Morocco

From Tangier to Casablanca and of course Marrakech, every Moroccan city is a feast for the senses. From the delicious and enticing smells of local food markets to the elaborate Moorish architecture, Morocco is a treat for any traveller. When most people think of Morocco, their minds wander to images of Humphery Bogart and Ingrid Bergman in Casablanca. They think of Bogart proclaiming, “of all the gin joints in all the towns in all the world, she walks into mine.” And any traveller will count themselves lucky upon walking into Morocco.

The influences on Moroccan culture are wide and varied. From Arab dynasties to the French and Spanish, many an empire has tried to stake its claim over the region. However, despite the destruction these groups at times caused, their respective influences have helped to enrich Moroccan culture. The best place to see the extent of Moroccan culture is in the Medina. Each major hub of Morocco has its own Medina. The Medina is essentially the old town of each city. In the Medina one can find countless stores and stalls. Follow the cobblestones around winding corners and you will come across everything from bakers selling honey drizzled pastries, to rug salesmen touting their wares and everything in between.

Aside from the bustling Medinas, Morocco has many an impressive mosque that travellers must certainly visit. The Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca is one of the most popular mosques amongst tourists. The mosque is an obvious architectural feature, and of particular note is its location right along the ocean. And when it comes to the ocean, that is another notch in Morocco’s belt – its stunning beaches. Perhaps the most well-known beach in Morroco is Agadir. Popular with European tourists, Agadir is a seaside playground for those wanting to relax and unwind.

Morocco is truly a cultural experience like no other and a not to be missed destination for any visitor to North Africa.