Road Scholar : Home
Morocco: Melting Pot of Cultures

Program Number: 7158RJ
Start and End Dates:
9/29/2012 - 10/16/2012; 9/7/2013 - 9/23/2013; 10/26/2013 - 11/11/2013; 2/8/2014 - 2/24/2014; 3/1/2014 - 3/17/2014; 10/18/2014 - 11/3/2014;
Duration: 17 nights
Location: Morocco
Price starting at: $4,796.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type:
Meals: 44; 15 Breakfasts, 14 Lunches, 15 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian    

Centuries of living mere miles from Europe and the Iberian Peninsula impressed upon the indigenous Berber people of northern Africa the imprint of a long parade of invaders, settlers and colonists. The result is today’s Morocco, a modern nation where a blend of Arabic, Berber and European heritage infuses every souk, square, medina and oasis.




Highlights

• Watch the sun set over the desert, then enjoy traditional Moroccan music under the stars.
• Enjoy hands-on lessons in the techniques and flavors of Moroccan cooking.
• Discuss the issues facing modern Morocco at schools and nongovernmental organizations.



Activity Particulars

Walking up to two miles per day; some uneven, hilly and sandy terrain.




Date Specific Information

9-29-2012

The itinerary for 2012 dates will be as follows: Arrival Rabat, 3 nights; coach to Tangier, 1 night; coach to Chefchaouen, 2 nights; coach to Fez, 3 nights; coach to Erfoud, 1 nights; 4x4 vehicles to Merzouga, 1 night; coach to Ouarzazate, 1 night; coach to Marrakech, 3 nights; coach to Casablanca, 1 night; departure.



Itinerary Summary

Arrival Rabat, 3 nights; coach to Chefchaouen, 2 nights; coach to Fes, 3 nights; coach to Erfoud, 1 nights; 4x4 vehicles to Merzouga, 1 night; coach to Ouarzazate, 1 night; coach to Marrakech, 3 nights; coach to Casablanca, 1 night; departure.



Overnight flight from the U.S.A.
1 night
Arrival Rabat
3 nights

Learn about daily life in Morocco, from religion to politics to clothing, as you explore the capital. Experience Moroccan cooking and attend two musical performances.



Coach to Chefchaouen
2 nights

Journey to the fortified coastal town of Asilah and examine its famous murals. Explore Chefchaouen, famous for its lovely blue-rinsed buildings, a tradition begun by the town’s Jewish community during medieval times.



Coach to Fes
3 nights

Visit Ouazzane, a place of great spiritual meaning for both Sufism and Judaism. Local experts lead you through the narrow streets of Fes for an authentic experience of the oldest Islamic city. Find the Madrasa Bou Inania, the tanneries and the Qaraouyine Mosque, built by a woman in the 9th century.



Coach to Erfoud
1 night
4x4 vehicle to Merzouga
1 night
Coach to Ouarzazate
1 night

Journey into the Middle Atlas Mountains to learn about the Berbers and other nomadic people of the region. Experience the desert souk of Rissani, once a major caravan center. Visit the historic oasis of Tafilalt, known for its luscious dates. Board 4x4 vehicles to venture into the dunes of Merzouga and take a sunset camel ride. Take in the spectacular scenery around you as you travel the “road of 1,000 kasbahs” to the desert city of Ouarzazate.



Coach to Marrakech
3 nights
Coach to Casablanca
1 night
Departure

Visit the magnificent palace Kasbah Glaoui. An expert-led field trip through the “Red City” of Marrakech includes Jemaa el-Fnaa, a huge market square bustling with acrobats, storytellers, dancers and musicians. Complete your adventure in cosmopolitan Casablanca, where you discover the majestic, seaside Hassan II Mosque.




Morocco

Hemmed in by northern Africa and the dunes of the Sahara and mere miles from Mediterranean Europe, Morocco sports a strong indigenous Berber culture laced with centuries of influence by Jews, Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs and others. These strains of culture can be seen in the mosques and souks of Marrakech, the Jewish enclaves of Casablanca and the Berber villages of the High Atlas mountain range that forms the backbone of this colorful modern nation.
Accommodations
Rabat: Four-star hotel in city center. Chefchaouen: Hotel in the medina. Fes: Historic five-star hotel in the Moorish style. Erfoud: Kasbah-style desert hotel. Merzouga: Comfortable tents in beautiful desert setting. Ouarzazate: Centrally located hotel. Marrakech: Four-star hotel in the medina. Casablanca: Centrally located hotel.

Road Scholar Instructors
These instructors are participating on at least one date of this program. Please note that changes may occur.
Farah Cherif
Farah Cherif is co-founder and director of the Center for Cross Cultural Learning and founding member and president of Thaqafat, a Moroccan non-profit organization. She conducts research in the fields of comparative religion and women's issues. Farah has a bachelor's in Arabic language and literature and a master's in comparative literature.
 
Rachid Qasbi
Rachid Qasbi joined the Center for Cross Cultural Learning (CCCL) in 2006 as full time Arabic instructor, as well as a coordinator of several programs. He teaches Fu’sha (standard Arabic), Darija (Moroccan dialect), and Tamazight (Berber language), while also assisting in summer abroad studies. His interests include traveling, cross-cultural exchange, and peace and justice issues. Rachid holds a bachelor’s degree in English linguistics from Ibn Tofail University in Kentira, Morocco.
 
Meals and Lodgings
   Hotel Golden Tulip Farah
  Rabat, Morocco 4 nights
   Hotel Atlas Almohades
  Tangier, Morocco 1 night
   Riad Chaouen
  Chefchaouen, Morocco 2 nights
   Sofitel Hotel Palais Jamai Fez
  Fes, Morocco 3 nights
   Chergui Kasbah Hotel
  Erfoud, Morocco 1 night
   Nomadic Tents
  Merzouga, Morocco 1 night
   Ibis Moussafir Ouarzazate
  Ouarzazate, Morocco 1 night
   Hotel Royal Mirage
  Marrakech, Morocco 3 nights
   Hotel Diwan Casablanca
  Casablanca, Morocco 1 night
 Hotel Golden Tulip Farah
Type: Five-Star Hotel
  Description: Located at only 15 minutes from the Rabat-Sale international airport and literally located right next to it are two of the most recognized monuments within our fascinating Kingdom, the Hassan Tower, and the mausoleum of the late King Mohamed V.
  Contact info: Place Sidi Makhlouf
Rabat, MO  Morocco
phone: +2120537237400
web: www.goldentulipfarahrabat.com
  Room amenities: Cable TV, direct phone line, air-conditioning, mini-bar, hair dryer, Wi-Fi, and Safety deposit box
  Facility amenities: Restaurant, Piano bar, Wi-Fi Internet access , laundry and pressing service, safe deposit box at reception, currency exchange, Business center, Fitness center
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights prior: 299 USD Single Room: 275 USD Breakfast is included , Double Room: 299 USD Breakfast is included ,( Taxes 39 dh per person per night)
  Check in time: 3:00 PM

 Hotel Atlas Almohades
Type: Four-Star Hotel
  Description: Hotel Atlas Almohades is located with a magnificent view on the Gibraltar Detroit, the Hotel Ramada Les Almohades Tanger is few steps away from a fine sand beach and 5 minutes from the city centre.
  Contact info: 43, avenue Mohamed VI- Tanger
Tangier ,,   Morocco
phone: +011 212 5 39 94 07 55
web: www.hotelsatlas.com
  Room amenities: Hairdryer , B athroom, Air condition, TV , Internet connection, Bathrobe, Shower, Safe, Direct dial phone
  Facility amenities: Spacious rooms and suites TV with satellite reception, air-conditioning, direct-dial telephone, tea and coffee maker, sleepers, free wired high speed internet connection, Laundry service
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes

 Riad Chaouen
Type: Four-Star Hotel
  Description: Overlooking the beautiful mountainous town of Chefchaouen (or Chaouen), Hotel Riad Chaouen is the unique hotel of its standing in town, with a fantastic panoramic view of the surrounding area. Renovated in 2006, it features an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness area, a hammam and a Jacuzzi.
  Contact info: Rue Sidi Abdelhamid
Chefchaouen,   Morocco
phone: +(212) 39 98 60 02
web: www.riad-chefchaouen.com
  Room amenities: Hair dryer, iron, direct phone line, air-conditioner, mini-bar, cable television, room service.
  Smoking allowed: Yes

 Sofitel Hotel Palais Jamai Fez
Type: Five-Star Hotel
  Description: The Hotel Palais Jamai is a palace built in 1879 in the finest Moorish style and was the home of the Grand Vizir of Jamaï. Surrounded by superb gardens and located close to the El Karayouine University, this architectural gem towers above the Fez Medina wich is on UNES CO World Heritage List.
  Contact info: Bab Guissa
Fez , 3000,   Morocco
phone: +011-212- 5 35 63 43 31
  Room amenities: Hair dryer, iron, phone and radio in bathroom, A/C, safe deposit, minibar, cable TV, room service.
  Facility amenities: The Hotel Palais Jamai offers three restaurants with Moroccan specialities, international and French cuisine. Piano bar, five meeting rooms, swimming pool, tennis court, sauna and fitness centre, hammam, Jacuzzi, sauna, outdoor heated and unheated pools, gift shop, a boutique, a hair dresser, a beautician, and Internet access. A golf course is nearby.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes

 Chergui Kasbah Hotel
Type: Four-Star Hotel
  Description: The hotel is newly built in Kasbah style (old fortresses of the south of Morocco); its architecture is a unique feature, the decoration and the Hammam are unique features of the hotel
  Contact info: Route de Errachidia, km 5,5, Erfoud
Erfoud,   Morocco
phone: +212 5 35 57 8504
  Room amenities: Guestrooms are double occupancy and have private bathrooms, air conditioning, TV, direct dial phone and mini bar, hair dryer. large rooms
  Facility amenities: AC, cable TV, mini bar and telephone, hair dryer Hammam, swimming pool, massage cabins, Moroccan and European restaurant All rooms are on the first floor
  Smoking allowed: Yes

 Nomadic Tents
Type: Tents
  Description: Evening, dinner and private live musical performance in the camps; night under nomadic comfortable tents in double and single accommodation as requested for the whole program. The experience is unique in the setting of tents, the natural environment, the meeting with the locals and the magical rhythms of the gnaoua genre inspired from Sub-Saharan origins. An optional camel ride, at extra cost on site and upon request, is also available. And hopefully a nice sunset and sunrise to all...
  Contact info: desert of Hassi labiad – Merzouga
Hassia Labiad,   Morocco
phone: +011212 5 35 57 70 37
  Facility amenities: Restrooms available outside of tents are on site for that night, but nature is also nice to be used at times... Bed,water, w/ pillow & covers are available in the tents camp, electricity available in and outside of tents, safety by the presence of local staff. Note: Possibility to offer a limited number of rooms instead of tents.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Bathroom: Western toilets are available on site.

 Ibis Moussafir Ouarzazate
Type: Four-Star Hotel
  Description: Overlooking the Ouarzazate Valley towards the Atlas Mountains, the hotel is set in a lovely palm-grove of three acres with marvelous surroundings.
  Contact info: Ave. My Rachid
Ouarzazate,   Morocco
phone: +011212 5 24 89 91 10
  Room amenities: Guestrooms are double occupancy and have private bathrooms, air conditioning, TV and phone. Limited singles are available at an additional cost.
  Facility amenities: The hotel has elevators, a main dining room, coffee shop and poolside snack/barbecue bar and gift shop. There is a swimming pool and tennis court.
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes

 Hotel Royal Mirage
Type: Five-Star Hotel
  Description: Located outside of the ramparts of the old city of Marrakech it is only a few minute-walk to the heart of the Medina, to the markets and the renowned Djemaa El Fna
  Contact info: Av de La Menara BP 528
Marrakech,   Morocco
phone: +212 5 24 44 89 98
  Room amenities: Guestrooms are double occupancy and have private marble bathrooms, air-conditioning, television and radio, mini bar, hair dryer, iron, safe and direft exterior telephone line. Limited singles are available at an additional cost.
  Facility amenities: Minibar, hair dreyer satelite TV, high speed internet access, AC, heater, fitness, 24 hour room service, ATM machine, dry cleaning services, business center, 6 restaurants, swimming pool,
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes

 Hotel Diwan Casablanca
Type: Five-Star Hotel
  Description: The Diwan Hotel Casablanca is located in the very center of the city of Casablanca.the hotel offers easy access to the Royal Palace as well as Mausoleum Hassan II and the Old Town. The harbor is also located nearby. The Diwan Hotel Casablanca offers a shuttle to the nearby Mohammed V International Airport. , offering easy access to the airport and local attractions.
  Contact info: Bd Hassan Seghir, Casablanca
Casablanca,   Morocco
phone: +212 5 22 44 65 14
web: www.hoteldiwancasablanca.com
  Room amenities: Air Conditioned, Cable / Satellite TV, Direct dial phone, , Non-Smoking Rooms, Hair Dryer, Safe-Deposit Box
  Facility amenities: .Air Conditioned, Business Center, Currency Exchange, Elevator, High-speed Internet, Fitness Room/Gym, Mini Bar, Sauna, Wake-up Service, Restaurant
  Smoking allowed: Yes
  Elevators available: Yes
  Additional nights after: EUR 237.91* The rates for a Standard room (1 single bed) is MAD 1819,80 ( EUR 164,50) per room, per night and for the Executive room (1 double bed) MAD 2639,60 (EUR 237.91 ) per room, per night. Breakfast excluded and Tax included). * Rates subject to change
  Check out time: 12:00 PM


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
Start time 3:00pm Hotel Check-In Time. 5:00pm Meet in hotel lobby for the Orientation session for the program and Overview of Morocco at the Center for Cross Cultural Learning You will be staying at Hotel Golden Tulip Farah that night.
  End of Program:
the group transfer is scheduled to the Casablanca Airport at 6:30 AM You will be staying at Hotel Diwan Casablanca the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. U.S. and Canadian Citizens need a passport to travel to Morocco that must be valid for 6 months beyond duration of stay.No visa is required for American and Canadian tourists traveling to Morocco for fewer than 90 days.
Transportation (For Independent Travelers)
To Start of Program
  Location:  Rabat
  Transportation to site: From Casablanca to Rabat: If your flight arrives into Casablanca rather than Rabat, you have three options for transferring to Rabat to the first program site: Take a Grand Taxi from the airport (white Mercedes taxis can be found directly outside the airport). This is the most expensive option, running approximately 600 to 700 MAD, US$80 to US$90. Take a train from the Casablanca airport into the center of Rabat (the Rabat-Ville stop). There are 2 train stations in Casablanca: Casa Voyageurs and Casa Port. Both provide service to Rabat; however Casa Voyageurs is connected to the airport. From the Rabat-Ville stop, the taxi cost is approximately 10-20 Dirhams (roughly US$3) to the Hotel. Train tickets from Casa Voyageurs are approx: US$9 for first class or US$7 for second class. The train stops running at 10:30 pm. Please note that you can pay your train tickets only in Moroccan Dirhams and in cash. The third option is that you ask the Center for Cross Cultural Learning to send a car with a driver to meet you at the airport. If you would like to take advantage of this transfer option, you should let Road Scholar know right away. We will need your complete flight information and will confirm the price at the time of reservation. Please expect to pay directly the CCCL GL on the first day of the program. You will be given a receipt for this transfer From Rabat Sale Airport: The CCCL offers the option of arranging a car transfer through a private transportation agency for 400 MAD (taxes included). You could pay the CCCL directly and get a receipt - Grand Taxis are easily available and the cost is usually 150 to 200 MAD. The CCCL does not reserve taxis neither negotiate the price. You are responsible of paying directly the taxi driver
  From End of Program
  Location:  Casablanca
  Transportation from site: You could take the train from Casa Port Train Station (located behind the Ibis Casa City Center) to the Mohammed V Casablanca airport. For more information on prices and scheduled departures, please check the following website: www.oncf.ma - Grand Taxis are easily available and the cost is usually 150 MAD
Elevation Note: 7200'
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Overnight in Transit
(Saturday, September 29)
   
 Depart From: International flight to Morocco
   
Accommodations: Hotel Golden Tulip Farah

Day 2: Arrival Morocco
(Sunday, September 30)
   
 Morning: Arrival Rabat Airport and transfer to hotel
 Afternoon: Orientation session on the program and Morocco at the Center for Cross Cultural Learning followed by a welcoming dinner.
 Dinner: At the Center for Cross Cultural learning
   
Accommodations: Hotel Golden Tulip Farah
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 3: Moroccan Costumes and Language
(Monday, October 1)
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel
 Morning: Lecture: The Veil & Moroccan Costumes. Break. Lecture: Moroccan Architecture.
 Lunch: At the Center
 Afternoon: Field trip and lecture: Daily Life in Morocco
 Dinner: At the Center
 Evening: Performance: Traditional Moroccan Music
   
Accommodations: Hotel Golden Tulip Farah
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4:
(Tuesday, October 2)
   
 Breakfast: At the Hotel
 Morning: Lecture: Moroccan Identities, break, Lecture: Moroccan Politics, break, Lecture: Moroccan GArdens
 Lunch: Lunch with the group
 Afternoon: Lecture: Theological Schools in Islam Hands-on session: Moroccan Cooking
 Dinner: Dinner with the group
 Evening: Performance: Andalusian Music
   
Accommodations: Hotel Golden Tulip Farah
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Introdution to Tangier
(Wednesday, October 3)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel
 Morning: Field trip: The Murals of Asilah
 Lunch: Lunch with the group
 Afternoon: Continue the drive to Tangier. Field trip to the food market
 Dinner: Dinner with group
   
Accommodations: Hotel Atlas Almohades
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6:
(Thursday, October 4)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel
 Morning: Depart for Chefchaouen through the Rif Mountains. , then visit the Traditional Arts Museum of Tetouan
 Lunch: Lunch at a local restaurant in Tetouan. Bus lectures: -Development of Northern areas of Morocco -Morocco and challenges of cannabis plantations
 Afternoon: Free Time
 Dinner: Dinner with group
   
Accommodations: Riad Chaouen
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7:
(Friday, October 5)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel
 Morning: Field Trip: The Medina of Chefchaouen. Explore the town of Chefchaouen which is famous for its blue-rinsed houses and buildings, a tradition that comes from the town's former Jewish population. It offers many native handicrafts that are not available elsewhere in Morocco, such as wool garments and woven blankets. The goat cheese native to the area is also popular here. Note: Participants must be able to climb a few flights of stairs and walk on uneven surfaces up to two miles. The city is on hills so be prepared to walk up and down these hills
 Lunch: Lunch with the group
 Afternoon: Group discussion followed by free time
 Dinner: Dinner with group
   
Accommodations: Riad Chaouen
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8:
(Saturday, October 6)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel
 Morning: Depart to Fez, en route take a field trip to a typical rural weekly market. Highlights include an excursion to The Mosque of Moulay Abdellah Cherif. A town north of Fez, Ouezzane is considered a holy city by Morocco’s Jewish population, and is a popular destination for those wishing to venerate the tombs of several Moroccan saints known in Berber Marabouts
 Lunch: Lunch with the group in a private house in Ouazzane
 Afternoon: Learn about Moroccan Sanctuaries. Then continue the drive to Fez. Bus Lecture: Farming and agriculture in Morocco
 Dinner: Dinner with group
 Evening: Check in at hotel
   
Accommodations: Sofitel Hotel Palais Jamai Fez
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9:
(Sunday, October 7)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel
 Morning: Explore the old Medina of Fez whose old city is considered a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its medina is believed to be the world's largest contiguous car-free urban area, a medieval city with its amazing alleys and Koranic schools.
 Lunch: Lunch in the heart of the medina in a local Moroccan restaurant.
 Afternoon: Continue exploring Fez followed by free time
 Dinner: Dinner with group
   
Accommodations: Sofitel Hotel Palais Jamai Fez
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10:
(Monday, October 8)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel
 Morning: Depart for Volubilis where you will have time to visit these Roman Ruins. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, Volubilis features the best preserved Roman Ruins in North Africa. Archaeological evidence suggests initial settlement occurring in 40 AD upon a pre-existing Carthaginian site dating back to 3rd century BC. Eventually, Volubilis emerged as the administrative center in Roman Africa until an earthquake compelled its residents to abandon the city in the late 4th century AD. Since 2000, archaeological excavations have been carried out by the University College, London and the Moroccan Institut National des Sciences de l’Archéologie et du Patrimoine.
 Lunch: Lunch
 Afternoon: Group discussion or lecture
 Evening: Dinner
   
Accommodations: Sofitel Hotel Palais Jamai Fez
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11:
(Tuesday, October 9)
   
 Morning: Breakfast at hotel
 Lunch: Lunch
 Afternoon: Continue trip to Erfoud. Orientation to the Desert Experience. Upon arrival check into the hotel
 Dinner: Dinner
 Evening: Enjoy a musical performance of Malhoun music. This traditional form of Moroccan music is largely based on spoken word phrasing
   
Accommodations: Chergui Kasbah Hotel
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner

Day 12:
(Wednesday, October 10)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel
 Morning: Field trip to the Souks of Rissani, followed by a visit to the Ksour of Tafilalt, the largest Saharan oasis of Morocco. The oasis comprises the fortified villages of Erfoud, Arab Sebbah du Ziz, Rissani, Seffalat, Aoufous, and Jorf, together with palm groves stretching 30 miles (50 km) along the Wadi Ziz. Tafilalt is noted for its dates, most of which it exports Architecture in the Desert Lecture: The Nomads of Morocco
 Lunch: Lunch enroute
 Afternoon: .This afternoon board 4-wheel-drive vehicles for an excursion to the dunes of Merzouga. Then, visit an NGO in the desert village of Hassi Labied and meet its members; children & women benefiting from literacy classes and more. Also learn about irrigation systems in the desert from an engineer who is a native of the area. Take a camel ride to the top of the dunes to enjoy the sunset.
 Dinner: Dinner with group
 Evening: Watch a performance of Sub-Saharan Moroccan music and dance called Gnawa of Khamlia. Gnawa or Gnaoua refers to both a style of music that fuses classical Islamic Sufism with Pre-Islamic traditions, and an ethnic group/religious order partly descended from former slaves. Characterized by deep low toned sinter melodies, call and response singing, hand clapping and cymbals, Gnawa music strives to evoke a deep hypnotic trance, often aimed at frightening off evil spirits.
   
Accommodations: Nomadic Tents
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 13:
(Thursday, October 11)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel
 Morning: Depart for Ouarzazate and admire the beautiful scenery
 Lunch: Lunch at a local restaurant in the gorges of Todgha
 Afternoon: Continue to Ouarzazate, on the bus learn about the western Sahara. Then, drive through the Road of 1000 Kasbahs and stop at Kalaa M’Gouna (The Roses Valley). Upon arrival in Ouarzazate, check into the hotel
 Dinner: Dinner with group
   
Accommodations: Ibis Moussafir Ouarzazate
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 14:
(Friday, October 12)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel
 Morning: Take an excursion to the Kasbah Glaoui led by a native guide, Palace of the last ruling family of southern Morocco. Then depart for Marrakech NOTE: The drive to Marrakech will cross the high Atlas Mountains in which part of this drive will be at an elevation of 7,200 ft
 Afternoon: Lunch at a local restaurant in the highest pass in Morocco
 Dinner: Dinner with group
   
Accommodations: Hotel Royal Mirage
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 15:
(Saturday, October 13)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel
 Morning: Orientation field trip through Marrakech, know as the “Red City” and is an important and former imperial city. It lies at the foothills of the snow-capped Atlas Mountains. Marrakech has the largest traditional market in Morocco and also has one of the busiest squares in Africa and the world, Djemaa el Fna. The square bustles with acrobats, story-tellers, water sellers, dancers, and musicians. By night food stalls open in the square turning it into a huge busy open-air restaurant.
 Lunch: Lunch with group
 Afternoon: Entertainment of Jamaa Lafna, The Open Outdoor Theatre in Marrakech
 Dinner: Dinner with group
   
Accommodations: Hotel Royal Mirage
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 16:
(Sunday, October 14)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel
 Morning: Departure to the Boulouane village
 Lunch: Lunch and open group discussion with the villagers Tea ceremony Optional walk in the village
 Afternoon: Departure for Marrakech
 Dinner: Dinner with group
   
Accommodations: Hotel Royal Mirage
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 17:
(Monday, October 15)
   
 Breakfast: Breakfast at the hotel
 Morning: Depart by coach to Casablanca. Upon arrival check into the hotel. Then, a guided visit to the Hassan II Mosque overlooking the Atlantic, one of the most beautiful mosques in the world and third largest. It has the tallest Minaret in the world and is beautifully decorated in Andalusian style. PLEASE NOTE: Visitors to the Mosque must be dressed modestly and remove their shoes. Head coverings not required
 Lunch: Lunch with group
 Afternoon: Program wrap-up session
 Dinner: Farewell Dinner
   
Accommodations: Hotel Diwan Casablanca
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 18:
(Tuesday, October 16)
   
 Breakfast: Early breakfast
 Morning: Depart for Mohamed V airport
   
Meals Included: Breakfast
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List


A Street in Marrakech, A Personal View of Urban Women in Morocco


Author: Elizabeth Warnock Fernea


Description: Fernea's account of her unpredictable journey though the private and public world's of a traditional Muslim city includes marvelous descriptions of daily life in and around the medina in Marrakech.



A Traveller's History of North Africa


Author: Barnaby Rogerson


Description: Wide-ranging, accessible and effectively condensed, this brief history marches confidently through the centuries, covering key events and personalities in Morocco, Tunisia and Algeria to 1999.



A Year in Marrakesh


Author: Peter Mayne


Description: This brilliantly entertaining, insightful classic account of Marrakesh captures the rhythm and spirit of life in the alleyways of the Medina in the 1950s.



Cadogan Guide Marrakesh, Fez and Rabat


Author: Barnaby Rogerson


Description: This personal, comprehensive handbook combines Rogerson's insightful cultural and historical background with his savvy practical information and recommendations on what to see and where to stay and eat.



Culture Smart! Morocco


Author: Jillian York


Description: History, religion, daily life, food, health and safety are all covered in this accessible pocket guide to Moroccan customs, etiquette and culture, by an author who lives and teaches there.



Dreams of Trespass, Tales of a Harem Girlhood


Author: Fatima Mernissi


Description: This captivating memoir by one of Morocco’s most outspoken women opens, "I was born in a harem in 1940 in Fez, a ninth-century Moroccan city." Mernissi captures not only the spirit of the place, but also the hierarchy and decorum of a Muslim family compound.



Eyewitness Guide Morocco


Author: Eyewitness Guides


Description: Gorgeously illustrated and filled with excellent maps, this compact guide introduces Morocco's history, culture and attractions.



In Arabian Nights, A Caravan of Moroccan Dreams


Author: Tahir Shah


Description: Shah (The Caliph's House) weaves his own family tradition of storytelling with commentary on Moroccan spiritual traditions, culture and history in this account of his adopted home on the sea in Casablanca.



In Morocco


Author: Edith Wharton


Description: Wharton's enjoyable account of her month-long journey through Morocco after WWI captures the landscapes, architecture and many aspects of Muslim culture and history, and especially the cities of Rabat, Fez and Marrakech.



Islam, A Short History


Author: Karen Armstrong


Description: Armstrong brings authority and experience to this vivid, clear-headed survey of the history and impact of Islam from the birth of Muhammad to present-day challenges. The best short introduction to the subject.



Living in Morocco


Author: Stoeltie, Barbara and Rene


Description: From exquisite rugs and textiles to vibrant mosaics, courtyards and homes, this gorgeous photographic collection celebrates the beauty and allure of Morocco's architecture, with a particular focus on interiors.



Living in Morocco


Author: Stoeltie, Barbara and Rene


Description: From exquisite rugs and textiles to vibrant mosaics, courtyards and homes, this gorgeous photographic collection celebrates the beauty and allure of Morocco's architecture, with a particular focus on interiors.



Lonely Planet Fez Encounter


Author: Virginia Maxwell


Description: A lively shirt pocket guide to the imperial city.



Lonely Planet Moroccan Arabic Phrasebook


Author: Dan Bacon


Description: This handy phrasebook includes pronunciation, basic grammar and essential vocabulary.



Lords of the Atlas


Author: Gavin Maxwell


Description: Set in the medieval city of Marrakech and the majestic kasbahs of the High Atlas mountains, this rousing history vividly portrays life in French colonial Morocco. Maxwell (Ring of Bright Water) follows the fate of the despotic Glaoui clan from 1893 to independence.



Marrakesh & Northern Morocco Map


Author: ITMB


Description: Featuring a detailed walking map of the Medina and surrounding New Town on one side and a map of Northern Morocco at 1:740,000 on the reverse. With insets of Rabat and Tangier.



Marrakesh, Through Writers' Eyes


Author: Barnaby Rogerson (Editor), Stephen Lavington


Description: A choice collection of travel writing on the Red City by 40 luminaries, including George Orwell, Winston Churchill, Gavin Maxwell and Peter Mayne.



Morocco Courtyards and Gardens


Author: Achva Benzinberg Stein


Description: Splendid color photographs and aerial views of the palaces, mosques, and signature walled gardens of Fez, Marrakech, and Rabat.



Morocco Map


Author: Michelin Travel Publications


Description: An excellent road map in the Michelin style, featuring city and town plans and a full place name index.



Morocco, The Islamist Awakening and Other Challenges


Author: Marvine Howe


Description: A penetrating look at political, social and cultural life in Morocco under King Mohammed V, by a former New York Times correspondent.



Morocco, The Traveller's Companion


Author: Margar Bidwell (Editor)


Description: Pepys, Defoe, Twain, Orwell and Wharton, as well as famous Muslim travelers such as Leo Africanus and a host of others -- merchants, sailors, consuls and scholars-- are all included.



Shopping in Marrakech


Author: Susan Simon


Description: Divided into seven separate walks through shopping areas, this small, handy guide with excellent maps is extremely helpful for navigating the labyrinthine mazes of Marrakech and its markets.



The Caliph's House, A Year in Casablanca


Author: Tahir Shah


Description: Shah is a marvelous storyteller, weaving Moroccan customs and history with deft portraits of neighbors, craftsmen and others in this entertaining tale of the transformation of a crumbling palace in Casablanca.



The Food of Morocco


Author: Paula Wolfert


Description: A Mediterranean cuisine icon brings a lifetime of experience and taste to this gorgeously illustrated cookbook and cultural guide.



The Land of an African Sultan, Travels in Morocco


Author: Walter Harris


Description: This classic by the intrepid Walter Harris, the Times correspondent in Tangiers from the 1890s to 1933, takes in the artists and eccentrics of Tangier, the darkness and decadence of the sultan's court In Marrakech, celebrated Fez, marvels of the High Atlas -- and his remarkable ride, in disguise, to Sheshouan -- the second of only three Christians ever to enter the Berber town.



The Sheltering Sky


Author: Paul Bowles


Description: Bowles' most famous work, by turns stark and transcendent, is a tale of three people whose lives unravel in the desert of North Africa. Originally published in 1949.



The Spider's House


Author: Paul Bowles


Description: Set in Fez during a 1954 nationalist uprising, this richly descriptive novel may be the most evocative of Bowles' many works set in Morocco. Originally published in 1955.



The Voices of Marrakesh, A Record of a Visit


Author: Elias Canetti


Description: Canetti portrays the people and life of the city's bazaars, cafes, and streets in a series of acutely observed essays, including vivid sketches of the storytellers in the Djema el Fna, the everpresent beggars and rituals of Moroccan family life in the 1950s. Canetti is particularly good on the Marrakesh Mellah, the old but then still living Jewish quarter.



Traditional Moroccan Cooking, Recipes from Fez


Author: Claudia Roden (Introduction), Madame Guinaudeau


Description: First published in 1958, Madame Guinaudeau’s charming guide to Moroccan cuisine explores the rich culinary traditions of Fez with anecdotes, recipes, drawings and chapters on everything from choosing spices and preserving lemons to The Art of Making and Drinking Tea.




What’s included in this Road Scholar program?



Except for the occasional meal on some programs, Road Scholar programs are all-inclusive. That means there are no extra “options,” no passing the hat for tips and no surprises. From lectures and field trips to gratuities and accommodations – the price you pay up front is the price you pay.

Specifically, this program includes:


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