CASABLANCA, MOROCCO
Casablanca is not only Morocco’s largest city but it is also the home of their largest mosque. The Hassan II Mosque is open to the public and, to my knowledge, is one of the few mosques in which non-Muslims can enter. Known as the business capital of Morocco, Casablanca is a nice place to spend a night on the front or back end of your trip!
Attractions:
Hassan II Mosque: This structure is the largest mosque in Morocco, second largest in Africa, and seventh largest in the world! The mosaic work and minaret (210 meters tall) are truly stunning! Including the outdoor space, this mosque is said to have room for 105,000 worshippers! A tour (entrance fee included) costs 120 MAD - less than $13 USD. Be sure to dress conservatively (knees and shoulders covered).
Rick’s Cafe: This bar was designed as a recreation of the establishment from the famous movie, Casablanca.
Other attractions include: Casablanca Cathedral, Royal Palace, Place des Nations Unies, and Mohammed V Square.
Accommodation:
Carré Français de Casablanca: This hostel has a nice pool in the back and serves traditional Moroccan food. As far as location and amenities are concerned, it is a 35 minutes walk from the mosque and it has a small gym in the basement.
Transportation:
Rabat is 1.5 hours by bus from Casablanca and costs 40 MAD.
Marrakech is 3.5 hours by bus from Casablanca and costs 90 MAD.
Fes is 5.5 hours by bus from Casablanca and costs 100 MAD.
Tangier is 5.5 hours by bus from Casablanca and costs 120 MAD.
Chefchaouen is 7.5 hours by bus from Casablanca and costs 155 MAD.
Essaouira is 7.5 hours by bus from Casablanca and costs 140 MAD.
Ouarzazate is 9 hours by bus from Casablanca and costs 165 MAD.