeing , ATR. and Airbus. A new private company, Regional Airlines (RAL) is also operating in Morocco, Spain, Portugal and Balearic Island with a Beechcraft fleet (19 seats per plane). But for clients who wish to hire a private plane, there are private companies with small planes and experienced pilots. Unfortunately, there is no helicopter rental services for the moment. Airlines serving Morocco include : Air France, British Airways, Alitalia, Lufthansa, Sabena, Iberia, KLM, Swissair, Tunis Air, Saudi Airlines, Aeroflot, Kuwait Airways and Gulf Air..

SEA: Principal ports are Tangier, Casablanca and Ceuta. Lines serving these ports are Comarit, Comanav, Trasmediterranea, Isnasa, Limadet. Car and passenger ferry links Tangier and Ceuta in the north of Morocco to Algeciras, Tariffa and Gibraltar in the South of Spain.

RAIL: The Moroccan rail system is all standard gauge and, though limited, provides regular and cheap services with first-class available. The network runs from Oujda in the northeast to Casablanca on the west coast, Tangier on the north coast and Marrakech in the interior.

The main routes include : -Marrakech -Casablanca -Rabat -Meknes -Fes -Oujda, Marrakech- Casablanca -Rabat, Marrakech-Casablanca-Meknes-Fes and Casablanca-Rabat-Tangier. Fares are among the cheapest in the world.

LAND : Morocco has recently improved its road network by constructing some motorways. All the main cities will be connected by 2002 by motorway. Otherwise good national roads allow you to go almost everywhere and comfortably in Morocco, except in the deep south where you may need a 4X4 vehicle.

Food and Drinks In Morocco

Morocco' s traditional haute cuisine dishes are excellent and good value for money. They are often exceedingly elaborate. Typical specialties include : harira, a rich soup, bastella, a pastry stuffed with pigeon and almonds, couscous, a complete dish with semola, meat and vegetables, a range variety of Tagine, meat, fish or poultry combined with vegetables and other flavors, stewed in a terracotta on a charcoal fire, mechoui is a whole piece of lamb roasted, pastries are delicious : kab el ghzal, briouats, beghrir, with almonds and honey. Restaurants - traditional, French or other European specialties, offer a good quality at good rates. The national drink is mint tea. Coffee is prepared very strong.

Shopping

The cooperative shops of Moroccan craftsmen, Coopartim, operate under state control selling local handicraft at fixed prices and issue an authenticity receipt or a certificate of origin for customs when exporting. Souks are worthwhile places to visit for local products. Special buys are leather, tanned and dyed in Fez or Marrakesh, copperware, silver, silk or cotton garments, wool, cotton and silk rugs, carpets and blankets, wooden articles, embroidery, silver and gold jewels. Bargaining is essential. In traditional medinas, some shops may close on Friday (religious holiday of the week) and stay open on Saturday and Sunday.

Leisure and sport activities

Water sports: swimming in the Atlantic or the Mediterranean sea or in swimming pools, Windsurf in Essaouira or Oualidia.

Fishing (permits are sometimes necessary)

Hunting in the region of Arbaoua (permits necessary) are some of the main pleasure Morocco may offer you.

Golf: there are marvelous golf courses (18 holes, 9 holes) at Rabat, Casablanca, Mohammedia, Marrakech, El Jadida, Agadir, Tangier, Tetuan.

Winter sports: Ifrane in the Middle Atlas and Oukaimeden in the High Atlas offer skiing facilities.

Horse-riding: there are horse riding clubs in all major towns, notably Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakech, Fes and Agadir.

Casinos

Le Grand Casino La Mamounia in Marrakech: is a worldwide renowned casino, next to La Mamounia hotel. English roulette, black-jack, Caribbean stud poker, mini-punto-banco. Slot machines.

Le Casino at Es Saadi Hotel in Marrakech: slot machines only.

Shem's Casino in Agadir: is a brand new casino - roulette, black jack, poker, punto banco, chemin de fer, slot machines.

Le Mirage Casino in Agadir Village club Valtur: slot machines, pocker, English roulette, black jack.

Morocco is a nation with all the features this term implies: historic legality, geographical unity, historical continuity and cultural traditions.

Official name of the country : The Kingdom of Morocco

Capital : Rabat
Surface: 710.850 square km

Population: Over 29 million inhabitants, of whom more than half are under 20 years old

Head of state: His Majesty King Mohammed VI

National days: November 18th, Independence Day

Language: Moroccan, French, Berber (Tamazight), Arabic, English and Spanish

Religion: Islam is the religion of the state. His Majesty the King is also the spiritual leader and bears the title of Amir Al Mouminine, i.e. Commander o the faithful.

Currency: the unit of currency is the dirham (DH) which is subdivided into 100 centimes.

Main towns: Casablanca, as economic capital, Rabat, the country and administrative capital, Sale Conurbation, Fez, spiritual capital, Agadir, tourism capital, Laayoune, Sahara capital, Marrakech, Meknes, Tangiers, Oujda, Taroudant,, Ouarzazate, Tan Tan and Smara.

Why would you like to go back to El Jadida City?

By: Bobby Setzer

I have been asked several times, "Why would you want to visit Morocco?" Because it is about the closest, "exotic" country and has a great street life. What else did I find there? Read on ...

Morocco and the United States have a long history together. After the signing of the Declaration of Independence in 1776, Morocco was the first country to recognize the new nation. And they are currently alongside us in the forefront of the War on Terrorism, having recently arrested several members of an Al Caida cell there, including the leader, a Saudi Arabian married to a Moroccan woman. The individuals arrested are currently being questioned by both the Moroccan and American intelligence communities..

Morocco is a beautiful country, being located on the northwest tip of Africa, across the Straits of Gibraltar from Spain and Europe. It consists of a Mediterranean biosphere in the north, with a spine of high mountains (the Atlas) down the eastern part of the country, trailing away to the Sahara east and south of the mountains. The population has doubled in the past 30 years or so, to around 30 million as of 2000. Most of the population lives along the 500-mile Atlantic coast. The financial and business center of the country is Casablanca, a modern city of 4 or 5 million people.

I spent most of my time in El' Jadida, a small coastal city of 150,000 about 65 miles southwest of Casablanca. It is known in Morocco as a great place to escape the heat of the interior during the summer months, and you find a good many tourists there from Marrakech, Fes, and Meknes, all of which have Oklahoma-like summer temperatures. El' Jadida's temperatures during last half of June and the first half of July ranged from a high of 77 to 80 degrees in the afternoon to 65 or 68 degrees at night. The city has a three mile-long beach spreading east away from the old Portuguese City (now the medina). There is also a well-known beach at Sidi Bouzid, about 3 miles to the southwest.

The people of Morocco are mostly poor, but nearly all seem to have what they need, though not necessarily all that they might want. They do not always have running water in their homes, but there are always the nearby hammams, where for a dirham (about 10 cents), women can get a shower or bath most any time of the day until 11 p.m. or so. The men have separate hammams, and although I never visited one, I understand they are widely used by the Moroccans. At least, even when in crowds, I never smelled anyone. They seem to be fanatical about their personal hygiene and appearance. You almost never see anyone on the street who is not dressed in clean clothing unless they are working at a dirty job, whether it be in western-style clothes or the robes traditionally associated with the Near East.

I understand there is a modern supermarket in El' Jadida, though I never saw it. Instead, each evening between 5 and 6, it seemed that half the city would make their way on foot through downtown to the nearby market area. Some walk, some come by bus, some in their own cars, some by way of the "petit taxis" which are virtually everywhere in the city, and can be seen in droves on some of the busier streets. They are a different color in each city. Those in El' Jadida are all beige ($2 or less will take you virtually anywhere in the city), while in Casablanca, they are all red. The market area spreads out onto the nearby streets, where you will find clothing, scarves, shoes, bags, jewelry, make-up, etc., set up on tables and on the sidewalk. You will also find these same items in several little stores, but then there are the contiguous shops where you can buy vegetables (primarily tomatoes, onions, carrots, potatoes, corn, turnips, squash, lentils, etc.) In another area, you find the meat shops dispensing beef, mutton, and chickens. In another area are the shops for the household goods--towels, dishes, pots, and such.

Many, if not most, simply come to "promenade" with no intention of buying anything, but just to walk, see, and be seen. There are many sidewalk cafes, where men sit and sip their coffee, or the hot, sweet mint tea which I loved, and watch the passing parade. Young people of both sexes wear western (not cowboy) style clothing, but once married and with children, women tend to wear the traditional robes and head scarves. Middle-aged and older men also are mostly found in robes. Moroccans in general are a handsome people, with the olive skin typically associated with Italians, and dark hair, typically a bit kinky, or at least curly. The Berbers of the countryside and mountains tend to have fairer skin, and many have reddish hair and blue or green eyes. Perhaps 5% of the population is Black African, descended from the same slaves which populated much of the Americas. But they are black, undiluted by Arab or Berber blood, as they seem not to have mixed with the rest of the population.

The people are very friendly, and will frequently take the opportunity to talk with a foreigner. Almost no one speaks English, so these conversations always take place in French, or sometimes, Spanish. A Moroccan typically grows up speaking Maghribi Arabic in the home and is taught French in school as a business and cultural language. And as in any poor country, a foreigner can sometimes be overwhelmed by the offers made by various young men hustling one thing or another, typically guide services. It is sometimes easier to hire one of them as a guide if for no other reason than to have them fend off other would-be guides. $5 to $10 for a day is the usual going rate for such services. They will also bargain for you in the marketplace if, like me, you hate the process. You just have to be careful they are not in cahoots with the shopkeeper for a part of your purchase price.

While nominally Moslem, I didn't meet anyone who attended religious services in the mosques, or did the prescribed 5 daily prayers to Allah while facing Mecca. One "grand taxi" driver with whom I rode had prayer beads hanging from his rear-view mirror and a tape of Koran readings (I presume) playing. I also saw one man on a beach at nearby Azzemour praying on his prayer rug. But for the general population, when the muezzin's call for prayer 5 times daily went out from the minarets over the loud speakers, it was mostly ignored. That said, although not very religious, Moroccans are among the kindest, most gentle people I have ever encountered. Although you never see two or more Moroccans together but what they are engaged in a loud and animated conversation, only once did I see any hostility, and that was between two street vendors arguing over a space on the street. A very short man punched a tall man on the arm, and the tall man kicked the short man in return. Then it was over as suddenly as it had begun.

There is a university in the city, but that has created somewhat of a problem in that there are now a number of educated individuals with no jobs available which use their university education. They typical school provides nine years of education, then the individual goes to university, or more likely, to a school to learn barbering, taxi driving, or mechanics.

The city is surrounded on the north and west by the Atlantic, and on the east and south by small farms where much of the local produce is grown, including sheep, cattle, and chickens. Watermelons are also widely grown in the area, and are cheap and delicious. They tend to be meatier and less juicy, but sweeter, than watermelons grown in the Valliant area. I was particularly intrigued by those grown in square boxes, making the melons square for more compact shipping. Bananas are grown a hundred miles to the south, around Agadir, and are smaller and sweeter than those we typically find in our supermarkets which are grown in Central America.

Like southern Europeans, notably the Italians, Moroccan men will ogle young women, and make suggestive comments toward them. Unless a young woman knows the man well, or has been formally introduced, she will totally ignore both the man and his comments. I found this to be the case with most all Moroccans -- when being given a hard sell by a vendor, or other person hustling something, they will usually treat them as a piece of the landscape--that is, totally ignore them. I quickly adopted this trait.

I never encountered any hostility during my sojourn in the country, and in fact, just the opposite. However, the populace was in general unfamiliar with Americans, and most assumed I was French, until and unless I informed them otherwise. Even then, there was never a problem. Young girls, as well as boys, would sometimes come up to me on the beach promenade and start a conversation, typically asking me my name, where I was from, etc. They had never heard the name Bobby before, so I began telling them my name was Robert, with a French pronunciation. They knew and could say that name.

One interesting thing on the beach was that those in the water were not seen like in the U.S., scattered here and there. They would all be concentrated in one area, then strung out into the waves in almost one line 3 or 4 across, apparently buddy-like keeping an eye on their compares for safety purposes. Sunbathers would, like everywhere, be all over the beach. The beach was also where the young men played their soccer games, marking off a field and setting up their temporary goals.

Most Jadidans seem to live in 4- or 5-story apartment blocks. As can be imagined, with the rapid population increase, new apartment blocks are feverishly being built to keep up, I was told mostly by the French. The advance wave of young people born during the beginning of the baby boom there are now in their mid to late twenties, about the age at which most Moroccans marry. I did not see women with more than 2 or 3 children, so the baby boom is apparently losing some of its steam, and hopefully Morocco will be better able to cope with the smaller population grown rate in the future.

The old king, Hassan II, died three years ago, and his son, the new king, Mohammed VI has begun to institute more democratic reforms in the government. Despite having a democratically elected parliament, Morocco is still effectively run by the king and royal advisers based in his main palace in Rabat. The prime minister, Abderrahmane Youssoufi, and key ministers are directly appointed by the king, who is considered a direct descendant of the prophet Mohammed.

At the end of my sojourn, I found it hard to leave this beautiful country, and the beautiful, spring-like weather I had enjoyed during my stay. Needless to say, I hope to return someday, hopefully speaking French a little better, and maybe even some "Marocain"