Casablanca on a Budget
For those travel-hungry people out there desperately trying to whisk away on another adventure
, but haven't got the funds to do so, will be surprised at how cheap it is to experience Morocco nowadays. Even more so, visiting Casablanca for several days could be the answer to their vacationing prayers.
Standing as the largest city in Morocco, Casablanca has a range of interesting sites to visit. However, it is generally regarded as the main entry point to the country, and has a large international airport that serves several cheap airlines, making it easy to find an inexpensive flight into the city from many European destinations.
Cheap Casablanca hotels are scattered across the city. Many of the main attractions located in town are within easy reach of accommodation, including the famous shopping districts that make Morocco a truly unique culture altogether. A Casablanca tour package may be the best option for travellers looking to save money. Transport, accommodation, and trips to the various souqs, temples and historical structures can be arranged at the lowest price possible.
However, visitors looking to enjoy the culture of Casablanca and not end up totally broke can focus their holiday around the shopping districts of the city. There are more than half a dozen major shopping areas in Casablanca, and although they aren't renowned for their flair and excitement like the town of Marrakech, visitors can still enjoy the atmosphere and enticement of these attractions.
Two of the more culturally authentic' souqs (open markets) are the Old Medina Market and the Derb Ghraleef souq. Both of these places are located in the northern area of the city, close to numerous hotels. The Old Medina is much cleaner than Derb Ghraleef, and there is a little bit more room to move around. In the Old Medina, visitors will be able to purchase souvenirs in the form of crafts, but in Derb Ghraleef, the menu consists mainly of fashion products, furniture, phones, and second hand books.
Old Medina is by far the more touristy' spot, as visitors won't find any souvenirs or traditional Moroccan crafts in Derb Ghraleef. Nevertheless, both areas are the perfect spots to experience the thrill of haggling. Bargaining the prices of products is a way of life in the souqs. A word of rule: never pay the first price the artisan or merchant gives you. It is always well above market price. Even if visitors decide not to buy anything, it is still worth visiting these destinations for the cultural feast that rumbles within the alleys and stalls of the marketplaces.
Haggling is an art form. It can be quite difficult at first to get into the culture and rhythm of bargaining prices, but after some practice, the act is quiet enjoyable. When negotiating, keep in mind that the stall owners are very good at what they do. Some of them have been doing it since they could talk! Keep calm throughout the ordeal', stay patient, and remember, its all about the experience.
If haggling simply isn't for you, then don't fretthere are plenty of other places to shop for authentic Moroccan goods. The Exposition Nationale d'Artisanat is a complex that boasts several floors of crafts and arts. The stores are literally jam packed with goods. The merchants here are less aggressive than the souqs, and prices here are generally set. Another quieter place to shop is Quartier Habous, located to the south of Casablanca's main tourist area. Similar to the Exposition Nationale d'Artisanat, Quartier Habous is a much more relaxed atmosphere, and onlookers will not be harassed by sellers. This is the ideal place for travellers to take their time, and go at their own pace.
Casablanca on a Budget
By: Lek Boonlert
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