Tuesday, August 3, 2010

Romance Español - Love on the Iberian Peninsula

Bonita Barcelona
Romance of Spain and Portugal - the Spanish call it amor a la vida and the Portuguese, amor da vida, and both communicate this love of life to all visitors. With pulsating energy, non-stop nightlife, friendly people, and some of the best cuisine in the world, both countries have so much to offer. In fact according to their tourism departments, there has never been a better time for newlyweds to visit the Iberian Peninsula!

With a tremendous amount of historic monuments, Roman ruins, medieval castles, Moorish fortresses and Gothic, Romanesque and Baroque cathedrals, Portugal and Spain are perfect destinations for artists, romantics, and historians. Both are home to some of the world’s most revered artists like Velázquez, Goya, Gaudí, Miró, Dalí and Picasso. In addition, both Lisbon and Madrid have been adding new museums and expanding their other cultural institutions.

Introducing first - Portugal. With areas like Lisbon/Estoril, Madeira, Algarve, and Porto, Portugal has something for everyone. Lisbon is one of Europe’s most intriguing cities and the capital of Portugal. More than 20 centuries old, this amazing city offers cultural, beautiful settings, world-class nightlife, and beautiful long, wide beaches. Built around seven hills overlooking the harbor of the Tejo River, Lisbon is definitely the place to start your journey. From historic scenery, to natural wonders, from fishing boats to casinos, this city will leave you wanting more!

Madeira, off the coast of Africa, has rich history dating back more than 500 years. With magnificent views and its temperate climate, Madeira makes it an ideal place to visit year round. Enjoy the lifestyle in the capital city of Funchal, explore the quaint villages and experience the luxurious resorts. Interested in golf, tennis and countless water sports the islands, Madeira and Porto Santo are best known for their ability to help visitors relax and unwind. Perhaps all it takes is sitting on the shore and watching the sunset while sipping some Madeira wine.

Luxuriate at a Romantic Resort
Next stop the Algarve – breathtaking scenery, modern resorts, and ancient history, the Algarve is one of the most popular tourism destinations in all of Europe. Located in the southwestern corner of Europe and gazing out at the Atlantic from Cabo St. Vincent, you can understand why early Europeans believed it was the end of the world. Its name comes from the Moors who named it al-gharb or "the West." Distinctive architecture is one of the highlights of the historic center of the capital of Faro. White washed houses with massive chimneys and castles are seen throughout the region, which is also home to some of the most luxurious resorts and spas in all of Europe.

Let’s end our tour of Portugal in Porto. Actually Portugal got its name from this fascinating city where the River Douro meets the sea and where Port wine is bottled. The second largest city in Portugal, you can lose yourself in their rich traditions or their energetic lifestyle. Porto is a modern city with medieval buildings, nearby beaches, wine fields, museum, and golf. Everything to end your romantic journey to this beautiful country!

NEXT STOP SPAIN!
Millions of tourists visit this beautiful country every year! It has been considered one of the most important tourist destinations of the last several decades. It shares the Iberian Peninsula with Portugal, Gibraltar and Andorra. To the Northeast it borders with France. To the West it boarded by the Balearic Islands located in the center of the Mediterranean Sea. The Southern most territory offers the picturesque Canary Islands, in the Atlantic Ocean and the cities of Ceuta and Melilla located in the North of Africa. This is why traveling to Spain is likely to be a enriching experience since tourism in the country offers a wide variety of destinations, activities and landscapes.

Madrid is one of the better known cities of Spain and is the capital of this beautiful country. Beside the architecture, museums, great nightlife, we can recommend balloon rides over Madrid, visiting the Royal Palace, shopping on the Gran Via, watch the Flamenco dancers, try some tapas, or just sit in the park and people watch!

On to Barcelona – It’s impossible to get bored in this dynamic city. With the best concerts, exhibitions, and events, week after week you will find more than one thing of interest. There are so many different areas within Barcelona to peak your interests, you’ll want to come back again and again. From the Roman archaeology, to the Medieval palazzos and Gothic Churches, to open air museums, the contemporary modern version of Barcelona, this amazing city will keep you mesmerized.

Mallorca romántico
Done with touring the cities and want to explore Spain’s famous beaches, let’s head to Costa del Sol! Malaga is one of the most visited regions in all of Spain. It’s not just known for its beautiful beaches, but also for the beautiful landscapes, picturesque villages a 17th century Cathedral, the Picasso Museum, and the King’s palace, Alcazaba.

So whether you want to visit Spain and Portugal together or visit them individually, both countries have what it takes to make for a fabulous romantic getaway!

For Some, Tahiti is the only choice for a memorable honeymoon

Honeymooning In Tahiti
Some describe Tahiti as the Pearl of the Pacific or the new Hawaii. Others as a sanctuary, heaven on Earth! There is no better place to celebrate your new life together or to celebrate a milestone of your relationship. A world apart from other tropical island vacations, the Tahitian islands offer romance, seclusion, overwater-bungalows, luxury Polynesian spas, activities and the warmth of the Tahitian people.

Believe it or not Tahiti is just one of the islands that make up 14 of the Society Island. It’s where the capital Papeete is located and where you start your journey. Tahiti is the largest island throughout the country and is considered the Queen of the Pacific. This invigorating city and gateway of the country, boasts world-class resorts, spas, fine dining and unique restaurants, nightclubs, vibrant markets, pearl shops, and boutiques. If gives you a perfect taste of what is to come.

BEAUTIFUL MOOREA
After a day or so in Tahiti, get introduced to Moorea – The Magical Island! Moorea soars magically out of the ocean in an explosion of green velvet - what you would imagine a South Seas island to be. The beauty of Moorea is unforgettable. It is the second largest of all the islands, very mountainous, with Mt. Tohivea being the highest point. If you’ve ever seen “South Pacific” it is rumored James Michener based Bali Hai on Moorea. Here you’ll find a true South Seas experience. A barefoot experience, with white and black sand beaches, multi colored lagoons, surrounded by mountains and a dormant volcano that reaches into the clouds. There are endless activities. From swimming with dolphins, scuba diving, surfing, kitesurfing, 4X4 safaris, deep sea fishing, eco, cultural and nature touring, to having a private lunch on a private island called a motu. If this is to much activity for you, then sit back on your deck, soaking in the beauty and enjoy what nature has provided.

The next island of Bora Bora is the most impressive, distinctive island you will ever experience. Two towering peaks of sheer black rock dominate the center of the island and make an impressive backdrop to an assortment of blue waters that will dazzle the eyes. Bora Bora's lagoon is its most treasured feature, and allows the traveler many opportunities to experience it in a variety of ways. Windsurfing, jetski across the magnificent turquoise lagoon, scuba dive, swim, bask in its warmth... the list goes on.

Over Water Huts in Bora Bora - Ahhhhhhh Luxury
Bora Bora is truly an experience worth having. A wonderfully relaxing place to be as well as a great island for you to experience, your Bora Bora vacation will never be forgotten. The perfect Bora Bora day begins with a dawn breakfast from your over-water bungalow deck, then a guided tour of the atoll on waver-runners, then a stop on a deserted beach for lunch of beachside barbecued lobster. Then perhaps there will be an hour of swimming with sharks and bat rays, schools of them mysteriously mellowed by the warm aqua waters. Spend some time shopping for black pearls in the central village of Vaitape or maybe enjoy an afternoon massage, full of locally harvested healing oils carrying a faint sweet smell of tiare. And finally, before dinner, have sunset cocktails overlooking Mount Otemanu, the extinct volcano which is paradise’s distinctively craggy profile.

If Bora Bora isn’t enough beauty for you, visit Le Taha’a – a private island known as the Vanilla Island. When you arrive you are greeted by the rich aroma and you realize you are in heaven. This self-declared “most exclusive resort in all of French Polynesia” offers a perfect ending to your romantic getaway –this is what most people believe Bora Bora looked like before getting popular. Stunning accommodations, wonderful restaurants, and an amazing spa, Le Taha’a is a perfect gem. You can actually walk 100 yards out into the water and still only be knee deep. The sea is so calm, tables and chairs are actually set up in the water for lunch.

Monday, August 2, 2010

A Honeymoon in Paradise is a Honeymoon in Thailand

Everyone knows the story of the “King and I” or the “King of Siam”, but do you know where these stories took place? Known as Siam until 1939, Thailand is the only Southeast Asian country never to have been taken over by a European power. This is an amazing destination with palaces, temples, markets, wonderful spas, fine dining and some of the best hotels in the world! A great place for a romantic honeymoon.

Follow us as we introduce you to some of the most famous and beautiful cities in the country!

Beautiful Bangkik
First up, Bangkok! The capital of Thailand, Bangkok offers sightseeing, restaurants, nightlife and wonderful accommodations. It is considered one of Asia’s most cosmopolitan cities while also being considered a national treasure and Thailand’s spiritual, cultural, political, commercial, educational and diplomatic centers in the country. Split up into 50 different districts, Bangkok is a huge, modern city. With an expansive transportation system, getting around Bangkok is very easy. You can visit any number of sites, but the best way to see this amazing city is on bicycle. With daily or regular departures to the Bangkok Jungle, which is an area across the river from downtown Bangkok where there are few cars or buildings, or through the backstreets of China Town. You definitely don’t want to miss a visit to the Grand Palace and the Emerald Buddha Temple. Another great way to see the city, there are special boat trips designed for foreign tourists along the Chao Phraya River to take in sites such as the Grand Palace. Whatever you want to experience, you can do it here!

Next up is the 2nd largest city in Thailand, known as the “rose of the North” Chiang Mai. Located in the northern mountains of the country, Chiang Mai is very historical and offers a tremendous amount of culture. Visit the aroros Market and experience the northern Thai way of life. Ride along Tapae Road down through the city walls and along Rajdamnern Road to Wat Phra Singh, which houses a very old and sacred Buddha image. Drive from Wat Phra Singh to Wat Phrathad Doi Suthep, which stands at 3,500 feet above sea level and is the most important temple in Chiang Mai. Visit the famous Chiang Dao Elephant camp where you will be given a private training course to learn the basic commands required to guide an elephant through its daily tasks. You’ll be able to experience painting with the elephants and the best part is having your picture taken upon an elephant! One thing you don’t want to miss is the outdoor night market – here you will enjoy shopping for silks, spices, cotton, and amazing Thai items that will allow you to remember this amazing trip!

The Blue Waters of Phuket
Onto the largest of Thailand’s islands, Phuket! Phuket is the ultimate beach destination! Here you can see uninhabited islands, private cove areas that's covered with fine white sand, world class hotels, and luxury spas. This is definitely a relaxing experience and one we promise you’ll love!

For those with an added interest for a great side trip, consider an extension to Cambodia and Vietnam. These countries have tremendous history, unspoiled beaches, forgotten temples and a vibrant capital. Cambodia is a place to relax while taking in the culture, sights and sounds. Visit Angkor Wat, the largest Khmer monument built around the 12th century. It is considered one of the finest monuments in the world! After here, travel to Siem Reap where you can visit Banteay Srei, a 10th century temple dedicate to the Hindu god Shiva. Lastly, take a trip to Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon. Near the Cambodian border, the town is home to the unique Cao Dai sect, whose patron saints include Joan of Arc, Victor Hugo and Winston Churchill. The religion is an odd mix of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism and Christianity, and it is here that you will see the famous Tay Ninh Temple. Visit the historic Reunification Palace and War Remnants Museum, followed by the architectural treats of French colonial Notre Dame Cathedral and the Post Office.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Honeymooning in the Land Down Under - G'Day Newlyweds

Australia - The land down under is a great honeymoon destination. Our Fall is their Spring. Our Winter is their Summer – so anytime of year you get married is a great time to honeymoon there.
Australia Beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world!

You’ve heard of the Tasmanian Devil, well did you know there is really a place called Tasmania? It’s a pristine island separated from the hustle and bustle of mainland Australia. The island has more than 1,000 mountain peaks and offers four-weather seasons. In fact, more than 40 percent of the Island is earmarked as national parks and reserves and feature some of the world’s rarest animals. The main Island, which compares in size to West Virginia, is home to about 500,000 people. Tasmania is the perfect place if you like gardens, golfing, wildlife, camping, fishing, walking and trekking. There are all-terrain vehicles, cycling, diving, kayaking or canoeing, surfing, and whitewater rafting for those interested in a more adventurous trip. Everything is so easy to get to: you can stand atop a mountain peak in the morning and paddle an azure sea in the afternoon. You can pack more into your day because you spend less time driving. You can cycle through historic villages, sip on premium cool-climate wines or journey deep into the western wilderness. It is all here for you to discover in Tasmania.

South Australia: South Australia is renowned for its winegrowing areas of the Barossa, Clare Valley, Coonawarra and McLaren Vale. With its pleasant climate, fine food and wines, numerous festivals and events, and long clean sandy beaches, South Australia is a great holiday destination. The capital of South Australia is Adelaide, an elegant, spacious city with many restaurants and cafes, surrounded by a green ribbon of parklands. To see native plants and animals like kangaroos, wallabies, platypus, koalas, seals and echidna take a trip to Kangaroo Island, a short flight or ferry trip from Adelaide. The Murray River reaches its prime in South Australia, with spectacular cliffs, abundant birds and good fishing. Staying in a houseboat on the Murray River is a popular way to enjoy the area.

Queensland: There are 300 sunny days a year in Queensland and a year-round temperate climate. It's really no wonder Queenslanders are so happy. You’ll be able to enjoy outdoor sports and alfresco dining anytime you visit. Forge lasting memories by participating in activities with friends and family…witness wildlife in their native habitats, attempt skydiving or even follow in the footsteps of early pioneers in the Outback. Step back in time as you view Aboriginal rock art or attend a local exhibition at a regional gallery. And then there’s the shopping, a favorite pastime for many. Markets, galleries and boutiques all bring basket loads of goodies no matter whether you're looking to splurge or are bargain hunting; you'll be satisfied with the choices. With so much going on in Queensland, you definitely won't run out of things to see or do, you may simply just run out of time!

Western Australia: Western Australia truly is the authentic Australian experience. The capital of Perth is Australia's western gateway and a great place to start your vacation. Perth City offers an easygoing lifestyle - the beautiful Swan River and inner-city parks like Kings Park add to the relaxed, natural feel. There is much to see and do in this part of the State, from swimming in crystal clear ocean waters to enjoying a sunny afternoon sipping a cold beer at an open-air pub.

Northern Australia: Travel from the desert to the tropics and discover the heart of Australia. Whether it’s climbing the escarpments, viewing rock art, catching fish, exploring the red desert flora and fauna or trekking through chasms in Central Australia, there’s an experience for everyone in the Northern Territory.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Our Second Installment on Latin America -- CENTRAL AMERICA

Honeymooning couple enjoys a sail in BELIZE

We are teaching our readers about Latin America and this time we want to introduce you to Central America! There are few honeymoon destinations that offer such diversity and beauty. Central America is comprised of five different areas: Belize, Costa Rica, Guatemala,Nicaragua and Panama.

Follow us as we introduce you to the beauty of Central America.

Belize offers an unparalleled variety of adventures. From the reefs to the rainforests, you can enjoy assorted adventures such as hiking, horseback riding, snorkeling, sailing, caving, and much more. SCUBA divers choose to dive Belize for its pristine waters and unmatched aquatic life. Belize sea kayaking can transport you from reef to jungle or to a half dozen sandy neighboring islands. Other Belize tours might include adventure resorts where you can choose from any number of water and land adventures, including pool-lounging and hammock-surfing! Whether you prefer relaxing in your tree house bungalow or exploring the caves of a Maya underworld, you're sure to find your trip to Belize perfect.

Costa Rica, Pura Vida ot "Pure Life” Lush rainforests and pristine beaches; tiny blue frogs and giant leatherback turtles; screaming howler monkeys and crashing white waves: Costa Rica tours offer a breathtaking array of sights and sounds! Your Costa Rica travel itinerary might include whitewater rafting, a rain forest canopy tour, relaxing at the beach or exploring one of the country's many fabulous ecolodges. Experience nature travel at its best!<

Have you thought about Guatamala? When traveling to Guatamala, you’ll visit ancient Maya ruins of Tikal, the volcanoes of the Guatemala highlands, and the colonial city of Antigua. Visit indigenous families and take in the colorful local culture on an interactive tour. You'll wander the beautiful mountain town of Chichicastenango, famous for its vibrant and lively market. There is also the lovely Lake Atitlan, guarded by looming volcanoes. For a more heart-racing adventure, you can bike, canoe, and sea kayak your way around the country while also getting to know the locals.

Beautiful Nicaragua - Travel to Nicaragua and explore cloud forest, artisan markets, and old colonial cities! Nicaragua is a destination of amazing handicrafts as well biodiversity and wildlife. Boasting the avenue of volcanoes, the country houses a chain of 12 volcanoes and the western hemisphere's largest fresh water lake, offering awe-inspiring landscapes. Nicarauga tours explore old colonial cities from the countries' conquistador past, includes visits to cathedrals and old museums from the Spanish era, and opportunities for adventure and time on the coast. Your Nicaragua travel experience will illuminate the dynamic culture, recent history, and landscape of the bottleneck of Central America

Panama– the “eighth wonder of the world”: Panama offers clear blue waters for snorkeling and diving, rainforest adventures, vibrant communities, and idyllic islands. A Panama tour of Isla Bastimentos reveals an ecosystem rife with both terrestrial and aquatic wildlife, while a Panama Canal tour showcases the manmade "eighth wonder of the world." Whether trekking through rainforest or enjoying the laid-back nightlife of Bocas del Toro, you'll forever associate Panamawith the best in natural and cultural landscapes.

Monday, July 12, 2010

Bienvenidos (Welcome) to Latin America

The Andes, Amazon, Galapagos, Central America & Antarctica -- the treasures of Latin America are endless! Latin America is made of many different countries, Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, Galapagos, and Peru are just a few. Follow us as we take you through some of these amazing destinations and what a honeymoon in Latin America can be like!

Let’s start with South America!

Visit the Amazon: Whether you want to trek through untamed trails in the jungle or just relax in a hammock surrounded by armies of fearless hummingbirds, Amazon travel offers you an exotic experience that will alter your perception of the natural world. Amazon tours take you down a winding stream in a dugout canoe and lift you high into the rainforest canopy. While in the jungle expect to see howler monkeys and macaws, and possibly the elusive jaguar. Amazon lodges, provide both adventure and serenity: twilight hikes in search of nocturnal creatures, swims in pristine lakes and black water creeks. Amazon travel is all about discovery! Interested in an Amazon River cruise? River cruise ships are specially designed to ply the shallow waters of rivers around the world. These ships offer comfortable cabins with lower beds and private facilities. Some offer luxurious suites and deluxe onboard amenities such as lounges and bars, fitness facilities, and spacious public areas.

Next, let’s introduce you to Argentina: Argentina differs region-to-region, offering a diverse landscape of glaciers, fjords, inlets, lakes, forests, and desert landscapes. Northern Argentina tours showcase unique desert landforms, deep gorges for excellent hiking, and thunderous Iguazu Falls, whose billowing cascades tumble through lush subtropical rainforest. On a southern Argentina tour, you'll greet awe-inspiring scenery at the end of the world, Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego, where you can board a cruise passing through colorful port towns, verdant fjords, and rugged, glacier-topped mountains. As you hike this diverse terrain, including the illustrious Fitz Roy Range, you'll realize the true essence of natural beauty. Argentina  provides some of the best trekking in the world!

On to Chile: Chile offers a stunning variety of landscapes. From the haunting, echoing landscapes of the Atacama desert to the temperate rainforests in the South and the majestic peaks of Torres del Paine, there's a tour in Chile for any adventure traveler. Base camp trekking in Torres del Paine provides striking views of the Patagonia landscape, including the intimidating spires of Paine, themselves. Of course, no Chile tour is complete without visiting one of the country's many enormous glaciers--one of which you can witness while hiking through a Chilean forest. There are several different ways to explore Chile, if you prefer you can explore on foot, or relax on a well-appointed cruise ship. The options are numerous.

Check out Ecuador: Ecuador includes historic haciendas, abundant wildlife and hospitable locals. If you're an active adventure seeker, you can take an Ecuador tour that includes biking in a volcano's shadow, hiking in the Bellavista Cloud forest, whitewater rafting through the western Andes, and hiking among the volcanoes of Cotopaxi National Park. Or maybe your preferred Ecuador adventure is sea kayaking into the untamed depths of the Amazon jungle. The colonial towns of Quito and Cuenca make for tamer Ecuador tours, where you can amble down cobblestone streets and shop at the local markets.Where else can you bird watch in the Amazon while simultaneously relaxing in the bar and lounge?

Of course, no trip to Ecuador is complete without visiting the famed Galapagos Islands.

So…..on to the Galapagos: Come see the islands that Charles Darwin made famous! Traveling in the Galapagos beckons every birder, nature lover and curious traveler. Each day on your Galapagos cruise you leave your yacht to explore these uninhabited island treasures. The naturalist guide shows you the diversity of Galapagos wildlife and teaches you about the area's natural history. Each island is filled with Galapagos travel highlights: snorkeling with playful sea lions, admiring the amusing blue-footed Boobie, whale-watching, or hiking to lava tunnels on Santa Cruz Island. Travel with us to the Galapagos Islands and visit one of the most undisturbed ecosystems in the world!

And last but not least…..Peru: Travel to Peru and experience ancient ruins, ancient traditions, and ancient jungle! Plan your Peru tour to trek the Inca Trail, wander the charming Cusco markets, and explore the steamy Amazon rainforest. If Machu Picchu tours sound too arduous on foot, no problem! Machu Picchu travel can also be done by train. These Peru tours present the dramatic visage of the Inca ruins and the friendly faces of the Inca descendants. You'll be confronted with exotic flora and fauna in the verdant cloud forest, as well as the snowcapped mountains that tower like the ancients of old over the Sacred Valley. Your Peru travel experience will illuminate the dynamic culture, history, and landscape of the Andes and Amazon!

Thursday, July 8, 2010

A MOROCCAN HONEYMOON - Romantic, thrilling, exotic

Are you looking for a honeymoon destination that is romantic, authentic and offers enriching experiences? An active vacation with sensational thrills? A vacation to satisfy your passion for travel and unusual sights?

How about Morocco?

Located in North Africa, Morroco has a coastline on both the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea and has so much to offer. Art and culture, hiking and trekking, crafts and shopping, desserts, golf, beaches, amazing spas, and festivals and museums.

Join us as we take you to some of the amazing cities you can visit.

Casablanca

Casablanca is a beautiful located in the western region of the country. The city, which is also the capital city of the Grand Casablanca region, shares its border with the Atlantic Ocean. It is not only a capital city, but it is also the biggest city and an important port in Morocco. Casablanca is home to around 2.9 million people. Besides its economical impact, Casablanca is a famous tourist spot. Thousands of tourists visit this city from all over the world. There are various attractions - towers, mosques, city halls and many other interesting spots - in Casablanca.

Fes

Step back in time to the Middle Ages as you visit one of the most imperial, timeless and untouched cities in the world. Fez El Bali (Old Fez) – is the cultural heart of Morocco. Explore some of the 9,000 narrow lanes, alleys and souks (markets)that make-up the labyrinth of the city’s old quarter, originally founded in the 8th century AD.

Merzouga

Travel by road into the Sahara Desert. Cross the picturesque Atlas Mountains. Pass through the Ziz Valley and the oasis city of Erfoud, one of the largest oases in Morocco. Here, you get a powerful sense of its proximity of the desert, and the vantage point from the East Fort boasts splendid views over date palms, the Ziz and the desert.

Set off from the oasis and enter the desert. Proceed to the great sand dunes of the Erg Chebbi. Enjoy a reception with mint tea and pastries before beginning your explorations of the sand dunes via camelback. View a spectacular sunset over the desert dunes of Erg Chebbi.<

Skoura

Visit a local date palmary and nearby villages in Ouarzazate, and venture out into the superb Draa Valley with its wonderful Kasbahs.


Marrakech

The “Pearl of the South” Marrakech was once the capital of an empire that stretched from Toledo to Senegal. Called the “Pink City” because of the color of the local earth used in its construction, it is a city of labyrinthine alleyways, secluded palaces, museums, mosques and markets. The city’s gardens are still supplied with water from 11th-century underground irrigation canals. The Djemaa el Fna, the city square, is full of dancers, fortune-tellers, musicians, acrobats, storytellers and snake charmers. Koutoubia, the 12th-century mosque dominates the Marrakech skyline. The Ben Youssef Medersa, with its mosaics, marbles, and carved woodwork forms part of Marrakech’s UNESCO-listed medina, now a World Heritage site, crammed with architectural masterpieces. Most of the city’s architectural attractions are inside the Medina, the old walled section of the town. Visit the El Badi Palace, which took twenty-five years to build, the 12th-century Koutoubia minaret; and the Saadian Tombs, which display a very high level of decoration, using traditional stucco and delicate Granada-style carving, typical of classical Moroccan buildings. Tour the Bahia Palace, residence of the grand vizier Si Ahmed Ben Moussa and a masterpiece of domestic architecture which provides insight into how the privileged lived in the Imperial city in 19th century. You can also stop at Dar Si Said, one of the most beautiful palaces and home to the museum of Moroccan Arts and Crafts.

Oualidia

Oualidia is the center of Morocco’s oyster industry and offers one of Morocco’s largest areas of abundant bird habitat. Oualidia is an ideal place to swim and surf, sample delicious seafood, or simply relax and walk on the beach.