Starting Your Moroccan Adventure in Casablanca
Casablanca might not be on everyone's radar, but with its bustling cityscape and vibrant nightlife, it offers plenty to explore for 24-48 hours, or we recommend staying 3 days and going on a day trip to Rabat, one of the four imperial cities of Morocco and the administrative capital.
Kate stayed at Royal Mansour Casablanca, which relaunched on April 15, 2024 This property has 149 spacious rooms and suites with stunning décor and top-notch service. The hotel's four dining options range from fine dining to casual cafes, with rooftop restaurants offering live music and amazing city views. You know when a hotel has a great dining scene when the restaurants all filled with locals. Located 10 minutes from the beach, the hotel has a prime city location full of energy. You can stay here on arrival to the country or departure based on international flights and make sure not to miss a treatment at the spa to help you recover from jet lag or prepare for your Moroccan adventure.
Some things to do in Casablanca include a visit to the Hassan II Mosque, the only mosque in Morocco open to non-Muslims. The city's seaside Corniche, with its trendy cafes and shops, and the lively Medina provide a taste of local culture. Additionally, a street art tour with a local artist adds a contemporary twist to the experience.
Exploring Marrakech
From Casablanca, a two-hour drive takes you to Marrakech, the heart of Morocco's cultural heritage. Kate's stay at the beautiful Royal Mansour Marrakech, one of the best hotels in Marrakesh. This palace, built by the king, showcases the finest Moroccan craftsmanship, with 53 individual riads, each with private plunge pools, gardens, and some even with private Hammams.
The hotel's bars and lounges are perfect for enjoying bites and cocktails. Le Jardin was a favorite which offers delicious food, a laid-back dining experience in a lush garden setting.
The palace features gardens with pathways, fountains, and the most beautiful Hammam and award-winning spa in Marrakech, recognized by both Vogue and Condé Nast Traveler. Guests at Royal Mansour enjoy exclusive experiences such as private spa treatments, personalized cooking classes, boutique shopping, art galleries, and cultural tours.
Some fun things to do there? Kate explored the city by sidecar, visited the Medina's souks, the secret home of the famous perfumer Serge Lutens, and also went to the iconic Yves Saint Laurent Museum, which houses an impressive collection of the designer's work. Just a short walk from the hotel is Jemma el Fna, a UNESCO-recognized square with daily performances by acrobats, storytellers, dancers, poets, and musicians.
We recommend staying 3-4 nights in Marrakech and taking a day trip to the desert so you can experience dining in the desert and enjoy a camel ride and maybe a private dinner under the stars!
Royal Mansour properties are expanding to promote tourism across Morocco. In addition to their properties in Casablanca and Marrakech, they are opening a Mediterranean-style resort, Royal Mansour Tamouda Bay, set to open in September. This beach destination will feature holistic medical spa components and family-friendly amenities. It will offer seamless transfers and experiences connecting all the Royal Mansour hotels.
If you are planning a trip to Morocco, we are here to help and provide VIP perks and experiences throughout your stay.