Travel & Hospitality Awards | Africa 2020 | www.thawards.com

Fes
A Beautiful City
The medieval capital of Morocco and its
cultural epicentre, Fes is a city not to be
missed although it does often play second
fiddle to its much larger counterpart
Marrakech when it comes to tourists. In
Fes you can expect a vibrant atmosphere
and a colourful city complete with one
of the world’s oldest and largest Medina
(ancient walled city), which incidentally is
the world’s largest urban car free zone.
Fes is easily accessible by plane;
numerous airlines offer a service to Fes
Sais International Airport which is located
about 15km from the city. Trains and
buses also offer an inexpensive way to
reach Fes from other cities in Morocco
such as Marrakech, Tangier, Rabat and
Casablanca. Within the Medina you will
have no problem getting around on foot
but when you’re outside the city walls a
taxi or private guide is the best way to get
around.
In terms of historical sites and attraction, Fes is
jam packed. Bou Inania Madersa is a breath-taking
14th century religious school is well worth a visit.
The architecture, layout and history of the school is
beautiful, and you can easily spend half a day here.
Within the Medina the past is alive, and you’ll get a real sense of
what it was like in ancient times. You’ll find heaps of souvenirs,
carpets, leather goods, perfumes, handicrafts, and jewellery
that can all be haggled for with the thrilled traders.
The Merenid tombs, a set of
ruined monumental tombs
sitting on a hillside and
provide excellent panoramic
views of the old city.
If you want a break for the
hustle and bustle of the city,
then be sure to step in the
Jnan Sbil Gardens, a peaceful
retreat that comes complete
with water features, birds,
bright flowers and palm-tree
lined walkways.
The best way to end the
day is to watch a sunset
from one of the lovely
rooftop café’s and bars.
Moroccan architecture with
its flat rooftops makes for a
gorgeous viewing at sun set.
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