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Stunning architecture, fascinating cities, and beautiful Mediterranean beaches.
It’s no wonder Morocco is having a moment!
Where else in the world can you be lounging on a Mediterranean beach one day and exploring the Sahara desert the next?
According to the authorities in the Moroccan Ministry of Economy and Finance, the country recorded a whopping 10 million visitors by the end of July, setting a new record.
And the good news is that Americans can fly nonstop to this lesser-known Mediterranean hotspot this fall.
Flying To Morocco
Morocco might sound like a far-flung and exotic destination, but it actually has great flight connections to the U.S.
You’ll have two options when flying nonstop to Morocco: you can either fly to Casablanca or to Marrakech.
Direct flights to Casablanca will depart from Miami, New York, and Washington D.C.
Flying from Miami from October 18 to October 27 nonstop in economy class will cost $774. This flight is operated by the Moroccan airline Royal Air Maroc.
I often fly with overseas airlines because it saves so much money, but if you’d prefer a U.S. airline then the same route on the same dates with American Airlines will cost $1,422 for an economy class roundtrip.
The flight time on this route is 8 hours 15 minutes outbound and 9 hours 15 minutes inbound.
Direct flights to Marrakech will depart from New York, and these tend to be a little more expensive than nonstop flights to Casablanca.
A round trip from October 24 to October 30 in economy class will cost $1,709.
This flight route is only operated by United.
The flight time on this route is 7 hours 35 minutes outbound and 9 hours 5 minutes inbound.
Why Visit Marrakech
Marrakech is arguably the most well-known city in Morocco, and my personal favorite.
Its historic charm, bustling narrow streets, and lively medinas have captured my heart.
Marrakech is a visual treat; with so much to see, it can feel almost overwhelming.
The intricate carving, beautiful tile work, and impressive architectural details are added to even the most ordinary buildings.
If you only visit one place in Marrakech then make it the Medina.
This is a walled medieval city that is tightly packed with commerce and people.
Once inside it has a mazelike feel. This is the place to shop in thriving souks, or to stop for mint tea and watch the world go by.
Tip: If you want to take a souvenir home, then you can buy handmade textiles and pottery here.
Other highlights in the city include the Jardin Majorelle which is a landscape and botanical garden with cubist elements and buildings in a beautiful shade of blue.
This is better known as the Yves Saint Laurent gardens, and the gardens were a key source of inspiration for the designer. Buy tickets directly from the Jardin Majorelle website for the best prices.
Tickets cost 165dhs ($17) per person.
Finally, Marrakech boasts some of the best palaces in Morocco.
Visit the Bahia Palace for some of the best examples of traditional Moroccan marble and zellij tiles, fretwork, and ornate decoration.
Why Visit Casablanca
Casablanca is a stunning coastal city which means it offers the best of both worlds. Cultural explorations and lazy days on the beach.
Casablanca has a very different vibe to Marrakech. It feels much more relaxed and the people here are less focused on tourists (which can sometimes feel overwhelming in Marrakech).
From a cultural perspective the main attraction in Casablanca is the Hassan II Mosque. This has a 210m minaret topped with lasers directed toward Mecca and it stands in prime position over the water, meaning it dominates the city skyline.
Muslims can enter the Hassan II Mosque at no charge for daily prayer. If you’re non-Muslim then you will need a guide to enter the mosque.
Book this directly with the mosque for the best price, which is 140dhs ($14). Other tours will collect you from your hotel, but these are significantly more expensive.
Tip for female travelers: If you’re visiting Morocco (or any other Muslim country) and you want to visit the mosques then carry a scarf or wrap that you can use to cover your hair. You won’t be allowed in without one!
I often pack a lightweight beach wrap that can double as a hair wrap to save space in my suitcase.
You can’t talk about Casablanca without talking about its beaches!
The Sidi Abderrahman Beach has the calmest waters here, so it is the perfect spot for swimming and other watersports.
If you just want to relax by the shoreline then opt for the fully equipped Plage Madam Choual.
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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com
Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.