By Noura khan
Travel Writer
The Times Kuwait
Morocco, a North African gem, is a land where ancient traditions blend seamlessly with modern influences. From the bustling souks of Marrakech to the serene Sahara Desert, Morocco offers an array of experiences for travelers seeking adventure, culture, and history.
Tourism in Morocco for families is considered an ideal option, as there are many activities and tourist attractions suitable for all family members. Families can visit ancient cities and learn about Moroccan history and culture, or enjoy beaches and seaside excursions on the Atlantic and Mediterranean coast. They can also spend quality time in mountain resorts and desert oases.
My trip started in Casablanca, the largest city in Morocco. The city stands as a testament to the country’s dynamic blend of tradition and modernity. Often seen as Morocco’s economic hub, Casablanca offers a unique blend of historical sites, modern attractions, and cultural experiences that make it a compelling destination for travelers.
One of the most important landmarks to visit in the city is the Hassan II Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world and a defining landmark of Casablanca. Built partly over the Atlantic Ocean, the mosque boasts a towering minaret, intricate mosaics, and a stunning prayer hall. Non-Muslim visitors can tour the mosque, providing a rare glimpse into Islamic architectural grandeur.
Casablanca’s coastal location provides ample opportunities for relaxation and recreation. You can find many restaurants, and nightclubs, and is a popular spot for both locals and visitors to stroll, enjoy ocean views, and experience Casablanca’s nightlife. The beaches around Casablanca offer opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The warm Atlantic waters and sandy shores make for a perfect day out.
My next visit was to the city of Beni Mellal, considered one of the tourist destinations that combines culture and natural beauty due to its strategic location between the Middle Atlas Mountains. A trip to visit Ouzoud Waterfalls, which is about 150 kilometers from Beni Mellal will not be wasted, as it is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in Morocco. These waterfalls provide a stunning sight with water cascading down from a height of more than 100 meters.
I also visited Ain Asserdoun, which is located in the heart of Beni Mellal, and is considered one of the most beautiful natural areas in the city. Ain Asserdoun is a natural water source surrounded by a beautiful garden and recreational facilities. The area provides an ideal environment for family outings. I then continued on to Kasbah, which was built in the 17th century as a defensive fortress and offers fantastic views of the city and surrounding areas.
Beni Mellal, with its natural beauty and cultural heritage, is considered one of the distinctive tourist destinations in Morocco. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, want to discover historical and cultural heritage, or enjoy delicious local cuisine, Beni Mellal offers an unforgettable travel experience.
From there, I set out to visit a wonderful village called Bine Al wedan, which is one of the forgotten gems of the country despite its stunning beauty. There are many activities that can be done in Bine El wedan, from enjoying sports activities such as boating and canoeing, as well as mountain biking. You can also enjoy the stunning landscape of the lake and the surrounding mountains, which make Bine el Ouidane a great place to spend holidays.
The next stopover was at Marrakech, also known as the Red City for its sandstone buildings, Marrakech’s highlights include the Koutoubia Mosque, and the vibrant Jemaa el-Fnaa square. The square comes alive in the evening with food stalls, musicians, and performers, offering an immersive cultural experience.
An unforgetable experience in Marrakech was the hot air balloon ride in the desert, a unique tourist experiences that attracts visitors from all over the world. The balloon lifted off in the early hours of the morning, after the process of inflating the balloon and preparations for takeoff were completed. The early start gave us the opportunity to watch the first rays of the sun creep across the desert horizon, covering the earth in golden and magical colors. During the trip, stunning views can be seen including the Atlas Mountains, vast sand dunes, and scattered green oases, making it an unforgettable visual experience.
Your trip to Morocco will not be complete without tasting delicious Moroccan dishes. Moroccan cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and aromatic spices. Traditional dishes such as tagine, couscous, and pastilla showcase the country’s rich culinary heritage.
The trip to Morocco concluded by visiting the city of Agadir. Considered the pearl of the Atlantic, it is one of the most important tourist destinations in Morocco, combining golden sandy beaches, stunning landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Thanks to its mild climate all year round and a variety of tourist activities, Agadir attracts visitors from all over the world.
A distinctive experience in Agadir is a visit to the famous Agadir Oufella Kasbah, as this historic Kasbah is located on a hill overlooking the city and the ocean, and dates back to the sixteenth century. The Kasbah offers stunning panoramic views and is an ideal place to take photos and enjoy the sunset. Visitors can also explore ancient ruins and learn about the city’s history via interpretive panels.Agadir has an international airport that connects the city to many international destinations.
Noura Khan, a travel influencer and content creator, is a Kuwaiti national, holds a degree in law from Kuwait University and has worked as a journalist prior to taking up a position in the government. In 2018 she started blogging on travel and visited more than 57 countries since. She has more than 54k followers on her blog post @nourajtraveller is well appreciated for content and travel information. Noura writes exclusively for The Times Kuwait on her travel visits.
