Splendours of Morocco 2019

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Splendours of Morocco

20 DAYS - DEPARTS 5 MARCH 2019

A LUXURY ESCORTED TOUR

Visiting Casablanca, Rabat, Fez, Volubilis, Meknes, Erfoud, Merzouga, Ouarzazate, Marrakech & Essaouira, Red Sand Dunes of Erg Chebbi

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rom the undulating sands of the Sahara, the snow capped High Atlas mountains, the hustle of the souks, rose coloured palaces and date palms - this tour will immerse you in the culture and heritage of this beautiful country. A country more exotic and enticing is hard to find. Morocco blends the best of Arab civilisation with an appealing climate and some of the world’s most beautiful hotels. On this journey, we take in the fascinating history of imperial Fes, the mysterious Kasbahs of the Dades Valley, stay in a luxury desert camp and enjoy the charms of Marrakech.

With its ancient imperial cities, spectacular landscapes, bustling souks full of treasures, a mouth-watering cuisine and a fascinating blend of cultural and historic influences. You will soon be soaking up this fascinating history and colourful culture. We visit the dramatic snow-capped peaks, rugged hillsides and fertile valleys of the nearby Atlas Mountains. We also visit the port town of Essaouira. The ancient port of Essaouira, a charming whitewashed town on the Atlantic coast, is one of the country’s most picturesque places, with a thriving fishing industry, harbour front restaurants and a wonderfully relaxed pace of life.

Highlights CASABLANCA Casablanca’s famous Hassan II Mosque Dine at Rick’s Cafe

stars on the outside which switch to green on the inside. The weaver’s souk in the medina in Fes is believed to be the world’s largest car-free urban area.

RABAT AND VOLUBILIS Rabat – founded in the 12th century – its strategic position as a fortress, presents an interesting blend of old and new. Visit the famous City Gates and Tomb of Moulay Ismail. The Imperial Complex and Stables. Volubilis, the Roman ruins are among the best preserved ruins of the Roman Empire and was a regional capital in the 3rd century.

THE SAHARA DESERT With some of the most beautiful, spectacular and dramatic scenery in the world, we enjoy a quintessential Saharan experience – on our slow march across the sands astride a carmel.

Meknes - built by Moulay Ismail in the 17th century contains the Sultan’s Palace and a wonderfully preserved medina filled with easily navigated souks.

ESSAOUIRA 16th century fortress town, popular for its magnificent beaches, charming souk, colourful boats and seafood.

Pick your seafood from the ice cart and watch as it is cooked in front of you/ Essaouira is pronounced as es-Sweera in Arabic.

MARRAKECH Marrakech - set within lush green gardens, olive groves and palm trees on the edge of the Sahara desert. The main square, Djemaa el-Fna Square, is the heart of the city, literally translates as “The” Mosque or Assembly of Death” in reference to the custom of displaying the heads of vanquished rebels.

Today it is a square where at sunset the real image and charm of Moroccan folklore gather story tellers, snake charmers, acrobats, bands, and food stalls.

FEZ The imperial city of Fez is the capital of traditional Moroccan culture. Old Fes is famed for its labyinthine souks, where traditional craft techniques are still practised. Fes, home to the oldest university in the world, and is the country’s cultural and spiritual centre. Wandering the medina in this medieval city with its high walls and narrow streets will enchant you. The entrance to Fes’s historical area, the Bab Bouiloud (Blue Gate) constructed by the French in 1913 using blue Fassi tiles in patterns of swirls and

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Splendours of Morocco DISCOVER ALL THAT EXOTIC MOROCCO HAS TO OFFER, FROM THE HISTORIC CITIES IN THE NORTH TO THE MYSTERIOUS DESERT

• Experience the Sahara in style when you sleep under the stars at a luxury Desert Tented Camp amid the stunning Erg Chebbi dunes.

• Stay in the fascinating “Red City” at the Marrakech, your home for four nights.

• Explore Meknes and Volubilis, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, to unveil Morocco’s unique culture and past.

• Embrace life like a local with a ride on camel back, and ride into the mountains on a mule.

• Visit the imperial city of Fez, the capital of Moroccan culture.

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Daily Itinerary truly an architectural masterpiece.

We have lunch at the famous Rick’s Cafe, well known because of the movie, Casablanca.

The massive gate of Bab Mansour, The Bassin de L’Agdal a massive 400m x 100m pool dating back some 300 years. The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail is one of only three Moroccan shrines that non-Muslims can visit. We then continue to visit Volubilis. Located near Meknes, in one of the most fertile lands of Morocco, the ruins of Volubilis have been qualified by UNESCO as ‘an exceptionally wellpreserved example of a large Roman colonial town on the fringes of the Roman Empire’. Volubilis started in 3rd Century BC as a Phoenician settlement. Under Roman dominion as from 1st Century AD, it developed very quickly, with olive growing as the motor of its economy. It had temples, a triumphal arch, and a basilica, as well as public baths and beautiful mansions and villas. We have a private guided tour of these fascinating ruins.

Accom: Riad Fez hotel Meals: Breakfast/Dinner

This afternoon we drive to the Imperial “garden city” of Rabat. The well-planned city consists of broad tree-lined avenues, a landscaped central park, and impressive quarters for the foreign embassies and ministries. See the Kasbah of the Oudayas, and visit the unfinished DAY 1, 5 Mar 2019 Hassan Tower and Mosque, and the Brisbane, Dubai to Casablanca This evening we join our Emirates distinctive and elegant Mausoleum flight to Dubai and onto Casablanca. of Mohammed V, revered former King and grandfather of the present DAY 5, 9 Mar 2019 King Mohammed VI. DAY 2, 6 Mar 2019 Fes - City tour Accom: Sofitel Jardin Des Roses Arrive Casablanca After breakfast, we have a guided Meals: Breakfast, dinner.

We arrive into Casablanca at 1pm city tour, discovering some of the this afternoon. monuments and history of the DAY 4, 8 Mar 2019 Remainder of day at leisure. medina as well as the modern Leaving Rabat, we head to Meknes, Accom: Kenzi Tower area. One of the most important Volubilis and onto Fes Meals: Inflight meals.

We tour Meknes, the imperial city centres of learning in the world known as “Moroccan Versailles”, during centuries, and home to the DAY 3, 7 Mar 2019 was founded in the 17th century oldest university in History, Fes was Casablanca & Rabat Today, we start with a panoramic by King Moulay Ismail. Meknes is founded by Idriss I in 789. It started as two separate cities or medinas, tour. This city is the chief port, famous for its 25-mile long walls. stretching on both banks of the river the financial, commercial and manufacturing centre of the country. A modern city with office buildings and big-city traffic, it will not remind you of the eponymous film starring Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman! The population has grown from approximately 20,000 in the early 1900s to more than four million today (including the suburbs), and is the largest city in Africa. Drive along the wide boulevards, United Nations Square, the residential area of Anfa and Ain Diab, and then to the Mosque of Hassan II. Situated on the edge of the Atlantic in the easternmost point of Morocco the mosque is

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HIGHLIGHTS OF FES INCLUDE La Nouvelle Ville built by the French at the beginning of the 20th Century, la nouvelle ville or new city provides a startling contrast with the labyrinthine alleys of Fes el Bali. Wide and elegant avenues are lined with numerous cafés, restaurants, and shops.

Jawhar, facing each other. They were made into a single one in 1070 by the Almoravids, who erected the city ramparts that can be seen today, and built bridges across the river Jawhar in order to connect both sides.

The arrival to power of the Almohads, and the settling of Andalousian expatriates expelled from Spain, brought an important development to Fes, which became the largest city in the world during the second half of the 12th century, with an estimated population of 200,000 souls. But it is under the rule of the Merinids, in the 13th and 14th centuries, when Fes would reach its height, replacing Marrakech as capital of the empire.The principal monuments of the medina date from that period. The Merinids started the building of a new town outside the walls, which was called Fes Jdid, new Fes – and the old part became Fes El Bali, or ancient Fes. Today, Fes el Bali (meaning Fes the ancient) is an UNESCO Heritage Site, and probably the largest car-free urban area in the world. It is well known because of the skills of its artisans, who are outstanding in trades such as metal and leather working, ceramics, wood, silk, and tapestries. Despite the political capital of the kingdom being transferred to Rabat in 1912, Fes is still regarded by Moroccans as the spiritual centre of their country.

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The Al-Karaouine University, founded in 859 by Fatima Al Fihri, the daughter of a wealthy merchant, as part of a complex including the mosque and madrasa of the same name, the AlKarouine university became very soon a major centre of intellectual activity in the world of its age, not only amongst Muslims, but also amongst Christians; Pope Silvester II, who is credited with introducing Arab numerals and the use of zero in Europe, was a student in the institution and no doubt learnt about them there. The most beautiful of AlKaraouine’s residential colleges is the Madrasa Bou Inania, built in 1357, and regarded as one of the finest examples of Merinid architecture; inside the building, elegant calligraphy graces the ceramic tile walls. The marble floors, sculpted cedar, and carved stucco walls, have held up since this masterpiece was built; still in use, non-Muslims must leave its premises during prayer time.

Bab Boujeloud Built in 1913 by French resident general Lyautey under the Protectorate, Bab (which means ‘Gate’) Boujeloud is the most beautiful entry point into the medina. One thousand years younger than the buildings behind it, the gate was designed in Moorish style and it integrates effortlessly into the surrounding urban landscape, always lively with street vendors and other local characters.

Nejjarine Square Located close by the Souk Nejjarine (Carpenter’s souk), where the scent of cedar is everywhere, this little square boasts a splendid fountain and a typical foundouk (roadside inn) dating from the 18th Century, which is now home to the Museum of Wooden Arts and Crafts.

DAY 6, 10 Mar 2019 Fes The Mellah. It was the Jewish quarter of the medina, placed under the personal protection of the Sultan. The name comes from ‘al mallah’, which means, in Arabic, saline area, as the quarter was built on a site of this nature. With time, the term would apply to all Jewish quarters in all the cities of Morocco. Although Jewish communities existed in the country since Roman times, the Mellah of Fes was the first one officially built in Morocco, in 1438, by the Merinids; its main street is especially interesting with its balconies and Art Deco zellij mosaics. One of the Mellah’s synagogues, Ibn Danan, dating from the 17th Century, was recently restored, and we pay a visit.

DAY 8, 12 Mar 2019 Erfoud, Merzouga & the red sand dunes of Erg Chebbi.

Leaving Midelt we travel through the plains of the Ziz River which lead to Erfoud city at the fringes of the Sahara Desert. We will be picked up from Erfoud to Merzouga by 4x4 of the Erg Cherbbi desert with the highly esthetical pink sand high dunes (Merzouga area). Enjoy a picnic lunch at the oasis and a camel tour at sunset upon arrival at the camp.

The dunes of Erg Chebbi reach a height of up to 150 meters in places and altogether it spans an area of 50 kilometers from north to south and up to 5–10 kilometers from east to west lining the Algerian border.

Erg Chebbi special feature is its beautiful unique orange Tasting tour: Today we wind our way through the colored sand. This is a region of nomad Berbers. alleys and souks with a Fez food expert. We’ll visit Accom: Desert Luxury Camp in Tent three different food souks allowing the chance to try Meals: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch, Dinner. traditional Moroccan street food including dried meats, milawi, harsha, briwats, spicy sardines, spicy potato DAY 9, 13 Mar 2019 cakes, soups, olives and more. At the honey souk we’re Merzouga – Skoura able to taste an array of delicious wild honeys, discuss After breakfast, we travel to Skoura. En route, visit their flavors and health-giving properties and find out Todra Gorges with its impressive stone walls that rise why honey is so important in Moroccan cooking and to great heights, overlooking a narrow valley full of Islamic culture. palm trees and fields, in total contrast with the aridity of the Sahara. Skoura is a beautiful Oasis, 35km east of We’ll investigate traditional cooking methods by Ouarzazate in the ‘Valley of a thousand Kasbahs’ as it visiting a furnatchi where the water for the communal is known. Its ‘claim to fame’ is the long line of Kasbahs, bath house ‘hammam’ is also heated, and a 400 year both whole and ruined, running along the edges of its old ‘furan’ or communal oven and bakery. Discover the two seasonal rivers. world of spices and their uses and the secrets of the Accom: Ksar el Kabbaba male-oriented domain of the tea den.

Meals: Breakfast/Dinner Accom: Riad Fez hotel Meals: Breakfast/Dinner DAY 10, 14 Mar 2019 Skoura DAY 7, 11 Mar 2019 This is a journey through the High Atlas Mountains Fes and Ifrane, and onto Midelt and Ouarzazate. We also visit Kasbah Ait Ben Haddou, This morning we further explore the mysteries of the a fine example of the typical southern morocco earth souks with our local guide, observing the century old arquitecture still inhabited by a few families and a traditions of life in the souks and medina. We lunch at UNESCO World Heritage site. It has impressive scenery a beautiful restaurant in the souk. Immediately after that has not gone unnoticed to many film directors of lunch, we travel to Ifrane, known as the Moroccan Hollywood who use it often for their works, including Switzerland, and see the cedar woods of Azrou and the famous films such as Gladiator, Alexander and the very Middle Atlas Mountains. famous series Game of Thrones. We return to our hotel Accom: Hotel Taddart, Midelt in Skoura for the evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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from the High Atlas Mountains who practised orthodox Islam, sacked the city, replacing the Almoravids as rulers of the empire, and destroying many of the palaces and mosques of their predecessors. New ones were built DAY 11, 15 Mar 2019 soon, though, including the famous Koutoubia mosque, Imilil, High Atlas Mountains.

We travel over the high mountain passes, through local which dates from this period. Ever since, alternate ages villages and marvel at the changing scenery. Our drive of splendour and decline sculpted Marrakech’s unique takes us through the rose growing regions, where rose and charming character once decadent and full of life. water is produced.

Nowadays, Marrakech is a vibrant city which exhibits a Accom: Kasbah du Toubkal curious blend of the ancient and the modern, allowing Meals: Breakfast, Dinner. travelers the chance to experience the genuine medieval atmosphere of the old medina, and visit the DAY 12, 16 Mar 2019 trendiest bars, art galleries and restaurants, in the Imlil with activities – and onto Marrakech After breakfast, take in the beautiful landscape and French Quarter, Guéliz, built at the beginning of the fresh air during a half day walk around the village of 20th Century, all in one day. Highlights of our visit will Imlil. Lunch at Kasbah du Toubkal. Time to rest and include: The Koutoubia Mosque Built by the Almohads in the late years of 12th Century. The Koutoubia Mosque, enjoy the scenery from the Kasbah. and specially its minaret, is the most important Accom: After lunch, we drive to Marrakech landmark of Marrakech, and a symbol of the city itself.

Meals: Breakfast.

The minaret served as model for the Giralda in Sevilla and the unfinished Tour Hassan in Rabat, all three being DAY 13, 17 Mar 2019 designed by the same architect. Koutoubia means Marrakech Full day to explore the red city with our local guide. ‘booksellers’, as the trade of books was concentrated in Marrakech enjoys a legend status which conveys the the neighborhood during the Middle Ages. The minaret ideas of mystery, sensuality, and exoticism. Its influence of the Koutoubia, 77 meters high, is visible from almost and fame has been so strong and intense in the history any point of the city – an old ordinance, still in force, of Morocco, that as a matter of fact the country was forbids any building of Marrakech to surpass the Koutoubia minaret in height. named after the city.

Accom: Ksar el Kabbaba Meals: Breakfast/Dinner

Marrakech was founded in 1062 by one of the chieftains of the Almoravid king Youssuf ibn Tashfin. The Almoravids were desert warriors, very much attached to their Islamic religion; the original garrison developed very quickly into a city where numerous mosques and madrasas (Koranic schools) were built. Andalousian craftsmen built and decorated several palaces, merging their style with the Saharan and African traditions, which gave the city a distinctive architectural flavour.

The Almoravids also erected the city walls, and created a complex system of underground irrigation canals to bring water from the High Atlas, the khettara – a system still in use to water the several gardens of the city.

Saadian Tombs: Built in the 16th Century as mausoleums for some Saadian rulers and their families, the Saadian Tombs were unknown until they were discovered by the French in 1917, thanks to aerial photographs. The site comprises more than one hundred graves, distributed in 3 mausoleums whose decoration exemplifies Islamic architecture with floral motifs, calligraphy, zellij and carrara marble, and finely worked cedar wood and stucco. Outside the buildings are a garden and the graves of soldiers and servants.

El Bahia Palace Built in the late 19th Century, and decorated by the best artisans of Morocco at the time, this palace – intended to be the most magnificent of At its height, Marrakech was the capital of the Almoravid its age – features an exquisite blend of Andalousian empire, which stretched as far as Senegal, most part of and Moorish styles. Specially interesting are the harem Spain, and Algiers. In 1147, the Almohads, tribesmen apartments, the trapezoidal garden, and a huge tiled www.travelmasters.com.au

from Marrakech, this valley has been little affected by tourism and modernity. Chef Tarik has a long experience running the kitchens of many well reputed hotels and restaurants, both inside and outside Morocco; his elegant eco-farm is set amongst 15 hectares of olive groves, vegetable gardens and orchards, in a traditional Berber hamlet (Berber hamlets are called douar, which means simply ‘houses’) with the imposing silhouette of the High Atlas Mountains dominating the landscape.

Seizing on the knowledge transmitted to him by the elders, Tarik is an expert on aromatic herbs. According to him, they never display their true potential unless they are skilfully cooked. Seasoning is an art more complex than it seems, and you will learn about this (and much more).

Afterwards, enjoy the food you yourself have prepared under the shadow of the trees, served in style, courtyard with fountains. The Madrasa Ben Youssef accompanied by some excellent Moroccan wine. We Ancestors of modern universities, the ancient madrasas also walk around the village and this is the perfect final were theological colleges which concentrated also touch for this day trip into nature. all scientific and philosophic knowledge of their age, Accom: Kasbah du Toubkal providing both lodging and education to students. The Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.

Madrasa Ben Youssef was founded by Merinid sultan Abu-al-Hassan in the 14th Century, and the geometric DAY 15, 19 Mar 2019 patterns of its decoration have attracted the attention Marrakech not only of artists but also of mathematicians, as they Today you can choose to join an exciting Hot Air Balloon exhaust the catalogue of all possible geometric figures. excursion (extra cost). You can observe the preparation Its 130 student dormitory cells once housed as many of the Balloon before joining your balloon for around as 900 students, and cluster around a courtyard richly 50 minutes to one hour of sightseeing from above. carved in cedar, marble and stucco. This masterpiece After the Hot Air Balloon ride, a traditional breakfast of Islamic art was in use for centuries, until it closed in awaits. You will return to the hotel around 10:30am.

Remainder of day at leisure.

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The Souks: Filling the alleys north of Djmaa el Fna is the souk, or traditional market – the largest one in Morocco.

It is, in turn, subdivided in some 18 souks, each one of them devoted to a specific trade or craftsmanship – from spices or ironwork, to the ingredients necessary for casting magic spells. The number of shops – often not much bigger in size than a closet - is overwhelming, and in them Moroccans can indulge in one of the activities that they enjoy most: bargaining. Cunning, patience, sense of humour, and strategy are needed for the game.

Accom: Atlas Medina Meals: Breakfast.

DAY 14, 18 Mar 2019 Marrakech COOKING LESSON WITH CHEF TARIK One of the most pleasant aspects of Morocco is its closeness to nature. Our cookery experience takes place in the Amizmiz Valley, populated by Berbers who still stick to their traditional way of life. Just a short ride

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If you do not wish to experience the Hot Air Balloon, we suggest you visit a local Hamman (Moroccan steam bath), for an exhilarating experience & massage (own cost).

At 5.30pm we transfer to the desert of Agafay village and to La Pause for dinner. A site about 30 Kms Southwest of Marrakech, in the arid area of Agafay also known as the “Desert of Marrakech”, an oasis located at the edge of a small river, it is a haven of peace. This remarkable location was discovered by the French owner quite by accident when his horse, in need of a drink, took him to the stream that flows in a hidden ravine. He was so entranced by the location he found the land owner and bought what is now called La Pause.

Dinner at La Pause is a special experience as you dine in comfort under a Berber tent. The cuisine is excellent as is the service, the 400 lamps are lit creating a magical experience. Fires are lit and dinner and drinks are served. As there is no light pollution at all, star gazing

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takes on a new meaning. After the hustle of Marrakech, the silence is “deafening” at La Pause.

Accom: Atlas Medina & Spa Hotel Meal: Breakfast DAY 16, 20 Mar 2019 Marrakech to Essaouira with visit to Argan factory A 4hrs drive takes us west to Essaouira, on the Atlantic coast. En route, we stop to visit a women’s argan oil co-op, producing culinary and beauty products from this indigenous nut. Long known as Mogador, from the Phoenician word migdal, or lookout tower, Essaouira has been home to Phoenicians, Romans, Portuguese, and a large Jewish population, including the father of Benjamin Disraeli and a current advisor to the King. The Romans were interested in the purple dye extracted from local shellfish. Pliny the Elder wrote of the dye’s power to pacify the gods, and describes its use with gold in ceremonial dress reserved for the use of royalty.

Essaouira is also the location where Orson Welles’ “Othello” was filmed, and has long been a destination for artists and musicians from all over the world.

Before checking into our delightful hotel, we can enjoy a delicious seafood lunch along the oceanfront, where we may see windsurfers enjoying the waves. Essaouira is charming: a clear blue sky accents the white shops and houses; motorized traffic is not permitted in most of the narrow streets. We’ll stroll through town and along the colourful harbour, stopping to admire the plethora of crafts spilling out of tiny shops and the many art galleries.

Accom: Salut Maroc Hotel Meals: Breakfast.

DAY 17, 21 Mar 2019 Essaouira You have the whole day to explore on your own. We suggest you get up early and watch the fishing boats come in, have coffee or mint tea in the squares to watch the world pass by, lunch on fresh seafood in one of the many open-air restaurants near the harbor, shop in the stalls and stores offering clothing of the local swiri cloth that drapes beautifully, handmade slippers, antiques, jewelry, rugs, paintings, CDs with all kinds of music – or perhaps stroll through the small souk and admire the beautiful displays of spices and fish fresh from the port.

Photo opportunities abound! Or join the guide to visit a silver jewelry workshop and a thuya wood (unique burled wood indigenous to this area) workshop, still with plenty of free time afterwards.

Accom: Salut Maroc Hotel Meals: Breakfast

DAY 18, 22 Mar 2019 Essaouira, Oualidia Leaving Essaouira this morning, we travel to Oualidia, a small village on the Atlantic coast. We stop at La Sultana for a seafood lunch, facing a salt water lagoon and beach where ocean and coast merge.

It is a beautiful place to relax and perhaps share lunch at the end of what will have been a wonderful tour.

We then return to Casablanca.

Accom: Sofitel Tour Blanche Meals: Breakfast & Dinner.

DAY 19, 23 Mar 2019 Casablanca - Departure Today we leave the hotel and transfer to the airport for our return flight via Dubai to Australia, taking with us memories and new friendships that will last a lifetime.

DAY 20, 24 Mar 2019 Arrive Australia very late tonight.

YOU ARE VERY WELCOME TO STOPOVER IN DUBAI IN EITHER DIRECTION From Dubai, you could choose to visit Abu Dhabi, Oman, Jordan and other destinations before returning to Australia.

Our team of Consultants will be happy to discuss options and costs with you.

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Accommodation CASABLANCA HOTEL KENZI TOWER (5-star) The Kenzi Tower Hotel is located in the trendiest and most vibrant downtown setting of Casablanca, Morocco’s economic capital. The hotel is a successful amalgam of 237 rooms and suites all with views overlooking the city, equipped with cutting-edge technology and free WIFI. Address: Twin Centre Boulevard Mohamed Zerktouni, Dar-el-Beida 20250, Morocco Phone: +212 5229-78000. http://www.kenzi-hotels.com/kenzitower/

RABAT HOTEL SOFITEL RABAT JARDIN DES ROSES (5-star) The Sofitel Rabat Jardin des Roses Hotel occupies a majestic position in the heart of the capital city Rabat, close to the Royal Palace and Mausoleum of Mohammed V. Completely renovated, its contemporary design blends with the best in Moroccan architecture.

Address: Impasse Souissi, Rabat 10000, Morocco Phone: +212 5376 75656 http://www.sofitel.com/gb/hotel-6813-sofitel-rabat-jardin-des-roses/

FES RIAD FES (5-star) Riad Fes is located in the ehart of the ancient city of Fez. The hotel provides guests with the opportunity to travel back in time and enjoy the splendour and authenticity of the lifestyle of Fassi nobility. A new atmosphere in a Moroccan traditional architeture combined with a baroque style.

Address: Derb Zerbtana, Fès 30110, Morocco Phone: +212 5357 41206 www.riadfes.com/en/

MIDELT HOTEL TADDART (4-star) Hotel Taddart is located Taddamoute, 6 km from Midelt, across the mountains of Ayachi. It offers luxurious accommodation with a swimming pool, a hammam and a fitness centre.

Address: Route De Meknès, N13, Midelt 54650, Morocco Phone: +212 5355 80228 http://www.hotel-taddart.ma/en/

MERZOUGA DUNES DESERT LUXURY CAMP Desert Tented Camp is a nomad-styled desert camp with en suite facilities. Activities in the dunes include camel trekking, hiking, picnics, sunset vantage points, and hammocks.

The camp is set up in a way that reflects the beauty of the desert as well as the traditional nomadic culture of the region, located in a very sacred location known for nomads as the heart of the desert.

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Accommodation SKOURA KSAR EL KABBABA (5-star) Located in the heart of Skoura palm grove, and made with centenary old stones, Ksar El Kabbaba comes to life in the middle of lush greenness & precisely under the branches of an olive tree that witnessed the life of generations for more than three centuries.

Address: El Kabbaba El Khamssa 2 km de Center Skoura, Ouarzazate 45000, Morocco Phone: +212 5248 52336 http://ksar-elkabbaba.com/en/

MARRAKECH ATLAS MEDINA & SPA (5-star) The Atlas Medina & Spa is a luxurious hotel set in the Hivernage Square, Marrakech. The hotel is set amidst lush, picturesque gardens and boasts the finest of modern amenities. Relax and enjoy a refreshing swim in one of the hotel’s two fabulous swimming pools.

Address: L’Hivernage, Marrakech, 40000, Morocco Phone: +212 5243 39950 http://www.atlasmedinaspamarrakech.com

IMLIL KASBAH DU TOUBKAL (4-star) Kasbah du Toubkal: A short drive from Marrakech, the award-winning boutique hotel offers 14 comfortable rooms and three family rooms set among delightful terraces and gardens that offer magnificent views of the Atlas peaks.

Address: Kasbah du Toubkal, Imlil 42152, Morocco Phone: +212 5244 85611 https://www.kasbahdutoubkal.com/

ESSAOUIRA SALUT MAROC (5-star) Salut Maroc! has all the character and charm of a Boutique Hotel with magnificent views overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and the historic remparts of the old Medina with it’s battery of bronze cannons. Witness a truly contempory take on Moroccan Design in a heritage setting, utilising all the Traditionnal Artisanal skills of the Moroccan craftsmen.

Address: 32 Rue Ibn Rochd, Essaouira 44000, Morocco Phone: +212 5244 75560 https://www.salutmaroc.com/

CASABLANCA HOTEL SOFITEL CASABLANCA TOUR BLANCHE (5-star) The Sofitel Tour Blanche Hotel in Casablanca looks out over the rooftops of Morocco’s business capital. Step into a world where modern French elegance and exotic Moroccan touches combine in pure harmony. The hotel is of 141 rooms and 30 suites, with butler service and breathtaking views of the city and ocean.

Address: Rue Sidi Belyout, Casablanca 20000, Morocco Phone: +212 5244 56200 http://www.sofitel.com/gb/hotel-6811-sofitel-casablanca-tour-blanche/ www.travelmasters.com.au

Cost and Inclusions Twin/Double Share - $12,920

with airfares from Australia flying Emirates

Single Supplement - $3,160 INCLUDING Economy Class air travel, Australia – Casablanca return, with all taxes, accommodation and meals as stated, vehicle with air conditioning, water in the car (2 bottles per day per person), English speaking guide, monument fees according to the itinerary, 4x4 for transfer from Erfoud to Merzouga dunes, camel ride in the dunes, VIP treatment in the tent, Gnawa music in the camp, tea with berber family, VIP dinner at la pause with folk troup & drinks, gratuities & luggage handling, All local taxes.

Optional Tour Extensions If you would like to extend your holiday in Africa, Europe, or the Middle East, please let us know. Some suggestions could include : • FAST TRAIN, CASABLANCA TO TANGIERS • ROCK OF GIBRALTOR, Fly from Casablanca to Gilbraltor.

• MEDITERRANEAN CRUISE • EGYPT, cruise the famous Nile • PORTUGAL, SPAIN and other European countries • DUBAI STOPOVER - extend to Abu Dhabi, Oman or Jordan

The list is endless.

Our team of experienced Travel Advisers look forward to assisting you!

Meet Your Tour Manager Your experienced Tour Manager is Beth Malcolm. Beth has organised and led many tours to the world’s most interesting destinations. She brings with her a wealth of knowledge and experience – and a passion for people and places of different cultures.

You’ll find Beth will take every opportunity to make this tour one of life’s most outstanding memories!

MOROCCO 2019 BOOKING FORM

FIRST PASSENGER Title: ________________ Surname (as shown on passport): ______________________________________________________________ First Name(as shown on passport): ____________________________________ Preferred First Name: ____________________________ If sharing what would be your room preference? TWIN / DOUBLE Do you require single supplement? YES / NO Would you like us to keep an eye out for a possible twin-share on your behalf? YES / NO

(Please note that Single Supplement will be payable if we are unable to assist with a suitable twin-share for you) Are you a Qantas/Emirates Frequent Flyer Member? Member No: ___________________________________________________________ Do you have any dietary or seating requests: __________________________________________________________________________ Do you hold an Australian passport? YES / NO

If No, please state the nationality: _________________________________

Passport Number: _________________________________ Date of Issue: ______/______/______ Date of Expiry: ______/______/______ Date of Birth: ______/______/______ Place of Issue: _______________________ Occupation: _____________________________ Email Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________________

SECOND PASSENGER Title: ________________ Surname (as shown on passport): ______________________________________________________________ First Name(as shown on passport): ____________________________________ Preferred First Name: ____________________________ If sharing what would be your room preference? TWIN / DOUBLE Do you require single supplement? YES / NO Are you a Qantas/Emirates Frequent Flyer Member? Member No: ___________________________________________________________ Do you have any dietary or seating requests: __________________________________________________________________________ Do you hold an Australian passport? YES / NO

If No, please state the nationality: _________________________________

Passport Number: _________________________________ Date of Issue: ______/______/______ Date of Expiry: ______/______/______ Date of Birth: ______/______/______ Place of Issue: _______________________ Occupation: _____________________________ Email Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________________

PASSENGER/S CONTACT DETAILS (Please attach details separately if Second Passengers Contact Details are different) Street Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Suburb: __________________________________________________ State: ___________________ Postcode: ____________________ Postal Address (If different from Street Address: ________________________________________________________________________ Suburb: __________________________________________________ State: ___________________ Postcode: ____________________ Home Tel: ______________________________ Work Tel: ______________________________ Fax: ____________________________ Mobile No: ______________________________ Email: _________________________________________________________________

TRAVEL INSURANCE It is compulsory and in your interest to carry travel insurance for health, loss of luggage/belongings and in case of cancellation. Would you like us to send a travel insurance brochure to you?

YES / NO EMERGENCY CONTACT (Person to contact should there be an emergency while you are overseas) Complete Name: _________________________________________________ Relationship: ____________________________________ Street Address: __________________________________________________________________________________________________ Suburb: __________________________________________________ State: ___________________ Postcode: ____________________ Home Tel: ____________________________ Work Tel: ____________________________ Mobile No: ____________________________ I have read and understand the responsibility section detailed below on this form and the General Information and Booking Conditions and accept them on behalf of myself and my party. I declare that I/they are not travelling against any medical advice.

Signature: __________________________________________________________________

Date: ______/______/______

Signature: __________________________________________________________________

Date: ______/______/______

PAYMENT OPTIONS 1.

Direct Deposit into Travel Masters bank account.

Please call for account details.

2.

Mail – Enclosed is a cheque deposit (Please make cheque payable to Mistvale Pty Ltd)

3.

Credit Card – Please debit my:

Visa / Mastercard Card No: ___________________________________________________________

Expiry: ______/______/______

Cardholder’s Name: __________________________________________________ Cardholder’s Signature: _______________________________________________ (Payments by credit card will be subject to a 1.5% Merchant Administration fee)

Please also complete both sides of this form and then send it to your travel consultant, or to:

Group Tour Co-ordinator, PO Box 5038, Mermaid Waters QLD 4218

Your Consultant _________________________________ DEPOSIT AND FINAL PAYMENT The deposit is accepted as a first instalment of the tour cost and will be fully refunded if the arrangements cannot be confirmed or the tour is cancelled by Travel Masters. A detailed invoice is sent out to all passengers booked on the tour, approximately two weeks prior to due date of the final payment. Final payment for the tour needs to be received by the 20 Jan 2019.

CANCELLATION FEES If it is necessary for you to cancel your holiday, notification of cancellation must be received in writing. Cancellation charges will apply: up to 8 weeks prior to departure – loss of deposit; 7-4 weeks prior – up to 50% of tour cost, and less than 4 weeks – up to full tour cost. No refund is available for cancellation of the tour or any service not used after commencement of the tour.

Deposits are non-transferable and non-refundable.

PASSPORT AND VISAS

It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure that they posses the necessary travel documentation for the tour, such as a valid passport and any required visas. In general, a passport should be valid at least 6 months beyond the end of your journey and have two clear pages to allow for entry and exit stamps en-route or for any visas applicable for countries in your journey. Australians do not require a visa for Morocco.

PRICES

Tour prices stated on the tour brochure have been calculated on the basis of exchange rates and tariffs valid at time of print (August 2018) and are subject to change up until final payment for the tour has been received. Should you decide to cancel your tour on the basis of a change of price, then normal cancellation charges will apply.

TRAVEL MASTERS Group (Travel Masters) PO Box 563, Nerang QLD 4211 Phone: (07) 5596 0511 / 1800 672 988 Email: sales@travelmasters.com.au (The Travel Studio) PO Box 5038, Mermaid Waters QLD 4218 Phone: (07)5572 7272 Email: lifestyle@thetravelstudio.com.au Visit our website: www.travelmasters.com.au

RESPONSIBILITY Mistvale Pty Ltd trading as Travel Masters and/or its associated Companies or Agents, act only in the capacity of agents for the passenger in all matters of transportation, tour operation and other services. All receipts, tickets, vouchers, coupons or exchange orders are issued subject to the terms and conditions under which transportation and other services are provided.

Travel Masters and/or its associated companies or Agents assume no responsibility for loss, injury, accident, delay or damage or irregularity that may be caused to person or property, however caused arising before commencement and/or during any tour under its management, sponsorship, procurement or otherwise.

It is the responsibility of the passenger to make sure he/she is in possession of the proper visas and other travel documents and that they are in compliance with current government and transportation companies’ regulations. The right is reserved to modify the itinerary in any way considered necessary or desirable, or to change any reservation, hotel feature and/or means of conveyance, without allowance or refund but the extra cost (if any) resulting therefrom must be paid by the passenger. The right is also reserved to cancel or withdraw any tour, to replace any tour leader with another, to cancel or withdraw any booking made for a passenger, or to decline to accept any person as a member of a tour. The transportation companies or firms shall be exempt from all liabilities in respect of any detention, delay, loss, damage, sickness or injury however and by whomsoever caused and of whatever kind occurring of or to the passenger at any time when the passenger is not on board a carrier or conveyance used or operated by the transportation companies or firms. The contract of passage in use by the transportation companies or firms concerned shall constitute the sole contract between transportation companies or firms, and the purchase of these tours and/or passenger. All tickets, deposit tickets, coupons or orders are furnished and issued subject in all respects to those terms and conditions under which the means of transportation or other services provided there by are offered or supplied by owners, public carriers, or managing agents. The issuance and acceptance of receipts, tickets, vouchers, coupons, or exchange orders shall be deemed consent to the above conditions. The tour is based on flights as detailed in the itinerary, however any other IATA or non-IATA carrier may be used for tour co-ordination.

www.travelmasters.com.au

General Tour Information CLOTHING AND LUGGAGE Our visit is in Spring so days should be cool to warm and evenings cool to mildly cold. Comfortable, casual clothes are the general rule.

Clothes should be mostly light and loose fitting. Good walking shoes are a must, and you will need a warm jacket and a light raincoat (just in-case!) For the cooler nights. Both men and women are requested to wear long slacks or skirts (light of course) Women are requested not to wear revealing clothes. The international Economy luggage allowance is strictly 30 kilograms. Please restrict your luggage to one average size suitcase and one carry bag of no more than 5kg. Porterage is for one average size suitcase. All hand luggage is your personal responsibility at all times.

PASSPORT AND VISAS You must be in possession of a passport with 6 months validity beyond the end date of this tour. If you are not using an Australian Passport please let us know so that we can advise you of your visa requirements.

HEALTH AND VACCINATIONS Anyone requiring wheelchair assistance at any time is not considered suitable for this tour of Morocco. Currently no vaccinations are required for this Morocco tour. However this could change at any time and we suggest you contact your Doctor for the latest advice.

CURRENCY We recommend that you take cash in USA dollars or EUROS (at least some of it in smaller denominations). Travel Masters is happy to organise your cash requirements for you – ask for advice. We recommend that you only use credit cards to pay for hotel bills. Torn, old, damaged or marked notes will not be accepted in Morocco. ATM’s are sometimes available.

ELECTRICITY The voltage for Morocco is 220 volts.

TIPPING Gratuities for guides, drivers, porters and waiters are a necessity in Morocco. To avoid any embarrassment or problems, and help make your holiday "hassle free", we have included all necessary tips for all activities and meals included in the itinerary. Your tour escort will manage the tipping funds for the group whilst on tour.

ITINERARY CHANGES From time to time, changes may be required to the advertised itinerary.

If this is required, it will be communicated to you by the Tour Escort who will make the decision in conjunction with our operators.

TRAVEL INSURANCE Travel Insurance with a Travel Masters recommended Insurance company is compulsory. This is a comprehensive insurance which covers cancellation charges in the event of illness preventing you from travelling, overseas medical and hospital expenses, personal baggage, accidental death, personal liability and much more. Credit card insurance is not advised, as is does not cover full cancellation charges in the event ill health forces you to cancel.

DEPARTURE TAXES International and local taxes as known at time of tour preparation are included in your tour cost. However, should new government taxes or tax and fuel increases be imposed these will be advised to you at time of final payment or at the time of their imposition.

MEDICAL INFORMATION It is a good idea to travel with a small personal medical kit containing….

Headache pills, antiseptic cream, cold & flu tablets, remedy for upset stomachs, laxatives, non-liquid mosquito repellent and throat medication. You should take whatever is necessary with you. Just in case your reading glasses are lost or damaged, take a spare pair with you – you never know what you might need.

CANCELLATION FEES If it is necessary to cancel your holiday, notification of cancellation must be received in writing. Cancellation Charges will apply: up to 8 weeks prior to departure - loss of deposit. 7-4 weeks prior - up to 50% of tour cost, and less than 4 weeks - up to full tour cost. No refund is available for cancellation of tour or any service not used after commencement of tour. Cancellation fees will also apply as required by Airline Tariff Regulations.

DEPOSITS AND FINAL PAYMENT A deposit of $1000 per person is required to secure your place. Final payment is then required by 20 January. We have striven to keep the tour costs as low as possible and the tour price quoted is a cash/ cheque or direct deposit price. Should you choose to pay by credit card, fees apply.

CLIMATE We have chosen the best and most rewarding time of the year for this tour – the country will be full of life, flowers in bloom, fruit in season, activity is at its best. Days should be sunny and evenings cool.

NATIONAL TOUR GUIDE Our tour group will be accompanied by a Moroccan National Guide who accompanies the group throughout the duration of the tour, thus avoiding any language difficulties. Our National Guide works in support of our Tour Escort. In addition, we have local guides who have specialised knowledge of their own areas in some of the places visited.

SINGLE ROOM SUPPLEMENT The single room supplement is $3,160. In the event that you are a sole traveller and would prefer to share we will do our best to arrange a twin-share companion, but this cannot be guaranteed.

BUSINESS CLASS AIRFARE UPGRADES Upgrades are Subject to availability on the International flights (Brisbane – Casablanca – Brisbane). Approximately $6,600. Please check at time of booking.

ADVERTISED PRICE EXCLUDES Meals other than specified, insurance, additional gratuities as required, items of a personal nature such as drinks, laundry, phone calls etc and any optional excursions. All costs are subject to surcharges which may occur in connection with Governmental action, currency exchange fluctuations or increase in supplier's costs i.e. scheduled air fares, entrance fees etc. Should the minimum number of 10 persons not be attained, we reserve the right to cancel, amend or re cost the tour program.

PLEASE NOTE – DEGREE OF FITNESS All Travel Masters itineraries are carefully planned and well paced to maximise the passenger experience, while at the same time ensuring a level of comfort is maintained at all times. Given the nature of the journeys and cultural experiences etc, any person/s of a reasonable general fitness level will have no problems in gaining total satisfaction from the trip. Should any person however, have significant walking difficulties or be likely to find it necessary to require wheelchair assistance at any time, it is unfortunately considered that participation on this tour would not be appropriate.

FINALLY…. We hope this information will assist you plan for your holiday. We would be delighted to have you join our Travel Masters escorted holiday tour. Our tours are recognised as the best deluxe tours of their kind – especially designed for Australians who want high quality accommodation, especially selected dining experiences, the best possible smorgasbord of sightseeing and cultural experiences, and the highest quality English speaking guides available. Do not hesitate to telephone or call in if we can be of further assistance.

We want to make this a very memorable holiday for you.

www.travelmasters.com.au

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