Morocco a North African country borders the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea and is distinguished by its Berber (the original people of this area), Arabian and European cultural influences. The names of Morocco’s cities – Casablanca, Fes, Marrakech – hint at spice and exotic. Marrakesh’s medina (old town) offers a seething frenzy of entertainment in its Djemaa el-Fna square – a cacophony of sights and sounds and souks (marketplaces) selling ceramics, jewelry and metal lanterns. A chic sophistication has emerged in the form of luxury riads – old merchants’ houses refurbished to create exquisite small hotels. The capital Rabat’s Kasbah is a 12th-century royal fort overlooking the water. Largest city is Casablanca home to Hassan II Mosque – an Islamic landmark with a 210m minaret. The city of Fes is notable for its medina souk, Fes el Bali. Elsewhere in Morocco, historic sites include earthen-walled Aït Benhaddou (a fortified trading post) and the Roman site Volubilis, which has ruins of a basilica and triumphal arch. Visitors can take camel rides across the Saharan dunes of Erg Chebbi and Erg Chigaga – desert nomads tracking in the Sahara Desert on chains of camels or go hiking, skiing, mountain biking or paragliding in the Atlas Mountains known for Its Berber farmers herding their goats in some of the most beautiful landscapes. Its summits can reach 4000m high. The lakes are packed with trout waiting for amateur fishermen. Beach destinations include the resorts of Essaouira city, a windsurfer favorite and Agadir, known for its crescent-shaped bay. Historic architecture and cultural treasures also makes Essaouira one of Morocco’s most beautiful and best-loved towns. Head to Ouarzazate to discover its immensity and colour as you stay at the edge of the desert. At night, opt for an encampment in the desert, a chalet in the mountains and wherever you are, bed and breakfast with the locals for an unforgettable and authentic experience.