Real Estate Property Investment Series: Focus Morocco 2007

The Moroccan government realised that the way forward for their nation in terms of creating employment and boosting the economy significantly was to increase tourism and to create an environment so attractive for investors that they would come in their droves and buy up real estate stock.

To that end the government has been promoting Morocco around the world - there is a permanent stand at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida heralding the virtues of this North African nation that practically touches Europe across the Mediterranean Sea that divides it from mainland Spain for example, and now the skies over Morocco are open to cheap flight operators from across Europe and the UK. The nation has year round sunshine and is directly south and a short flying time from affluent Western Europe and all of these factors are starting to affect Morocco positively.

In 2006 in the first nine months alone tourism traffic was up almost 10% on the previous year with revenue generated from tourism up almost 30% which proves that the government are targeting the 'right' sort of tourist - i.e., the ones who come, stay, enjoy and spend money in Morocco! Looking to the longer term the Moroccan government has plans to increase tourism until 10 million visitors annually enter the nation by 2010. There are even plans afoot to build a tunnel under the sea to connect Morocco to Gibraltar in Europe...

'But why all this information about tourism' I hear you ask?

Because it is the tourism market that property investors in Morocco are targeting. On the one hand they are targeting those seeking villa and apartment rental and on the other hand they are aware that today's holiday maker is tomorrow's second, retirement or holiday home buyer. And investors really are in Morocco buying up and developing real estate stock. Already six brand new coastal resorts are in the planning and development stages, money is flooding in from Dubai and Qatar based development companies and European buyers are purchasing off plan knowing full well that their real estate assets are appreciating even before they are completed and handed over. Buyers in 2007 have a chance to buy in ahead of the continued predicted rise in tourism and before Morocco is established in many people's minds as a place to invest in real estate.

Consider buying off plan and flipping stock or better still, simply buying and renting to the tourism market on the Atlantic or Mediterranean coasts or in the mountainous ski resort of Oukaimeden. Rental income is earned tax free in Morocco for the first five years and those who hold property for ten years or more pay no capital gains tax when they resell, furthermore one is not subject to local inheritance tax in Morocco either. In conclusion - Morocco offers an investor a wealth of opportunity. Basically an investor needs to consider his preferred investment approach and his target market and then seek suitable real estate with room for growth or with prospects for returning good yields.

Rhiannon Williamson writes about property investment worldwide, to read more about property investment in Morocco [http://www.amberlamb.com/index.php/property/morocco/] in 2007 and beyond visit her site [http://www.amberlamb.com]

Visit Morocco With Flights to Casablanca Available at Budget Prices

Just across the Strait of Gibraltar, on the coast of North Africa facing the Atlantic Ocean, lies Casablanca. This cosmopolitan city blends the customs of the orient with the open ways of the Western world and is amongst the most fascinating cities to explore. With the wide range of packages and cheap tickets to Casablanca you can find nowadays, this city offers tourists fascinating cultural sites, natural spots and sparkling nightlife as well as an extensive choice of dining options.

All flights to Casablanca arrive at the Mohammed V Airport situated 30 km from the city center. The airport is currently undergoing a major expansion and will soon be offering topnotch facilities for all travelers and increased chances to find cheap tickets to Casablanca.

Casablanca is no doubt Morocco's commercial capital, where Arab customs and western modern trends offer a kaleidoscope of contrasts within the walls of a city that essentially revolves around commerce and trade.

The Hassan II Mosque is Casablanca's landmark with its monumental structure that can welcome up to 2,500 worshippers within its walls and 80,000 in the outside gardens. The Old and New Medina are also worth visiting, notably the Old Medina with its two surviving gates through the old town walls where the tomb of Sidi Allal el-Kairouni lies as well as a fortress and a jewelry market.

The best markets and restaurants as well as shopping centers lie on the northeastern fringe of the city on the Atlantic Ocean. Here you will also find the typical Souks and street markets where magnificent carpets and leather goods can be bought at extremely good prices.

Here, hotel luxury and superior service makes for a truly relaxing beach vacation under the warm dry sun. The Corniche Beach is a good place to consider when planning to relax or go for a swim. The Ain Diab is the nearest to the city center stretching for over a mile of white sand and dotted with beach clubs and dining facilities.

Casablanca offers international and delicious Middle Eastern cuisine, downtown Casablanca being the best area in which to find a good restaurant. You may also try the Medina, where you can get a typical dish for only a few dollars.

With cheap flight to Casablanca you can also find great bargains for accommodation. Hotels range from luxury to low budget, whose prices vary considerably according to the rating of the hotel.

Casablanca boasts a warm Mediterranean climate with the summer temperatures averaging 24°C and winter temperatures usually remaining around 15°C.

Angelina Christy is a travel author who has written many articles that keeps on guiding the travellers throughout the world like flights to Casablanca. Angelina herself is an avid traveler who has travelled more than 22 countries. She also talk about travel options like Cheap Flights that explains how tourists can minimise the cost of their travel fares.

Morocco - A Destination That Has Everything

Morocco is a top holiday destination with something to offer just about everyone, from relaxing beach stays to activity holidays walking in the Atlas Mountain. Marrakech, the busy, bustling city, dating back to the 11th century, is filled curious sprawling souks, (markets) with an abundance of local traders and craftsmen including jewelers, potters, shoemakers and more. It is the home of haggling and impossible to leave without some small bargain. In the infamous Djemaa el-Fna Square the atmosphere is intoxicating and is the heart of Marrakech. You will be overwhelmed by the smells wafting over from the food stalls, the moving colours of the jugglers and snake charmers that vie for your attention. Marrakech is so hectic, but a wonderful world away from any British city, that you will need a break after visiting. Away from the pushy dominating city, Morocco actually has a lot more to offer.

The Atlas Mountains are only an hour away from Marrakech but you feel you've been transported to another time. Tranquil valleys, fertile pasture lands and snow-capped mountains are home to the more traditional Moroccans, the Berbers, and the country villagers. Set between the Sahara and Atlantic coast, the mountains can be walked, or trekked, all year round. In the summer the Atlas provide a cooling breeze as you trek through villages of small flat-roofed Berber houses which blend seamlessly into the mountains. In winter, more serious trekkers head up Mt Toubkal to summit the highest mountain in North Africa, during the harsh, cold and snowy weather. To summit Toubkal which reaches 4,167m high, is for most trekkers a feather in their cap but it is achievable for experienced mountain climbers and the very fit during the warmer months. There are so many trails and paths to follow that it is advisable to stay up in mountains for at least two days to give you a chance to really explore the area. There are some fantastic cheap gite d'etapes, (village houses with simple dormitory rooms), offering basic but clean accommodation. For those looking for a little extra comfort, you'll find beautiful mountain retreats, set high in the hills perhaps with a pool. The Atlas Mountains are somewhere to get away from modern, fast-paced life and take a step back.

Away from the mountains heading south, lays the Sahara Desert. The Sahara, the largest hot desert in the world, borders the Atlantic to the west and the Red Sea to the east and the Atlas Mountains to the north in Morocco. Some of its sand dunes can reach up to 18m in height providing the perfect platform to view this vast sand sea. Watching the sunrise over this incredible landscape is breathtaking and something not to be missed on your Morocco holiday. The Sahara is of course the best place too, to try out camel riding. The camel has been the chosen mode of transport in the desert for centuries and these sturdy, if a little temperamental, animals will take you across the sands as revel in the silence and solitude. Sleeping under the desert skies is also a treat, as the clear skies provide optimum astronomical viewing and the chance to glimpse the Milky Way. For the more active you can sand board down the dunes, take bouncy jeep rides or trek through the desert.

If hiking in the Atlas and camel riding through the desert isn't enough, you can always head to the Ourika River for a spot of white water rafting or the coastal port of Essaouira to swim in the sea or sunbath on the long sandy beach. Morocco is a destination that has just about everything, it is cheap, has plenty of activities for adults and children, an abundance of history and amazing food. The weather is pleasant most of the year and there are plenty of budget airlines that make daily flights from the UK. Morocco is ideal for activity holidays, beach trips and cultural exploration.

Moroccan National Tourist Office launch the third edition of MEET Morocco 2014

The Moroccan National Tourist Office is delighted to announce the launch of the 2014 edition of MEET Morocco. This 92-page, high-quality publication highlights Morocco's suitability as a destination for meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions, with features on the kingdom's principal regions, the main visitor activities, new infrastructure and hospitality developments, meetings facilities and a comprehensive list of hotels.

The 2014 edition of Meet Morocco is now available to read online!

MEET Morocco, which will be officially launched at EIBTM in Barcelona on November 20th, is a valuable tool for meetings and event planners, offering comprehensive information about meetings, conferences and incentives facilities in the country.

Features in MEET Morocco 2014 include: Morocco and Vision 2020 - New developments - Meetings overview - Agadir - Casablanca - El-Jadida - Essaouira - Fez & Meknes - Marrakech - Rabat - Tangiers - Golf - Atlas Mountains - Eco Tourism - Spas and wellness - Hotel overview and factsheets - Alternative meetings venues - Shopping - Dining & Nightlife - Getting around.

Meet Morocco is the third collaboration between Nicholas Publishing International and the Moroccan National Tourist Office, following earlier MEET Morocco titles published in 2002 and 2009.

New Motorways For Morocco: Good News For Property Investors

We all know that, amongst other factors, a healthy property market relies upon a thriving tourist economy. Of utmost importance to this formula is the transport system to and from our chosen country. Free, easy passage for visitors via an efficient road system and public transport, as well as good communications for vital supplies, improves the quality and appeal of any investment location, and Morocco makes no exception. A destination that is easily accessed wins points over other locations. No one is clearer on this point than Morocco's forward-thinking King Mohammed VI who is intent on increasing the country's infrastructure by the year 2010 in his Vision 2010 Plan.

The announcement that a motorway construction programme to build a target 160 km of road per year until 2010 comes as no surprise within the rapidly expanding economic arena of Morocco. The result will be greatly improved communications to all areas of Morocco and a further increase in visitors who regard Morocco as an advanced country that competes well with EU standards. The road construction plan follows an earlier successfully completed project to build 100 km per year for the four years running up to 2004. By 2010, Morocco will be well-equipped with a total of 1,450km of new roads, projecting it further onwards as a leader in the worldwide property investment market place.

Since 2001 and the launch of the King's Vision 2010 plan, more than 10,000 new hotel rooms have been constructed and thousands renovated. King Mohammed VI is specific in his aim to increase tourist numbers to 10 million visitors by 2010 and the new roads will go a long way to achieve this aim: the six new five star resorts currently under construction will be well served by the new motorway systems which will give them a fittingly up-market profile and infrastructure so vital to attracting investors to the area. The 320 km stretch from Fes to Oudja will directly link the Mediterranea Saidia resort, greatly improving communications and cutting valuable travel time from the airport to a mere 30 minutes.

The liberalization of air transport to Morocco will significantly increase direct air traffic between European and Moroccan cities. This is perfectly in line with Morocco's drive to encourage significant growth to its tourist industry, which is currently in full swing. An influx of extra tourists is set to arrive in Morocco this year, with new EasyJet flights announced from Luton to Marakesh and Gatwick to Marrakesh from July 4th 2006 as well as Ryanair offering direct flights from Marseilles to Fez, Marrakesh and Oujda. The new motorways are perfectly timed to cater for the increased flow of passengers these flights will eventually bring and will actively encourage foreigners to invest further in property in Morocco, while slowly pushing prices upwards.

The new motorways will cover the following stretches:

Casablanca - el Jadida:28km

Tetouan - Fnideq:28km

Settat - Marrakesh:145km

Out of new port of Tanger Med:54km

Marrakesh - Agadir:233km

Fes - Oujda:320km

So, it seems, due to King Mohammed VI and his progressive vision for the future of Morocco, all necessary policies and improvements to the infrastructure are underway and poised in readiness for a successful few years ahead for investors in Morocco. While there are still many bargain off-plan investment opportunities available today, investors are urged to take a closer look at the many options currently on offer.

Investment experts at propertyshowrooms.com are confident that exciting returns are waiting just around the corner for shrewd and timely investors and they will gladly share their knowledge with you regarding current investment opportunities in Morocco or in any of the other worldwide emerging markets.

Morocco - a country rich in nature!

Morocco mountain

Nature is never far away in Morocco. Desert, mountains, valleys and sea - the country has plenty to offer fans of the outdoors!

Hikers of all levels will love walking the Moroccan mountains. Among the temperate peaks of the Rif mountain range, its cliffs jutting out into the Mediterranean make this under-explored region magical.

Morocco mountain

The lakes are packed with trout waiting for amateur fishermen. The more sporty will want to tackle the challenges of the Middle and Upper Atlas mountains on foot, by mountain bike or in a paraglider, or to practice mountain climbing, canyoning or pot-holing. Its summits can reach 4000m high. Ifrane, the little Moroccan Switzerland, may come as a pleasant surprise with its summer coolness, winter snow and traditional "mule-ski" trails.

Nothing is as indescribable as a stay on the edge of the desert... Head to Ouarzazate to discover its immensity and colours. At night, opt for an encampment in the desert, a chalet in the mountains and, wherever you are, bed and breakfast with the locals for an unforgettable and authentic experience. These are at the heart of the Moroccan identity, like palmtrees, argan oil and the honey from its lavender.

Looking out over the Atlantic, you will be enchanted by the turquoise waters of Dakhla bay! There you will meet migratory birds and pink flamingos.

In Morocco, every taste is naturally catered for!

Visit the Intriguing Remains of the City of Volubilis in Morocco

The Kingdom of Morocco is situated in the westernmost part of North Africa and is one of the famous places to visit for a holiday trip in this continent. This country was under the rule of the Umayadd Muslims of Damascus, Berber dynasties of Almoravid and Almohad, and European kingdoms of Rome and Germany in the past. Owing to this, this country has undergone many changes in its culture, which is a beautiful fusion of the Arabic, Berber and European influences. Some of the cities that are a hallmark of the Moroccon history are Meknes, Chefchaouen and Fes el Bali. Another place of historical interest is the city of Volubilis, which is one of the most visited sites of this nation. Check the airfare of various international airlines bound to Morocco, before you make plans to visit this spectacular place during your holidays.

Volubilis - Location and History

Volubilis, located in modern day Morocco, is now a partly excavated site of the then Roman town of 40 AD. This site was once the administrative centre and capital of the Roman province of Mauretania Tingitana and was home to more than 20,000 inhabitants. This place is situated to the west of the town of Moulay Idriss Zerhoun in the Jebel Zerhoun Plain and lies close to the cities of Meknes and Fez. According to archaeological evidences, this site was inhabited by people of the neolithic era in the 3rd century and was conquered by the Romans in about 40 AD.

Famous Things to See

This place has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list and boasts of a number of famous attractions. The best preserved structures of this place are a Roman forum, a 2nd century basilica and the Arch of Caracalla, which dates back to 217 AD. Columns of this forum still stand intact and the basilica can be seen with remains of its impressive walls, which are more than 30 feet tall. The most renowned remains of this site are its mosaic floors, which include Diana Bath, Works of Hercules, Orpheus Mosaics and Nereides.

Volubilis literally means Oualili (oleander flowers) in Berber language as the land of this site supports growth of a large number of oleander plants and olive trees. This place is also known by the name of Oualila and Ksar Pharoun (Pharaoh Palace) in Arabic language.

Excavation and Restoration

The site underwent massive destruction following an earthquake in the 4th century. Excavations of this site were initiated by the French from 1912 to 1956. Further restoration was carried out between 1930 and 1967. In 1997, this place was listed as the UNESCO World Heritage Site.