Regular flights to Casablanca
Casablanca is the most populated city in Morocco, even in the Maghreb region, with nearly 3 million inhabitants. The big city has an exceptional heritage that always impresses tourists. Air France offers flights departing from large Canadian airports, in particular from Montreal to Casablanca, from Ottawa to Casablanca or from Toronto to Casablanca, with a stopover in Paris or Amsterdam.
There is a five-hour time difference between Montreal and Casablanca, and therefore, an eight-hour time difference between Vancouver and Casablanca.
Casablanca has the largest airport in the Maghreb region, the Mohamed V Airport, located 30 km south of the city. Train, taxi, private shuttle or bus can take you from the airport to downtown. The city of “Casa” has 75 bus lines. A brand new tramway (inaugurated in 2012) is also available.
However, in Casablanca, taxis are used as a means of group transportation: there are 15 000 taxis in greater Casablanca. “Red taxis” accept up to three passengers and serve the city 24/7. “White taxis” are old Mercedes that have been in circulation for over 30 years and they run between downtown and outlaying regions, with room for six passengers.
Casablanca, a combination of architectural styles
Casablanca has a surprising architectural heritage. The first must-see monument, the Hassan II mosque, is partially built over water, in the pure Arabic-Andalusian style. The minaret is the tallest in the world, towering at 210 meters.
Casablanca is in fact a beautiful blend of styles, linked to its history and, in particular, European presence since Morocco was a French protectorate until 1956 when it gained independence. There are buildings in the neo-classical style, such as the government buildings on the Mohamed V Square (stucco, cupids, bas-reliefs of fruit baskets on the facades, etc), luxury buildings, symbols of the city's modernity, as well as art-deco buildings, the typical style that was in fashion in the early 20th century in Europe.
These types of buildings are especially located in the downtown neighborhoods in Casablanca, such as the boulevard Mohammed V, the pedestrian street of Prince Moulay Abdallah and in the old European quarter, Mers Sultan.
However, when you think of Casablanca, you can't help but remember the 1942 movie that takes place during World War II, in particular Rick's American Café, where you can still enjoy a glass of beer.
Travel to Casablanca: practical information
If you would like to travel to Casablanca, and more generally to Morocco, as a Canadian citizen you will need a passport that is valid at least six months beyond the expected date of departure from Morocco. The visa is not required whether you are a tourist, on business or a student.
However, if you plan to stay longer than 90 days, you will need to ask authorization from the foreigner's department at the local police station at least 15 days before the end of the authorized three months.
For health problems, Casablanca, has good quality private services.
The currency is the Moroccan Dirham. It cannot be exchanged outside of the country and it is illegal to take it out of Morocco. Major credit cards and traveler's checks are accepted by some stores and restaurants in urban areas, as well as in large hotels.