Casablanca (الدارالبيضاء) is the capital of the Greater Casablanca Region, located in the west of Morocco. The city is known to have several names, “White house” where Blanca means white, and Casa means house, locally it’s known as Caza. Casablanca is also considered the economic capital of Morocco, as it holds the heart of Moroccan business. The political capital of Morocco is Rabat. As of latest measurement the city of Casablanca has a population of 3.8 million people.
Marrakech (مراكش) also known as “Red City” and “Al Hamra” is a city located in the south west of Morocco, nearby the foothills of the snow capped Atlas Mountains. Marrakech is the third largest city in Morocco after Casablanca and Rabat. As of latest measurement the city has a population of 1.3 million people.
Marrakech’s beauty lies in its ancient atmosphere and spectacular locations, with a breathtaking view of the Atlas Mountains from any location within the city. Walking in downtown Medina, the old city center gives an view of a exotic, distant city with markets selling magic carpets, jewelry, herbs and potions, candles, meat and metalwork. Fortune tellers and snake charmers to make money from tourists mixed with an incoming hot wind from the Sahara desert.
Today, the main focus of Marrakech continues to be the main square of Jemaa-el-Fna, its an extraordinary and social gathering place that seems is hasn’t change since medieval times. Local markets are setup every day, the noise and smell is mixed from several vegetables, fruits and local cuisines being sold while market vendors screaming to sell their merchandise. It’s tallest building within city limits Koutoubia mosque, viewable from almost anywhere within the city reminds the importance of the Islam to the locals.
Travelers to Marrakech are required a valid passport, most nationals are only required passport which is at least 6 months valid, and a return ticket. Travelers are advised to contact the Moroccan embassy before a trip. The city has two seasons with a hot and humid summers and white, snowy winters.
Rabat (الرباط) is the capital city of the Kingdom of Morocco and is situated on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean at the mouth of the river Bou Regreg. Rabat is worldwide known for its textile industry as well food production and construction industry. The city has a estimated population of 1.5 million people.
In the recent years travelers have been discovering Rabat’s hidden delights, particularly its local markets where shop owners are nice and won’t harass you, monuments and magnificent museums, old cafes and restaurants with delicious Moroccan dishes. Watch the changing of the Friday’s morning change of the Royal Guard at the Royal Palace or walk the narrow streets of the Casbah des Oudaya and visit the 12th century tour Hassan.
Morocco is just a step from Europe, yet its feels like a world away in culture, color and experiences. This is partly due to its geographical position, situated where East meets the West and where Africa shakes hands with Europe, and the Mediterranean merges with the Atlantic.
Travelers to Rabat are required a valid passport. Most nationals are not required a visa, just a return ticket and passport that’s at least 6 months valid. Travelers are advised to contact the Moroccan embassy before a trip. The best months to visit are June till August, with the least rain and best temperatures.
