Just a short distance away from Europe exists a place a whole world apart in culture and ambience - Morocco. Here, you're spoiled with options: the buzzing bazaars of Fez, the sunny resort city of Marrakesh, dreamy Casablanca and the opulent palaces of Rabat all vie for your attention, providing you an exotic cultural experience that you'd be hard pressed to find anywhere else.  Bordered by Spain to the south, but occupying by a whole other continent, Morocco is an exotic gem in North Africa that offers so much to see and do. 

The Sights

Fez

In the imperial city of Fez, you can see the fascinating labyrinthine Medina plus the Royal Palace, or perhaps haggle over beautiful Moroccan carpets: an everlasting souvenir! Revel in the exotic atmosphere of this imperial city and you'll surely be longing for more.

Marrakesh

For a dose of sun all year-round, head to the popular resort city of Marrakesh, which was once the favorite holiday spot of Sir Winston Churchill. Here, don't miss seeing the opulent 19th century Bahia Palace that features an 8,000-square-metre garden and grand courtyard. For a taste of the city's vibrant atmosphere, wander through one of Africa's busiest squares, the Djemaa Square, where you'll be met by palm readers, acrobats, musicians and dancers. By nightfall, you'll be greeted with a heady mix of food stalls providing endless dining choices to satisfy your cravings.

Casablanca

Film buffs must visit the romantic city of Casablanca, the scene of Humphrey Bogart's most magical moments and some of North Africa's best beaches. As the largest city in Morocco, Casablanca is an economic and cultural hub that offers its visitors much to gaze at and explore. Wander through the maze of twisted streets in the Casbah or marvel at the Hassan II Mosque, which stands proudly above the ocean on a rocky outcrop. For an escape from the city's buzz, head to the Corniche, where you can enjoy panoramic views or simply watch the world go by at a seaside cafe.

Rabat

While in Morocco, don't forget to explore the country's capital of Rabat, which shines with royal attractions: a Royal Mosque, Mausoleum and Royal Palace. The white marble Mausoleum gleams with kaleidoscopic mosaics on the inside, while the opulent Royal Palace was built on the ruins of an 18th century palace. Explore the Kasbah des Oudaias in the oldest part of Rabat and you'll encounter narrow streets and whitewashed houses that will charm you.

The Culture

Climate & Clothing

Morocco has a variable climate, depending on location and time of year, however, generally, it has a Mediterranean feel: warm on the coast, continental in the interior and arid in the South. It is sunny most of the year, with considerable temperature drops on some nights. In high summer, we suggest you wear cool clothing, hat and sunglasses, while a sweater or jacket are recommended for those cool night breezes. 

Food & Drink

Local delicacies include Couscous (steamed savory semolina grain served with meat and vegetables), Mechoui (lamb roasted on a spit), delicious kebabs, Kefta (minced meat rissoles with spices) and Tagine (meat stew cooked using an earthenware dish). Don't miss a refreshing drink of mint tea. Water from the tap is not safe to drink in Morocco, but bottled water is widely available. It is always recommended for travelers to keep water bottles on them to avoid any risk of dehydration throughout their trips.

Markets

In all of the major Moroccan cities exist souks filled with marketplaces for domestic and foreign visitors to trade and purchase goods. Exquisite Moroccan craftsmanship is evident on hand-woven rugs, ceramics, and jewelry. In the souks you will find an abundance of leather goods (cushion covers, shoes, wallets), tin pressed lanterns, textile products and lightweight scarves and wraps.