Morocco – City and Sea

Morocco, the north African jewel that borders both the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. As a true melting pot that brings together Arabian, Berber and European influences of both France and Spain and Portugal, many travellers ask “where do I start?” For many Marrakesh springs to mind, but I would also like to share my experiences of trips to Casablanca too.

One of the most important cities of the Berber kingdom, Casablanca has been under Portuguese rule and in the 20th century was colonised by the French until Morocco gained independence in 1955. With a population of over 3.5 million it brings together French colonial style and traditional Moroccan buildings that sit alongside some ultra-modern architecture and that confirms its place as a city focused on progress and innovation

The Hassan II Mosque with beautiful mosaics and painted ceilings and can welcome 25000 worshippers at any one time. Enjoy a tour, however, remember that being respectfully dressed is essential. The old medina provides shopping opportunities galore –heady spices, colourful leather babouches (traditional Moroccan slippers), hand painted ceramics and twinkly glass lamps, but remember haggling is expected. If that feels too overwhelming, visit Quartier Habous for your souvenirs. It is near the Royal Palace which was built in the 1930s with an aim to combine Moroccan tradition with French culture. After shopping head down to The Corniche an area popular with Moroccan holidaymakers. This area brings together a selection of hotels, bars and restaurants and a fabulous place to take in a sunset! No visit is complete without a visit to Rick’s Café. Set in an old courtyard-style mansion built against the walls of the Old Medina it is designed to recreate the bar made famous by Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman in the movie classic.

An hour away from Casablanca is the Pullman Mazagan Beach & Golf Resort, one of my most favourite getaways. Set on 7km of sandy beach, this 5-star hotel brings together contemporary design and Moroccan culture with rooms overlooking the gardens or the hotels pool. Choose from a variety of restaurants and bars, a world-class spa, a vibrant casino, a nightclub, and endless sports and leisure facilities including Morocco’s largest golf course. There is a huge central pool although it never felt crowded. Just a few steps away is the Atlantic Ocean, where there are comfortable sun loungers and cabanas, or for those in search of adventure wind and kite-surfing, horse-riding, camel riding and quad biking are available.

If you would like to talk more about Morocco and planning your perfect trip, I would love to hear from you.