Chefchaouen, Morocco

Chefchaouen is a city situated in the Rift Mountains in Northwest Morocco close to Tangier. Until 1956 this city was under the Spanish colonial rule after which it gained independence. The unique distinction about the architecture of Chefchaouen is its white-washed homes and buildings with a light blue shade , a tradition that comes from the town's former Jewish population. Its is famous for it calm and relaxing atmosphere, Its estimated that this tiny town has over 200 hotels to accommodate the large tourist population of (mainly European tourists) who travel each year. The best way to see the town is by foot but there are cheap petite taxis available is you chose otherwise. Since these petite taxis are not metered you need to negotiate the price before boarding them. There is a famous 350 year old hotel and restaurant Tissemlal, a family run business, quite famous among the tourists.

Chefchaouen is in-famous for its large marijuana/cannabis cultivation and its sold all over the town, although its easy to notice as people here consider it as a normal and sold together with vegetables and spices, it just better to overlook or politely refuse. The water source for this city comes from its mountains and Chefchaouen is one of the few places in Morocco where drinking the tap water is usually considered safe.

Popular tourist attractions:
The plaza Outa (Uta) El Hammam is the center to hang out in the town. Chefchaouen also has a 17th century mosque and the 500-year-old Fortress also known as the Kasbah there are several basic cafes around. These authentic tasting cafes are also very famous among tourists which also serve mint tea. Kasbah was built by the legendary ruler Moulay Ismail. The waterfall to the east of the medina is a meeting point for local residents who come to cool off, chat and do their laundry. Hiking is also very popular among the tourists especially close to the waterfall. The forest of Talessemtane which houses a national park can also be accessed from the town.
The region is also famous for goat meat, olives and fish tagras. The best time to come here is between July to September and always recommended to book early. This popular tourism and travel destination is well connected by buses to several bigger towns or you may just decide to take a private cab. Check with local authorities or guides about the dressing requirement especially for women.

SHOPPING:
Chefchaouen is also a good place to but traditional hand made carpets, leather goods, pottery, bronze bowls and plates.