Morocco

Morocco is a Muslim dominant country. Despite that, it is not completely dry. You can drink all you like at the restaurants, pubs and bars of Morocco.

The vibrant and bustling vibe of the Marrakesh Medina often sums up Morocco for the tourists. This beautiful old city is entered from the Djemma el-fna Square’s vast plaza. Half of the city converges all round the day and in the evening, you can go out and hangout with the traditional musicians, random acrobats, stall vendors and snake charmers. Once you are inside the Medina, you will come across a world brimming with shopkeeper’s hustle and maze-like alleyways. This can be one memorable experience completed with noisy and colourful local life. Also, don’t miss out on the sightseeing trails of Morocco.  

Hassan II Mosque happens to be the landmark building of Casablanca. This is an iconic attraction not only in the city but across Morocco. The mosque was finishing in the year 1993. It is believed that this modern mosque doesn’t do things by the halves. The intricate detailing covers every centimetre of the gargantuan 2 hectare site which took over 10,000 artisans to complete. Zellige tile details, vibrant mosaics and finely carved marble pieces offer tribute to the traditional Islamic culture and architecture and still manages to feel contemporary.

Rabat's Oudaias Kasbah 

The Rabat's Oudaias Kasbah is a peacefully quaint district which may appear to be miles away from the city yet happens to be present right in the city’s heart. Inside the walls of this archaic citadel, you will see lanes of attractive blue and white houses that are rimmed by flapping washing and colourful flowerpots. This definitely is the most fascinating corner of the capital.

Fes el Bali 

Apart from Marrakesh, Fez too is another fine cultural attraction of Morocco. Unlike its sister Imperial City located down south, Fez never really has been trusted up for the tourists. Fes el Bali is an authentic ataxia of a place where it gets next to impossible for you to not get lost. The back alleys of the Morocco with their gorgeous old doors and chipped plaster-work will definitely have you stopping by for the photos on every corner. Its stinking tanneries are said to be the most fascinating tourist attraction for visitors who are okay with the smell.

Tangier

You know which is the most European of the cities of Morocco? Yes, Tangier it is! It has a slightly debauched yet fascinating role in the 20th century literary history. It is this past that tends to attract a number of tourists here. It is this very city which is known to inspire famous creations such as William Burroughs' "Naked Lunch" as well as Paul Bowles' "The Sheltering Sky". You can come across a number of louche bars and bohemian cafes here.

Chefchaouen 

Chefchaouen is a scintillating tangle of the blue on blue buildings which has a marvelous photogenic glow. Situated amidst the alluring Rif Mountains, there isn’t a lot of actual sightseeing which can be done here. This exactly tends to be the key attraction of the town. The place is more about wandering the alleys of Medina and sloshing up all the vibrant architecture. Chefchaouen is a lax, peaceful town which is a great place to recharge if you have been amidst the cities for a while.

Volubilis

The top rated Roman ruin of Morocco is a feast for the history lovers with a grapple of remarkable mosaics that are still interred where they were initially unearthed. Volubilis is also brimming with temple remnants and tumbled columns which are standing tall as the reminders that even the of finest of the empires tend to crumble. You can easily visit this place on a day trip from Fes or Meknes.

Bab al-Mansour 

Bab al-Mansour is a glorious gateway that protects the entrance to the Meknes' Imperial City district from the Medina. The place is known majorly for its fascinating decoration. Being a monumental reminder of the Sultan’s might, the place is a beautiful relic of the Meknes' remarkable era as a capital.

Ait Ben Haddou

Ait Ben Haddou is a golden abode fort which dramatically thrusts out of the earth midst of the scenery which mesmerizes everyone who comes here. It more often looks like a place from a fairytale. Today, Ait Ben Haddou has become one of the most preferred film location given its surreal magnificence. In case, you are heading towards the inland regions of Morocco, this definitely is a great place to see.

Dades Valley

Are you an adventure enthusiast? If yes, you definitely must plan a visit to the Dades Valley. It is one of the most loved spot amongst the trekkers, hikers and nature lovers. The raw landscapes and the snow capped peaks of the High Atlas in the backdrop are a fascination for many. This can be an ideal antidote for everyone who is getting frazzled nerves amidst the souks of Fes and Marrakesh. Bird watching is a great thing to do here.

Essaouira

One of the most charming seaside village of Morroc is Essaouira. It is a laid back and an old hippie haunt of the 1970s. The place has very well retained its authenticity given its stately old shore-side fort, vibrant fishing boats bobbing on the water and colourful, and twisty lanes of the old town. All this makes this a delight to explore.  

Anti Atlas Mountains, High Atlas Mountains, Rif Mountains and Middle Atlas Mountains all fight for your attention in Morocco. They are a great hub for the trekking and adventure enthusiasts. Nestled in the northern end of Morocco, the peaks of the Rif Mountains’ aren’t as high as the High Atlas Mountains however they are covered with a number of caves and forests. The Anti-Atlas Mountains and the Middle Atlas Mountains aren’t as heavily visited by the tourists as the High Atlas however they do put forth a more personal experience with nature.  

Beaches

There is absolutely no dearth of seaside relaxation in Morocco. There are beaches enveloping the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts. The Mediterranean coast is known to have rockier beaches. It is advisable to not swim here but the views here are phenomenal. Families who come here with children can visit the beaches located along the Casablanca or Agadir.

The Imperial Cities

Rabat, Marrakesh, Meknes and Fez have at some point or the other in history been the capital of Morocco. These cities have a number of mosques, churches, palaces and museums that offer a glimpse into the vast history of Morocco. Medians of the city can be confusing and crowded and several tourists who come here for a holiday hire tour guides to ensure that they visit all the places to see in Morocco.

Riads

Riads are the palaces or the traditional houses that are known to have interior gardens. At present, several riads of Morocco have been metamorphose into hotels. Even if you stay at a different guest house, resort or hotel, make it a point to bare some time and plan a visit to some of the grander riads that have splendid architecture.  

The Desert

Situated south of the Anti-Atlas Mountains, is the most renowned Sahara Desert. One of the most important thing to do here is taking a camel ride that is best explored via a camel ride or a 4×4 tour. These quad tours will lead you to the sandy roads while passing through the dessert villages. You can even choose to camp here. There is nothing more happening than falling asleep at the expansive starry sky and waking up to the majestic sunrise of a desert.

The Food

You can actually smell the aroma of the spices and herbs baked into the local food. Food is a highlight of Morocco. Some of the most loved Moroccan dishes include couscous and stews which are prepared using the locally raised lamb, fish or chicken. Meals here are usually served with mint tea unless you request otherwise.   

Shopping

Some of the best places for shopping in Morocco include Tangier, Casablanca and Fez. The souks here are stacked with jewelry, leather goods, carpets, ceramics and baskets. Bargaining with the local shop owner or the artisan is open accepted and expected in Morocco.   

The History

The history of Morocco encompasses influences from the Roman Empire, the Berbers and the Spanish and French settlers who have come here several times to claim this country as their own. As you pass from one city to another or one region to another, you will clearly be able to analyse the influences of these people in shaping the history of Morocco.

Festivals

Depending on when you visit Morocco and which part of Morocco you visit you can expect to find an array of festivals relating to dance, music and traditional storey telling. If possible, you can plan a vacation to coincide with one of the Morocco’s festivals. It can be an ideal way to experience the rich culture and history in this North African country

Steam Baths

Once, one of the best places for people to take a bath in Morocco is the Morocco’s public steam baths. It in a number of way is akin to visiting a modern spa. Taking a steam bath is definitely an important thing to do here.