The 1942’s movie “Casablanca” immediately triumphed at the Oscars awards. No wonder why – in this romantic film, beautiful French-controlled city streets were pictured, which became one of the most iconic love story’s background as well.
Although now Casablanca is actually the country’s largest port, which again belongs to Morocco, here you can still catch the hovering European spirit. And bellow we are going to share a short list of things you should definitely try out doing once you are in this amazingly romantic city.
1. Visit the house of God located on water
Hassan II Mosque is not only a symbol of Casablanca but also the second largest Muslim temple in the world. It is believed that the house of God must stand on the water, so this shrine was built on the artificially filled peninsula.
The mosque will surprise you with not only the 210-meter-high minaret but luxurious interior – marble floors are carpeted with the best carpets, and the walls are decorated with paintings and mosaics which will show the talents of artists you will fall in love instantly. It’s hard to describe the majesty of the building, but the facts speak for themselves – at the same time the temple can accommodate 25 thousand worshipers.
2. Clear the body and soul in the local bathhouse
Hammam bath is very popular in Morocco and Tunisia. Here, locals gather not only to relax but also to meet with friends and share their stories. Moroccan saunas are usually found near the mosque because it is believed that it is necessary to wash your body before praying.
To be fair, if you want to enjoy such pampering, you will have to comply with strict rules. In Hammam, there is a strong distinction between when women and men can bathe – men gather in the morning, and women enjoy the treatments in the afternoon.
3. Eat breakfast in the central market
Noisy Marrakech markets can be misleading while Marche Central Marketplace in Casablanca can be just perfect for those tourists who would like to have a slow and peaceful stroll while shopping. Although stalls are loaded with souvenirs, colorful traditional clothes and carpets are hanging everywhere, food is that really reigns in here.
Stop by here in the early morning when vendors offer freshly pulled from the ocean fish or just amazingly fresh fruits and vegetables. Such breakfast is delicious and nutritious, so you will get the energy to explore the beautiful city for the whole day.
4. Enjoy the sun on the Atlantic coast
In Morocco the sun shines all year round, so it would be a sin not to pamper yourself with its warm rays. For those who visit Casablanca and wants to impress someone with a nice tan, it is not necessary to travel to urban spas.
Not far from the city center lays La Corniche Beach. If the Atlantic Ocean is too cold, you can freshen up in one of the waterfront swimming pools. In here, everything is as far as you can reach with your hand since a multitude of restaurants and cafes, shopping malls and spas are located in one amazing street.
5. Drink blessed mint tea
It is said that in order to produce a good tea in Morocco is like making the genius art piece. The importance of this beverage is not doubted in here – locals enjoy it several times a day. Traditional green tea is usually served in the ornate glass cup full of mint leaves. If you visit local Moroccan homes, you will see an unusual ceremony – hot water must be poured out a high-level stream while pronouncing the blessing “Inshallah.”
The article was kindly shared with us by the team of Travel Ticker, who are inviting you to travel the world cheaper with their wide range of cheap hotels you can book at all parts of the world – Casablanca included!
