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orocco is about color. In her great monochromatic cities, every building carries the local theme. Vibrant blue in Fez. Delicate pink in Marrakech. Bright white in Rabat.

It's about Paul Bowles and the fast life for Europeans and about the stripy shadows made by the reed mats atop the medina.

It’s about b’stilla and tagines and their flavors spun from cinnamon and preserved lemons. It’s about the Majorelle Gardens’ impeccably elegant mix of French and Arab. It’s about people wearing djellabas and hiding their finery underneath, so that we can hardly tell the grandees from the peasants.

First stop, Casablanca, entryway to the nation. The city is modern, Atlantic, and deeply influenced by the French. Very present and a good jump-off point.

Make haste to Fez, the most complete medieval Islamic city in the world. Absolutely intoxicating, particularly the medina. Afterwards, get cozy in the incomparable Palais Jamai (and dream such dreams).

Day-trip to Meknes, one of four historical capitals. Here stands Ismail's palace, built in the 17th century (from looted marble) to house his hundred wives. In Volubilis, discover why Antony and Cleopatra's daughter chose this as her home. Then Moulay Idriss, founded by a relative of the Prophet Mohammed.

Wend our way through the Atlas mountains, stopping at the village of Beni Mallal to examine the Berber way of life. Local crafts and the arts flourish.

Churchill went to Marrakech to take the cure (bronchitis). We stay at his favorite haunt, La Mamounia (where his suite has been entirely preserved, books and all). The ancient Berber capital is a busy marketplace, and no wonder-it straddles a number of well-worn trade routes. Life revolves around Djemaa el Fna, the city's central square with the ambience of a three-ring circus-snake charmers and all.

Sudden realization. Morocco has captured your heart.

Want more time in Morocco? Consider extending to a 13-day journey that also includes the desert dunes of Merzouga. And the Dades Valley of a Thousand kasbahs and a magnet for filmmakers ("Lawrence of Arabia" was filmed here.) In Ait Benhaddou, learn the meaning of hammada. The possibilities are endless.

Morocco. As Time Went By. 10 Days.

Have a bit more time to spend in this exotic country? If so, we suggest you extend
your journey by a few days to take in the Ait Benhaddou and Essaouira.

Kashahs, Berbers, & Ergs. Morocco-Beyond the City Limits. 3 Day Extension.

While you’re in this part of the world, consider an extension to Spain. For more information contact R. Crusoe at 888.490.8046 (or 312.980.8000, if you are calling from outside the U.S.).