Month: December 2022

It found out that Casablanca in Morocco was a highly diversified, odd, and unpleasant-smelling city with almost no pleasant sidewalks or any greenery. Even the main streets of the city do not smell like anise and lavender, as they do throughout the entire Mediterranean, so it is difficult for me to picture what scents prevail there. I have never been to the Casablanca slums; I have only seen them from a taxi.

Thus, despite its drawbacks and the fact that it may be lived in a 5-star hotel, Casablanca in Morocco nevertheless has a feeling of being in a third-world nation. the one where it is dangerous to travel alone, to grin and to hold up a camera in public.

The general atmosphere Casablanca in Morocco is considerably more ominous. Both on the streets and on the roadways, people behave in an erratic and unpredictable manner. A visitor from Europe would perceive a mood and atmosphere that are almost pre-war in nature.

Even Casablanca in Morocco is the most advanced and European city in Africa, it is difficult to picture what goes on in the south or the heart of the continent on the seemingly normal-looking but hazardous streets.

Also worth noting is that the concepts of “cultural shock” and “acclimatization” are not at all relevant to this review. There is no way to anticipate or come to terms with Casablanca’s reputation as a filthy, disorderly, nasty, and uncivilized city. In addition, there is a “honeymoon” period, when a new place seems exciting and hopeful, in the very idea of “cultural shock.” The odors on every street of Casablanca in Morocco, on the other hand, are so overpowering that they immediately fill you with a wave of unease and physical pain.

After the trip, you’ll find it’s impossible to psychologically compare Casablanca in Morocco to any other resort, such as Antalya or Nice. The worlds of Europe and the Middle East are so distinct from one another that they even appear to be on different planets.

Another drawback is that English isn’t widely spoken in Morocco because it’s mostly a French and Spanish-speaking country.

Getting there

Although there are other ways to get from any country to Casablanca, Morocco, the plane was and continues to be the quickest and most practical option. We therefore have the following choices before us:

• through a connecting flight in Europe (starting at 130 EUR);
• by Royal Air Maroc’s direct flight departing from Sheremetyevo (starting at 200 EUR);
• by boat through Algeciras-Tangiers (30 EUR + bus) from Spain.

By air

Flying from Moscow with a connection in one of the European cities—Istanbul, Lisbon, Milan, or Madrid—is the simplest method to get to Casablanca. Royal Air Maroc offers direct flights from Sheremetyevo as well, however they are typically more expensive than connections. Casablanca has its own airport, Mohammed V International Airport (CMN).

From Moscow, possible connecting flights

• Turkish Airlines operates the most comfortable flights to Casablanca from Moscow at any time of the year, departing from Vnukovo airport via Istanbul. It costs between $150 and $250 USD. It takes 11 hours to get there.
• White Airways Portugal offers a second convenient route from Domodedovo with fares starting at 200 USD with a stopover in Lisbon. It takes 10 hours to get there.
• With prices starting at 200 USD and a 9-hour flight length, you can fly from Domodedovo with Royal Air Macroc + Air Italy with a connection in Milan.
• Iberia and Royal Maroc flights via Madrid are also available from Domodedovo. It will take 16 hours to get there.

flights from Saint Petersburg to other cities

Additionally, there are a few reasonably convenient flights out of St. Petersburg. Here are a few possibilities:

• Turkish Airlines flies to Pulkovo via Istanbul for as little as $300. It takes 11 hours to get there.
• Iberia via Madrid is available from Pulkovo for as little as $200 USD. It takes 11 hours to get there.
• From Pulkovo, travel on Royal Air Maroc and Aeroflot via Moscow (Sheremetyevo) costs $300 USD and takes 8 hours.
• From Pulkovo, by Air France with a connection in Paris, for $300. Travel time: 10 hours or more.

Compare airfares right here.

How to go from Casablanca airport to the center

The distance between the airport and the city center is 30 kilometers, and it takes 30 to 40 minutes to get there. It is preferable to take a cab from the airport in Casablanca to the city center. Cab fares range from 20 to 40 EUR. The airport’s ground level is where the taxi stand is situated (level of arrival area). The driver will take dollars or euros, but you should be aware that the exchange rate may not be to your liking. You can exchange currency at the airport at the going rate without worrying about overcharging. Here, exchange offices that accept USD and EUR are open 24/7. Keep in mind that Casablanca in Morocco only accepts payments in dirhams for many services, including train travel.

Important: When exchanging any other foreign currency during this trip, you must have a certificate proving that you got the dirhams before leaving the nation. Make sure you have a receipt showing that you originally swapped them from dollars or euros when you want to exchange them back (if left at the conclusion of the trip).

To get to the main station, Gare des Voyageurs (Casa Voyageurs), you can take the train; the fare starts at 5 EUR per person. The airport’s underground level is where boarding is located, under the number -1. There are cashiers in Terminals 1 and 2. From 6 am to 12 midnight, trains run at about hourly intervals.
You can check pricing from several car rental companies here at the airport, where there are car rental providers. Take the A7 Casa-Berchid through Bouskoura, followed by the A5 and R315 to reach the city center on your own.

By car

Anywhere there is a car, it is a real battle, a contest, or, more accurately, madness. If you have never driven in Morocco or, for example, Egypt before, it is highly discouraged that you rent a car and explore this country on your own. In particular, considering that the only way to reach Casablanca in Morocco is through Europe, which is 6,000 kilometers away and in no way an adventure.

via ferry

Tangier, a nearby city of Casablanca in Morocco, is easily accessible from Spain by ferry; the trip takes 35 minutes and costs no more than 30 EUR per person.

The season is when. When to leave

Casablanca does not enable you to fully engage in the excursion program during the summer months; instead, you may only swim in the sea or a pool. The ideal months to visit Casablanca are May or October since the weather is moderate but the sea is pleasant. Casablanca in Morocco is not the finest spot to come in the winter because the sea is just 17 degrees on average.

Summertime in Casablanca

The daytime temperature in the summer is maintained at or below 27 degrees. The ideal time of year for family vacations is now. It is between 21 and 22 degrees Celsius in the water. The beaches in Casablanca are crowded with residents and tourists from Europe at this time of year.

Casablanca in the Fall

While November is not as pleasant, September and October are almost like summer. Also, keep in mind that November is the wettest month of the year. The fall is the ideal season to travel to Morocco because it is cooler, the sea is warmer, and there are fewer visitors than in the summer.

Springtime in Casablanca

The water is approximately 16 degrees in March (cold), 18 degrees in April (very cool), and 19.5 degrees (slightly cool) in May when the average daily air temperature in spring is +21°C. Except for the final two weeks of May, Casablanca’s spring is not a good time to travel.

Winter in Casablanca

The typical daytime temperature in winter is around 19 degrees, and swimming is not recommended in water that is 17 degrees. No way is this time of year appropriate for a vacation to Casablanca in Morocco.

Neighborhoods. best places to live

The majority of European residents in Casablanca travel here for work. Most are middle-aged men who would rather remain in a nice hotel with service and a pool than an apartment where everything would be continuously breaking down (this is Morocco! ), even if their business trip lasts several months or a year. Additionally, you will be punished for all previous damage to the appliances and furniture. By the way, each new tenant receives a fine for the same infraction.

Therefore, if you’ve made the decision to stay in Casablanca in Morocco, I suggest looking for a hotel with a decent rating (more than 8 points on Bookings). Therefore, it costs between 100 and 200 EUR per room each night to provide safety and tranquility appropriate for a holiday. Hotels with ratings of less than 7 points are, to put it bluntly, awful; they are located in isolated locations and have dreadful service and furniture conditions.

As a result, if you decide to remain in Casablanca for a month or even longer, I suggest choosing a good hotel in a good location rather than an apartment. A monthly fee of 2500 EUR for an apartment for such a short period of time is already virtually the same as a room in a five-star hotel, so getting an apartment will not get much cheaper because the conditions you can have for 700 EUR you would not enjoy.

As a result, any misconceptions about Casablanca’s affordability are instantly dispelled. Poor ghetto apartments without furniture, with bugs and leaks on the walls, where the street smells, and only in residential sections are the grocery are cheap here. Additionally, the typical level is in no way of the European class. You won’t be able to live at a European standard here for 400–700 euros per apartment in rent. You can only find tranquility in villas and flats starting from 1300 EUR in Italy or Turkey; otherwise, you just “slide” into living on a third-world level.

On the Bucketing, hotels can be hired. Make sure these rates are the best for you by comparing them here. You can find a good choice here if you still wish to rent an apartment.

Casablanca in Morocco, other goods are nearly the same. The cheap versions are produced from unusual materials and are of low quality, so they end up costing the same as regular ones and not any less.

Popular areas to live in Casablanca include:

• Built in the 1930s, the Habous Quarter (also known as New Medina) may take home the prize for cleanest neighborhood in the city. This neighborhood draws all travelers due to the abundance of tourist-friendly streets there. The government and the court are located here, together with the Notre Dame de Lourdes Cathedral, the Sultan Moulay Youssef bin Hassan Mosque, the Royal Palace, and the Mahakma do Pasha Palace. Markets for ceramics, olives, seafood, and meat, as well as an intriguing textile and spice market, are close by. There are numerous cafes and restaurants, as well as shops selling jewelry, leather, silk, and cloth to tourists. Take bus numbers 40 and 4 from Paris Boulevard to get to Haboos from the center. Due to the old age of the structures, rental rates in Habous are extremely low. Without furniture, you can easily locate an apartment here for 400–600 EUR a month. Renting in this area is not advised because the neighborhood across the street has larger streets, more trees, and more contemporary structures.

• Anfa is the most exclusive neighborhood Casablanca in Morocco. It includes views of the sea, the beach, and the ports, as well as squares and palm-lined streets. Anfa is a district in the uplands with few hotels but lots of rental villas that can be rented for either a short or lengthy period of time. Europeans should consider relocating permanently to this neighborhood of Casablanca. A furnished flat of international standard costs between 1000 and 1600 EUR (70 square meters with new renovation). I definitely suggest renting an apartment right here; you’ll receive modern, spacious windows, views of grass and palm palms, and new renovations.

• The majority of hotels are found along the Corniche, which runs between the two beaches. Here are choices for renting hotel rooms as well as apartments to suit every preference and budget. In contrast to the areas of the center to the south or east, the Corniche neighborhood is sufficiently modern and is better suited for vacationing tourists. This makes it difficult to locate affordable long-term housing in the area, save for during the tourist season. Nevertheless, there are always possibilities available for 1,200 EUR for a decent, contemporary apartment.

• The core district, which lies south of the harbour, is spread across a huge area of land that begins at the port and finishes at the A3 highway. Although it is Casablanca’s largest district, it is unsuitable for foreigners because it also contains the Hobus district. Most of the residents are locals, there are offices nearby, and ghettos, nasty lanes, and slums surround the region to the south and east. Additionally, it is hazardous for foreigners south of the A3 highway. The housing options in the city center are varied, ranging from affordable studio apartments that no European could afford to upscale penthouses that cost $1,500 per month.

• Between the center and Anfa is another neighborhood known as Maarif, which is marked by a number of single-type structures with 6–10 floors and white paint. If you are interested in the transportation accessibility of any of the Casablanca neighborhoods, this region is quite easy to live in. In Maarif, there are numerous hotels adjacent to the beaches and the port, making it simple for those who want to combine beach and tourist vacations. Unlike the majority of Casablanca’s hotels, this sector is fairly modern. Long-term rent for an unfurnished flat is roughly 500–700 EUR (70–100 square meters), whereas luxury apartments cost roughly 1000–1500 EUR (150-200 square meters, with furniture).

Popular areas outside the city, including Mohammedia, Buznik, and Zenata, are shown on the map:

• Mohammedia, a nearby town 20 kilometers east of Casablanca in Morocco, is a fascinating destination to visit and it has four beaches, a golf course, and a lot of costly hotels. The beaches are significantly cleaner than in Casablanca proper, and the local aristocracy enjoy to vacation here. A decent hotel room in Mohammedia costs about 100 EUR, but it’s much preferable to rent an apartment (70–90 square meters) with space for 4–8 people for about 50–100 EUR. It is essentially a Moroccan resort that welcomes families.

• Zenata, a popular surfing destination with the same-named beach, is situated halfway between Casablanca and Mohammedia. Despite having the largest waves, it lacks the infrastructure required for the typical tourist lifestyle. Therefore, you can travel here by automobile or bus along the R322. Because the region is partially industrial, you shouldn’t anticipate any facilities than strong waves. However, you may rent a property right on the beach in this location if you pay a high enough fee. Such a villa costs around 2000 EUR per month (during peak season); inexpensive apartments are typically not offered in this area.

• Those who want to visit the fashionable bright red beach might consider vacationing in Buznika. Similar to Mohammedia, where a large apartment or home can be rented for between 100 and 200 EUR per day, hotel rates are average here.

What are the costs of vacations?

Going to restaurants, pubs, clubs, and cafes may be fairly pricey Casablanca in Morocco. It was designed largely for the French, thus it is difficult to locate anything of European caliber that is not extremely expensive. A low-cost holiday entails blending with the local culture by dining in small local cafés that serve Moroccan food and staying in an apartment or hotel near a lot of Arab-built structures.

• Lunch at a restaurant costs 25–35 EUR, lunch at a neighborhood café costs 5 EUR, and a nice dinner costs 60–70 EUR.
• A double room in a subpar hotel starts at 20 EUR, a middle-class hotel is 50–70 EUR, and a top-notch hotel is 80–250 EUR.
• Excursions (such as safaris and city tours) begin at 15 EUR.
• An average city taxi ride costs 3 EUR.

primary draws. What to watch

The majority of Moroccan mosques offer free access, however you must hire a local guide to explain the attraction to you. The price is initially often in the range of 20 to 30 USD, but the guide is genuinely eager to show you around for around $5 USD. In the same way, if a tour’s unofficial pricing is not shown on the official price list, you will be offered a service that is 2-3 times more expensive up front.

Top 5

Although Casablanca in Morocco is not the best place to go sightseeing, there are some noteworthy Arab-style architectural sites there:

The second mosque in Hassan.

Surprisingly, Hassan the Second Mosque is situated directly on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic. One hundred thousand individuals can pray there at once at its 210-meter-tall minaret! The mosque is open for guided tours at 9, 10, and 11 a.m. and at 2 p.m. on weekdays. Admission is 8 euros.

Sacré Coeur Basilica

Casablanca’s beautiful Sacré Coeur Cathedral is a must-see attraction. Not to be mistaken with the Parisian cathedral of the same name, for which Morocco’s architectural legacy was named.
It is situated on Boulevard Rachdi, close to Mohamad V’s central square (which is described below).

Location Mohhamed V

The city’s central square, Place Mohhamed V, is open every day of the year and is free to enter. It is surrounded by a number of significant landmarks, including the Sacré Coeur Cathedral, the General Post Office, and the Supreme Court building.

King’s Palace

While the Royal Palace is not a must-see location while on vacation, it is conveniently located in the middle of all the action Casablanca in Morocco. The palace can be found in New Medina (Hobus). It is important to note that you cannot enter the palace, not even for a price, as it is still the rulers’ temporary home. But you can take a picture close to the stylish gate.

Location: near Ahmed-el-Figuigui Street and Boulevard Victor-Hugo intersection.

Palace of Mahakma do Paça

Another beautiful example of Arab architecture that brings to mind the fairytale of the 1000 and one nights is the Mahakma do Paça Palace. Both the French accents of medieval castles and the idea of a typical caravanserai, a common kind of public building in the Arab world, may be seen in the design of the walls. The palace is accessible from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. on weekdays and from 2 to 6 p.m. on weekends. Although there is no charge to enter the palace, there is a mandatory guide fee that can be negotiated.

Appt Quartier Romandie is the address.

Beaches. which ones are the best?

The beaches of Morocco cannot provide more than what they can. In slightly turbulent conditions, the tide already deposits a lot of trash on the beaches, and within an hour, the water’s hue has changed to a murky orange or green. However, if the season and the weather cooperate, you might plan a beach vacation in Casablanca.

The beaches featured in the list have zero infrastructure, including no loungers, no bars or restaurants, and frequently not even the cafes or restaurants themselves. Children can bathe in the sea at roughly the same smooth entrance, and it takes 5 to 10 minutes to walk to the bottom of the water, which is 1,6 meters deep. However, there is a chance of quite swift waves on all beaches, which could be uncomfortable for the rest of the family with little children who cannot swim.
Additionally, it is important to be aware that tent-dwelling visitors are common on several of Casablanca’s beaches.

The following is a list of the top beaches in and near Casablanca:

Since Casablanca’s beaches are all sand-covered, broad, and long, even in the height of summer travel, you can always find a spot on one.

• The greatest place in Casablanca to find some peace and quiet is Plage Lalla Meriem, often known as Corniche Beach. However, the morning is when everyone snags the good seats. Depending on the efforts of the municipal services, the beach itself may be clean or filthy, but more often than not, like the rest of the city, it is somewhere between the two. Behind the Anfa shopping center, close to the Four Seasons Hotel, sits the beach.

• Private swimming pools are available on the Corniche beach for 10 euros per person. From early in the morning until late at night, they are open. The beach is also accessible from here, and there are sun loungers and all the conveniences.

• La plage d’Aid Diab is crowded with residents; on weekends, dozens or even hundreds of youths congregate here to play ball. Local kids launch balloons here, and there is a lot of plastic waste. It is not advisable for women to show up in bikinis because the most of the rest are merely local, fully dressed women who only wade in knee-deep.

• Compared to the other beaches, Plage Madame Choual is a bit distant from the city. Next to the Morocco Mall, it is one of the tiniest beaches.

Beaches at Zenat and Buznik

• If you’re staying in the city center, Zenata, a beach halfway between Mohammedia and Casablanca, is a great option for surfing. If you exclude the area next to the port, which is full of plastic trash, the beach is generally clean. Follow the R322 eastward to the marker and turn left to reach it.

• Despite being 45 km from Casablanca’s city center and 20 km from Mohammedia, Bouznika is still a desirable tourist destination. On a bright, sunny day, the beach’s aquamarine waters and vivid red sand make it ideal for surfing and windsurfing. The quickest and most convenient way to get here is by train from Casablanca’s main station; the trip takes 40 minutes and costs 2 to 3 USD.

temples and churches. Worth the trip

The gorgeous, vibrant stained glass windows in Casablanca’s Notre Dame de Lourdes Catholic Church are legendary. For people who enjoy being impressed while on vacation and are generally interested in architecture, it is a location worth visiting. The church was constructed in 1953 and was designed in the Art Nouveau style by Auguste Perret.
Hours of operation are 8:30 am to 12:30 pm and 2:00 pm to 6:30 pm at Piazza Rond-Point d’Europe. Free admission.

Museums. which ones merit a visit

The two largest museums in Casablanca are mostly galleries of art. I would advise going to both.

• The museum Musée Abderrahman Slaoui is particularly well-liked by visitors. There are numerous opulent relics of Moroccan nobility, antique jewelry and accessories, posters, and a profusion of great artworks. This museum Casablanca in Morocco is a must-see if you enjoy art. It costs 8 EUR to enter. Open from 10 to 18 on the weekends, holidays, and on Mondays at 12 Rue Du Parc.

• Another place that merits your attention is the Villa des Arts de Casablanca art museum. 30 Boulevard Brahim Roudani is where you may find it. Because the museum is state-owned, admission is free. There are a few dozen intriguing paintings by Moroccan painters, most of which date from the 1930s. Weekends include Sunday and Monday, when it is open from 10 a.m. until 7 p.m.

Parks

Go to a water park, a golf course, or the Parc des Liges to continue your holiday when you tire of the Arabian districts’ loud vendors:

• Casablanca’s Arabian League Park is a wonderful area to wander while surrounded by palm palms. Prices are reasonable, there are many restaurants and cafes, and both locals and visitors frequently have picnics on the grass. The park is accessible to the general public every day of the year and is free to enter.

Visiting Streets

The principal tourist neighborhoods are:

• The promenade known as Corniche Boulevard is home to a number of upscale eateries, coffee shops, hotels, as well as local gift shops, apparel, and shoe stores. Laila Meryem beach, Anfa commercial area, and Ain Diab beach, which is ideal for family-friendly tourist outings, surround it on the right and left, respectively. The residential area of Anfa is close by and is home to several luxurious (by Moroccan standards) villas with gardens and swimming pools.

• A whole area of Hobus, New Medina is studded with quaint stores, several marketplaces, and intriguing boutiques. For all visitors who come to experience the unique flavor of Morocco, this place must be seen.

Things to do in a day

I advise visiting the Anfa retail complex and the beach closest to it if you are visiting Casablanca for a day on a cruise ship. You should also stroll down Boulevard Corniche and the promenade, stop at the Mohamed II mosque, and explore the Old Medina neighborhood. The same holds true for weekend visitors who arrived in Casablanca by automobile or airplane. This trip can be completed in 3–4 hours without stopping at the beach and in 8–9 hours if stopping at the beach and a few cafés or restaurants. On various flights, the liners often stay from 8 or 9 till 5 or 9 p.m. If your mooring ends at 5 pm, I advise spending no more than three hours on the beach; however, if it stays open until 9 pm, there is no time restriction.

There is a pattern to the itinerary:

• 8 or 9 am: liner parking – tourist seats in the Old Medina area
• Mohamed II Mosque: Leave modern bus line 011 at Res. Bouaarfa station at 11 a.m. (runs every 13 minutes).
• 12 a.m.: ride it to Plage Laila Mereyem beach, get off at the Anfa mall on the sand, and then walk the same route back.
• 3.30 p.m.: From Laila Mereyem beach, it’s only a few kilometers in a straight line to the departing liner parking. Alternatively, you can take the bus. the same route back. Another sizable mall, Morocco Mall, is located right on the beach and is open until 22:00.

The route is 6–9 kilometers long, of which 3–4 km are traveled by bus and an air-conditioned streetcar, respectively. Keep in mind that it is preferable to arrive at the liners’ parking area early.

Many restaurants and public restrooms are located in the mall in the Old Medina district along the route. This approach avoids visiting squares and several mosques.

something to look out for in the area

When I originally arrived in Casablanca for three months, I knew I wouldn’t last more than a few weeks, so I immediately started looking for somewhere else to go. If you opt to transfer your holiday to a more European location like I did, here is my list of recommended locations, all of which are accessible by both train (if it’s Morocco) and airplane. It is preferable to take the train from Casablanca to any other Moroccan city because it is quicker than taking the bus and accessing the station is simpler. The Casablanca Voyageurs train station is located there.

Where can I go from Casablanca that is quick and trouble-free?

Rabat (85 kilometers) (85 km)

• The journey to Rabat, Morocco, takes one hour. To get to the city of Fez, which passes through Rabat, you must use a train. The cost is between $3 and $4.300 miles away from Tangier, for a trip to Spain

• From this port city, a quick ferry will take you to Spain. It takes roughly 3.5 hours to get from Casablanca to Tangier. The cost is $13. You may find the ferry timetable here.

• Algeciras (20 miles from Tangier) A 35-minute ferry voyage from Tangier will get you to the Spanish port and resort; the ferry will cost you 30 EUR, but it will be well worth it. It’s incredibly convenient to travel to Algeciras because the ferry is quite contemporary and will get you there swiftly. The storied resort of Tarifa, with its spotless white sand beach, is close by. Additionally, Algeciras itself has a fantastic, long beach with clear water. To be in Spain as soon as possible, in Algeciras, a wonderful paradise, would be my straightforward response if you were to ask me what I dreamed about when I was in Casablanca.

• Marrakech (250 km) (250 km) The trip takes 2.5 hours by auto or bus from Casablanca to the city. Train travel takes 2.5 hours and costs $10 for first class to get to this location. Only those who truly appreciate Morocco and its culture should travel to Marrakech, as the city has an even greater concentration of obtrusive local vendors and packed, dirty, yet vibrant streets than Casablanca.

• Chavin (330 kilometers) (330 km) One can travel to the Moroccan Chavin, which has blue houses, as part of a tour that frequently departs from the ship pier. This tour, which takes around 2.5 hours to complete one way, is highly well-liked by everyone who spends the day in Casablanca. Built in 1471, Chavin is home to beautiful blue and azure homes as well as a variety of stores selling fantastic trinkets.

What to Try in Food

• Since food illness is a typical occurrence among visitors to Morocco, I personally encourage you to only eat at chain restaurants and pricey fast food restaurants at 4* and 5* hotels. Nevertheless, several of the restaurants on our list below serve some of the country’s absolutely delicious regional cuisine.
• Be advised that many restaurants in Casablanca operate with a lengthy fiesta (lunch break), just like in France, as the city was a former French colony. suggested locations are.

• Burgers are not simply burgers; Blend Gourmet Burgers are works of art! Stylish interior, cutting-edge service, and chic serving!
• Location: Quartier Gauthier, 9 Rue Theophile Gauthier.
• Open from noon to 5:00 and from 9:00 until 23:30.
• Iloli is a hip restaurant serving sushi and Japanese cuisine, with an elegant setting that straddles Asian minimalism and American loft. Both tourists and students frequent the restaurant in great numbers.
• 33 Rue Najib Mahfoud is the address.
• Available from 12:30 to 15:00 and 19:30 to 0:00.

Budget

• Lunch at the Moroccan fast food restaurant L’espace du Professeur costs between 5 and 10 euros per person. In general, this location could be described as a local canteen with excellent meals for tourists. There is a playground there.
• Boulevard Moussa Ibn Noussair, Gauthier, is the location, and it’s open from 6 am to 9 pm.
• You may dine well and affordably at Khos. Salads, snacks, and sweets are all offered in abundance. The cost of lunch starts at 10 euros per person, there are inexpensive soups, and the restaurant specializes in European and Mediterranean food. Open from 12:00 to 20:00.
• 44 Rue Annoussour is the address.

level middle

• Le Patio is more than simply a restaurant; it’s a chic outdoor space with green walls and a contemporary, urban vibe. It seems more like Canada than Morocco. Dish prices start at 20 EUR.
• Rue Llya Abou Madi, 2 bis, Quartier Gauthier.
• Open from noon to 5:00 and from 9:00 until 23:30.
• Another intriguing location with a Cuban-inspired décor is La Bodega de Casablanca. Cocktails start at 7 euros; a meal and a drink costs 25 euros. 129 Rue Allal BenAbdallah serves primarily Spanish and Latin cuisine.
• Open from 12:00 to 16:00 and 19:00 to 1:00.

Dear

• Brasserie La Tour is a very pricey establishment with a preference for elegant cuisine and a very fashionable décor. The expensive price is truly warranted, therefore that is the only drawback. Breakfast costs around 15 euros per person, and supper costs around 50 euros. The restaurant is open from 8 am to 11 pm and is situated on the first floor of the Hotel Sofitel Tour Blanche.
• A great hangout for young people, Tula Comida Latina serves authentic Moroccan cuisine. However, there are also delicious Mexican, Chilean, and Peruvian cuisine! One highly creative menu covers the entirety of the Latino world. The cost of the dishes starts at 35 EUR.
• Address: Quartier Racine, 8 Rue Isli.
• open from noon till midnight.
• Another intriguing location, this time with a stunning ocean view, is Le Cabestan – Ocean View. A variety of seafood dishes are added to classic French and Mediterranean cuisines. A supper will cost you roughly 40 EUR. In the summer, seats must be reserved!
• 90 Boulevard de la Corniche Phare d’El Hank is the address.
• Open from 12:00 till 00:00.

Holidays

If you desire a vibrant nightlife, it is not advised to visit Casablanca (or Morocco) during Ramadan. Additionally, a lot of cafes, restaurants, and even hotels are closed on this religious holiday.

The Jazzblanca Jazz Festival, the lengthy 3- to 4-day L’Zac L’Boulevard Music Festival, and the Safi Ceramics Fair are among the notable events and festivals held in Casablanca. It is important to examine each date separately.

Safety. What to be wary of

• A few guidelines and constant caution are required when traveling across Morocco, which was and still is predominantly an African nation. Let’s examine the Casablanca security threats.
• In general, a lady should not venture out alone after 8 o’clock. Even if there is no seat available, you cannot stand next to a stranger on the bus. Only a male may occupy an open seat next to another man.
  No home in Morocco has central heating, so if the temperature drops to zero in the winter, you’ll remain inside your apartment. Electric heaters allow you to warm yourself, but they are pricey. Many Moroccans don’t use any kind of heating during their entire lives.
  
• Never pay a deposit before seeing the flat if you are renting it. If everything functions well after the viewing, you can only give the first month’s rent plus any applicable commission. You are trying to defraud if a commission is imposed on you after you refused to accept it in the first place. Never send money 3-6 months in advance; it’s almost certainly a straightforward fraud.
  
• There is no employment in this city (Casablanca in Morocco). There are, in theory, none for residents, English speakers. The typical monthly wage for a family of four—a married couple with 2-4 kids, the husband or wife’s parents, and one or two younger siblings—is between $300 and $500.
  There is no reliable Internet almost anywhere (well, besides in pricey hotels).
  
• Before moving forward with the rental, check the Internet connection in the apartment; otherwise, you face the chance of never reaching your realtor, who will avoid you for any issues.
  The average wage in Casablanca is 30 000 rubles, according to statistics on the internet. However, keep in mind that 50% of the population is illiterate and that Casablanca, in particular, has a shockingly low employment rate. Therefore, one individual provides for a family of six to fifteen members, and this is actually the norm and in no way an exception.
  
• If you don’t want passersby to look at you with a frightening grin, avoid wearing skirts, miniskirts, or garishly beautiful (which means colorful and eye-catching!) jeans and pants. You will be treated more kindly on the streets the scarier you dress.
  
• A family of four would require roughly 200 thousand rubles per month, while a couple would require about 130 thousand rubles per month to live comfortably. For two people, the minimum monthly salary in Casablanca is roughly 70 thousand rubles. Moving to Casablanca as a waiter or freelancer even for the summer season makes little sense with less money or pay.

Things to do

As much as the guidebooks attempt to convince us otherwise with French street names and pricey restaurants à la Paris, Casablanca is first and foremost an Arab city. I wouldn’t suggest you to venture outside of the tourist districts because people here barely survive rather than live. There is a list of locations, though, that everyone visitor to Casablanca should be aware of:

• The rumored Yasmina Amusement Park in Casablanca, which was once home to slides and merry-go-rounds, has been shuttered and abandoned for a long time.
• Working water park Tamaris Aquaparc is a Casablanca must-see even if it is generally inferior to any European water park. With a bowling alley, kids’ play area, eight giant slides, and twenty kid-sized slides, it is the biggest in all of Morocco. Opening hours are from 10 to 18:30 every day, and admission is 45 EUR for adults and 30 EUR for kids. Route d’Azemmour Km 15, please.
• Open from 7 am to 7 pm, Royal Golf Anfa is a stunning golf club located in the heart of the city. Each participant will pay 80 EUR, not including drinks and food. The golf club is situated in the same-named Anfa area, with access from the side of the R320 highway and a stop called Royal Gold D Anfa.

Shops and Shopping

In the Anfaplace neighborhood, Casablanca’s two major shopping centers are close to one another:

• The Anfaplace Shopping Center is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and is located on Corniche Boulevard’s waterfront. Women will adore the American Eagle Outfitters store, which is a brand name and uncommon in Africa.

• On the west side of the city, Morocco Mall is also open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Here, you can find brands like Louis Vuitton, Zara, and others.

Bars. What to do?

• French specialties can be ordered at Brasserie Nicole. European tourists adore its chic, opulent décor, which has a French flavor. Cocktail prices start at 12 EUR. Open from 19 to 1 am at 47 Avenue Hassan Souktani.

• The distinctive Le Diplomate Bar, which has a clubby feel reminiscent of an English gentlemen’s club, is situated at 27 Avenue De L’Armée Royale. It goes without saying that the eye-catching interior, pricey furnishings, and inviting old European ambiance are worthy of your attention. alcohol starting at 7 euros. Between 7 p.m. and 2 a.m.

• The Hyatt Regency Hotel’s first floor is home to the magnificent Cafe M, which is open from 12:00 to 15:00 and from 19:00 to 23:00. Anyone who is tired of Europe in Morocco should check it out, in my opinion. Lunch costs between 20 and 30 EUR and is available directly in the center.

• The most well-known bar, Sky 28, is situated in the storied Twin Center in the heart of the city. A panoramic view over the entire city is worth the average 20 EUR cost of the pricey cocktails. Around 10:00 p.m., the sights are at their best. Hours of operation: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

• The same-named hotel’s VAL D’ANFA Bar offers upscale service and a stylish beverage menu comparable to those of French resorts. The prices are fair; an average supper with wine costs around 80 euros per person. Address in full: 2 Bd de L’Ocean Atlantique, 2 Rue Des Biaridez The bar is open daily from midday till midnight.

Nightlife and clubs

• Outside of the city, in the little resort town of Mohammedia, to the east, is where you’ll find Casablanca’s primary club. The Opra Club is renowned for its exorbitant costs, top-notch DJs, and swanky service. The Avanti Mohammedia Hotel, located directly on the Miramar beach, serves as its foundation. Drinks often cost 15 to 10 euros, while entrance fees are 30 euros. This club has a very straightforward dress code: tracksuits, too-used jeans, sneakers, boots, and shorts and flip-flops are not permitted.

• Located at 55 Boulevard de la Corniche, B ROCK is open from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. Live music, a 5 EUR entrance fee, and 12 EUR for a beverage. Although there is no set dress code at this establishment, it is best to avoid wearing beachwear.

• On 16 Rue de la Mer Noire, Club Amstrong has live music and is open from 19 till 2 in the morning. On days when there are no performances, admission is free. Alcoholic beverages start at 7 EUR, and cocktails start at 10 EUR. The club has no dress code either. The sole requirement is to refrain from wearing flip-flops or beach T-shirts.

• The most expensive nightclub Casablanca in Morocco, Crystal Beach Club is a stylish establishment. The pool is surrounded by a number of platforms and dance floors and is designed to resemble an oasis with palm palms and lovely lighting. Negative: pricy entry (60 EUR on weekdays and 80 EUR on weekends). Cocktails cost around 30 euros, and the club caters to the wealthiest visitors. similar to those of the Opra Club.

Extreme sport

Surfing

Every travel guide portrays Morocco’s beaches as a haven for surfers, especially in the months of January and February. Which is advantageous since most resort surf spots aren’t suitable for surfing at this time of year.

The best waves are to be found between October and March, though Ramadan surfers will face criticism from the locals. The best surfing schools in Morocco, however, are located in Agadir and El Suveira, not Casablanca.

a camel and horse safari

Any city office with excursions can be contacted to arrange an interesting excursion through the desert. Depending on how long the program is, up to 3 days long, the price ranges from 20 to 60 USD.

a Jeep Safari

A jeep safari is an additional choice for touring the desert as a group; it can be considerably more pleasant than riding a horse. Such entertainment generally costs between $20 and $30.

Souvenirs. Bringing the right gifts.

Ceramics, pointed Baboushi slippers, women’s djellaba robes, and various copper artifacts are the top souvenirs in Casablanca (trays, mugs, teapots). Items made of copper typically cost between 10 and 25 euros. In the Old Medina, which is close to the port, you may purchase souvenirs.

How to navigate the city

The city of Casablanca is challenging to navigate as well as to live in generally. I advise using the contemporary streetcars, which cover the most of the city, if you’re here for one to seven days. The best way to get to the rest of the city is with a rental car because the quality of the city’s taxis is quite subpar.

Cabs. What unique characteristics

Casablanca in Morocco, taxis are red rather than yellow. Typically, they are soaked with gasoline and driven by locals in very old cars. It is true that inside the city limits, the fare in them does not exceed $4 USD and corresponds to this degree of luxury.
In Morocco, you are permitted to stop a taxi that is currently carrying a customer. If you are traveling together, you divide the tab. Cabs in Casablanca have meters; after boarding, confirm that it is on.
The cab driver’s naming of the street, place of residence, or home number is absurd. You can travel to any luxury hotel, restaurant, or local landmark that you can think of.
Warning. Casablanca in Morocco, taxi drivers typically don’t give change. There is a significant likelihood that the driver may prefer to treat a hefty bill as payment plus tip if you give one. Just include the fare plus a 20% tip.

Streetcars

The streetcar system in the city is rather well-developed, and it can be utilized to move around Casablanca. The best option is a cheap cab or bus because their branch does not influence the coastal areas, including Anfa district. The latter, however, are undesirable because they only have Arabic timetables at the stops.

There are stations at the port (Casa Port), next to the train station, and Plage Ain Diab, which is the closest station to it (Casa Voyagers). From 6 am to 10:30 pm, streetcars run. The fare, which is paid in dirhams, is equal to 0.5 USD (6 MAD). At the turnstiles close to each station, payment is required. You purchase a ticket from the machine first. After that, present the ticket at a predetermined location to pass the turnstile (like in the subway).

Buses

Without a schedule, air conditioning, or regard for the rudimentary needs of transportation hygiene, city buses ply the streets of the city at will. Nevertheless, as drivers are only permitted to halt at bus stops, you shouldn’t attempt to stop the bus anywhere else along the route. Nevertheless, private businesses rather than governmental ones frequently operate the busiest routes. Use just the new blue buses; look for them. In the city, they pay 0.5 EUR (5 MAD).
Buses are also a wonderful way to get to interstate locations that CTM serves. Ticket prices range from 6 to 30 EUR, depending on the location. There is air conditioning in these buses. Only at the Gare Routiere Ouled Ziane bus station on Route Ouled Ziane El Fara or the official CTM office in the city’s heart on Rue Leon L’Africain are tickets available for purchase. The bus station is operational every day of the year.

Renting a vehicle

In Morocco, renting a car comes with no inconveniences. Many rental locations have a front desk that is staffed around-the-clock. Here, you may compare rates from various rental businesses. You’ll need a credit card and an international driving license to rent a car.
True, the difficulties start when you are stuck in one of the city’s many traffic jams while attempting to find a parking spot for your hotel or other destination amid a weird maze of winding streets and misinterpreted directions from locals. Because there are so many mopeds and motorcycles in the city and because Moroccan drivers often have no interest in obeying even the most basic traffic laws, you must drive carefully.
The maximum speed on an intercity route is only 120 kilometers per hour, and toll highways typically cost between 4 and 8 EUR. A European-class air-conditioned automobile costs 250 EUR per day to hire. You may get a used automobile without air conditioning for 100 EUR.

Mobile phones

Since Moroccan cell phones operate on the GSM network, you must purchase a local SIM card with pre-paid credit. The price is roughly 7 EUR.

Vacations with kids in Casablanca

Personally, I wouldn’t advise taking a family trip to Casablanca in Morocco. It is preferable to pick a resort in Turkey or Bulgaria for such objectives. There is no play infrastructure in Casablanca, the roads are difficult to navigate, the sidewalks are filthy, there are hardly any parks, and those that are there are in poor shape.
The only slides and pools in this city that are safe for kids to play in are in a select few of the priciest five-star hotels, but otherwise this city may scare any kid to death. Large waves frequently hit the beaches, which are rather unclean.
The largest and most contemporary water park in Morocco is located in the city, but Casablanca is otherwise unremarkable when it comes to family entertainment.