Casablanca - Heart of Morocco

About Casablanca:




Casablanca is Morocco's largest cosmopolitan city and is considered the economic capital. An astonishing city with great architecture and modern lifestyle attracts tourists from all over the world. Casablanca is quite famous for the film of the same name released in 1942 that won three Oscars. Morocco is home to many French or Spanish residents and due to its high education level; teachers, technicians and more retirees migrate to Morocco. Casablanca is a prosperous city and is a great place for American investors and for those who deal with the exports and has the world's largest artificial port.




Hassan II Mosque:




Casablanca houses the third largest mosque; Hassan II Mosque. It is the largest mosque in Morocco designed by the French architect Michel Pinseau. This magnificent mosque has an ability to accommodate over 150,000 worshippers and is composed of world's tallest minarets. Also known as Mosque Hassan II it is the main tourist attraction and thousands of tourists from all over the world book their flights to Casablanca just to see the mosque.




The Corniche:




On the west of Hassan II Mosque, one can visit a neighborhood on the ocean known as The Corniche. It is home to many western fast food chains as well as a western-style movie theater. One can also find many ocean-view cafes, which offer delicious coffee and scrumptious deserts.




Shopping Heaven:




It is a great place for shopping lovers; one can find many leather goods, fabrics and all the fancy accessories. There are many designer outlets, which provide up-scale fashionable items such as leather shoes, belts, bags and shirts. Designer glasses are highly classy and are available in all affordable rates. Art lovers can buy the famous potteries of Morocco, which are colorful and very attractive. As Morocco is famous for its various olives, many shops specialize only in the selling of olives.




Food and hotels:




Casablanca boasts a wide range of restaurants and hotels, which includes, La Cigale, Benis Patisserie, La Corrida, YoSushi and many more. From Spanish food to Arabic delights, food lovers from all over the world enjoy the mouth-watering treats of the city. There is a wide availability of accommodations in the city. If one is looking for accommodations that come in their budget then they must check into Hotel Terminus, Hotel Central and Ajiad Casablanca. Other lavish hotels includes; Sheraton Casablanca Hotel, Novotel Casablanca City Center and Hyatt Regency Casablanca.




Nightlife:




Casablanca is pretty famous for its nightlife, although it is not as booming - it has mixed reviews. Clubs are bars are mostly crowded with men and it gets uncomfortable for women. Despite the fact that most of the clubs are dominated by men, ladies (with some research) can find several clubs which have fantastic spots to drink and jam. Pubs are bars like those that La Bodega and Kasbar are very popular in Casablanca.




Traveling around the city of Casablanca is not a difficult thing to do; one can hire a car or traveling on a bus would be a great way to explore the city. Casablanca is a great vacation destination due to its exotic locations and offerings. With the increase of tourism, numerous airlines are providing cheap flights to Casablanca - holidays in Morocco are simply incredible.

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The culture of Morocco

The Kingdom of Morocco is the most westerly of the North African countries known as the Maghreb - the "Arab West". It has Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines, a rugged mountain interior and a history of independence not shared by its neighbours.




Its rich culture is a blend of Arab, Berber, European and African influences.




Morocco was a French protectorate from 1912 to 1956, when Sultan Mohammed became king. He was succeeded in 1961 by his son, Hassan II, who ruled for 38 years and played a prominent role in the search for peace in the Middle East.




He also ruthlessly suppressed domestic opposition. A truth commission set up to investigate human rights violations during his reign confirmed nearly 10,000 cases, ranging from death in detention to forced exile.




Hassan's son and successor in 1999, Mohammed VI, is a cautious moderniser who has introduced some economic and social liberalisation. In 2011 he revised the constitution in response to "Arab Spring" protests, and appointed a new government in January 2012. Powerful trade unions waited until May to launch mass protests against the authorities' failure to meet democratic and economic expectations.




The status of Western Sahara remains unresolved. Morocco annexed the territory in 1975 and a guerrilla war with Algerian-backed pro-independence forces ended in 1991. UN efforts have failed to break the political deadlock.




To the north, a dispute with Spain in 2002 over the tiny island of Perejil revived the issue of the sovereignty of Melilla and Ceuta. These small enclaves on the Mediterranean coast are surrounded by Morocco and have been administered by Spain for centuries.




Morocco has been given the status of non-Nato ally by Washington, which has praised its support for the US-led war on terror. After deadly suicide bombings in Casablanca in 2003, Morocco launched a crackdown on suspected Islamic militants.
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You Can Fly From the UK to Marrakech If You Don't Want to Drive

Those who are planning a vacation to the United Kingdom are going to appreciate the fact that they can get from the UK to Marrakech without breaking the bank. There are two different types of flights that are offered from the United Kingdom. The first are the commercial flights and the second are charter flights. Both offer positive and negative aspects for their own means of flying to Marrakech from the UK.




Charter Flights


A charter flight is a very good option as it can save a family a good deal of money. There are not going to be many commercial flights that are going to be as cheap as a charter flight. These charters are sold as a package deal so it there is the added bonus of not having to worry about accommodations or sight-seeing trips as these are all going to be included in the package.


If you are just looking for a cheap flight without the package, you are going to need to purchase your flight from the UK as these seats are only sold after the packages have been filled. This is the only downside to flying through a charter flight company. It is really not a down side but it can leave the flight plans up in the air before you travel to the UK.




Do not look for all the bells and whistles that you would get on a commercial flight. The reason these seats come at a discount is because they do not offer any extras. You are paying for a flight and only a flight. It is also recommended that you bring your own snacks and drinks for the time you are going to be flying.




Commercial Flights


Many of the major commercial airlines in the United Kingdom offer flights to Marrakech. These flights are also cheap and many business class flights can be had for just over one hundred English pounds which is roughly two hundred dollars. This price can vary depending on the exchange rate when the flight is purchased. Those who want to fly commercially to Marrakech from the UK, then you should find out what the exchange rate is try to book it when the rate is best for the US dollar.


Coach flights are offered at a lower rate, but with the cost and comfort of business class flights, many are going to feel that business class is the better option. Those on a tight budget are going to want to look at the coach fares to see if they are more affordable than the business class flights are going to be. If you are looking for a package deal, you do not have to stick with the charter flights as there are many packages available from commercial airlines as well.




If you want to expand your family's vacation to include Africa, then Morocco is the best option. There are many flights daily that leave the UK and go directly to Marrakech. This is a beautiful country with loads of history that you can become a part of with one of these types of flights.




If you're planning a trip to Morocco and you are looking for a fantastic place to stay, consider Marrakech Riad. They have fabulous Marrakech accommodation [http://www.marrakech-riad.co.uk/reservations.php] and pleasant, helpful staff to ensure your stay is the best imaginable.

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Festivals in Morocco

Knowing when to be in Morocco is part of the fun of booking your trip. There are a number of Muslim and national festivals held throughout the year, and when you travel to Morocco, you may want to consider booking your vacation in conjunction with one of these events. In fact, almost every month of the year features at least one festival you can attend. The festivals are based on the lunar calendar rather than the western calendar so you will need to check with the Morocco tourism board before you book your flight if there is a specific festival you want to see.




In January, there are two festivals: New Years Day and Independence Celebration. New Years Day is a western celebration not unlike many held around the world. Independence Celebration is secular and is only one of five held throughout the year.




February is the celebration of Tafraoute and Aid Al Adha. Tafraoute celebrates the end of the winter rains found in the lower elevations of Morocco. The rains are helpful to the crops, but Moroccans also feel a celebration for the upcoming season is necessary. Aid Al Adha or A'd el-Khebir is a commemoration festival of Abraham's sacrifice. This festival is fun to watch, but you will not be able to participate in much of it.




March and April have four celebrations: Beni Mellal, Fatih Mouharam, Ashura, and Aid el Arch. Beni Mellal celebrates the cotton harvest. Fatih Mouharam is the Islamic new year celebration. Ashura is a day of tithing celebrated by certain local groups only. Aid el Arch is a celebration to honor the coronation of King Mohammed VI.




If you visit Morocco in May, expect to find Moulay Bousselham, Berkane, El Kelia des Mgouna, Labor Day, Id el Mouloud, and Ben Aissa Moussem festivals. El Kelia des Mgouna is also known as the Rose Festival and is held to celebrate the new crops. It is one of the most popular celebrations that Westerners enjoy attending.




June is the month of the Music Festival, Independence Day, Goulimine, Tan Tan and Gnaoua Festival. The Music Festival is held in Fez, and hundreds of musicians from around the world come to celebrate music and different musical traditions. It is a sharing of cultures and traditions, and visitors leave with a new understanding of what music is in other parts of the world.




July festivals include Marrakesh Popular Arts Festival, Tetouan, Sefrou Cherry Harvest, Al Hoceima Sea Harvest, and Celebration of the Throne. Marrakesh Popular Arts Festival depicts traditional Moroccan folklore through performances, theater, music and other art forms.




The Asilah Arts Festival, Celebration of the Young, Setti Fatma, Sefrou Moussem, El Jadida, Tiznit, Immouzeer du Kandar, and Immouzer des Ida Outanane festivals are held in August. Many of these festivals are popular celebrations of Moussem.




Chechaouen and Moulay Idriss Zerhoun host their Mouseem Festivals in September. September is also when Imichil is held; this marriage festival is held in the Atlas Mountains. It offers traditional marriage customs and costumes for visitors to enjoy.




September has only one festival called the Date Festival, which is held in Erfoud. November marks Ramadan, Independence Day, Eid al Fitr, and the Harvest Festival of Erfoud. December holds Rafsae and Hajj Day. Not all of these festivals are popular among Western visitors; however, if you are there when one of these festivals is occurring, you will likely encounter music, fireworks, costumes and other traditions. Any religious festivals should not be interrupted, but observed quietly.




Sam Mitchell is a freelance writer for Journey Beyond Travel, an eco-friendly, sustainable tour operator setting up a variety of Morocco tours. JBT specializes in High Atlas trekking excursions as well as other cultural itineraries. For more information on planning your Morocco holiday, visit Journey Beyond Travel's Morocco travel guide.

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Are You Heading To Morocco On Tour?

When it comes to listing of tourism hot spots all over the world, Morocco is a place that cannot be left out of the list. Located just a few hours of flight travel away from the major cities of the continent of Europe, the city offers the same level of enjoyment for sun-seekers, city-breakers and adventure lovers. When talking about the top holiday destinations in North Africa, this city is second place next to Egypt.




Generally, people visiting this city do not miss the camel safari in the desert and they also do not miss out the opportunity of exploring the exotic bazaars. On the other hand, most of them miss out the opportunity of taking a dive travel. This is the reason why, it is acting as hidden gem for diving enthusiasts. But, a few people, who have undergone a dive travel would have enjoyed the abounding aquatic atmosphere by beating the crowds located in other parts of Morocco.




Around 10% of the GDP of the city accounts from tourism. Some people feel that this city is not safe for tourism since recently some bombing attacks took place. But, it still remains to be a safe destination for spending holidays. This can be clearly understood from the fact that there are no governmental warnings against travel to this wonderful place. Some of the best guest houses and hotels are offering the best accommodation to the tourists from other nations. So, which is the best time to plan a Morocco Tour?




If the visitors can plan their trip any time in a year, they can avoid the month of August alone since it is the hottest month in this part of the world. It would be wise to visit during Autumn season to enjoy the wonderful climate of Morocco. Even though, accommodation costs go up during this season, it is the best time to visit.




During the autumn season, the days will be warm and nights will be cool so that enjoyment of different destinations during the Morocco tour is highly possible during this season. Trekking enthusiasts can enjoy their feast in this city since there are great opportunities for them to celebrate their trekking experience. The city also has some attractive places that remain unexplored by tourists and so touring enthusiasts can explore these places as well to make their vacation more memorable in the city of Morocco. So, there are plenty of things to enjoy in Morocco, why not plan your trip this vacation?




If you are searching for the best Morocco Tour to make your vacation as an everlasting memory, our special packages best suits your needs. We offer Marrakech Day Trips within your budget. For more details, please visit us.Blankets Handira ,Shop Marrakech 

10 Reasons to Visit Morocco - A Holiday and a Lifestyle!

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This exotic North African country can be as relaxing or as adventurous as you want it to be. Here is how to get the best out of the country's luxury resort hotels, exotic souks, mountain treks and desert safaris, with 10 tips and reasons to visit Morocco to help start your holiday planning and further research.




Beaches:




Take your pick from a wide choice of beaches on Morocco's Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts. Opt for popular resorts such as Agadir or quiet spots such as Asilah and Oualidia.




Cities:




Morocco's imperial cities dazzle with old palaces, medinas and bustling markets. Top options include Marrakech, Fes and Rabat.




Riads:




Get a taste of typical Moroccan hospitality with a stay at a riad, which is usually a palace or grand courtyard home that has been turned into a luxury boutique hotel or bed and breakfast.




Desert:




Head into the Sahara on a camel trek or four-wheel drive excursion. Book a day trip or stay in a Bedouin tent.




Mountains:




No matter where you choose to stay in Morocco, the mountains beckon. The Atlas range runs through the middle of the country, while the Rif Mountains sweep down to the north coast.




Food:




Mouth-watering Moroccan cuisine will have you asking for more. Try tajine, a subtly-flavoured stew using lamb, chicken or fish. Couscous dishes are also popular. Wash them down with wine, beer or refreshing mint tea.




Shopping:




Get lost in the souks of Casablanca, Tangier and other towns and cities as you barter for brightly-patterned ceramics, leather goods, baskets, carpets and jewellery.




Spas:




Wind down in traditional steam baths found in towns and cities throughout the country. Luxury hotels in resorts such as Essaouira have modern spas offering a wide variety of treatments.




History:




Imperial cities such as Tetouan boast ancient medinas that have hardly changed in thousands of years. Head towards the desert and you'll see spectacular kasbahs built into cliff walls.




Festivals:




Music, dance and Arab traditions such as storytelling and horse riding are at the fore of Morocco's moussems, held throughout the country and incorporating a fair and a religious celebration. Top picks include the rose moussem at Kelaat M'Gouna near Ouarzazate and the date festival at Erfoud on the edge of the desert.




A holiday in Morocco is full of excitement. Whether you choose to stay in a sumptuous city hotel in Morocco, or sleep under the stars in a remote Berber village, there's an atmosphere of mystique and magic, where you will take away amazing memories of snake charmers and camel trains to kasbahs and minarets.




Penny Church, writes for the map-based holiday destination and flight finder Travelwhere. With Travelwhere, you can find discount flights to Morocco along with a wealth of additional information - including the package holiday brochures of specialist tour operators to Morocco.
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Air Arabia Flight Aims to Become One of the Best LCC in the World

Air Arabia flight is best option when you are looking for low cost airlines for International flight ticket booking. Air Arabia offers many online facilities and ticket booking offers with special price from time to time. To avail those discounts and offers you have to plan your travel in advance before sufficient time that I can suggest as a air travel guide.
This airline commenced its services in October 2003 with flights to destinations in South and Central Asia, North Africa, Europe and Middle East. Introduction of this low-cost model in this region received an overwhelming response from passengers and led to a rise in tourist influx. This carrier now flies to several destinations across the world from its hubs at Morocco and Alexandria Airport in Egypt and Sharjah International Airport and Mohamed V International Airport in Casablanca.

With Middle Eastern countries emerging as major industrial, technological and tourism centres, people have started visiting them for work and pleasure. This has lead to an increase in the number of airlines connecting these locations. With this rise in air traffic inflow, international flight ticket booking has witnessed a major increase on these routes. As a direct impact of this boost, a number of airlines have started operating their aircraft in and around this region. These carriers primarily focus on connecting Arab nations with the rest of the world. One such airline, in this respect, is Air Arabia, which was the first low-cost carrier, or LCC, to start its services in the Middle East.




The concept of low-cost model primarily involves reduction in the cost of flying by employing some smart tactics, which include use of light-weight flights and change of airbase to economically viable location. Such carriers can afford to provide its passengers reduced ticket prices as compared to other full fledged airlines. This result is quite evident in the Air Arabia flight ticket rates, which are often seen to be the lowest among its contemporaries.




Facilities of Air Arabia




Air Arabia aspires to provide the best of travel rates, combined together with exceptional in-flight services. The carrier offers many online facilities, such as ticket booking and check-in, information regarding flight status, seat availability and baggage allowance, which are displayed on most of the travel portals. These websites are updated round the clock to keep passengers updated with the latest changes and developments and also allows them to check-in using the internet, thus helping them save their valuable time. Air Arabia online booking can also be done conveniently through these online portals with minimal requirements like a valid e-mail ID and credit or debit card details.




The gradual increase in flight bookings reflects the level of customer satisfaction garnered by this carrier. This has given a tremendous boost to the business of Air Arabia, resulting in the upsurge of its destinations. The airline is also looking forward to increase the size of its fleet, which till now comprised Airbus A320 aircraft. Moreover, It is planning to open a fourth hub to manage the increasing demand of its customers. With these latest developments in recent times, this low-cost carrier is gradually moving towards fulfilling its aim to become one of the most favoured airlines across the globe.