Casablanca is undergoing major regeneration with millions of dollars being poured into it from several countries including Saudia Arabia and the UAE.

El Jadida, sixty-three miles south of Casablanca, was held by the Portuguese for 250 years in which time they built the fortified and moated medina adjoining the harbour. Traces of the towns Portuguese past remain today in its lanes and ramparts reinforced by four bastions, known as Holy Spirit, St. Anthony, St. Sebastian, and Angel.

During the summer months, city-dwellers from Casablanca and Marrakech flock to El Jadida's beauty spot, a 16km stretch of white sandy beach lined by an elegant promenade, and dotted with lively cafes.

About 15 miles south of the city there is a string of lagoons with wetlands where you can see dozens of varieties of migrating birds.