Mediterranean
Best months:
November to February

Mediterranean

Morocco
LAST UPDATED 07/01/2008
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introduction

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Axis: Location Morocco striped; 19 March 2008

Morocco's Mediterranean coast is still unspoiled. The long stretches of sandy beaches are very common, along this side of the country. The best resorts of the country are located along the Mediterranean coastline. Tetouan at the western end is an attractive town with a long history.

surfing

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Matanya: Dune Sunrise; 2005

Morocco's Mediterranean coast is not it's best surfing asset, far from it in fact, however, dreams can come true when they link up with the main timings for the sirocco and mistral swells and winds in the Northern Hemisphere Autumn and Spring (March and November) This would probably be the best time to plan your Mediterranean surf trip, though sitting this far east in the sea will give you the best chance of catching any swell generated from favourable weather systems.

Another source of swell is the storm cells of the North Atlantic. Many of these cells descend along the Irish coastline and then outwards along the Atlantic Coast. Occasionally certain cells in Winter (Dec-Jan) can sweep across southern Spain and into the Med. This is a rare but notable event that can send swell hurtling in a 360 degree radius, lighting up  points and reefs that see rideable surfing options maybe once or twice per year.

travel

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Amazigh Man: Nador City Center; 2006-07-20

Trains are much better than local buses and usually most preferred recommended transport because of speed and comfort. Buses that are run between towns by CTM, Supratours and smaller companies, are much better. You can also take a grande taxi (shared taxi) to travel between towns. And it's often the cheapest way of traveling between towns and cities in Morocco.

You can fly as well, but it's quite expensive and not very popular. You can also rent a car adrive yourself. Just make sure you have plenty of fuel if you travel to the countryside.  

where to stay

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Jan Mehlich: Hotel Novotel at Warszawie, 24 September 2006

If you're on a budget, it's highly recommended that you do not try to find a place to stay in Monaco.
A typical a two star hotel without breakfast and bathroom in Monaco will cost about €60 per person per night. A better option would be to stay in the towns outside of Monaco, eg. Ventimiglia, which is only 1/2 hour away from Monaco and inexpensive to travel with frequent trains. During the winter season, you could find a very nice two star hotel for about €20 Euro per person.

If you would like to stay in Monaco,

Novotel is Monaco's newest hotel. It opened in Fall 2007 and features a very modern decor. Located about 200 meters from the Place du Casino and about 50 meters away from the train station, it is very convenient for travelling around.

Or 

Colombus Hotel, which is situated in La Condamine, just by the heliport, and about 200 meters from the Stade Louis II. The hotel belongs to Formula 1 racer, David Coulthard and rooms are very modern.
There is an excellent restaurant and the lobby is a great spot to relax and chill on the comfortable sofas.

what to pack

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Flashdance: A pair of very simple Moroccan flip flops; 25 May 2007

The Mediterranean climate is characterised by hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. So pack according to the season. It's worth to take along some bug repellent spray, good sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses.

Don't forget a backpack that might be useful if you’re planning to travel around or sail. If you have space in your bag, take some extra clothing you don't use anymore, your unwanted items will easily find a welcoming home and the locals will be grateful to you.

You won't regret swimming and snorkelling gear! And protect your camera from sand and dirt.

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