Fes (or Fez in the English spelling) is Morocco's capital
and a religous city divided into the old and new sectors and
houses the largest mosque in Africa. There's a buzz from the
hubbub of people going about their daily lives; a way of life
influenced by a combination of both old and modern tradition.
Coming here one must appreciate that this is an Islamic culture,
so certain formalities must be observed when visiting places
of religious significance. Royal
Air Moroc often has a number of cheap flight deals to Fes,
since it is not one of the UK's high traffic routes. They
operate daily flights.
Shopping:
Recommended Stores - the
old town area has a range of stores and markets (souks)
where you can get the best deals.
Best Buys - carpets, perfumes (Musk, Santal), pottery,
silver and souvenirs. It is worth seeking out Farsi Metal
Work for beautifully crafted objects.
Shopper's Tip - haggling saves money and is expected.
Sightseeing
Attractions:
The Qarawiyyin Mosque and Tomb
of Moulay Idris II - is considered the largest mosque
in Africa and is one of the most sacred places in Morocco.
Here lies the tomb of the great Moroccan ruler Moulay Idris
II who reigned circa 808 A.D.
The Cherry Orchards - during the month of June the local
inhabitants celebrate the return of cherries at Sefrou and
lead a procession to the tomb of the prophet Daniel.
Grand Vizier's Palace - now an elegant carpet museum
where you can also purchase fine Moroccan carpets. Remember
to bargain with the traders.
The Blue Gate of Fes - is a grand gateway featuring
Islamic decoration and styling.
Karougine University
- the famous school for Jewish scholars.
El Qaraouiyin Mosque - is the oldest centre for learning
and has one of the largest libraries in the world with over
30,000 books, including a 9th century Koran.
Malay Yacoub Spa - take the plunge and enjoy the warm,
curative waters which are said to relieve rheumatism, nose
and throat infections, skin problems, gynacological disorders
and more. You can be attended by a medical specialist if
required.
The Fes Meadina - has been declared a world heritage
sight by the United Nations and is gradually being restored
to it's former glory.
Friouato caverns - these caverns descend to depths of
180 metres with staircases leading down to underground palaces,
halls and galleries. Here you can see amazing stalagmite
and stalactite formations.
Tannery - don't go here after lunch! Pigeon excrement
is used in the tanning process to toughen up the leather.
The tanning process is interesting, but the foul smell from
the pigeon droppings along with the hides can be a strong
test for the nose and stomach
Recommended Entertainment:
Although an Islamic faith, Moroccans
are more lenient about alcohol and nightlife activities,
so you will find bars and clubs in the city, but not with
the same levels of sophistication as London.
Night Clubs/Bars - Les Ambassadeurs
is one of many and recommended.
Discos - Olivia Valare, Pop84, Wassim are all popular
places to go for a good night out.
Eating Out - La Maison Bleue, Dalais Mnebhi are two
excellent eateries and the Ville Nouvelle area has a number
of cafes serving both international and local cuisines.
Morrocan food is usually spicey and tasty. Try the famed
"Pastilla" - a pigeon pie topped with almond pastry
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