Archive for the ‘Casablanca’ Category

Casablanca

Friday, February 12th, 2010

Casablanca (الدارالبيضاء) is the capital of the Greater Casablanca Region, located in the west of Morocco. The city is known to have several names, “White house” where Blanca means white, and Casa means house, locally it’s known as Caza. Casablanca is also considered the economic capital of Morocco, as it holds the heart of Moroccan business. The political capital of Morocco is Rabat. As of latest measurement the city of Casablanca has a population of 3.8 million people.

Many travelers have expectations of Casablanca being an romantic city, perhaps because the classic Humphrey Bogart film by the name of Casa (which was actually shot in Florida). Although once arrived, one will soon enough realize it’s the opposite of romance, it’s an industrial city where time stood still. But regardless to the fact it isn’t an romantic city, doesn’t mean it’s not fun, exciting and especially adventurous. There’s several fun things to do in the city, of which one is shopping. Many small markets hidden in narrow streets, along with gigantic market squares, always as lively, and loud with low prices for goods from bags, t-shirts to watches and shoes.

There’s several sightseeing’s in the city that are interesting to one and another including; The King Hassan II Mosque (It’s the largest mosque in Morocco and the third largest in the world), Old Medina (a small and traditional town in the north of Casablanca), The Corniche (resort beach area), The Shrine of Sidi Abderrahman (off limits to non-Muslims but accessible by visitors). Most travelers experience Casablanca to be nothing like nearby cities like Fez or Marrakech, and is this case after circling several days around the city I have to agree.

Travelers to Casablanca are required a valid passport, most nationals are only required passport which is at least 6 months valid, and a return ticket. Travelers are advised to contact the Moroccan embassy before a trip. The city has two seasons with a hot and humid summers and white, snowy winters.