Journey Beyond Travel...going beyond the destination

It was once thought that nothing lay beyond the Atlantic Coast of Morocco. Today the Atlantic Coast region of Morocco is one of the most prosperous. This fact is due to the shipping ports which have formed on the coast bringing tourists, fishing industries and much more. Casablanca is one of these coastal cities. It is one of the largest cities of Morocco, and perhaps the most well known.

The film Casablanca allowed most of us to learn of the Moroccan city probably for the first time. The film was created in 1942, with Humphrey Bogart in the male lead role and Ingrid Bergman as the female lead. Perhaps the city is not at all what the film depicted, but it did make it a travel destination for today’s tourists. Rick’s Cafe is a must-see, must-eat restaurant today because of the motion picture, of course.

Much of Morocco’s population is housed in Casablanca and up and down the Atlantic Coast region. Numerous travelers to Casablanca spend a small amount of time in the city, before taking a train or plane to other parts of Morocco or Africa.  Yet, this area deserves to be explored for the mixture of culture, the shops, and (as mentioned) the restaurants.

Casablanca is the capital of Morocco with art galleries and fashion shops to boot.  It can be a maze of contradictions because of the numerous traffic in some areas and almost empty streets in other.  Casablanca is very open to western culture, with much of the local garb reflecting this modern adoption.

Casablanca’s History

The history of Casablanca began with the Phoenicians in the 6th century BC.  They lived in the area through the 7th century, which is when the small village became the capital.  It was at this point that the Berbers began to settle into the area.  The Almohads destroyed the area in 1188.  Before visiting Casablanca you may find it important to learn more about the history of such a great city.  It will help in understanding the various architectural and historical sites you will discover on your treks through this amazing city.

The Medina of Casablanca or the old city is in the northern section.  It is a small area close to the port. From the south end of the Medina the rest of the city streets sprawl about creating the massive economic center that it truly is.

Cultural Centers

There are four cultural centers in Casablanca that are worth visiting if you can stay in town for a week.  The Dan America is a place of American culture and language explaining the history of Americans in Morocco.  The Goethe Institute offers German classes, film screenings, events, and exhibitions.  Depending on the time of year you visit Morocco this center may host a great many events you will want to attend.  The Institute France is another library for films, lectures, events, and exhibitions relating to the French culture.  French culture in Morocco is quite prominent.  The French have played a huge role in Africa, specifically in this northern region.  Lastly the Institute Cervantes is available for anyone wishing to learn more about the Spanish influence on Morocco.  Spain is not far across the Mediterranean Sea, making it just as important as the three other cultures one can study while on vacation.

Like any large city there are areas in Casablanca you will not want to visit.  It is fairly easy to keep out of these areas, by sticking to the main tourist areas.  One way to ensure a most successful visit to Casablanca is booking through a tour operator. Such operators offer tours of the city, giving a much more relaxing Morocco holiday with a cultural history lesson (and much more).

The Atlantic Coast and Casablanca is just one area to visit. For those wanting a variety of experiences spending a few days in Casablanca and moving on is worthwhile. Ergo, another popular area for tourists to visit is the High Atlas Mountains.  These mountains are magnificent in their beauty.  Vibrant green forests, wildlife, birds, and small villages await those willing to trek off the beaten path to waterfalls, lakes, and Massifs like Jbel Toubkal. Trekking Morocco is best done with a tour operator who knows the area and can arrange places to stay for the multiday trips.

So whether you take a walking tour of Casablanca or stop for a few hours to explore a few of the more popular shops or take to trekking the High Atlas Mountains, Morocco has a dash of a little of everything for an array of visitors.

by Sam Mitchell