morocco-morrocco

In 788, about a century after the Arab conquest of North Africa, a series of Moroccan Muslim dynasties began to rule in Morocco. In the 16th century, the Sa'adi monarchy, particularly under Ahmad AL-MANSUR (1578-1603), repelled foreign invaders and inaugurated a golden age. The Alaouite dynasty, to which the current Moroccan royal family belongs, dates from the 17th century. In 1860, Spain occupied northern Morocco and ushered in a half century of trade rivalry among European powers that saw Morocco's sovereignty steadily erode; in 1912, the French imposed a protectorate over the country. A protracted independence struggle with France ended successfully in 1956. The internationalized city of Tangier and most Spanish possessions were turned over to the new country that same year. Sultan MOHAMMED V, the current monarch's grandfather, organized the new state as a constitutional monarchy and in 1957 assumed the title of king. Morocco annexed Western Sahara during the late 1970s, but final resolution on the status of the territory remains unresolved. Gradual political reforms in the 1990s resulted in the establishment of a bicameral legislature, which first met in 1997. Under King MOHAMMED VI - who in 1999 succeeded his father to the throne - human rights have improved. Morocco enjoys a moderately free press, but the government has taken action against journalists who they perceive to be challenging the monarchy, Islam, and the status of Western Sahara. Influenced by protests elsewhere in the Middle East and North Africa, in February 2011 thousands of Moroccans began weekly rallies in multiple cities across the country to demand greater democracy and a crackdown on government corruption. Police response to most of the protests was subdued compared to the violence elsewhere in the region. A commission set up in March 2011 presented a draft constitution that was passed by popular referendum in July 2011. Under the new constitution, some new powers were extended to parliament and the prime minister, but ultimate authority remained in the hands of the monarch. That same month, the king urged swift implementation of the new constitution, starting with the holding of parliamentary elections in 2011 instead of in 2012. A prominent moderate Islamist party, the Justice and Development Party, subsequently won the largest number of seats on 25 November 2011, becoming the first Islamist party to lead the Moroccan Government. In January 2012, Morocco assumed a nonpermanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2012-13 term.



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morocco-morrocco

In 788, about a century after the Arab conquest of North Africa, a series of Moroccan Muslim dynasties began to rule in Morocco. In the 16th century, the Sa'adi monarchy, particularly under Ahmad AL-MANSUR (1578-1603), repelled foreign invaders and inaugurated a golden age. The Alaouite dynasty, to which the current Moroccan royal family belongs, dates from the 17th century. In 1860, Spain occupied northern Morocco and ushered in a half century of trade rivalry among European powers that saw Morocco's sovereignty steadily erode; in 1912, the French imposed a protectorate over the country. A protracted independence struggle with France ended successfully in 1956. The internationalized city of Tangier and most Spanish possessions were turned over to the new country that same year. Sultan MOHAMMED V, the current monarch's grandfather, organized the new state as a constitutional monarchy and in 1957 assumed the title of king. Morocco annexed Western Sahara during the late 1970s, but final resolution on the status of the territory remains unresolved. Gradual political reforms in the 1990s resulted in the establishment of a bicameral legislature, which first met in 1997. Under King MOHAMMED VI - who in 1999 succeeded his father to the throne - human rights have improved. Morocco enjoys a moderately free press, but the government has taken action against journalists who they perceive to be challenging the monarchy, Islam, and the status of Western Sahara. Influenced by protests elsewhere in the Middle East and North Africa, in February 2011 thousands of Moroccans began weekly rallies in multiple cities across the country to demand greater democracy and a crackdown on government corruption. Police response to most of the protests was subdued compared to the violence elsewhere in the region. A commission set up in March 2011 presented a draft constitution that was passed by popular referendum in July 2011. Under the new constitution, some new powers were extended to parliament and the prime minister, but ultimate authority remained in the hands of the monarch. That same month, the king urged swift implementation of the new constitution, starting with the holding of parliamentary elections in 2011 instead of in 2012. A prominent moderate Islamist party, the Justice and Development Party, subsequently won the largest number of seats on 25 November 2011, becoming the first Islamist party to lead the Moroccan Government. In January 2012, Morocco assumed a nonpermanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2012-13 term.



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amazing morocco

Amazing Morocco 

THE DETAILS

Yoga in a breathtaking location. Surf in perfect warm water waves (for all levels). Sleep in an enchanting villa. Eat incredibly well. Restore. Revive and feel amazing.

YOUR TEACHERS

Mary Clare Sweet
My mission is to connect people through joyful yoga. Energetic vibrations of fun run deep in my veins. When we come together on the mat and experience this bliss, the manifestation of my intention to teach has arrived. I own Lotus House of Yoga, a vinyasa studio in Omaha, Nebraska. The classes I lead are fun, challenging and filled with love. I enjoy playing at the edge of the asana practice and watching the spirit soar to new heights. Music is integral to the asana classes I lead. My playlists are funky and always fresh, incorporating soul, hip hop, folk, and pop.  My class will connect you to your true self and ignite your passion for life.​
Dan Wilf
Drawing from a vast amount of teachings and life experiences, Dan aims to present the ancient lessons of yoga with a fun, accessible, and modern day approach so that all may enjoy.
Dan first stepped on the mat to find some balance in his “Rock & Roll” lifestyle and became instantly hooked. In addition to perusing an advanced certification with his primary teacher Shiva Rea, he has traveled the world studying many different styles of yoga with celebrated teachers such as Joan White, Dharma Mittra, and Richard Freeman. He has traveled with and assisted Simon Park, and is a full fledge member of Brock & Krista Cahill’s Flight Club. When you walk into one of Dan’s classes you can expect creative and intelligent sequencing, great music, plenty of time going upside down, a solid dose of comic relief, and an overall great vibe.
 ACCOMODATIONS

Situated right in front of Banana beach, tucked away from the market’s hustle and bustle and standing out as the best villa in the area, Mandala is the perfect surf and yoga escape. The large, private ocean front terrace has plenty of space for basking in the sun by Mandala’s pool or lazy afternoons in shady spots. Seconds from fantastic surf of Banana Point, Onze and Douze, Mandala incorporates privacy and a soulful individuality.
The area immediately surrounding Villa Mandala is not a tropical paradise but the sea views are beautiful and great beaches are in walking distance. It is a distinctly North African beach-side location that is susceptible to the constant natural and man made changes that rapidly occur in the developing world. Its part of the experience and its what makes Villa Mandala a true gem hidden off the beaten track and Banana Village’s best kept secret!
“Stunning, friendly, relaxed and such lovely staff. Surf and Yoga Paradise.” – Margarito Fullilove
Villa Mandala has a private hamam (Moroccan sauna) for two so you can unwind and rejuvenate after a long day in the surf. The roof top terrace has a stunning wooden yoga shala and is the perfect place to sunbathe, chill out or have a drink at sunset. Downstairs there is a big living area with large sofas, TV, satellite, lots of films, wireless internet, books to read and games to play. Like our original surf camp the atmosphere is laid back, fun and friendly. The terrace and pool area are the perfect place to have breakfast in front of the surf, or enjoy a few drinks in the evening. Villa Mandala is a special place for a unique and unforgettable holiday.
CUISINE

Breakfast
Wake to the aroma of freshly brewed Moroccan coffee and hot fresh bread from the village bakery. Enjoy local honey, jams, yoghurts, eggs, crepes and a rainbow platter of seasonal fruits. Sit back, relax & take time over a sun-filled breakfast banquet beside the glistening waters of the ocean front swimming pool. The perfect way to ease into each day!
Lunch
Lunch is a picnic on the beach between surfs. Freshly filled baguettes with tasty veggie pates, chicken, meat & cheese salads, sweet energy boosting treats and fresh fruit helping you make the most of your time in the surf.
Dinner
At sunset, Chouaib, Hassan and Khadija our fantastic team of local chefs, create an irresistible array of traditional and contemporary Moroccan dishes, using only the finest and freshest local produce. From a colourful display of delicious tapas by the pool, to aromatic tagines, subtly spiced cous cous, sensational fish from the morning’s catch, ’salade royale’, chicken pastilla, western and Moroccan meat dishes and an amazing repertoire of vegetarian cuisine. A star lit mouth watering feast delighting every palette and satisfying the hungriest of surfers and yogis is guaranteed each evening.
YOGASCAPES OFFERS A SUPER EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT TO MAKE THIS TRIP AFFORDABLE TO A WIDER RANGE OF PEOPLE.  WE ALSO OFFER AN EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT TO REWARD PEOPLE FOR SIGNING UP EARLY.  PLEASE BE AWARE OF OUR DEADLINES BELOW WHEN PURCHASING.

Please review our trip agreement policy before purchasing to view our travel insurance policy, cancellation policy and other important info! Participation Agreement.
Reserve your spot – Deposit: To Reserve your spot please make a non-refundable deposit of $500
Deposit Payment Method – Check (no processing fee) – Paypal/Credit Card (3% processing fee)
FINAL PAYMENTS DUE MARCH 1, 2013:
Final payment methods: 1. Check, no processing fee – 2. Paypal/Credit Card ~ 3% Processing fee
Super Early Bird: Only 5 spaces available at this rate. Purchase by  February 1.
Shared – $1495, Single – Please inquire
Early Bird: Purchase by March 15th.
Shared – $1595,  Single – Please inquire
Normal Costs: Purchase after March 15th
Shared – $1795,  Single – Please inquire
ABOUT YOGASCAPES
One part travel, one part adventure, YOGASCAPES spice up the age-old “yoga retreat” by combining today’s most vibrant and energetic yoga and wellness teachers with in-tune adventure guides, local culture, some tasty food, and a crew of similar minded fun-loving people from across the globe. Best of all, the party always goes down at one of our hand picked, off-the-beaten path destinations amidst breathtaking natural beauty. These ain’t your mama’s escapes, they’re YOGASCAPES.

YOGASCAPES believes in nourishing and balancing the body and mind through a daily diet of vitalising yoga, serene surf and wholesome food within a tranquil environment. Our friendly, highly experienced team will help you develop your own yoga practice, take you surfing in perfect waves – and create the perfect retreat.

As we invite you to enjoy this amazing week in Morocco we also encourage you to use this retreat as a launching point or an ending point for exploring this unbelievable part of the world.

HIGHLIGHTS

​DATES: June 1-8, 2013

TEACHERS: Mary Clare Sweet and Dan Wilf

FROM: $1495

- Stunning ocean front accommodation at Villa Mandala (in a twin or double bedroom share)

- Wholesome breakfast, nutritious lunch and gourmet vegetarian dinner

- Unlimited mineral water, fruits, tea and coffeeDaily  yoga classes.

- Full week’s surf course of coaching and guiding. All surf equipment and transport to the beach.

Where is Morocco -Where is Morocco?

Where is Morocco

Where is Morocco?

Morocco is an African country and the closest to Europe. Only 8.6 miles ( 14km ) separate Morocco and Spain on the Gibraltar strait. Morocco borders east and south with Algeria and deep South with Mauritania in the Moroccan Western Sahara region.



Morocco has the particularity of being a multi-featured country in matter of geography. Its geographic diversity is amazing and who thinks that whatever you’re about to spot in this country is nothing much than Sahara, well, think again. Take a close look to see how I break up Morocco in its geography:

1-NORTH 2-CENTER 3-ATLAS MOUNTAINS 4-SOUTH AND DESERT 5-WESTERN SAHARA

Of course this opinion can be disputed, and, my BLOG is not a political statement of any kind. If you look closely to the map above you’ll notice how deep Western Sahara goes, making the exact center of the country in Sahara Desert following the Oued Draa to Erfoud in the east.

What I do here is to separate north and south with the Atlas Mountains which actually gives a strange diagonal line separating the country. I do this just to make sure I don’t mix the Mountainous regions which I want to give special attention.

In this personal division you’ll notice how I don’t include Azrou or Ifrane in center Morocco being just a few miles away from Fez for instance, while including other cities lower than Azrou ( but to the west side ) hehe  I know you’re confused now. The problem here is that the Atlas Mountain Range spreads the country diagonally from northeast southwest. Got it?

Check out this map below which I changed just to make you quickly understand this division and where exactly the Atlas are located:



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where is morocco

traveled around Morocco with our friends Kathy and Abdul.  We flew from Seattle to New York and then directly from New York to Casablanca on Morocco's national airline, Royal Air Maroc.
Our "home base" while in Morocco was Settat, a city about one hour south of Casablanca and the hometown of our pal Abdul.  From there we made several excursions around the country.


Morocco is a country with a large population which is located in the continent/region of Africa.
Countries near Morocco include Gibraltar, Portugal, Algeria and Spain.

Professor Ron Messier, Professor Emeritus Middle Tenessee State University and Senior Lecturer in history at Vanderbilt University and his codirector Professor Abdallah Fili faculte des letters Universite d’El Jadida have been following a trail of gold a it was part of the camel caravan routes from sub-Saharan Africa through the ancient city of Sijilmassa which Ron Messier’s team excavated through to Morocco’s Medieval Capital, Aghmat. Coins minted in Sijilmassa have been  found in  an excavation in Jordan and Aghmat too minted coins for the Almoharavid empire which stretched into Spain.

The international archaeological program has been studying Aghmat Since June 2005 Medieval texts suggest  that Aghmat existed before advent of Islam in the 7th Century. It flourished under the Idrissids  in the 8th and 9th centuries and attained the rank of an Amazight city state in the late 10th Century. It became a capital under the Almoravid dynasty from 1056 to 1070 when the Almoravids moved their capital to Marrakech. Aghmat  gradually declined in competition to Marrakech.

It was an important city for routes through the Atlas Mountains on the trans Saharan trade and attracted scholars from Ifriqiyya (Tunisia) and Andalusia. The site contains the tombs the Andalusian kings al-Mu’tamid ibn Abbad of Seville and Abdallah ibn Bulukhin of Granada. Zaynab Nafzawiyya settled in Aghmat married three successive rulers,the independent Maghrawa emir and the first two Almoravid emirs.

Aghmat consisted of two towns Aghmat Ourika and Aghmat Haylana home to Bani Masmuda tribesmen. It was a rich city fully irrigated and minting gold currency for  the Almoravids.

Its biggest cities and towns include Casablanca, Rabat, Fez and Marrakesh.


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Casablanca

Many travellers stay in Casablanca just long enough to change planes or catch a train, but the sprawling metropolis deserves more time. It may not be as exotic as other Moroccan cities, but it is the country’s economical and cultural capital, and it represents Morocco on the move: Casablanca is where the money is being made, where the industry is, where art galleries show the best contemporary art and where fashion designers have a window on the world. The old pirate lair is looking towards the future, showing off its wealth and achievements.


The city saw a rapid expansion during the early days of the French Protectorate, and still attracts droves of the rural poor dreaming of a better lifestyle. Many have made it good and proudly flaunt their newfound wealth, but many others languish in the grimy shanty towns on the city’s edge.
Casablancais are cosmopolitan, and more open to Western ways than other places in Morocco. This is reflected in their dress, and in the way men and women hang out together in restaurants, bars, beaches and hip clubs. But Europe is not the only inspiration. More and more young Casablancais are realising that they come from a country with a fascinating history.
Casablanca is full of contradictions. It is home to suffocating traffic jams, simmering social problems and huge shanty towns as well as wide boulevards, well-kept public parks, fountains and striking colonial architecture.
The bleak facades of the suburbs stand in sharp contrast to the Hispano-Moorish, art-deco and modernist gems of the city centre, and to Casablanca’s modernist landmark, the enormous and incredibly ornate Hassan II Mosque.
Ready to go?


Read more: http://www.lonelyplanet.com/morocco/the-atlantic-coast/casablanca#ixzz2IiCluIer



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casablanca morocco

Main sights



Hassan II Mosque.


Casablanca Cathedral
The French period Ville Nouvelle (New Town) of Casablanca was designed by the French architect Henri Prost, and was a model of a new town at that time. The main streets radiate south and east from Place des Nations Unies, previously the main market of Anfa. Former administrative buildings and modern hotels populate the area. Their style is a combination of Hispano-Mauresque and Art Deco.
Casablanca is home to the Hassan II Mosque, designed by the French architect Michel Pinseau. It is situated on a promontory on the Atlantic. The mosque has room for 25,000 worshippers inside, and a further 80,000 can be accommodated in the mosque's courtyard. Its minaret is the world's tallest at 210 metres. The mosque is also the largest in North Africa, and the third largest in the world.[38]
Work on the mosque was started in 1980, and was intended to be completed for the 60th birthday of the former Moroccan king, Hassan II, in 1989. However, the building was not inaugurated until 1993. Authorities spent an estimated $800 million in the construction of the building.
The Parc de la Ligue Arabe (formally called Lyautey) is the city's largest public park. On its edge is the Casablanca Cathedral (Cathédrale Sacré-Coeur). It is no longer in use for religious purposes, but it is open to visitors and a splendid example of Mauresque architecture. The Old Medina (the part of town pre-dating the French protectorate) attracts fewer tourists than the medinas of cities like Fes and Marrakech. However, it has undergone some restoration in recent years. Included in this project have been the western walls of the medina, its skala, or bastion, and its colonial-period clock tower.
A popular site among locals is the small island Marabout de Sidi Abderrahmane. It is possible to walk across to the rocky island at low tide. This outcrop contains the tomb of Sidi Abderrhamane Thaalibi, a Sufi from Baghdad and the founder of Algiers. He is considered a saint in Morocco.[39] Because of this, many Moroccans make informal pilgrimages to this site "to reflect on life and to seek religious enlightenment". Some believe that the saint possessed magical powers and so his tomb still possesses these powers. People come and seek this magic in order to be cured. Non-Muslims may not enter the shrine.


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