Interns in Morocco have their whole first week to explore Rabat, so why not get out of the capital city and see what else the country has to offer for some of it? Here are World Endeavors’ top picks for a day away!
Tangier – 3 hours 40 minutes by train, 2 hours 30 minutes by car
With only 20 miles separating Tangier from Spain, this city offers a compelling mix of cultural influences from North Africa, Spain, Portugal, and France. Tangier is a favorite locale for artists, writers, and musicians who spend their days conversing over coffee or mint tea in one of the 800 cafes found throughout the city (rumor has it that Café Hafa is a longtime favorite of the Rolling Stones!). Don’t be afraid to get lost in the maze of the medina’s many streets and enjoy bargaining with shopkeepers throughout the markets! Visit the former Sultan’s palace of Kasbah, and peruse the collection of ancient and modern artifacts dating as far back as 1500 BC. For lovely views of the sea – and possibly the Spanish coastline – make a stop at Terrasse des Paresseaux along Boulevard Pasteur.
Fez – 2 hours 50 minutes by train, 2 hours by car
Founded in 789, Fez is the medieval capital of Morocco and is home to the best-preserved old city in the Arab world. Like many destinations on this list, one of the main attractions is the winding web of narrow streets throughout the medina of Fes el-Bali. As the largest car-free urban zone in the world, goods are transported throughout the medina using donkeys, mules, and handcarts. Be sure to visit Madrasa Bou Inania, a religious college dating back to the 14th century. This is perhaps the most outstanding example of Islamic architecture with its beautiful wooden walls, elaborately carved patterns, and stunning calligraphy. Those looking for panoramic views of the city will want to explore the Merenid Tombs overlooking the medina and hills lined with olive trees surrounding the city.
Meknes – 2 hours by train or car
Often overlooked for nearby Fez, Meknes is a lovely city with a laid-back, hassle-free lifestyle. Morocco’s capital from 1627 until 1727, this imperial city has plenty for visitors to see and do. Spend an afternoon winding through the narrow medina streets and feast your eyes upon the grandeur of Meknes architecture. Visit Bab Mansour, one of 20 gates guarding Meknes’ walls. Built for Sultan Moulay Ismail, this striking piece of architecture was completed in 1732 and remains one of the most iconic structures in North Africa. To enjoy a cup of tea or lunch, choose one of many cafés located on Place Hedim – a perfect place to take in the local atmosphere. A trip to Meknes promises to be a simple and relaxing getaway providing a much-needed break after a week interning in Rabat.
Sale – 20 minutes by tram or boat
Just a short boat ride across the Bou Regreg River is Rabat’s twin city, Sale. While Sale may be less trendy than its counterpart, it is just as fascinating. Here you will find a true Moroccan town complete with older gentlemen sipping coffee at sidewalk cafés, children playing games in the streets, and the smell of freshly baked bread wafting from neighborhood bakeries. Residents are most proud of the beautiful, ancient artistry displayed on mosques in the city center. Be sure to buy some fresh fish caught daily by colorful boats in the Bou Regreg; it is quite delicious!
Interested in interning in Morocco? Contact World Endeavors!
Posted by World Endeavors on March 16, 2016
World Endeavors believes that international travel has the power to change lives, broaden horizons, and deepen intercultural understanding. The world is undergoing rapid changes, with societies becoming more interconnected and environmentally aware; at the same time a more challenging global economy inspires in many a need to reach out and make a positive difference while seeking personal growth opportunities. There has never been a better time than now to travel abroad.
