Easily reached by train, bus or car, the partially walled Atlantic coast city of Rabat, 70km (43 miles) from Casablanca, is Morocco's interest-filled political capital and the nation's second largest metropolis (after Casablanca). Set in scrubby desert some 240km (150 miles) south of Casablanca, the historic city of Marrakech, with its famed street markets and profusion of shops, is Morocco's premier tourism destination. Attractions here include world-class golf and displays of Berber horsemanship. The road is direct but very busy - allow four hours for the journey. For more information on Marrakech, check out Columbus Marrakech City Guide. North up the coast, just 30km (18 miles) from Casablanca, Mohammedia is both a busy oil port and an upmarket seaside resort popular with the locals.

 KTI Voyages, based at 122 Hassan II (tel: (022) 276 244; website: www.ktivoyages.com), is a highly efficient agency. They can arrange excursions to other Moroccan cities, the Atlas Mountains and other attractions. London-based Morocco specialist Kirker Holidays (tel: +44 (0207) 593 2288; website: www.kirkerholidays.com), operates upmarket short break packages that can include excursions in and around Casablanca. Cadogan Travel (tel: +44 0845 615 4390; website: www.cadoganholidays.com) is another Morocco specialist.