Moroccan cuisine is considered one of the most important cuisines in the world. The cuisine of the first inhabitants, the Berbers, still exists today in the staple dishes like tagine and couscous. The Arab invasion brought new spices, nuts and dried fruits, and the sweet and sour combinations that we see in dishes like tagine with dates and lamb. The Moors introduced olives, olive juice and citrus while the Jewish-Moors left behind their sophisticated preserving techniques that we see in the frequent use of preserved lemons, pickles, etc. The Ottoman Empire introduced barbecue (kebabs) to Moroccan cuisine. The French colony, although short-lived left behind a culture of cafes, pastries, and even wine. Over time, cooks in the kitchens of the five royal cities (Fez, Marrakesh, Meknes, Tangier and Rabat) have developed and perfected the dishes that blend each of these distinct tastes. Every Moroccan dish has its place in society and varies with the market, the season, and the region. Your first stop will be the Grand Socco , home to a cavalcade of color, charm, street musicians, a fish market, scenic handicrafts, and spices. You will then proceed to Blue Door Hotel Cooking Classroom, where you will be welcomed with Moroccan tea followed by a cooking lesson of a very traditional Moroccan dish, learn how to make the traditional Moroccan bread and take it to a local oven. In the meantime, while waiting for the bread, you will learn how to make and serve a real Moroccan tea. Once food is ready, enjoy lunch and this authentic experience. Depart for your ship with the knowledge needed to impress at your next dinner party. Please note : Wear comfortable, flat walking shoes. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, hat, local currency.

Tangier is a fascinating Moroccan city to visit. It has many of the things that travelers love - a sense of exotic mystery, interesting history, beautiful vistas, unspoiled beaches, and friendly people. It is an interesting mix of North Africa, Spanish, and French cultures. You will have a 2-hour drive via Cap Malabata and Tetouan toward Chefchaouen for some sightseeing. You will start your tour with the inside visit of the Old Kasbah in the medina. The Kasbah of Chefchaouen was built in the early 18th century by the legendary ruler Moulay Ismail. It is fairly simple without architectural surprises however it is surrounded by gardens on the interior and exterior. Inside the Kasbah, you can visit the ethnographic museum containing antique weapons, musical instruments, and photographs of the old town. You will explore the blue-washed town (old medina) by foot along with your guide who will share stories of Chefchaouen's history. You will have a photo stop to take pictures of a panoramic view of the Hispanic flavored town lined with blue and whitewashed houses, tiny balconies, tiled roofs and patios embellished with citrus trees. Visit the cobbled main square, Plaza Uta el- Hammam where you will have some free time for shopping and where the striking 15th century Grand Mosque sits. The Mosque and its nearby buildings were built by Jewish refugees, who alongside Muslims escaped the Spanish persecution to Chefchaouen. Enjoy Moroccan mint tea at a local venue while your guide shows you this unique city. You will have lunch at an authentic and charming restaurant before returning to Tangier. Please note : Wear comfortable walking shoes. This tour is not wheelchair accessible nor suitable for guests with mobility issues. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and local currency.

Tangier is a fascinating city to visit and contrary to popular belief the movie Casablanca was based on Tangier, not Casablanca. It is an interesting mix of North African, Spanish and French cultures. Your coach will take you on a 30-minute drive to the entrance of the Kasbah of Tangier. Walk inside the Kasbah and then you will head uphill to an area barely changed since Roman times. Back down the hill you will find yourself in one of Tangier's most colorful and bustling areas, the Grand Souk . It is the link between the medina and the new city. You will stop at the Continental Hotel for a refreshment before boarding your coach for the return trip to your waiting ship. Please note : Wear comfortable walking shoes. This tour is not wheelchair accessible nor suitable for guests with mobility issues.

Tetouan is a Berber name which literally interpreted means "the eyes" and figuratively "the water springs." The town features a fort, squares, mosques, fountains, taverns, and one of the Kings palaces. You will depart by motor coach on a guided orientation drive through the city of Tangier en-route to Tetouan, an hour away. You will start your tour at the old Royal Palace, a 17th century building which is itself a reflection of the Hispano-Moresque architecture. The palace is closed to public entry but its main ornate gate Bab Er-Rouah can give you a mental idea of what is beyond. Hassan II Square is situated where the historic and modern parts of the city converge to create the heart of the town. You will join a guided walk through the Medina which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site . This traditional walled souk features many typical architectural traits related to its history and also a multitude of different artisans carrying out their trades. You will also have the opportunity to visit the Bab Akla School of Traditional Arts and Crafts . Tetouan's famous School of Plastic Arts, the first of its kind in Morocco, has produced some of Morocco's best painters over the past half century, and keeps alive these traditional art forms in the modern world. The scholars of the school are all children who come from disadvantaged backgrounds and the skills they learn give them a chance of success for their future. Your entrance fees go directly to maintaining this wonderful initiative. Enjoy refreshments at a local Moroccan restauran t, located in the heart of Tetouan. If time permits you will be given free time before returning to the ship. Please note : Wear comfortable walking shoes. This tour is wheelchair accessible.

You will board the motor coach for the 30-minute drive to Cap Spartel , one of the promontories projecting into the waters of the Atlantic and the Mediterranean Sea. It is unique in that it is also covered with rock-roses and cork-oaks. From here, you will drive to the town of Asilah , which is situated approximately 1 hour from Tangier on the northwestern tip of Morocco's Atlantic coast. Throughout history, the small coastal city of Asilah has been coveted by both Portugal and Spain. The city is well known for its enormous cultural and artistic contribution to Morocco's history. Every summer, the International Festival of Asilah attracts thousands of people from all over the world. Upon arrival in the town, we stop at Asilah Golf Club for refreshments . Then you will take a walk through the old town with its narrow streets to learn about Asilah's fascinating history. Time will then be spent exploring this beautiful seaside resort. After visiting this gorgeous city, you will return back to Tangier for a shopping stop before re-joining the ship. Please note : Wear comfortable walking shoes. This tour is wheelchair accessible.