Casablanca, Morocco

Samantha and I took the train from Marrakesh north to Casablanca.  It was exactly what you expect a train in Morocco to be like, hot and crowded.  It was only a three hour ride, but in the 100+ degree heat it felt like an eternity.  Casablanca doesn't have the same kind of tourist draw that Marrakesh has, though there are some beautiful sights.  We swapped out our touristy resort in Marrakesh for a hotel that seemed more designed for business travelers. 

The one sight that we knew we had to see while in town was the Hassan II Mosque.  It was incredible.  Almost all of the really amazing things we've seen this trip have been ancient, or at least pretty old.  This mosque was completed in the 90s.  The first thing you notice when you approach is how massive it is.  Our tour guide informed us that the main prayer hall can hold 30,000 people, and during Ramadan, an additional 80,000 people on the plaza outside. 

It was built right along the ocean, which meant gorgeous views of the Atlantic right from the prayer hall.  We were so glad to have to opportunity to visit, as well as for our down time at the hotel.  We both knew we'd want some time to recharge before flying to Cairo.  Stay tuned for an update from Egypt!