MOROCCO
CASABLANCA
Located on the Atlantic Ocean, Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city and its economic, business and creative hub. An alluring city made famous by the film of the same name, Casablanca draws visitors to enjoy the Mediterranean climate, sample world-class cuisine and admire the traditional Moorish and Art Deco architecture.
Sacred Showcase: Hassan II Mosque PHOTO: © ANDRII VERGELES | DREAMSTIME.COM
GETTING THERE & AROUND
Casablanca Mohammed V International Airport lies about 16 miles south of the city. Trains into the city depart the station on Level 1 in Terminal 1 every hour (about $3, 45 minutes). Hourly CTM buses also make the 45-minute trip from outside Terminal 1 (about $2.25). Taxis, located at Level 0 of the arrivals area, cost about $30. Within the city, local red petit taxis can take a maximum of three passengers and charge a minimum fare; ask the price in advance. You can reach most areas of Casablanca via the city’s modern tramway. Purchase a prepaid rechargeable card or a reloadable disposable ticket.
LODGING
Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca Get a breath of fresh air at this deluxe seaside retreat just 10 minutes from city center, offering private balconies, a spa, year-round outdoor pool and fine-dining options. Don’t miss afternoon tea at Mint, the lobby lounge modeled after a Moroccan home. Boulevard de la Corniche, Casablanca, Morocco, tel 212 5290 73700 fourseasons.com Hôtel & Spa Le Doge – Relais & Châteaux Located in the Art Deco district, Le Doge immerses guests in a bygone era. Enjoy distinctive décor, daily full breakfast in the dining room and city views from the rooftop café. Be sure to save time to indulge in wellness treatments at the spa. 9 rue du Docteur Veyre, Casablanca 20070, Morocco, tel 212 5224 67800 hotelledoge.com Kenzi Tower Hotel This 5-star hotel in the heart of Casablanca impresses both business and leisure guests with its luxurious comfort, elegant décor and first-class services. Enjoy four dining options,
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a renowned spa and 24-hour concierge service, as well as breathtaking views of city and sea. Twin Center, Boulevard Mohamed Zerktouni, Casablanca, Morocco, tel 212 5229 78000 kenzi-hotels.com/ en/kenzi-tower
DINING
Bleu The Four Seasons’ signature Mediterranean restaurant draws inspiration from Casablanca’s coastline. Plan a special dinner with water views from any table inside or on the terrace. Menus include fresh-caught fish of the day as well as savory meat and vegetarian options. Four Seasons Hotel Casablanca, Boulevard de la Corniche, Casablanca, Morocco, tel 212 5290 73700 fourseasons.com Café M The French brasserie in Casablanca pairs local Moroccan flavors with international fare and a selection of fine wines. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner on the shaded terrace. Hyatt Regency Casablanca, Place des Nations Unies, Casablanca 20000, Morocco, tel 212 632 333375 hyatt.com Pâtisserie Bennis Habous Satisfy your sweet tooth with a sampling of traditional Moroccan pastries made according to recipes handed down for generations. Opened in 1930, the bakery is a Casablanca icon. Expect a line, but once you’re inside the owner will guide you through your choices. 2, Rue Fkih El Gabbas, Casablanca 20100, Morocco, tel 212 5223 03025 patisseriebennis.business.site
globaltravelerusa.com GLOBAL CITY GUIDEBOOK 2021
ATTRACTIONS
Hassan II Mosque With the tallest minaret in the world, the aweinspiring Hassan II Mosque dominates the cityscape. The five-acre prayer hall accommodates 25,000 worshippers, and the courtyard holds another 80,000. The interior is intricately decorated with the exquisite work of more than 10,000 master artisans from Morocco. Non-Muslims can visit the mosque on guided tours. Boulevard de la Corniche, Casablanca 20000, Morocco, tel 212 5224 82886 fmh2.ma Marché Central de Casablanca Get a taste of Moroccan culture at Casablanca’s bustling central market, where locals go to buy and sell everything from housewares and Morocco’s famous slippers to flowers, spices, vegetables and fresh fish. Rue Allal Ben Abdallah, Casablanca 20250, Morocco, tel 212 674 473790 Villa des Arts Housed in an Art Deco villa built in 1934, the art museum hosts regular exhibits of contemporary Moroccan and international art, including local artists’ galleries displaying photography, sculptures and paintings. The cubical white building is a work of art itself, and the well-tended gardens display sculptures. 30 Blvd. Brahim Roudani and Rue Abou El Kacem Chabi, Casablanca 20000, Morocco, tel 212 5222 95094
