Casablanca: An overview - Part 2

BASIC INFORMATION

Mohammed V International Airport

Casablanca’s Mohammed V International Airport is located around 30 kilometres from the city centre.
You can easily reach the city centre by train or taxi. The taxis are stationed outside and trains can be found on the lower level of the airport.

Buses, trains and trams

CTM intercity buses run to most towns in Morocco. There are plenty of routes and they leave from Gare Routière on Rue Léon l' Africain in the centre of the city. You can also travel by train to reach other parts of Morocco. If you want to catch a train you must head to Gare du Port. The tram has 49 stops and links the main neighbourhoods of the city. A one-way ticket costs 6DHS; it is rechargeable and can be used 10 times.

Taxi

Grand and Petit taxis are available throughout the city at various spots, especially around the main squares and the Gare du Port. They are generally inexpensive and quicker than buses. Look for red taxis, Petit or white taxis, Grand. Shared taxis are available but take care who you are with and where you go.

Post

Stamps can be bought at souvenir shops, hotels and in the post offices around town. The larger outlets are open Monday to Friday 8. 00 to 16. 15 and Saturday 8. 00 to 11. 45 and you can find the main post office in Place Mohammed V which is Casablanca' s main square.

Pharmacy

When in Casablanca you should be careful with what you drink and eat. Make sure you drink bottled water which is sealed when you get it and that all food you eat is properly cooked. Pharmacies are generally open in the morning until lunch and then in the afternoons.

Electricity is 220 V. The standard frequency is 50 Hz. The power sockets that are used are of type C / E.

Dress Code

Although Morocco is changing things are still very traditional. As a visitor you should pay attention to your dress, as it may offend locals or cause harassment. Legs and shoulders need to be covered for both men and women. Both sexes should stay away from sleeveless T-shirts and shorts. Men should avoid walking without a shirt on as this is considered poor taste and offensive. Women’s dress codes are stricter. You may see Moroccan women wearing Western style clothes but be prepared that you may attract unwanted attention.

Currency

The Moroccan dirham (Dh) is the local currency. A quick conversion is dividing by 10 to get U. S. Dollars and take off another 25% if you want Sterling.

Opening hours

Shops in Casablanca are generally open Mon-Fri from 8. 30am-12pm and 3pm-6pm, from 8. 30am-12pm on Saturdays. Shops are closed on Sundays. The central market in Rue Chaouia is open daily 6am-2pm.

Emergency numbers:- Ambulance/Fire Brigade: 15 Police: 19

Continued in part 3