The drive from Casablanca
Moroccan Memories
Taniah Tudor
Issue date: 2/11/09 Section: Lifestyles
Editor's Note: This is the second article of a three-part travel series.
The drive from Casablanca to Essaouira is almost all coastlines, from empty, expansive beaches to rocky bluffs. Some of the views are breathtaking, with Moroccan homes and farms studded here and there, adding to the appeal.
El Jadida, which is on the drive, is a great place to stop to have lunch. It is a big summer attraction for native Moroccans and foreign tourists, as well. It has the look of Southern California, with palm trees and architecture in Mediterranean colors, and has some really great eateries. The food is delicious and affordable. You just order at the counter and trek up the narrow stairs to the tables above. El Jadida also has a lovely beach and ocean view.
The first view of Essaouira is stunning. This fantastic coastal city is laid out below as visitors travel down the winding highway that leads to the city. It is a city of white and blue, spotted with seagulls hovering over the fishing docks. Until recently, the tourist industry had been somewhat quiet here, but it is picking up speed as people learn of its sandy beaches and artsy atmosphere. The city is walled, with ramparts dating back to the 1500s, but the present city was built in the 1800s by King Mohammed III.
Although more quiet a few years ago, Essaouira has become home to many wonderful restaurants, cafés and places to shop. There are stalls of art, jewelry, clothes, lighting and the lovely carved wood that can only be found in that region. The narrow streets are like a maze, but this makes them even more enjoyable to navigate. The Gnaoua Festival of World Music also is hosted in Essaouira, with a focus on the Gnaoua (or Gnawa) music that is a fusion of African, Berber and Arabic music.
Essaouira is charming and, with a larger part of its economy beginning to come from tourism, foreigners are well guarded by the local police. Always remember to be aware of the laws when visiting a new country, as ignorance of the law is no excuse in any country.
Taniah Tudor is a senior staff writer for The Arkansas Traveler.
The drive from Casablanca to Essaouira is almost all coastlines, from empty, expansive beaches to rocky bluffs. Some of the views are breathtaking, with Moroccan homes and farms studded here and there, adding to the appeal.
El Jadida, which is on the drive, is a great place to stop to have lunch. It is a big summer attraction for native Moroccans and foreign tourists, as well. It has the look of Southern California, with palm trees and architecture in Mediterranean colors, and has some really great eateries. The food is delicious and affordable. You just order at the counter and trek up the narrow stairs to the tables above. El Jadida also has a lovely beach and ocean view.
The first view of Essaouira is stunning. This fantastic coastal city is laid out below as visitors travel down the winding highway that leads to the city. It is a city of white and blue, spotted with seagulls hovering over the fishing docks. Until recently, the tourist industry had been somewhat quiet here, but it is picking up speed as people learn of its sandy beaches and artsy atmosphere. The city is walled, with ramparts dating back to the 1500s, but the present city was built in the 1800s by King Mohammed III.
Although more quiet a few years ago, Essaouira has become home to many wonderful restaurants, cafés and places to shop. There are stalls of art, jewelry, clothes, lighting and the lovely carved wood that can only be found in that region. The narrow streets are like a maze, but this makes them even more enjoyable to navigate. The Gnaoua Festival of World Music also is hosted in Essaouira, with a focus on the Gnaoua (or Gnawa) music that is a fusion of African, Berber and Arabic music.
Essaouira is charming and, with a larger part of its economy beginning to come from tourism, foreigners are well guarded by the local police. Always remember to be aware of the laws when visiting a new country, as ignorance of the law is no excuse in any country.
Taniah Tudor is a senior staff writer for The Arkansas Traveler.
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