Archive for the ‘Uncategorized’ Category

Best Times To Take a Morocco Tour, Your Morocco Travel Guide

Monday, April 30th, 2012

Sidi Koki, Seaside Essaouira Region

Morocco is referred to as a cold country with a hot sun. Morocco’s unique weather patterns make it possible to find an ideal area to take a Morocco Tour year round. Its summers are exceptionally hot and winters can be chill to the bone. Morocco’s climate greatly fluctuate sdue to the country’s geographic location between Europe, Asia, and Africa.

Recommended months to take a Morocco Tour are between October and May. Spring (April and May) and Fall (September and October) are perhaps the best overall time to take a Morocco Tour. With a summer climate in the south and in the mountains, as well as on the Mediterranean and Atlantic coasts this makes touring Morocco possible in almost all season. Winter can be perfect by day in the south, though staying overnight in the Sahara Desert on a Tour can get very cold.

Seasons and weather in Morocco take on a whole new meaning as the country is divided into two climatic zones by the High Atlas Mountains. To the north of the High Atlas, the western winds from the Atlantic contribute to the cooler temperatures of the north. Whereas in the south of the High Atlas, the weather is influenced by the Sahara desert.

If you are not comfortable with very hot weather, it is advisable to avoid scheduling your Morocco Tour during July through August because these are the hottest times of the year. Also, certain cities such as Marrakech may continue to be hot until the last weeks of September. If you decide to take a Morocco Tour during July and August, it’s a wonderful time to head for the coast of Agadir and Essaouira, while in the mountains there are no set rules.

In preparing for a Morocco Tour, keep in mind that Morocco is separated into five regions: the Rif Mountains, the Middle Atlas, High Atlas, Anti-Atlas, and the Sahara desert.

For more information about the Best Times to Take a Morocco Tour

For More Information About Travel and Tours to Morocco plus highlights on Moroccan culture visit Morocco’s Imperial CitiesSeaside Resorts,Sahara DesertBerber villagesA Taste of MoroccoMagical Kasbahs, Ruins & WaterfallsAbsolute Morocco, The Best of MarrakechFes, and Ouarzazate

Discover The Best of Morocco - Travel ExplorationTravel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel.We provide Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Call Travel Exploration at 1 (800) 787-8806 or + 1 (212) 618882681and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today.

Morocco’s La Mamounia Spa, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Sunday, April 29th, 2012

La Mamounia Spa Pool

La Mamounia is Marrakech’s most iconic hotel. Every square foot La Mamounia is infused with traditional Moroccan design mixed with a modern French modern glamour. Care of Parisian designer, Jacque Garcia, Marrakech’s La Mamounia and its opulent spa boasts an atmosphere rarely seen out site of the “grande dame” hotels in Paris. La Mamounia Spa is located in a lavish 27,000 square ft underground complex that ranks among the worlds best.

Visitors to La Mamounia’s Spa in Marrakech will be impressed by the spa’s appeal of traditional treatments. La Mamounia’s Spa has interconnecting rooms that open out into sensual spaces where guests can have a luxurious experience. Morocco’s La Mamounia Spa is deliciously decorated from ceiling to floor with a majorelle blue color palette. The walls and floor are delicately lined with Moroccan tiles and oversized Moroccan glass lamps.

La Mamounia Private Hammam

Marrakech’s La Mamounia Spa offers a combination of elegant wellness packages for both guests of the hotel and outside clients. La Mamounia Spa offers a bespoke experience that is second to none.

Guests at La Mamounia Spa can choose from treatments that include being pampered at their Royal Hammam. A Royal Hammam treatment at La Mamounia’s Spa begins with the traditional black soap grommage, made from pressed olives and salt, then an intense scrubbing followed by a soothing mud body mask. After down time in one of La Mamounia’s relaxation rooms, there is another treatment that follows which is a moisturizing Tadelakt massage, using an argan balm that is comprised of amber, honey and rose water dream.

A treatment at La Mamounia’s Spa is not complete without a visit to their  private gardens, which spans 20 acres and boasts 100 year-old olive, palm and fruit trees, roses, bougainvillea, geraniums and other species. The fragrance of fresh orange blossoms will permeate your entire essence, as there is nothing quite like a day at La Mamounia’s Spa.

Discover The Best of Morocco - Travel Exploration

Travel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel. We provide Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Call Travel Exploration in the USA at 1 (800) 787-8806 or in Morocco 1 (212)618-88-26-81 and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today.

Carey Duncan, Morocco’s Leading Landscape Architect & Garden Designer, Your Morocco Travel Guide

Sunday, March 18th, 2012

Carey Duncan, Landscape Architect & Garden Designer

Jeanette Lowdon, Garden Enthusiast covers Carey Duncan’s work across Morocco’s private and public green spaces. Lowdon recently had the opportunity to interview the well known Landscape Architect, Carey Duncan, at Cafe La Poste in Marrakech. Sitting on the colonial style porch savoring a gourmet lunch, Duncan chatted about her life in Morocco and her honorable achievements within the development, restoration and garden design field in Morocco.

Carey Duncan, a South African native, was first struck by Landscape Architecture while attending school in Johannesburg with its beautiful gardens bordered by a wild urban nature reserve. Her father also fueled her passion as she watched him create a paradise out of an old rubbish dump in the garden of the house he built and lived in for 45 years.

This inspiration led her to receive her bachelors degree in Town and Regional Planning in South Africa before attending Cornell University in the United States to get a double masters in City and Regional Planning and Landscape Architecture.

While in University Duncan met her future husband, a Moroccan studying on a grant from USAID and the government of Morocco. After graduation she went back to South Africa for two years and worked as a private consultant in the fields of Urban Planning and Landscape Architecture. She later married and joined her new husband in Morocco.

Tresco Abbey Gardens Scilly, England

In 1992, after arriving in Morocco Duncan discovered that locals were not familiar with the field of Landscape Architecture. Concerned about the possibility of Carey being able to work in her chosen field, her sister came to Morocco with a British Homes and Gardens magazine in hand. Inside the magazine was an announcement for an international competition to design a Mediterranean garden in the Tresco Abbey Botanic Gardens on the Isles of Scilly, England. It was the first major intervention in the garden in 100 years. Duncan came up with a design which she remembers thinking, “it’s not earth shattering, but it works.” Following her instinct, she created it and won first prize. Her confidence was strengthened which encouraged her to continue her work which resulted in her winning contracts for  projects in Morocco.

Carey has had a few selective favorite projects that she considers key to her career. Most notably is the rehabilitation of the mineral spring esplanade in Sidi Harazem, which was her first major public project. Renovating the gardens of Palais Marshan and designing the Esplanade of the Presidential Palace in Nouakchott and later the gardens of the Residence, were also challenges that she enjoyed. This set her up to work on the Jardins Exotiques in Bouknadel, a project that took several years of intensive on site work. Since then, she has worked on a variety of restoration projects, in Fes, Rabat and Oujda, often with the collaboration of architect, Fadel Guerraoui. Carey’s top project on her list is an open space network in the small town of Oued Zem near Khouribga.

Andalusian Garden, Sidi Bouknadel Rabat

One of the larger and more well known projects Duncan worked on was the Rehabilitation Project of the Exotic Gardens, Sidi Bouknadel for the Foundation Mohamed VI set up for Environmental Protection of Morocco’s heritage sites.

The Exotic Gardens Sidi Bouknadal in Sale, is set on a 18 acre plot of land originally bought by Marcel Francois in the 1940s. For over 4 years Duncan worked to restore the garden to its former glory as in the days of its creator, Marcel François. The gardens were completely run down, bridges disappeared, eroding paths and the incredible plants and trees had received no maintenance for decades. The bridges, paths, walls, monticules had to be entirely redone”, says Duncan. With very little information or photos, Duncan and her colleagues relied on descriptions from the old gardeners who were still on the site and on interpretation of some of the ruins that were left. Most of the plants were original and were restored with care. Adapting to modern technology and contemporary requirements, the project began.

Duncan recalls, Marcel François used to design decorations for aquariums. You can sense this as you walk through the garden, where he takes you down into a subsurface cave, gliding past monticules that look like termite mounds, and then up into the tree tops on swinging bridges – the visitor experiences several strata just as fish does in an aquarium.”

Another restoration project Duncan worked on was the The Jardin D’essais in Rabat originally laid out by JN Forestier in 1924. The ancient garden of Colonial Rabat is one of the green spaces that structure the city of Rabat as laid out by Prost. “It was initially a garden to test new varieties of fruit trees and how imported ones could be acclimatised” says Duncan. Organized along a central perspective with a series of rectangular gardens grafted onto either side of the central path, a series of themes are presented, based on the original trials that were conducted by INRA at the time.

Batha Garden, Fes

The famous Dar Batha in Fez was restored by Duncan in 2005 as part of a tourist trail in the heart of the Fez old Medina. Duncan worked with Cotecno and Architect Raffael Gorjux from Italy recreating the Andalusian Garden while keeping existing large trees, but replanting the undergrowth which was either bare or overtaken by weeds, and revitalizing the existing planting. “It was particularly difficult as the current legislation for preserving historic monuments does not take into account the changing nature of gardens over time and the requirement to prune, shape and weed. So a committee had to convene almost every time we needed to pull out a weed!” says Duncan.

Duncan has collaborated with a number of Landscape Architects from several different countries on various projects, in order to bring local knowledge and expertise to hand. After 20 years here she claims, “I am considered a local!”  Duncan says, “The most interesting of these partnerships was with Hart Howerton from San Francisco. It was a very exciting and difficult project given the complicated topography and the difficulties surrounding the preservation of the mythic argan trees on the site.”

When asked about how has she educated the nurserymen in plant choices Duncan says “The nursery industry in Morocco has developed a lot in the last 20 years, but there is still a long way to go. It is ironic that a lot of indigenous plant species are not available in cultivation for landscape use. After slowly hammering away at growers, and with the growth of demand, we are starting to see local species being cultivated for sale as landscape plants.”

When asked what does she see as the future for Landscape Architects in Morocco hold, Cary’s face lit  up with excitement. Duncan stated “About a year ago, the few Landscape Architects that there are in Morocco formed a professional association: “L’Association des Architectes-paysagistes du Maroc” (AAPM).

As the Secretary General for the AAPM Duncan states “We would ideally like to have our profession given recognition and a scale of fees agreed upon and made known to the general public.  We need to promote our profession which is not officially recognized in Morocco”. Presently, they have made great strides in their goal by gaining membership in the IFLA – the International Federation of Landscape Architects. Duncan spoke with passion saying “We do want to strive for the separation of client – designer – and contractor to ensure quality landscapes for our clients, but for the country in general as well.”

The “local” as she is now known in Morocco has given so much of herself in the 20 years that she has been working in Morocco as a Landscape Architect. She is now fully booked each week as she travels to a different city nearly every day.

Morocco is very lucky to have this talented woman at the helm of this business. She is a role model for all students of Landscape Architecture and City and Regional Planning. Anyone would be lucky to be graced by her wealth of knowledge and expertise in this field.

For more information about Garden Designers in Morocco or Gardens of Morocco Tour 

For more information about Travel and Tours to Morocco plus highlights on Moroccan culture visit Morocco’s Imperial Cities,Seaside Resorts,Sahara DesertBerber villagesA Taste of Morocco,Magical Kasbahs, Ruins & WaterfallsAbsolute Morocco, The Best ofMarrakechFes, and Ouarzazate

Discover The Best of Morocco - Travel ExplorationTravel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel. We provide Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Call Travel Exploration at 1 (800) 787-8806 or 1 (917)703-2078 and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today.

Casablanca Shore Excursions, Your Morocco Travel Guide

Monday, January 23rd, 2012

MSC Fantasia Cruise Ship

When traveling to Morocco by cruise ship make sure to take advantage of your time at port by considering exploration of the region through a Casablanca shore excursion. Casablanca has much to offer for cruise critics who want to take a day off from their journey at sea. The best Casablanca shore excursions are those that offer cruise lovers a fun-filled day in and around Casablanca with a private English speaking driver and guide . Cruise ships that originate from the USA or Europe tend to give their passengers a full-day in Casablanca. Some cruise ships that dock in Casablanca stay overnight while other cruise ships that come to Morocco dock in Tangier or Agadir. Cruise ships such as the Fantasia and Queen Elizabeth often make Morocco as part of their stops and often give cruise passengers a full day in Casablanca to explore.

Some Casablanca shore excursions worth considering are a Casablanca one-day tour, a Rabat  one-day excursion, or an El Jadida one-day excursion. If time allows and the cruise ship you are arriving on from Casablanca is docking overnight at the Casablanca Port then it is good idea to consider a Marrakech overnight excursion as an option. A Marrakech one-day tour with an overnight option is a great adventure from Casablanca.

Casablanca Shore Excursions are the perfect opportunity to begin ones exploration of Morocco. The Best Casablanca Shore excursions are:

Casablanca Shore Excursion: Full Day Tour – The Highlights of Casablanca

Casablanca is Morocco’s largest city and a world-renowned center for trade. A Casablanca excursion or one-day tour begins with a visit of the Hassan II Mosque which sits on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean and is one of the leading architectural splendors of Morocco and the largest mosque in the world. Next visit the central market, a massive kaleidoscope of colors and home to hundreds of stalls brimming with locally grown flowers, spices, vegetables, meats and all kinds of seafood as well as handicrafts. Continue to the New Medina of Casablanca and the Habous Quarter with its attractive Islamic architecture. Enjoy lunch at one of the international restaurants by Casa’s port, the Corniche or Rick’s Cafe- a famous Piano Bar run by an American and named after the Movie “Casblanca.”Take time to photograph the impressive facade of the Royal Palace and cross the quarter on foot and its colorful Olive Market. Drive through the residential quarter of Anfa, where your guide will point out the residence in which a memorable and historical meeting was held during the Second World War, in 1943. This is the world’s largest religious monument after Mecca and its minaret is the tallest. Continue your coastal drive to Sidi Abderrahman, built on an island-like rock. Last stop will be the Cathedral  free time at Mohamed V’s square for more photo opportunities or some shopping.

Optional: Casablanca Jewish Full Day Tour

Visit Temple Beth-El, the Jewish Synagogue in Casablanca. Beth-El, is considered the center piece of a once vibrant Jewish community. Its stained glass windows and other artistic elements, is what attracts tourists to this synagogue.

Visit the Jewish Museum in Casablanca.Next visit the old Jewish Mellah of Casablanca. The Jewish Mellah of Casablanca is young by Moroccan standards, not much more than a century old. It assaults the senses in the evening, with a sea of women in brightly colored djellabas carrying and selling fruit and vegetables throughout the cramped, narrow streets.  While Jews no longer live in the mellah, kosher butchers are found in the old market, next to other butchers selling horse meat. The Jewish cemetery in the mellah is open and quiet, with well-kept white stone markers in French, Hebrew and Spanish. Once a year, Casablancans celebrate a hiloula, or prayer festival, at the tomb of the Jewish saint, Eliahou.

The 4,500 Casablancas Jews live outside the mellah in the European city, where they worship in over 30 synagogues, eat in kosher restaurants, entertain themselves in community centers, and attend Jewish schools and social service centers. Beth El is the largest synagogue and an important community center, seating 500 persons.

Rabat Shore Excursion: Full Day Tour – Imperial City of Rabat
Begin your day with an approximately 1 1/2-hours drive to the diplomatic capital of Morocco, Rabat, rich in historical monuments and history. Option to stop en route to see the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca. Arriving at the Mechouar Quarter, you’ll admire the magnificent exterior of the Royal Palace. Continue to the archaeological Phoenician site of Kasbah of Chellah. Drive through the winding road overlooking the Bou Regreg River to the Hassan Tower & Mohamed V Mausoleum for an inside visit. The Hassan Tower is one of the prestigious architectural heritages of the Almohad dynasty. Enjoy lunch at El Borj Eddar, a seaside restaurant with views of Rabat or local Moroccan fare. Then continue on foot to the ancient medina and its colorful souks to arrive at the Kasbah of Oudaya. Tea and Pastries at Cafe Maure and then enjoy Oudaya with its white and blue houses that appear freshly painted. Visit the Andalusian Gardens of Kasbah Oudaya then return to Casablanca. Last stop if you did not visit the Hassan II Mosque in the morning is an opportunity to take photos of the Mosque and seaside Ain Diab

El Jadida Shore Excursion: A full day tour El Jadida’s Portuguese Ramparts, Old Medina and Azemmour (Option to Extend Trip to Oualidia)

El Jadida and Azemmour are seaside towns and their charm is innate from their Medinas and the warmth of the seaside community. El Jadida’s narrow streets, beautiful buildings and gates combine a mixture of Portuguese, Arab, Andalusian and Berber architectural styles. A Full-day tour of El Jadida begins with a drive from the pier to Azemmour via the charming coastal road. Stop at the entrance of Azemmour for a panoramic view of this white-washed town on the banks of the Oum Rabiaa River. Next, drive to one of the town’s main gates Sidi Makhfi. Enjoy a walk by foot through the Kasbah to reach a large square overlooking the river. Near the old square lies a synagogue which is witness to the coexistence of Moroccans and Jews living together. After the visit of El Jadida, head for the Portuguese town of Mazagan, now referred to as El Jadida to enjoy a Moroccan-style lunch of fresh fish paella with sea views. In the afternoon, visit the Portuguese cistern built by the ofiginal Portuguese settlers to serve as a water reservoir in the event of a prolonged siege. Enjoy a guided tour through the old Medina and stop for a panoramic view of the port and the Atlantic Ocean. On your return to Casablanca, stop at the Hassan II Mosque for photos.

Marrakech Overnight Shore Excursion: Magical 2 Days/ 1 Night in Marrakech or Full Day Marrakech Excursion From Casablanca

DAY 1: Depart Casablanca for a three-hour drive to Marrakech. Along the way, your guide will tell you about the history and culture of this captivating “red hamra” city as you pass villages and small towns. The city of Marrakech unfolds at the foot of Morocco’s Atlas Mountains. You will travel along boulevards lined with orange and jacaranda trees before checking in at charming Moroccan Riad or Hotel. Enjoy lunch at your Riad in front of tiled fountains and gardens or at your hotel surrounding the pool. Begin your exploration of Marrakech with site seeing of it’s Majestic Majorelle Garden along with monuments and museums of great architectural splendor. Visit the 12th-century minaret of Koutoubia, the tallest and most famous landmark in Marrakech, and the Saadian tombs, where the Royal family of the Saadian dynasty is buried and the Bahia Palace. Walk through the ancient Medina with its colorful souks before arriving at the famous Djemaa el Fna square filled with fortune-tellers, magicians,monkeys as they mingle with Acrobats, snake charmers and popular singers. Djemaa El Fna is undoubtedly, the most exuberant marketplace in the world.

Enjoy free time and then return to your Riad or Hotel in Marrakech. Depart for dinner at a traditional Moroccan restaurant or attend the Chez Ali  Equestrian and Moroccan Music show under royal tents, with typical Moroccan folklore and fantasia. After the show, return to your Riad or Hotel, then spend the night in Marrakech.

DAY 2: Breakfast at your Riad. Continue site seeing and shopping in the old medina. Visit the Kisseria, Art Galleries and Wood workers. Lunch at Terraces D’Epices or Moroccan fare. There is an option to visit the new city of Gueliz for shopping and also the Menara Gardens. In the late afternoon depart Marrakech and head to Agadir to meet your ship. Relax and enjoy the views during the two-hour return drive to your ship in Agadir. A stop will be made en route to see the goats that climb in trees which is indigenous to Morocco. These goats are the producer of Argan nuts which are utilized in making Argan oil, butter, honey and cosmetics. Option to visit an Argan Cooperative run by women prior to arrival at your ship.

For more information about Casablanca Shore Excursions or Casablanca one-day tours 

Discover The Best of Morocco - Travel Exploration

Travel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel. We provide Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Call Travel Exploration in the USA at 1 (800) 787-8806 or in Morocco 1 (212)618-88-26-81 and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today.

Casablanca Shore Excursions, Casablanca excursion, Rabat excursion, Marrakech excursion, El Jadida excursion, Cruise critics, Shore excursions, Morocco Tours, Morocco Travel, Travel Exploration, Travel to Morocco

The Majorelle Gardens in Marrakech, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Tuesday, December 27th, 2011

Majorelle Gardens, Cactus Gardens

The Majorelle Garden in Marrakech, Morocco previously the Jardin Bou Saf, bears its name from its original creator, Jacques Majorelle, the French expatriate artist who was born in Nancy France in 1886. Jacques Majorelle was the son of the celebrated Art Nouveau furniture designer Louis Majorelle. In 1947 he opened his gardens to the public and during this time also painted a magnificent ceiling space at La Mamounia, a five-star hotel with gardens and the place where Alfred Hitchcock wrote, “The Birds.”

Jacque Majorelle, Designer & Founder, Majorelle Gardens

Jacques Majorelle studied at the École des Beaux-Arts in Nancy in 1901 and later in 1919 he went to Marrakech, Morocco to recover from heart problems. He built the garden during those years using special color of blue which he used extensively in the garden that is named after him, Majorelle Blue. Jacques Majorelle returned to France in 1962 after a car incident and died later that year of complications from his injuries. As a collector of unique plants from five continents Jacque Majorelle left to Saint Laurent one of the more unique collections of flore and fauna of this era as well as a place of inspiration and contemplation. Even though Morocco is no longer under the French protectorate, this originally French creation is one of the most beloved areas in Morocco.

The power of the blue Majorelle is long lived and permeates the essence of what it means to live and see color in Marrakech.

When visiting it is important to take advantage of optimal morning light. The atmosphere of the Majorelle Gardens evokes a sense of peace in a garden designed, composed and colored like a painting. Moorish and Art Deco inspired structures with their bold color palettes are assembled among a vast, opulent array of exotic plants and trees collected from the far reaches of the world.

Nenuphar Flower, Majorelle Gardens

The courageous use of color, the famous Majorelle blue paint used in his architectural design enlivens the garden and acts as a strong backdrop to his plant collection of over 1800 types of cacti, 400 species of palms and other rare varieties of the time. This bold action revolutionized the way in which gardens were to be viewed. The blue pavilion with a raised island set amidst water lilies is the most famous photographed section of the garden. An elaborate system of water canals connect the planted areas and infuse the garden with its sight and sound. The contrasting effects of light and shadow are repeatedly played against each other capturing the harsh sunlight and transforming it into a tamed element that defies any known example. Majorelle’s greatest work of art is his garden.

For information about the Majorelle Gardens or a Morocco Gardens Tour.

Discover The Best of Morocco - Travel Exploration

Travel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel. We provide Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Call Travel Exploration in the USA at 1 (800) 787-8806 or in Morocco 1 (212)618-88-26-81 and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today.

Majorelle Gardens, Jacques Majorelle, Garden Tours Marrakech, Garden Tours Morocco, Morocco Garden Vacations, Morocco Tours, Morocco Travel, Travel Exploration, Travel to Morocco

Travel Exploration Morocco Now Offering Gardens of Morocco Tour, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Wednesday, December 21st, 2011

Islamic Garden Morocco

Travel Exploration Morocco has a few new additions to our special tour offerings this 2012 season. The new tours are “Majestic Gardens of Morocco” and “Gardens of  Marrakech”, both offering extension options. The “Gardens of Morocco” tours offer an extension option to the Tarodaunt and Agadir region. What distinguishes Travel Exploration’s new tours from others is that it specifically caters to garden enthusiasts, botanists and gardeners because it takes a true look at the majestic gardens of the Maghreb.

The Gardens of Morocco tour takes visitors on a unique journey to the Imperial Cities of Morocco while giving them a taste of Islamic, Andalusian, Moorish, Art Deco and Sultans gardens. This tour also gives travelers a chance to connect with the local culture through discovering historic sites, museums, mosques, old cities and traditional cuisine.

The Majestic Gardens of Morocco offers guests 10 days and 9 glorious nights whereby they can explore the sites and sounds of Casablanca, Rabat, Fes, Marrakech, the Ourika Valley and Ouirgane region.

Agdal Gardens, Marrakech

The Majestic Gardens of Morocco tour begins in Casablanca at the stunning Hassan II Mosque which lies at the foot of the Atlantic ocean, then visitors continue the road to the exotic Sidi Bouknadal Garden outside of Rabat. Topped by afternoon sweets and mint tea at Cafe Maure. An evening at Sofitel Le Jardin Des Roses and a welcome dinner by candlelight in the gardens offers travelers a great way to start off their gardening vacation to the Morocco.  Rabat holds its beauty with some of the most historic architecture in the country as well as gardens.

Travelers on the Majestic Gardens of Morocco tour can also plan on visiting gardens in the medieval walled city (old medina) of Fes, a visit to the Imperial city of Meknes, the Roman ruins of Volubilis, After taking in the living museum of Fes the next stop will be the “red hamra” city of Marrakech, home to artists, writers and the chic. Marrakech’s gardens are top notch and will be seen when light is at its best. Visits to the Majorelle Garden, La Mamounia Garden, the Koutoubia Gardens, the Bahia Palace and Gardens are just a few of the green spaces on this tour.

A charming ending to the Majestic Gardens of Morocco tour includes a visit to Nectarome in the Ourika Valley, harmonizing foot baths, lunch at the Flower Power cafe and then an overnight at La Roseraie in Ouirgane.

Kelech Horse & Carriage, Marrakech

10 full days and 9 nights of beautiful 5 Star garden Riads and Hotels, luxury transport, airport transfers, 14 excellent meals with a variety of traditional and contemporary Moroccan cuisine (breakfast daily at your Riad or Hotel, welcome dinner, lunch at a palace restaurant in Fes and farewell dinner), 4 Guided Historical Tours in the Imperial Cities, 8 Guided Garden Tours by a Botanist, Nurserymen and Herbalist, Garden & Monument Entrances Fees, plus exquisite sights, shopping time in the souks and a kelech horse and carriage ride in Marrakech.

Visit http://gardentoursmorocco.wordpress.com/majestic-gardens-of-morocco-tour/ to see the complete itinerary.

Discover The Best of Morocco - Travel Exploration

Travel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel. We provide Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Call Travel Exploration in the USA at 1 (800) 787-8806 or in Morocco 1 (212)618-88-26-81 and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today.

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Kasbah Ouadia & Andalusian Gardens, Your Morocco Travel Guide

Wednesday, December 21st, 2011

Kasbah Ouadia Gardens Rabat

Kasbah Des Oudaia in Morocco also referred to as Kasbah Oudaya or Kasbah Udaya, is located at the mouth of the Bou Regreg river opposite of Salé. Kasbah Oudaia has been the citadel of the Alhmohads, Merinids and Andalusians in Rabat. Its location on a rocky outcrop high above the level of the river is an imposing site especially for the pirates of days gone by.

Kasbah Oudaia was built during the reign of the Almohads. When the Almohads had captured Rabat and destroyed the kasbah of the Almoravids in the town, they began reconstructing it in AH 544 / AD 1150. They added a palace and a mosque and named it al-Mahdiyya, after their ancestor al-Mahdi Ibn Tumart. After the death of Yaqub-al-Mansur (AH 595 / AD 1199) the kasbah was deserted.

Bab Oudaia is the principal gateway to the Kasbah – one of the most striking sights in Rabat and certainly one of the most beautiful external Moorish monuments. The gate was built by the Almohad Sultan, Yacoub al Mansour, in 1195. Its purpose was more ceremonial than defensive, designed for a grand entrance into the Kasbah and its souks and the nearby Sultan palace.

The gate, massive as though it may appear at first inception, is not unusual in its size for an Almohad monument. It is striking for its harmony and the sheer simplicity and beauty of its decoration. The basic feature is the arch, composed of three different designs: the basic horseshoe, a check-and-shoulder design and finally a band of geometric ornamentation.

Kasbah Ouadia Gate

After passing through the grand door, ,Bab Oudaia, one will immediately reach an  striking quarter, the Kasbah des Oudaias. The Kasbah is the original citadel of the Almohad, Merinid and subsequent Andalusian towns in Rabat. Here, you can see the Kasbah Mosque – the oldest mosque in the city, built around 1050 and subsequently rebuilt in the 18th century.

When you enter the grounds of Oudaia you immediately notice the Andalusian influence. Everything here reminds one of Spain, walls uniformly covered with lime, blue everywhere, the cobbled streets, the massive doors to colored moldings and wrought iron. The formal structured Andalusian style gardens are bordered with red hibiscus, hedges, morning glories, brugmansias, date palms and orange trees with a long harbored walkway covered in grape vines.

The Kasbah Oudaia stands out within a beautiful and quiet residential area surrounded by white and blue painted houses decorated with flowers. Kasbah Oudaia has become a haven for artists, attracted by the beauty of the site as much as by its soothing tranquility.

Kasbah Ouadaia Andalusian Gardens

South of Bab Ouadaia, is the Palace Museum and Andalusian Gardens. The Palace was built in the seventeenth-century by Moulay Ismail, the first Almohad sultan to unify the country. Today, it showcases exhibits of Moroccan art and culture. A vast central patio gives access to private quarters and reception rooms containing the exhibits. There is a hall containing oriental rugs made in Rabat, an exhibition hall for musical instruments and a salon reserved for customs and rituals.

The old palace grounds are occupied by the beautiful Andalusian Gardens. Although true to Andalusian traditions, with its flowering annuals and beds of shrubs, the gardens were actually constructed by the French in the twentieth-century. The gardens are a shady retreat, with a profusion of daturas, oleanders, orange, lemon and banana trees.

When visiting Kasbah Ouadia, make sure to have tea and pastries at Café Maure set on the grounds of the Kasbah Oudaia with a majestic view of the river.

For more information about Gardens Tours Morocco and Kasbah Oudaia Rabat Tours

Discover The Best of Morocco - Travel Exploration

Travel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel. We provide Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Call Travel Exploration in the USA at 1 (800) 787-8806 or in Morocco 1 (212)618-88-26-81 and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today.

Kasbah Ouadia, Andalusian Gardens, Rabat Tours, Palace Museum Rabat, Morocco Garden Vacation, Garden Tours Morocco, Travel Exploration

The Jnane Sbil Garden in Fes, Your Morocco Tour Guide

Sunday, December 18th, 2011

Jnane Sbil Gardens, Fes

Created in the 18th century by Sultan Moulay Abdallah, the Jnane Sbil Garden is a jewel of the Arab Andalusian tradition, extending over 7.5 hectares located in the heart of Fes. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious gardens in Fes, the ancient artistic and intellectual capital of Morocco. Because of its historical importance, great care was taken to restore this Fes garden to its original design and after four years of detailed restoration and renovation of the heirloom plants, the hydraulic systems and the famous waterwheel, the project was completed and re-opened in June 2010.

Jnane Sbil Gardens, Entrance, Fes

Her Royal Highness Princess Lalla Hasnaa, President of the Mohammed VI Foundation for Environmental Protection, continuing in the Foundation’s policy of historical park and garden preservation decided to rehabilitate Jnane Sbil in 2006. The park which surrounded by ramparts and the Borj has been faithfully restored to its origins with an update to its green space.

The restoration of Jnane Sbil included the rehabilitation of heirloom plants and old hydraulic systems, fountains, water canals and windmills. The majestic central tree lined alley and the bamboo garden were also restored along with the Washington path being reconstructed. A fragrance garden in the southeast area, reminiscent of the Fes gardens that captivates visitors was also created. Buildings adjacent buildings to host the public, a refreshment area and restrooms were also included in the restoration.

This project reinforces this city of Fes, a UNESCO World Heritage sites’ cultural potential and its destiny as an international tourism destination, while benefitting the population.

For more information about Jnane Sbil Garden in Fes or a Fes Tour 

Discover The Best of Morocco - Travel Exploration

Travel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel. We provide Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Call Travel Exploration in the USA at 1 (800) 787-8806 or in Morocco 1 (212)618-88-26-81 and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today.

 

Feng Shui Your Way to Morocco, Your Morocco Travel Guide

Monday, December 12th, 2011

Jayme Barrett, Feng Shui Expert

Feng Shui Your Way to Morocco for an eight-day retreat with best selling author Jayme Barrett. Experience how the laws of energy can be utilized to enhance your life.  A Feng Shui travel retreat is an ideal way to discover Morocco’s great spaces within the “red hamra” city of Marrakech, the Ourika Valley and seaside Essaouira.

Feng shui is a Chinese system of geomancy believed to use the laws of both Heaven and Earth to help one improve life by receiving positive energy. The term feng shui literally translates as “wind-water” in English. Historically, feng shui was widely used to orient buildings—often spiritually significant structures such as tombs, but also dwellings and other structures—in an auspicious manner.

Feng Shui Workshop Morocco, Jayme Barrett

This Morocco retreat with Feng Shui expert Jayme Barrett pays homage to the practice of Feng Shui in culminating the wind-water intention through private group teachings and activities. Participants can anticipate enjoying two Feng Shui workshops, two energy/life-enhancement classes and one manifestation & meditatation class taught exclusively by Jayme.

Cooking Workshop, Feng Shui Retreat Marrakech

The retreat will take place in an 18th century Moroccan Riad courtyard in the heart of the Marrakech medina. Amenities and unique experiences include a daily yoga practice, walks in the Ourika Valley, shopping in the souks for Moroccan decor, a visit to the North African coastal town of Essaoauira, endless opportunities to dine on Moroccan delicacies plus a Moroccan cooking workshop and Spa treatments.

Yoga Workshop, Feng Shui Retreat Marrakech

The Feng Shui Morocco retreat also offers free time to explore on your own in Marrakech and its surrounding areas. A visit to the Marrakech Majorelle Gardens designed by Jacque Majorelle and its newly reopened Museum that showcases Berber jewelry and clothing traditions should be top on the list. Relish at sunset with Cocktails at La Mamounia Hotel & Gardens or take an extension trip to the Great South. An extension trip to the Great South includes an overnight camel trek in the Sahara Desert’s Erg Chebbi Dunes, bread baking, henna time and lunch with a Berber family plus a full day visit to Ait Benhaddou Kasbah and the regions old Ksars.

Feng Shui Your Life, By Jayme Barrett

Top 5 Feng Shui Morocco Travel Keepsakes Compliments of Jayme Barrett:

1.  Create an intention for your voyage. This means not only earmarking a guidebook for the best museums or restaurants, but also envisioning what you want to experience and explore and bring home, spiritually, from the trip.

2.  Buy from local craftsman and artisans. Supporting their creativity and offering a fare price is good karma. Also, it’s better to own hand-made objects such as woven baskets and rugs. They contain life force energy, as opposed to machine-made objects.

3.  Remember what you want to manifest in your life, and find mementos that represent your passions and desires. For example, to boost romance, buy in pairs, such as two candlesticks, pictures or figurines. To encourage fertility and pregnancy, find a hand-made doll crafted by a loving mother. To increase spirituality, bring home a religious relic or statue. To boost wealth, buy a special gold box to house your written intentions. Before you can apply good feng shui you must know what you want to manifest in your life.

4.  Look for stones and shells that contain nature’s healing energy.

5.  Choose items you absolutely love. Don’t buy something because you think you “should.”

Jayme Barrett

About Author, Jayme Barrett:

As seen on “The Today Show, best-selling author Jayme Barrett is a leading authority on Feng Shui living and personal fulfillment.  Jayme empowers individuals to design their lives for increased balance, energy and motivation. Jayme’s book, “Feng Shui Your Life” is the #1 most popular feng shui book. Barett’s clients include Hollywood actors, TV directors, successful fashion designers and movie executives, attorneys, hotels and spa owners. Barrett has been featured in magazines including Body + Soul, Self Magazine, Health, ELLE, Woman’s World, Redbook, First for Women, Parents, Healing Lifestyles and Spas, Delicious Living, The Nest, Every Day with Rachael Ray, American Spa and Healthy Living Magazine.  Jayme Barrett resides with her husband in Los Angeles, California.

Feng Shui Your Way to Marrakech, Morocco Retreat Information can be found at http://jaymebarrett.com/blog

For more information on how to Feng shui Your Way to Morocco
Discover The Best of Morocco - Travel ExplorationTravel Exploration specializes in Morocco Travel. We provide Tours and travel opportunities to Morocco for the independent traveler and tailor-made tours for families and groups with a distinctly unique flavor. From Morocco’s Seven Imperial Cities, to the Magical Sahara Travel Exploration offers a captivating experience that will inspire you. At Travel Exploration we guarantee that you will discover the best of Morocco! Call Travel Exploration at 1 (800) 787-8806 or 1 (212)618-8861 and let’s book a tour to Morocco for you today. 

Feng Shui, Feng Shui Marrakech retreat, Feng Shui Morocco, Feng Shui Morocco Travel Keepsakes, Jayme Barrett, Best selling author Jayme Barrett, Jayme Barrett Today Show, Feng Shui living, Marrakech, Ourika Valley, Essaouira, Riads in Marrakech, Sahara Desert

Majestic Gardens of Morocco Tour, Your Morocco Travel Guide

Sunday, November 27th, 2011

Majorelle Gardens, Marrakech

Discover the tradition and history of Moroccan Gardens on this nationally guided tour written by horticultural and garden enthusiasts for gardeners.  Journey through the Morocco’s most private and public green spaces and places. Great pleasure of the senses will be experienced on this exotic 10-Day tour that includes Morocco’s Imperial Cities and rural regions with a  4-Day extension option to the Gardens of Tarodaunt and the High Atlas Mountain green spaces of Imouzzer des Ida Outanane. The Gardens of Morocco Tour is an ideal way to connect with fellow gardeners from around the world. Discover ancient cities led by licensed historical guides and their gardens with expert Gardeners, Botanists, Nurserymen and Herbalists.

MAJESTIC GARDENS OF MOROCCO 10-DAY TOUR
Group Tours Available in Spring & Fall 2012:
April  1st  – 10th, 2012
May 8th – 17th, 2012
September 8th – 17th, 2012

Jnan Sbil Gardens and Fountain Fes

GARDENS & PUBLIC GREEN SPACES VISITED ON THE TOUR
Andalusian Gardens at Kasbah Oudaia &  Exotic Gardens at Sidi Bouknadal in Rabat region
Roman Ruins Garden at Volubilis
Sultan Gardens at Jnane Sbil & Batha Garden – Museum in Fes
Moorish and Art Deco Gardens at Majorelle in Marrakech
Propagator Specialist & Native – Drought Tolerant Nurseries in Marrakech
Historical Landmark Garden at La Mamounia in Marrakech
Oasis Gardens at the Palmerie in Marrakech
Harti Gardens & Cyber Park in Marrakech
Marrakech Private Villa Garden
Saffron Gardens in the Ourika Valley
Herbal & Medicinal Gardens at Nectarome in the Ourika Valley
Gardens at La Roserie in the Ouirgane region

Guest Rates:
$5,075 – 4PAX (Shared Double)
$4,600 – 6PAX (Shared Double)
$4,250 – 8PAX (Shared Double)
$3,995 – 10PAX (Shared Double)
Single Supplement Rate: $1,350

Rates Include:
Luxury Transport
5 Star Accommodations
Licensed Historical Guided Tours in the Imperial Cities
8 Guided Garden Tours by a Botanist, Nurserymen and Herbalist, Garden & Monument Entrances Fees
14 Meals (Breakfast Daily at your Riad or Hotel,  Welcome Dinner, Lunch at a Palace Style Riad in Fes and Farewell Dinner)

Kasbah Oudia Garden, Rabat

DAY 1: CASABLANCA – RABAT   (Driving Time: 1 ½ Hours)
►Arrival in Casablanca.

►Visit the Mosque of Hassan II. Casablanca is home to the Hassan II Mosque, designed by the French architect Michel Pinseau. It is situated on a promontory looking out to the Atlantic, which can be seen through a gigantic glass floor with room for 25,000 worshippers.Its minaret is the world’s tallest at 210 meters. It is an enormous architectural masterpiece and the second largest religious building in the world. On Fridays, the Mosque of Hassan II is open to non-Muslims.The Mosque of Hassan II’s promontory offers lovely views overlooking Casa in the residential Afna quarter.

Visit Kasbah Oudaia & Andalusian Gardens:
►Tea and Pastries at Café Maure set on the grounds of the Kasbah Oudaia.

►Its location on a rocky outcrop high above the level of the river is an imposing site especially for the pirates of days gone by. When you enter the grounds of Oudaia you immediately notice the Andalusian influence. Everything here reminds one of Spain, walls uniformly covered with lime, blue everywhere, the cobbled streets, the massive doors to colored moldings and wrought iron. The formal structured Andalusian style gardens are bordered with red hibiscus, hedges, morning glories, brugmansias, date palms and orange trees with a long harbored walkway covered in grape vines.

►The Kasbah Oudaia is a beautiful and quiet residential area with its white and blue painted houses decorated with flowers. Kasbah Oudaia has become a haven for artists, attracted by the beauty of the site as much as by its soothing tranquility.

►Lunch by the sea at Borj Eddar in Rabat.

Polynesian Garden, Sidi Bouknadal, Rabat Region

Visit Sidi Bouknadal Exotic Gardens
►In 1951, Marcel François, a French horticultural engineer acquired 4 acres of flat and exposed land in Sale, Morocco. Ten years later he opened to the public his childhood dream, Bouknadel Exotic Gardens, a horticultural and artistic achievement, listed among the wonders of nature and now classified as a national cultural heritage site since 2003.

►The gardens are a composition of exuberant creativity and technical ability. Francois, traveled all over the world collecting plants as far away as China, South Asia, the Savannah, Congo, Japan, Brazil and Polynesia. He then set about duplicating these gardens at Sidi Bouknadal by incorporating landscape, habitat and climate in his plant compositions.

►The gardens are divided into three areas: a reception area, horticultural production area and finally, by far the most impressive, the garden area. All through the garden there are secret passages, an aviary, waterfalls, swamps, pools, fountains, bridges and walkways to lead you through the various gardens.

►Welcome Dinner at a Sofitel Le Jardin Des Roses.

Spend the night at Sofitel Le Jardin Des Roses in Rabat. 

Volubilis Roman Ruin Gardens

DAY 2: RABAT – MEKNES  – VOLUBILIS (Driving Time: 3 Hours)
►Breakfast at your Hotel then take the road to Fes. En route to Fes visit the Imperial City of Meknes & the Roman Ruins and Gardens of Volubilis.

►Arrive in Meknes and begin your tour of Meknes at Bab Mansour. First we will pass through the triumphal arch. Standing at sixteen meters high with an eight meter long arch, the intricately patterned triumphal arch is argued to be the most beautiful in Morocco. Enter Place El-Hedime (Square of Ruins) which links the medina and the kasbah. The square is lined with modern residential buildings and a covered food souk (market).

►We will stop and visit the Musée Dar Jamaï, a museum showing modern Moroccan arts, woodwork, ceramics, carpets, costumes, jewelry and metalwork. The sophisticated building was once a palace incorporating a mosque, menzah (pavilion), courtyard, kitchen and hammam.

►Visit the Moulay Ismail Mausoleum and the former gardens of the Royal Palace.

►Among the most impressive elements of this imperial city is the grand gate named after the architect, El-Mansour, a Christian renegade who converted to Islam. The design of the gate plays with Almohad patterns. It has zellij mosaics of excellent quality. The marble columns were taken from the Roman ruins of Volubilis.

►Visit the Olive market which sprawls throughout the old souk and the main square.

►Lunch in Meknes at a restaurant in the old French city with excellent Moroccan cuisine and a variety of local wines produced within the region.

►Arrive in Volubilis for a visit. Once occupied by the Romans, Volubilis has been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site and gained international acclaim when Martin Scorsese made it a feature location for his film, The Last Temptation of Christ.

►Begin your visit by discovering the fascinating Roman ruins adorned with beautiful mosaics and colorful tiles depicting Roman mythology. The ruins are spread out across several green acres. The ruins reveal how the Roman Empire transformed the original Carthaginian settlement into a typical Roman city complete with mansions, a town center, a triumphal arc and temples devoted to the Roman gods.

►Enjoy tea at the small café that sits just below the Volubilis ruins before taking the road to Fes.

►Dinner in Fes at your Riad or Hotel in Fes.

►Spend the night at a Moroccan traditional Riad or Hotel in Fes.

Andalusian Style Garden, Batha Museum Fes

DAY 3: FES – JNANE SBIL GARDENS & BATHA MUSEUM & ANDALUSIAN GARDEN
►Breakfast at your Riad or Hotel in Fes.

Visit Jnane Sbil Gardens:

►Jnane Sbil Gardens were originally created by the Sultan Moulay Abdallah. Jnane Sbil encompasses 7.5 hectares and is located in the heart of city. It is one of the oldest gardens in Fes. Because of its historical importance, great care was taken to restore the garden to its original design and after four years of detailed restoration and renovation of the heirloom plants, the hydraulic systems and the famous waterwheel, the project was completed and re-opened in June 2010.

Batha Museum & Andalusian Garden
►Next visit the Batha Museum & Andalusian Gardens.  The Musee Dar el-Batha offers up a great collection of pottery, leatherwork, wood, books and manuscripts from the nineteenth century centered around a green spacious courtyard. The Batha Andalusian Garden boasts a three-hundred year old Quercus Rotundifolia, Washington Fifera, Cycas Revolta and Moroccan fountains.

►The Batha Garden is a serene escape from the bustling medina in Fes. It is also utilized each June by the Fes Festival of Sacred World Music whereby various world music groups perform.

►Visit Palais Jamai Hotel which boasts the oldest example of Andalusian style gardens in Al Hambra Classical Axial lines.

►Lunch at Palais Dar Tazi, a traditional palace-style Riad.

►Relax at your Riad or Hotel. Shopping excursion option in the old city.

►Dinner at your Riad or Hotel or traditional Moroccan restaurant.

►Spend the night at a Moroccan traditional Riad or Hotel in Fes.

Fes Medina View, Fes El Bali- UNESCO World Heritage Site

DAY 4: FES (GUIDED HISTORICAL TOUR)
►Breakfast at your Riad or Hotel in Fes. Discover Fes el-Bali, a UNESCO World Heritage site and the old medina often referred to as a “live museum.”

►The 14th Century Palace Gates of the King – The Royal Palace in Fes is one of the oldest (14th Century) and largest in Morocco.

►Jewish Mellah –  The Mellah is a Jewish quarter located in the old cities of Morocco with a walled boundary. The Fes Mellah is also walled and it has a fortified gateway. These Jewish quarters are located near the royal residencies which enabled its inhabitants to be protected from the wrath of the Muslim populace. The Fes Mellah was once solely inhabited by Jews. This was the first “Mellah” in Morocco and originated in 1438. In the early 14th century it was founded by the Merinids, beside Fes.  In contrast with the young Mellah of Casablanca, the Mellah of Fes is over 650 years old. This picturesque neighborhood adjoins the royal palace, noted for its recently constructed bright brass doors. Jews took shelter in this palace during the 1912 pogrom.

► Jewish Cemetery & Tomb of Solica -The cemetery contains the tombs of more Jewish saints than any other cemetery in Morocco. One of the more important saints is Lalla Solica, who was killed for refusing to convert to Islam.  Solica was born in Tangier in 1817. At the age of 16, she was courted by a Muslim man, but refused to marry him. To force her hand, the man went to the caid, the local government official.  The man told the caid that Solica could not refuse his offer of marriage because she was no longer Jewish, having converted to Islam of her own free will. When called before the caid, she refused to acknowledge having converted. The Sultan called her to Fes, where she again denied her conversion.  As a result, she was condemned to death for apostasy and killed in 1834.

►Rcife – Enter the medina from a “bab” or region of the old medina, Fes el Bali known as Rcife which is the heart of manufacturing of all Fassis goods. Cross the local fruit and vegetable market where you will witness the stalls of local traders and people buying their daily goods.

►Dyers souk of silk, wool and cotton – The dyers market, located along Rue de Teinturies, is the best place to see the dying vats which have been used for centuries to soak the skins of sheep, goat, cows and camels after they have their hair and flesh removed. You will see many tanned hides colored with natural pigments ranging from shades of brown, black, turquoise fuchsia, yellow and orange.

►Seffraine Square – Place el-Seffarine – this kisseria is the most important center for the production Fasiss style ceramics, brass-ware and silverware in Morocco.

►The Tannery – The Chourara or the Tanner’s Quarters is the most lively and picturesque souks in Fès. The Tanneries are often located near watercourses like the Wadi Fès and at a distance from residential areas due to the strongly unpleasant smells they produce. See the wide array of leather work, a tradition of Fes.

►Lunch at Restaurant Nejjarine in Fes located near the Nejjarine Square.

►Weavers Cooperative  – Visit the Weavers Cooperative  located in a residential neighborhood off a main shopping street. The workshop specializes in weaving the finest jellaba fabric, made of silk and wool threads imported from Italy. The shop also makes a quality jellaba fabric from locally spun, textured wool thread called hubba -sometimes referred to as couscous, because it’s nubby texture resembles Morocco’s national semolina dish of the same name.

Within the Fes Medina, we will visit the following Sacred Sites:   

►The Bou Inania Medersa – The Madrasa Bou Inania  is a madrasa founded in AD 1351–56 by Abu Inan Faris, who also founded the Madrasa Bou Inania  in Meknes. It is widely acknowledged as a major example of Marinid architecture. “Bou Inania” comes from the first part of the sultan’s name “Abou Inan”. The madrasa functioned as both an educational institute and as a congregational mosque at the same time. It is the only madrasa in Fes which has a minaret. According to history, religious leaders of the Karaouine Mosque advised Abu Inan Faris to build this madrasa. It was the last madrasa to be built by the Marinides. The Marinid dynasty or Benemerine dynasty was a Zenata Berber dynasty of Morocco The madrasa became one of the most important religious places of Fes and Morocco, gaining the status of Grande Mosque. The madrasa was renovated in 18th century.

►Pottery & Zellij Tile Cooperative- A cooperative where old techniques of how zellij and pottery is made. Option to participate in making zellij tile or pottery making. Great for shopping for a purchase of fabulous pottery, zellij tiled tables, zellij fountains and more.

►Mausoleum – Zaouia Sidi Ahmed Tijani – The Zawiya of Sidi Ahmed al-Tijani contains the tomb of an 18th centry Sufi Shaykh, founder of the Tijaniyya order. The Zawiya presents a street facade highly ornamented with carved wood, stucco and glazed tile.

►University of Kairouine – Founded in 859, this university is one of the leading spiritual and educational centers of the Muslim world and is considered the oldest continuously operating institution of higher learning in the world.

►Mausolem  – Zaouia Moulay Idriss –  A zaouia (shrine) dedicated to and the tomb of Moulay Idriss II, who ruled Morocco from 807 to 828 and founded the city of Fès for the second time in 810.

►Nejjarine Square – This interesting square is dominated by the beautifully restored Nejjarine Wood Museum housed in an 18th-century funduq. There’s also a superbly decorated wall fountain. Browse the shops before venturing into the carpenters’ souk with its amazing array of glitzy wedding chairs.

►Cross the carpenter area go through the Attarine street filled with scents of Fes such as spices, oils.

►Dinner at a traditional Moroccan restaurant in the old city of  Fes or Ville Nouvelle.

►Spend the night at a Moroccan traditional Riad or Hotel in Fes.

DAY 5: FES – MARRAKECH (Driving Time: 6 1/2 Hours)
►Breakfast at your Riad or Hotel in Fes. Take the road to Marrakech.

►En route stop to see the view of Ifrane University and go for a short walk around the garden. Ifrane is nick named “Little Switzerland” of Morocco for it’s architecture, cedar forrest and winter ski resort options. Developed by the French during the protectorate era for their administration due to its Alpine climate, this Morrocan town has a remarkable European style, as if it were an Alpine village. Because of its elevation, the town experiences snow during the winter months and a cool climate during the summer. Ifrane is also the place where the lowest temperature was ever recorded in Africa. Animals to be found in the vicinity include the threatened Barbara Macaque. Among the local tree species are the native Atlas Cedar, Scrub oak and the introduced London plane.

►Enjoy coffee, tea and pastries in Ifrane at an outdoor cafe.

►Make a short stop in Zaouia Cheikh near the dam.  This is one of the 30 damns that is scheduled to be built in Morocco by 2030. The idea originating with Hassan II to build one dam a year to irrigate the country is being carried on by the current King Mohammed VI.

►Lunch at Hotel Paris in Beni Mellal.

Spend the night at a Moroccan Riad or Hotel in Marrakech with a garden setting.

La Mamounia Gardens, Marrakech

DAY 6: MARRAKECH
►Breakfast in Marrakech at your Riad or Hotel

Visit The Majorelle Gardens
►Early rise. Start your visit at 8:00am in the Majorelle Gardens to take advantage of optimal morning light. The atmosphere of the Majorelle Gardens evokes a sense of peace in a garden designed, composed and colored like a painting. Moorish and Art Deco inspired structures with their bold color palettes are assembled among a vast, opulent array of exotic plants and trees collected from the far reaches of the world. The courageous use of color, the famous Majorelle blue paint used in his architectural design enlivens the garden and acts as a strong backdrop to his plant collection of over 1800 types of cacti, 400 species of palms and other rare varieties of the time. This bold action revolutionized the way in which gardens were to be viewed. The blue pavilion with a raised island set amidst water lilies is the most famous photographed section of the garden. An elaborate system of water canals connect the planted areas and infuse the garden with its sight and sound. The contrasting effects of light and shadow are repeatedly played against each other capturing the harsh sunlight and transforming it into a tamed element that defies any known example. Majorelle’s greatest work of art is his garden.

Visit The El Bahia Palace & Gardens
►Then explore the El Bahia Palace and its eight-hectare gardens.  The Bahia offers a perfect example of a palace garden and courtyards surrounded by grandiose architecture. The El Bahia Palace in Marrakech is also an excellent example of Eastern Architecture from the 19th century that represents trends and standards of the wealthy who lived at that time. It was built for Ahmed Ibn Moussa (or Ba Ahmed) between 1894 and 1900 in the Alawi style that was popular at the time. Craftsmen were brought from Fes to work on this monumental task which took approximately fifteen years to complete. It is said that the palace was built as a home for Ba Ahmed’s official concubines, and it has also been said that the importance or favor of each concubine increased along with the size of their bedroom. The name ‘Bahia’ means ‘palace of the beautiful.” There are 160 different rooms in the palace which are sprawled out in an open, rambling fashion. Decorations take the form of subtle stucco panels, zellij decorations, tiled floors, smooth arches, carved-cedar ceilings, shiny marble (tadlakt) finishes and zouak painted ceilings.

►Lunch in the old Medina of Marrakech and explore the souks.

Visit La Mamounia Gardens
►Go by horse and carriage to La Mamounia’s Landmark Gardens. Tea and garden tour of La Mamounia Gardens (if available). Built in 1929 this famous historical landmark hotel and gardens in the center of Marrakech is cared for by 40 gardeners who two times a year plant 60,000 annuals to enhance the grounds as well as maintain the immaculately mowed grass under the citrus and olive orchards, desert garden, rose garden and tropical garden as well as the many fountains. The 200 year old avenue of olive trees leads one to the garden pavilion where you can soak in the peace and solitude with a cup of Moroccan mint tea. At the back of the 15 hectares gardens there is an herb and kitchen garden whose produce is used in the fresh daily menus.  Along one side of the garden there are six meter high bougainvillea walls which when in bloom are breathtaking.

►End the day visiting the Harti Gardens and Cyber Park. Option to enjoy these public parks, shop in the old city souks or relax at your hotel.

Visit The Harti Gardens
►The Harti Gardens is located in the new city of Gueliz and dates back to the Almoravid dynasty. Harti has an Olive Avenue, a Desert Cactus Garden and a Rose Garden that are all set among mature trees. This garden is a combination of a city center garden and park where young and old, families and couples come to enjoy its serene atmosphere.

Visit Cyberpark
►Cyber Park is a beautiful 8-hectare park in the heart of Marrakech just a five minute walk from Djemaa El Fna Square. Cyber Park was originally a food-producing park created in the 18th century by Prince Moulay Abdeslam. This expansive park appears traditional at the onset however when it’s flora and grounds are explored further, one discovers the ancient Moroccan trench irrigation method of its lemon and olive groves. These groves are set within the old medina walls.

Spend the night at a Moroccan Riad or Hotel in Marrakech with a garden setting.

Mob Greenhouse, Marrakech

DAY 7: MARRAKECH
►Breakfast at your Riad or Hotel in Marrakech.

►Begin the day with a drive-through tour of the Marrakech Palmerie. Legend tells us; the reason for the Palmerie’s existence is that billions of seeds from the dates eaten and thrown away by the nomads traveling from the Sahara all came together at this particular place. The Palmerie’s oasis of 13,000 hectares with over 100,000 trees has been protected by law since 1929. For the Arabs, the palm tree is a symbol of life, the most generous of all trees as it gives shade to everyone except itself.  The Phoenix Dactylifera (date palm) grows up to 30 meters high and can live up to 300 years. Every year 82,000 tons of dates are harvested from the Palmerie. Today the palm grove is mixed with exclusive private gardens with palatial villas.

►Next, visit MOB Nursery (Pepinere) in Marakech. The MOB Nuersery (Pepinere) has 12 hectares whose 70 gardeners maintain and produce ornamental and fruit trees, herbs, cactus, shrubs, annual, perennials in 4 large and 9 small greenhouses as well as in ground planting. They have on site 3 specialists in plant id, insect control and trees as well as designers. Their specialty is propagating, producing over 50,000 plants a year of over 1000 species.

►Visit a local Marrakech Villa Garden and enjoy late morning mint tea along with a traditional tea ceremony and Moroccan sweets.

►Lunch at Flower Power Café, a one of a kind wholly organic restaurant that offers home made dishes with salads, herbs and vegetables that are grown on site next to the café. The café is owned and run by a French expat Aurelia Tazi who moved to Morocco in 2004. Flower Power is her outlet for entertaining, creating and decorating for guests who have a passion for organic food in green spaces. The café is charming and furnished with flea market finds purchased from the Marrakech souk.

►Next take a tour of Casa Botanica Nursery located on the grounds of the Flower Power Café.

Visit Casa Botanica
►The tour will be led by the director at Casa Botanica who has a masters in herbology and ethno- botany.  Casa Botanica was created by Sadek Tazi a garden specialist for over fifteen years. He started the nursery in Casablanca where they still produce over 2000 species of plants by seed and propagation. Casa Botanica in Marrakech is a nursery specializing in drought resistant plants that have adapted to the harsh dry climate of Marrakech (continental Mediterranean) which is quite hot in the summer and can get very cold in the winter. The vast 3 acre collection of aloes, agaves, yuccas, cacti, succulents, trees, flowering shrubs, palms, bamboo, citrus trees, roses, hibiscus, Mediterranean plants, basins for propagation of aquatic plants and the test gardens flourish in the shade of giant colored nets 6 meters high, composed of threads of red, yellow, blue, green and silver, which protect plants from intense heat and other elements. Red- encourages flowers. Yellow- encourages leaf growth. Blue- stunts growth.

►Dinner at La Trattoria, an Italian restaurant hidden away in a verdant oasis. Trattoria is more then just a restaurant, it is a superb villa decorated in a mixture of 1920s and Moorish styles that has become a hot-spot in the center of Guéliz.

Spend the night at a Moroccan Riad or Hotel in Marrakech with a garden setting.

Nectarome Footbath, Ourika Valley

DAY 8: MARRAKECH – OUIRGANE (Driving Time: 3 Hours)
►Breakfast at your Riad or Hotel in Marrakech.

►Start the day with a visit to the Ourika Valley region’s Plant Nursery’s.

Nectarome Medicinal & Herbal Gardens

►Visit the Nectarome offers a wide range of activities that you can partake in from traditional breadmaking to Spa services and hearty meals.

►Guided tour of Nectarome Gardens. Nectarome specializes in the field of phyto aromatherapy and the distillation of aromatic plants that grow naturally in the wild or are organically cultivated. In the one hectare organic garden at the foot of the High Atlas Mountains in the Ourika Valley they grow more than 50 aromatic and medicinal plants for research, development and educational purposes. Based on Moroccan traditional medicine they off a wide line of wellness products made with pure and natural essential oils with all products made on the premises. With several areas to relax in the garden you can take in the fragrance of the many herbs or taste them in the traditional recipes prepared on site.

►Lunch at Nectarome and continue your afternoon visit of the Gardens with an option for Medicinal SPA treatments.

Options Available at Nectarome:

–  Warm water and seasalt herbal footbaths
–  Argan Workshop – learning about the traditional pressing of Argan Oil
–  Henna Workshop – explanation of Henna culture in Morocco and application of henna design on feet and hands

Visit the Saffron Gardens & Gardens
► Herbal Tea Tasting at the Saffron Gardens

►A Moroccan Doctor founded the Saffon Gardens, a six-hectare project to grow saffron and exotic fruit. The area surrounding the saffron fields is a working farm with French goats for milk and many species of plants and trees.  The annual harvest by the local Berber women in the village yields only 5 kilos of saffron that is certified by the International Certification Lab in France. There is a small museum explaining the process of growing, harvesting, trimming and drying the saffron.

Dinner & Spend the night at La Roseraie – a Cottage style Hotel surrounded by thousands of rose bushes in Ouirgane. 

La Rosaerie Hotel & Gardens, Ouirgane

DAY 9:  OUIRGANE- MARRAKECH (Driving Time: 2 Hours)
►Breakfast at La Roseraie Hotel & Gardens in Ouirgane.

►Explore the grounds of La Roserie, a working 60 acre farm and garden with a rich display of roses, mixed flower beds and fruit trees. Spend the afternoon in the gardens or take advantage of La Roseraie’s offerings that include horseback riding, trekking to Berber villages and an onsite Spa.

►Lunch in the garden at Hotel La Roseraie

►Departure in the late afternoon and return to Marrakech. Farewell dinner in Marrakech.

Spend the night at a Moroccan Riad or Hotel in Marrakech with a garden setting.

DAY 10: CASABLANCA OR MARRAKECH DEPARTURE
►Breakfast in Marrakech at your Riad or Hotel.

►Early morning drive from Marrakech to Casablanca. Departures available also from Marrakech’s Menara Airport

For more information about the Garden Tours Morocco 

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