Morocco

Casablanca. The name instantly conjures up images of intrigue and mystery, of Bogie and Bergman. Even the geography of Morocco lends itself to this imagery. Nestled between the Arab and European world, it is a place where the Andalusian model of cultural co-existence continues to thrive; creating a culture that is neither European nor Arab.

Within this mix lies Casablanca, Morocco's largest city and the financial and logistical hub of the country. With the largest port in northern Africa, the city has a thriving industrial zone in addition to the headquarters for many of its resident multinational companies along the modern Boulevard Hassan II.

Situated in the heart of the financial district of the city, the Holiday Inn Crowne Plaza Casablanca provides five-star accommodations to business and pleasure travelers alike. Full conference facilities, three restaurants, and a rooftop pool and bar offer travelers all the amenities needed for work and pleasure in this rapidly growing city.
The exterior of the Crowne Plaza Casablanca

The 160th century Dar ei-Badi palace in Marrakech

To truly experience Morocco, however, Casablanca must be left behind. Outside this busy metropolis lie Morocco's true treasures: Marrakech, and Fez.

Fez is the old imperial capital. With labyrinthine streets dating back to the 12th century, it is a city where the donkey is still the most effective mode of transportation and on your ramblings you are as likely to encounter a centuries-old mosque as you are a shopping mall. In this chaotic city, you are surrounded by a cacophony of sounds -- from chickens being beheaded, to calls to prayer, to the ever-present cry of "Balak! Balak!" as a heavily-laden donkey comes careening down the narrow alleyways toward you.

At the opposite end of the spectrum is Marrakesh, at the foot of the Atlas Mountains. The heart of the city, Djemma El Fnaa square, comes alive every evening as merchants and entertainers offer aromatic food and snake charmers and fire breathers that will leave you with memories that will remain with you for a lifetime. The city was recently renovated for King Mohammed VI's royal wedding last year. With many of its old streets repaved and buildings facades restored, it is truly a unique sight.

Morocco has recently launched a new tourist initiative and new hotels and fantastically restored old palaces are opening up to visitors. This is a country that has come of age, and it offers a new and exciting destination to even the most experienced travellers.
The Crowne Plaza Casablanca's swimming pool

TOP