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Casablanca

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1 Rick's Cafe

Ever since the 1942 movie made 'Play it again, Sam' a popular quip - even though the line doesn't feature in the film - people have flocked to Casablanca hoping to experience some of the film's romance and intrigue. Most would have been sorely disappointed by the fact that there was no Rick's Cafe. On March 1 last year, however, Casablanca finally got a Rick's Cafe - albeit one owned by an American woman. Kathy Kriger is a former US diplomat and entrepreneur from Portland, Oregon, who secured US$1 million from US and Moroccan investors to recreate the fictional cafe, complete with piano player. It's located near the port, between Mosque Hassan II and the medina (traditional market). Go to the website, and listen to As Time Goes By at www.rickscafe.ma.

2 Mosque Hassan II

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Soaring above the city on the western shore, the 200-metre minaret of Mosque Hassan II is the world's tallest and the building is the world's third-largest mosque (the two largest are in Saudi Arabia). Although it's immense, impressive and imposing, perhaps the most remarkable feature of this mosque is that non-Muslims can go inside during morning visiting hours. Completed in 1993, after five years of construction on reclaimed land, its many features include a retractable roof. It can hold 25,000 worshippers inside and another 80,000 outside on the esplanades. A 40-minute guided tour is a bit expensive at about $120, but you can just go inside and marvel at the best of Moroccan craftsmanship without hiring a guide. The beauty of the place is hard to put into words.

3 Medina

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Located in the oldest part of the city, the medina is tiny compared with those in Marrakesh and Fes. However, for those bold enough to explore it there are some deals to be had - as well as opportunities to be 'had'. The motto of Moroccan salesmen must surely be 'aim high', because quite often the price you'll be given for something will be several times what a local would pay. There's also a new medina for those less bold. Note that it's considered an insult to enter a shop and not at least make an offer, no matter how low. That said, the quality and beauty of the craftsmanship of many items are remarkable, and if you find something affordable that you like then grab it. Shipping to Hong Kong is easily arranged for larger items. Few places in Morocco, even banks, will accept or exchange Hong Kong dollars.

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