Morocco is a country located
in the northern region of Africa also known as the Maghreb region. The meaning
of its name is ‘the land where the sun sets’. Facing the Mediterranean Sea to
the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the west, this piece of land holds the
beauty just like its name suggests. The capital of this north western country
in Africa is Rabat and the largest city is Casablanca.
It was founded as a
state in 788 AD. The country has maintained a prosperous standard and is the
fifth largest economy in Africa since its independence in 1956, unlike most of
the countries in the continent.
Morocco offers an exquisite beauty to the eyes, which
makes it quite an attractive place for tourism. It welcomes people with a
serene pleasure of witnessing some of North Africa’s most stunning sceneries.
It has a desert as a doorway and the Atlas Mountain Range shields it on the
other side. The country consists of a mixed culture of Arab and Africa and still
holds the age old customs. Visiting Morocco is like getting lost into the
timeless, tranquil world of coastal villages, colourful, happy towns along the
hillsides and a series of forts that leave a longing in the heart to go back to
the country time and again. The top spots in Morocco that attracts tourists
are:
1.
Marrakesh
Medina: This is a joyful tourist spot. This is a place where
people get engrossed into the hustle of a number of entertainments like stall
vendors, traditional musicians on road, snake charmers and even random
acrobats. It depicts a life full of colours and we get lost into its hustle ofthe local life.
2.
Hassan
II Mosque: Being a country of Islam majority, Morocco has a
number of palatial mosques. This mosque in Casablanca is not only a pride for
the city but also an important lavish symbol of the country. It has intricately
carved marble pieces, gorgeous mosaics and beautiful tiles that highlight the
age old Islam architecture as well as seem very modern in its outlook.
3.
Oudaias
Kasbah: The most picturesque neighbourhood of Rabat, this
place is serene and gives the feel of being far away from the busy city life in
spite of being right in the middle of one. It consists of beautiful blue and
white cottages decorated with flower pots, and quiet lanes that make us lost in
the peaceful aura that this place holds.
4.
Fes
El Bali: Fes is Morocco’s big cultural destination which is
not very swarmed up with tourists. This place is relatively emptier but
contains tradition on every step. The decorated carved doors and chipped
plasterwork in the alleys deserve mention. This place also has a famous tannery
which is often a place of attraction.
5.
Tangier:
The European culture experienced in Tangier is what makes it a tourist
attraction. This city has inspired many artworks of famous European artists
such as Paul Bowles and William Burrough. Though the classic cafes and rustic
bars are gone, but still this city gives you the royal western feel.
6.
Chefchaouen:
This is another place of retreat in Morocco. On the lap of the Rif Mountains,
this gorgeous town hold a picturesque beauty. Though there is not much
sightseeing to be done, this town attracts tourists for the comfortable
peaceful retreat it offers. A lot of hiking and trekking also takes place on
the Rif Mountains, so you can get adventure is the midst of peace too!
7.
Volubilis:
This is a Roman ruin which is a feast for lovers of classic history. The
remarkable mosaics still remain where they were unearthed. This is a symbol of
how a glorious empire broke into pieces and got perished. The view is even more
beautiful from Capitol and Forum, which are locations at a height.
8.
Bab
al-Mansour: The giant sized gateway guards the entrance of
Meknes from medina. The mosque is a symbol of the might and power of the
sultan. It marks the magnificent era of Meknes as the former capital of
Morocco. Bab al-Mansour is regarded as the grandest and best preserved gateway
of Morocco.
9.
Ait
Ben Haddou: The golden stoned majestic fort stands out among
the scenery that surrounds it. It is a treat to the eyes of the tourists. Due
to its curvy lanes and old structure, this place often features in some
Hollywood movies. To take the feel of Ait Ben Haddou, you can also spend a
night within the fortress but keep in mind that you will be out of electricity.
If you are out for Morocco’s ancient discovery, this is a place you should not
miss.
10. Dades Valley: The people who have affinity towards
hiking, trekking or natural beauty in general, would love to visit this valley
surrounded by the snow capped peaks of the Atlas Mountains. There are little
villages, places to spot birds, amazing day walk opportunities and the view of
lush green fields and orchards between the gorges. The valley unfolds an image
of much remembrance.
11. Essaouira: Most cherishing seaside town of
Morocco, Essaouira is a repository of ethnicity and antiquity. The food scene
here is quite decent with the variety of sea food they offer. The colourful
boats along the shore of the sea add to the beauty of this place.
COMMUNICATION:
The beauty of Morocco will reveal itself to you
gradually. But you do need proper modes of transport to roam around. The
convenient modes of transport are:
·
TRAIN
·
CTM
BUSES
·
NORMAL
BUSES
·
TRAMS
·
GRAND
TAXIS
·
CAR
RENTAL
·
BIKE
RENTAL
Though there are many options, the most trustworthy
modes of transport are the trains and CTM buses. They have a fixed route which
covers a large area and every detail is available on their websites (ONCF for
trains and CTM for buses). They are affordable, reachable and safe. For a new
tourist in Morocco, they provide quite a convenient medium to travel along the
whole country.
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