Morocco: A Vibrant Blend of Cultures in North Africa

Morocco offers travelers an exciting mix of Arabian, European, and African influences. The country's diverse landscapes stretch from the Atlas Mountains to the Sahara Desert, with beautiful Mediterranean and Atlantic coastlines. Visitors can explore ancient medinas in cities like Marrakech, Fez, and Casablanca, where colorful markets, stunning architecture, and tasty cuisine await. The blue city of Chefchaouen stands out with its bright azure buildings. Throughout the year, Morocco hosts many cultural festivals celebrating its rich heritage, including the Fes Festival of World Sacred Music and the Marrakech Popular Arts Festival. From Tangier, the main port in northern Morocco, travelers can easily take ferries across the Strait of Gibraltar to Spain, with routes to Tarifa, Algeciras, and Barcelona. These connections make Morocco a great starting point for exploring southern Europe.

Gibraltar: A Unique Blend of British and Mediterranean Charm

Gibraltar treats travelers to a fascinating mix of British culture and Mediterranean flair on Spain's southern tip. This small but mighty British Overseas Territory is crowned by the impressive Rock of Gibraltar, a 1,398-foot limestone ridge that's home to the famous Barbary macaques, Europe's only wild monkey population. Visitors can explore St. Michael's Cave, a stunning network of limestone caverns, or wander through the Great Siege Tunnels, a remarkable defense system carved during the 18th century. Main Street offers great duty-free shopping while Ocean Village marina serves up upscale dining with beautiful bay views. Gibraltar's National Day on September 10th brings lively celebrations throughout the territory with red and white colors everywhere. The territory also works as a handy ferry hub with regular trips to Morocco, letting travelers hop between Europe and Africa in just 90 minutes via the port of Algeciras.