Morocco Discovery: Casablanca, Rabat, Fez & Meknes

About the destination: Situated on the Atlantic coast, Casablanca is the biggest city and the economic hub of Morocco. Casablanca is a modern city with bustling boulevards and numerous street cafes that give it a distinctly European feel. Casablanca is a mix of both tradition and modernity. Visitors will encounter traditional buildings of Moorish, Roman, Jewish, Spanish and French influence alongside the new modern skyscrapers. While the city is quite modern by Moroccan standards, there are many historical sites and striking white colonial architecture. The oldest part of the city, the medina, is relatively small compared to other medinas in Morocco, but still worth a wander around its narrow lanes. Near the Medina you'll find the City Hall, which boasts beautifully carved roofs. Casablanca's main attraction is the King Hassan II Mosque. Located in a stunning setting on the Atlantic Coast, it's the largest mosque in Morocco and the third largest in the world, with the tallest minaret in the world. A visit to Casablanca is a must for many travellers who come to Morocco. Oriental yet modern, Casablanca is a city of many faces.

About the destination: Even though Rabat is the political and administrative capital of Morocco, it's not a typical tourist destination, but to truly understand the essence of Morocco, a visit to this imperial city is essential. Situated on the Atlantic Ocean at the mouth of the Bou Regreg river, Rabat is a city where tradition and modernity coexist. Often seen as dull compared to its larger sibling down the coast, Rabat has embraced modernity and is cultivating a cosmopolitan atmosphere of its own. The reality is that the capital is more relaxed, pleasant and more provincial than Casablanca, but far less chaotic and hectic. Rabat has a long and rich history, with influences from the Phoenicians, Romans and Carthaginians to the French and Arabs, and the city has a wealth of monuments to prove it. Its Old Town, the tranquil medina, was declared a World Heritage Site in 2012. Behind its red ochre walls, the Old City keeps all the country's traditions alive, with an abundance of Moroccan craft shops and traditional tea houses. The fortified gates, its enchanting white and blue walls and spectacular ocean views are reason enough to explore every corner of its streets. The beautiful enclosed Chellah, a serene complex of tombs and Roman ruins, is located in Rabat’s urban twin, Salé, 2km away from the capital’s city centre. Along Mohamed V avenue, lined with palm trees, visitors will find the Parliament, the Al Sunna mosque, the Essais Garden and the majestic Royal Palace. An independent art scene is flourishing in the capital and there is a growing number of galleries and spaces for visual arts. After a long day enjoying the town’s extensive cultural offerings, visitors should head to Agdal, the trendiest district of Rabat. Artists, hipsters and students alike flock to its cafes and restaurants. This modern coastal city, blessed with a Mediterranean climate, is vibrant, joyful and safe. Rabat means refuge in Arabic, and it may not be a coincidence that this city offers visitors culture, stunning architecture, tradition and modernity, all away from the all-inclusive crowds that flock to other parts of the country.

About the destination: Fez is the epitome of magic, a pot of beautiful charms that's been brewing since medieval times. The city has nearly everything Morocco has to offer; the ringing hammers on sheets of brass, the squawks of chicken wandering all around, constant voices of endless chatter, the deep voices of prayers passed from one minaret to another, young women balancing trays of rolled dough on their heads, throngs of people in the narrowest of streets, the enticing aromas of brochettes on open grills, the sweet scent of cedar shavings and freshly cut mint leaves. The life size labyrinth that is the medina, old city, is the largest and most challenging to navigate in Morocco; sometimes it's even easier to simply lose yourself in the hustle and bustle of the various markets. Entering the medina through Bab Boujeloud, veer left immediately onto shop-lined, bamboo-shaded rue Talaa Kebira. Nearby to the left is the grain market, while further along is the entrance to Bou Inania madersap the finest Qur’anic university in Morocco. Constructed under the Merinid Dynasty in the 14th century its beautifully carved white plaster walls and mihrab remain in remarkably good conditions. The Zaouia de Moulay Idriss houses the tomb of Molay Idriss II, who made Fez the capital of Morocco in 808. The cedarwood portal is adorned with faded geometric patterns. Close by is the 14th century Al-Attarine Madrasa. Behind the superb bronze door lie intricately carved plaster walls topped by a cedarwood mantle and a splendid fountain. Other worthwhile places in Fez are the viewpoints to the north of the city or most parts of Fes el Jedid, with the Royal Palace, the Jewish Quarter and the Museum Dar al Batha. Once the capital of the country, today Fez is Morocco’s third largest city but is considered the country’s religious, cultural and intellectual centre. Situated between the Riff and the Middle Atlas Mountains, the city is made up of Fes El Bali, the old city, and Fes El Jedid, the New city. The King of Morocco’s wife, Princess Lalla Salma, was born in Fez which has made this medieval city even more popular.

About the destination: Certainly! Here’s an English (Ireland) translation of your text. The differences are subtle, focusing on Irish English spelling, phrasing, and tone. --- Mequinez, also known as Meknes, is a city in Morocco that’s steeped in history and culture. It’s situated in the north of the country and is a popular spot for tourists looking to experience the genuine Moroccan way of life. One of the main draws of Mequinez is the historic Medina, which is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Medina is a labyrinth of narrow streets and lanes, home to traditional Moroccan houses, souks, and artisan workshops. Visitors can wander through the Medina and soak up the city’s rich history and culture. Another well-known attraction in Mequinez is the Royal Stables, which date back to the 17th century. The stables are home to the renowned Barbary horses, famous for their strength and agility. Visitors can watch the horses being trained and learn about the history of the stables. Mequinez is also noted for its lovely gardens and parks, such as Jardin Lahboul and the Bou Inania Medersa. These parks provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, and are a grand spot to relax and unwind. Finally, anyone visiting Mequinez shouldn’t miss the chance to sample the local food. The city is known for its mouth-watering Moroccan dishes, like tagine, couscous, and harira. There are plenty of restaurants and cafés around the city serving these traditional meals, as well as international fare. All in all, Mequinez is a must-see destination for anyone keen to experience the real Moroccan lifestyle. With its rich history, beautiful parks, and delicious food, it’s sure to leave visitors with memories they’ll never forget.

About the destination: Situated on the Atlantic coast, Casablanca is the biggest city and the economic hub of Morocco. Casablanca is a modern city with bustling boulevards and numerous street cafes that give it a distinctly European feel. Casablanca is a mix of both tradition and modernity. Visitors will encounter traditional buildings of Moorish, Roman, Jewish, Spanish and French influence alongside the new modern skyscrapers. While the city is quite modern by Moroccan standards, there are many historical sites and striking white colonial architecture. The oldest part of the city, the medina, is relatively small compared to other medinas in Morocco, but still worth a wander around its narrow lanes. Near the Medina you'll find the City Hall, which boasts beautifully carved roofs. Casablanca's main attraction is the King Hassan II Mosque. Located in a stunning setting on the Atlantic Coast, it's the largest mosque in Morocco and the third largest in the world, with the tallest minaret in the world. A visit to Casablanca is a must for many travellers who come to Morocco. Oriental yet modern, Casablanca is a city of many faces.