Morocco : The Land of Contrast

Morocco or Kingdom of Morocco is one of the most unique and mesmerizing country that one could not help but fall in love with her immediately. Its kaleidoscope of sky blue, copper brown, Marrakech red and leafy green makes is as mystical as a fairy tale land.

Moors is a word derived from the Greek 'Mauros' which means 'dark' for people of Morocco, they are native of African Berbers with Arab origin, this was during the period when Islam spreading its wing in North Africa. The contrast is reflected strongly in their culture, custom and architecture.

There are many ways to embrace Morocco, you can either take an all inclusive holidays package or plan your own; the earlier is an easier option for those looking for convenience. An advice to any travelers to Morocco, do spend some time in magical Marrakech else it is as good as you never set foot here before.

Hassan II Mosque - the largest in North Africa, and the third largest in the world

Interior of Hassan II Mosque

 

Just like the movie, we decided that the first city to visit would be Casablanca. The iconic building we visited was the Hassan II Mosque - the largest in North Africa, and the third largest in the world; designed by a French architect named Michel Pinseau. Understood that the mosque can cater for 25,000 worshippers inside, and additional 80,000 can be accommodated in the outer pavilion. It also holds the world's tallest minaret record at 210 metres. Definitely a sight to behold.

A room in the riad where we stayed

Riad's living room

There are 2 things that made Marrakech famous, one being the labyrinth and the other Djemaa el Fna. With this in mind, we have purposely chosen to stay in a riad/guesthouse in the labyrinth itself located a walking distance from Djemaa el Fna. The best way to feel the colours of Marrakech is to take a walk in it’s medina (old city) and souks (markets), this can be done either by venturing into the maze with a map at hand or by including it in your all inclusive holidays package with a guide explaining its history in detail.

Djemaa el Fna transforming to a food court

 

Orange and spice sellers at Djemaa el Fna

The main square of Marrakech, Djemaa el Fna is where you will get to see stalls and shops at abundance selling everything from an orange juice, water, snake charmers, spices and etc during day time.  At night, it transforms itself to a big food court of Marrakech. And because of its historical & cultural value, it is now recognized by UNESCO and has been awarded as a UNESCO Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity site.

The Berbers helping us riding the camel

 Let’s visit Morocco - The Land of Contrast.