casablanca_en

Population:App. 3.5 million (city), 6.9 million(region)

Currency:Dirham (dh or MAD) = 100centimesThe importing of Dirhams is notallowed and money must bechanged once in Morocco.

Opening hours:Shops in Casablanca are generallyopen from 8.30am through to 12noon and in the afternoons from3pm to around 6pm in theevening from Monday to Friday,and from 8.30am to 12 noon onSaturdays. They are closed onSundays. The central market(Marche Central) in Rue Chaouiais open daily from 6am until 2pm.Banks keep similar hours. Themain branches are open from8.30am to 12 noon. Some open inthe afternoons. Hours aredisplayed on their door.

Internet:www.casablanca.mawww.morocco.comwww.visitmorocco.org

Newspapers:La Quinzaine du MarocL’ObervateurLeconomisteLa vie ‘conomiqueTel quel

Emergency numbers:Police: 19Medical: 15

Tourist information:Casablanca Tourist Office98 Boulevard Mohamed V,

CASABLANCAPUBLISHING DATE: 2009-03-09 | COUNTRY CODE: MAContents: The City, Do & See, Eating, Cafés, Bars & Nightlife, Shopping,Sleeping, Essential Information, Maps

Copyright © 2007 Fastcheck AB. All rights reserved. For more information visit: www.arrivalguides.com

CASABLANCAA heady mix of architecture treasures such as the greatHassan II Mosque that glistens with gold in the sunshine tothe dusty old town, the Ancienne Medina, just a ten minuteor so walk away, and to contemporary structures like its twinbusiness centre towers, Casablanca is a large, sprawling cityfull to the brim with people that sits on the Atlantic Oceancoast of Morocco. In fact, it’s the country’s largest city andMorocco’s as well as North Africa’s chief port. Cruise shipsarrive daily to experience its frenetic lifestyle, its stylishrestaurants and shopping, its fine food and its oftenoverpowering atmosphere.

Make your trip start at hoMe | www.arrivalguides.com

THE CITY #THECITY#

Forever famous thanks to HumphreyBogart and Ingrid Bergman in the 1942film of the same name, Casablanca is thecapital of Morocco in all but name. Rabathas the honour, but Casablanca is widelyregarded as the most important city due toits key economic, commercial, industrialand shipping activities. Such activities havegiven parts of the city a cutting edge 21stcentury feel, especially around theBoulevard Brahim Roudaini where modernnew business centres have helped tocreate areas of fine dining restaurants andcultural venues. These are in stark contrastto the tiny streets of the old town’s medinaand the bustling souks where dustytraditional and colonial style buildings canbe seen.

Also known as Casa (informal) and Dar elBaida (Arabic), Casablanca, which means‘white house’ in English, has a livelyhistory. This was most notable during thePortuguese occupation in the 15th century,thanks to the country’s desire to stoppirates using the port from which to launchattacks on its fleets. The city was virtuallydestroyed by an earthquake in 1755, atwhich time the Portuguese lost interest andthe city was reborn under the Moroccanleader Sidi Mohammed III’s extensiverenovation plans. It still bears some of hislandmark buildings today. Casablanca, asMorocco, is now run by the French.

The Casablanca of today is a wonderful

place to visit, and one of the best ways toget the full impact of the city is to fly infrom one of numerous Europeandestinations and see the city from the air,or to arrive by cruise ship. The cityskyscape stretches to the horizon in alldirections from an aircraft window or fromthe deck of a ship and is one of thosememories that will remain forever.Venturing out on foot or by vehicle themust sees include the massive Hassan IIMosque with its glass floor, the Old Medina(Ancienne Medina) and the Art Deco newtown (Ville Nouvelle).

DO & SEE #DOANDSEE#

Hassan Ii MosqueThis outstanding mosque stands on apromontory looking towards the Atlantic. Itcan accommodate over 100,000worshippers inside and on its courtyard. Itsminaret is 210 metres tall, making it thetallest in the world, and it has an amazingglass floor.

Address: Foire de Casablanca, Aïn DiabUnderground: To Foire de CasablancaPhone: +212 (0)2 222 1524

The Old Medina Or Old Town (ancienneMedina)A labyrinth of tiny streets with tall, dustybuildings where bustling local life can beseen and a few curiosities purchased.

Address: Ancienne MedinaUnderground: To the Ancienne Medina off the Gare du PortPhone: +212 (0)2 222 1524

|DESTINATION: CASABLANCAPUBLISHING DATE: 2009-03-09


Rialto CinemaOne of the most enchanting cinemas inwhich to see a film, the Railto Cinemadates from the 1930s, is Art Deco is styleand straight out of the film Casablanca.

Address: Boulevard Brahim RoudainiUnderground: To Boulevard Brahim Roudaini or PlaceMohammedPhone: +212 (0)2 222 1524

Cathedral Of Sacre CoeurFeaturing elaborate Moroccan architecturalstyles, this large church is one of thelandmark buildings of the city.


Villa Des ArtsA sprawling exhibition centre that displaysboth contemporary pieces of art as well astraditional Moroccan artefacts.


Place Mohammed VA large sprawling square where everydaylife can be seen from one of the outdoorcafes.

Address: Place Mohammed VUnderground: To Place Mohammed VPhone: +212 (0)2 222 1524

Central MarketA bustling market that is an experienceeven if purchases from the vast selectionof fruit and vegetables are not made. Open6am to 2pm.

Address: Rue ChaouiaUnderground: To Rue ChaouiaPhone: +212 (0)2 222 1524

EATING #EATING#

Casablanca is a multi-cultural city andwhile many of the restaurants serve amenu of only Moroccan or Frenchdelicacies there are Oriental, Mexican,Italian, Indian and American style eateriesto be found too. It is also known for its icecream parlours and patisseries. Look outfor Mechoui, a roasted lamb dish seasonedwith paprika and cumin, and Bisteeya, asavoury pastry that contains chicken andeggs in a lemony-onion sauce and toppedwith crushed almonds and cinnamon andsugar. Do remember there may restrictionto menus and opening hours duringRamadan.

La MerA nautical themed restaurant thatspecialises in local fish and seafood dishes.

Address: El HankUnderground: To Gare du PortPhone: +212 (0)2 236 3315

A Ma BretagneFamous for its excellent a la carte menuthat includes Foie Gras, this restaurant isrun by award winning Maître Cuisiniers deFrance chefs.

Address: Sidi AbderrahmaneUnderground: Foire de CasablancaPhone: +212 (0)2 236 2112

Le CabestanAn elegant little restaurant with a classicFrench menu and good views over theharbour and lighthouse.



Address: El HankUnderground: To Gare du PortPhone: +212 (0)2 239 1190

Taverne Du DauphinA popular restaurant near the coast thatserves a good choice of fresh fish dishes indelicious sauces.

Address: 115 Boulevard Felix Houphouet BoignyUnderground: To Place MirabeauPhone: +212 (0)2 222 1200

Restaurant La MammaWith a bright and lively atmosphere, theRestaurant La Mamma serves a choice ofpasta and Italian themed dishes.

Address: Boulevard de la CornicheUnderground: To the Boulevard de la CornichePhone: +212 (0)2 239 1558

Restaurant SijilmassaWith a garden for al fresco dining andviews of the sea, this coastal restaurantserves Moroccan dishes.

Address: Boulevard de BiarritzUnderground: Boulevard de BiarritzPhone: +212 (0)2 236 1350

CAFÉS #CAFES#

L’iglooA popular ice cream parlour within easywalking distance of the Ancienne Medina.It also serves beverages and light snacks.

Address: Boulevard du JanvierUnderground: Place Mohammed VPhone: +212 (0)2 222 1524

Gâteaux BennisA French style patisserie with a wide choiceof desserts, cakes and pastries, all

temptingly displayed.

Address: 2 Rue Fkih El GabbasUnderground: Habous centrePhone: +212 (0)2 222 1524

OliversA lively ice cream parlour and patisseriesserving desserts and pastries to make yourmouth water.

Address: Avenue Hassan IIUnderground: To Avenue HassanPhone: +212 (0)2 222 1524

Stella Ice Cream ParlourAn ice-cream parlour that will provide arefreshing respite from the hot summersun with around 30 different flavours tochoose from at any one time.

Address: Boulevard de la CornicheUnderground: To the Boulevard de la CornichePhone: +212 (0)2 222 1524

BARS & NIGHTLIFE #BARSANDNIGHTLIFE#

For drinks and a night out, there are somegood options, but many will not allowwomen to enter unaccompanied. That said,there are a few bars that welcomeholidaying couples, and hotel bars aregenerally good venues for eveningrelaxation.

Orient ExpressHoused in a coach from the Orient Express,this fun bar serves a wide range of winesand spirits, along with light meals.

Address: 41 Boulevard de la CornicheUnderground: To Boulevard de la CornichePhone: +212 (0)2 236 7073



Rick’s BarIt many not be the bar made famous in thefilm, but it is still a fun place to while awaya few evenings. Located inside the HotelHyatt Regency.

Address: Place des Nations UniesUnderground: Place des Nations UniesPhone: +212 (0)2 243 1234

MetropolisAn atmospheric evening drinking houseinside the Hotel Suisse that is frequentlyby hotel guests and visitors.

Address: Hôtel Suisse, Boulevard de la CornicheUnderground: To the Boulevard de la CornichePhone: +212 (0)2 239 6061

Palm Beach ClubA lively pub close to the coast with bellydancers – for adults only.

Address: Aïn DiabUnderground: Aïn DiabPhone: +212 (0)2 222 1524

Le TubeA popular disco that is a haunt of theyoung and trendy of Casablanca andvisiting holidaymakers.

Address: Boulevard de la CornicheUnderground: Boulevard de la CornichePhone: +212 (0)2 222 1524

SHOPPING #SHOPPING#

Morocco is a paradise for anyone whoadores traditional handmade crafts for thehome or as souvenirs. Top choice is usuallycolourful geometric patterned carpetscalled kilims, or shoedwi carpets that arepredominately black and white. They are

made by hand and sold in little shops thatline alleyways around the city, especially inthe area around Boulevard Felix HouphouetBoigny or in the medinas. For goodselections of traditional carpets head forthe Ancienne Medina near the port andquayside or the Nouvelle Medina, which isa little inland near the Mahakma du Pachaand the Palais du Rdi. Ceramics andpottery, such as tagines, along with woventextiles are popular purchases too. For thefreshest fruit and vegetables head for theCentral Market (Marche Central) in the RueChaouia, which is open everyday from 6amthrough to 2pm. Centre 2000 or Alpha 55in the Avenue de Mers Sultan are goodshopping centres for fashions andhousehold items.

When shopping, haggling is part of thetradition. It’s a subtle exercise and fun tolearn to master. A golden rule: take yourtime!

SLEEPING #SLEEPING#

EXCLUSIVELe Royal Meridien MansourConsidered the finest hotel in Casablanca,the Le Royal Meridien has luxuriousamenities that include a spa, fine diningrestaurants and sports facilities.

Address: 27 Avenue Del Armee RoyalePhone: +212 (0)2 231 3011Internet: www.starwoodhotels.com

Hyatt Regency CasablancaOne of the finest and most luxurious hotels



in the city, its is

Address: Place Mohamed VPhone: +212 (0)2 243 1234Internet: www.hyatt.com

GOOD VALUERamada Almohades CasablancaThis 138-room city centre hotel offersmany amenities such as a bar andrestaurant, good guest rooms and internetconnection.

Address: Avenue Moulay Hassan 1Phone: +212 (0)2 220505Internet: www.remadajarvis.com

Best Western Hotel ToubkalLocated in the heart of Casablanca andclose to the main tourist sights, this hotelhas lots of amenities, including sportsfacilities and restaurants.

Address: 9 Rue Sidi BelyoutPhone: +212 (0)2 231 1414Internet: www.bestwestern.com

BASICRiad Dar ItritA cosy riad guest house style of hotel thatoozes charm with a traditional Moroccandécor. It has a good restaurant and is closeto the Old Medina.

Address: 9, Rue de RestingaPhone: +212 (0)2 222 1524

Riad Jnane SherazadeA well presented villa complex that iswithin walking distance of the Catedral duSacre Coeur and has facilities that includea hammam.

Address: 8, Rue Belgrade, Mers SultanPhone: +212 (0)2 222 1524

ESSENTIAL INFORMATION

AirportsCasablanca’s Mohammed V Internationalairport (tel: +212 (0)2 253 9140) isaround 30km from the city centre andserved by taxis stationed outside, busesand car hire companies.

Internet: www.onda.ma

Public transportThe best way to get around Casablanca iseither on foot, by bus, which are generallyefficient, or by Petit Taxis that can foundalmost everywhere in the city. Shared taxiscan be a good idea for longer distances. Ifdriving, the speed limit in towns is 50km/hour but Casablanca often getsgridlocked. Driving can be a nightmare inthe city and petrol prices are high. Fortrain journeys, particularly between citieswhich can be the best way to travel, headfor the Gare du Port. Trains services aregenerally reliable, comfortable andinexpensive.

TaxiShared and Petit taxis are availablethroughout the city at various spots,especially around the main squares andthe Gare du Port. They are generallyinexpensive and often quicker than buses.

Phone: +212 (0)2 222 1524

PharmacyPharmacies are generally open 8.30amthrough to 12 noon and in the afternoons



from 3pm to around 6pm in the eveningfrom Monday to Friday, and from 8.30amto 12 noon on Saturdays. They are closedon Sundays. Out of hours is on a rota basisdisplayed at the premises. Telephone 15(local number) or SOS Medecins foremergency assistance.

Phone: +212 (0)2 220 2020

DentistDentists are generally open 8.30amthrough to 12 noon and in the afternoonsfrom 3pm to around 6pm in the eveningfrom Monday to Friday, and from 8.30amto 12 noon on Saturdays, except Sunday.Out of hours is on a rota basis displayed atthe premises. Telephone 15 local number)in the event of an emergency

Post OfficeThe main post office is in Place MohammedV, and is open Monday to Friday from8.00am to 6.30pm and Saturday 8am to12 noon.

TelephoneThe country code for Morocco is 212,followed by (0)2 for Casablanca and thenthe local number.

Electricity220 volts; generally two-hole sockets.Adapters required

Dress CodeAlthough Morcco is quickly advancing,things are still very traditional. As a touristit is good to pay attention to your owndress, as what you wear might offendlocals or cause harassment. Legs andshoulders are to be covered as these areconsidered to be ‘private body parts’, andboth men and women should keep theseareas covered. Both sexes should stayaway from sleeveless T-shirts, ordinary

T-shirts (worn as underwear in Morocco)and shorts. Also try to avoid tight clothing.Men should avoid walking without a shirton as this is considered poor taste andoffensive.

As for women, dress codes are stricter.You may see Moroccan women wearingWestern-style clothes, but be preparedthat you may attract unwanted attention.

#ESSENTIALINFORMATION#


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|Avenue de Mers Sul. C4Avenue des FAR D3Avenue des Forces . B3 C3Avenue des Forces . C3Avenue Hassan II B4 C3Avenue Hassan Souk. A4 B3Avenue Hoummane El. C3Avenue Moulay Hass. B3Avenue Moussa Ben . A4 B3Avenue Pasteur D3Avenue Zaid Ou Hma. C2 C3Boulevard Abdellah. D3Boulevard Al Yassi. D3Boulevard bin el O. B2Boulevard Brahim R. A4 B4Boulevard d’Alsace C4 D4Boulevard d’Anfa A3 A4Boulevard d’El Han. A2Boulevard de Borde. A2 B3Boulevard de Khour. D4Boulevard de la Gi. D4Boulevard de la Li. C4Boulevard de la . C4 D3 D4Boulevard de Paris B3 C3Boulevard de Str. C3 C4 D4Boulevard de Tizni. A2Boulevard des Almo. B2 C2Boulevard du 11 Ja. C3 C4Boulevard du Forbi. D2 D3Boulevard du Maréc. B2 B3Boulevard El Massi. A4Boulevard Emile Zo. D3Boulevard Hassan S. C3 C4Boulevard Houphouë. C2 C3Boulevard Ibn Tach. D4Boulevard Lahcen O. C4 D4Boulevard Mohammed. B4Boulevard Mohammed.C3 D3Boulevard Mohammed. D4Boulevard Mo. A2 A3 A4 B4Boulevard Moulay A. C2 D3Boulevard Moulay. A2 B3 B4Boulevard Rachidi B3Boulevard Rahal el. C4Boulevard Sidi M. A1 A2 B1Boulevard Sour Jdi. B1Boulevard Tahar el. B2Boulevard Ziraoui A3 B2Gare Maritime C1 C2Jetée des Phosphat. D1 D2Jetée Moulay Youss. C1Môle Intermediare D1 D2Môle Tarik C2Place de Dakar D3Place de la Frater. B3Place de la Victoi. C4 D4Place des Nations . C3Place Lemaigre Dub. C4Place Mohammed V B3 C3Place Oued el Makh. B3Place Zellaga C3 D3

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DESTINATION: CASABLANCAPUBLISHING DATE: 2009-03-09

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