Afrika in Focus: Tourism in Afrika --- North Africa's Gems: Algiers and Casablanca

Journey with us beyond typical tourist destinations as we unveil two magnificent North African cities that deserve prime positions on your travel bucket list. 

Algiers and Casablanca stand as testament to Africa's incredible diversity, blending Mediterranean charm, Islamic artistry, European influences, and authentic African heritage into unforgettable urban experiences.

Algiers captivates with its stunning position as possibly the northernmost city on the continent, where the UNESCO-protected Kasbah reveals centuries of history through maze-like alleyways and Ottoman-era architecture. Picture yourself wandering through Haussmann-style boulevards that earned this city its nickname as "African Paris," or gazing out over the Mediterranean from the cliffside Notre Dame d'Afrique basilica.

 Art enthusiasts will treasure time spent at the National Museum of Fine Arts, home to one of Africa's largest art collections featuring both European masters and African artists. When night falls, experience everything from rooftop cafés serving mint tea with panoramic views to vibrant lounges where live bands play both Algerian classics and international favorites

Moving westward, Casablanca pulses as Morocco's contemporary heartbeat while honouring its rich cultural tapestry. The breath-taking Hassan II Mosque rises 210 meters above the Atlantic Ocean, welcoming visitors of all faiths to marvel at its extraordinary craftsmanship. Stroll through downtown to discover architectural treasures from the 1930s, then lose yourself in Quartier Habous where traditional artisans craft everything from leather goods to intricate jewelry. For a uniquely enlightening experience, visit the Museum of Moroccan Judaism—the only Jewish museum in the Arab world—showcasing the country's multifaceted heritage through synagogue replicas, traditional clothing, and historical artifacts.

What makes these destinations particularly accessible is their world-class infrastructure. Both cities feature modern transportation networks comparable to major European capitals, making exploration convenient and comfortable. 

Whether you're sampling couscous and mint tea at local eateries, hunting for handcrafted souvenirs, or simply watching the sunset from a Mediterranean beach, these North African gems offer the perfect blend of familiar comforts and exotic discoveries. Subscribe to our channel for more African travel insights that will transform how you see this remarkable continent.

Sources:

The Africa You Don't See On TV!(Algeria)

Casablanca Morocco: 10 BEST Things To Do In 2024 (Travel Guide)

Chapters

• 0:00 Introduction to Africa in Focus
• 1:06 Tourism in Africa Series Continues
• 2:35 Exploring Historic Algiers
• 7:52 Algiers' Cuisine and Nightlife
• 12:43 Discovering Modern Casablanca
• 17:15 Closing Thoughts on North Africa

Transcript

Speaker 1: 0:03

Good evening and welcome to this edition of Africa in Focus with myself, kwame, ghanaian writer, broadcaster, producer, entrepreneur, podcaster and historian. And in this edition of Africa in Focus is part two of our Tourism in Africarica series, this week looking at two magnificent cities in north africa that you definitely would like to visit and you definitely don't want to miss out on those two cities. So we'll be discussing that in this week's edition of african focus, but before then, if you like what you hear, please appreciate to your friends and your family. Social media networks subscribe to Ghana African Focus on YouTube. Hit the notification bell, meaning that every time we upload a new podcast, youtube will notify you of that. Also, subscribe to Ghana African Focus on Spotify. Hit the follow bell, meaning that every time we upload a new podcast, spotify will notify you.

Speaker 1: 1:13

Alright, so let's get into the podcast part two, or looking at continuing our series, rather of tourism in Africa. As you know, in the West it's now the holiday season and people are, you know, going on holidays to diverse destinations, particularly around Europe. But we here on Africa In Focus, we want you to visit the African continent because there's a lot to see and do in the second biggest continent on the planet, comprising more than 50 countries. So Africa is a huge continent with a lot of variety, culture and history, and so we are promoting tourism on the continent. So last week, if you tuned in, we promoted Cape Town in South Africa. Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in Africa, or rather in most beautiful cities in Africa, or rather in the world in Africa and so this week we're going to focus on two cities in North Africa that you must put in your bucket list and also that are very, very um worthwhile visits for you to see. So we've got Algiers in Nigeria and also Casablanca in Morocco. These are two fantastic cities in North Africa.

Speaker 1: 2:33

So let's start with Algiers. So Algiers is possibly the northernmost city on the African continent, and even though Algiers has an Islamic feel to it, you know Algiers was colonised by the Arabs, and so you know the indigenous Algerian population are black, like you and I. So the Arabs are indigenous to Algeria, same way that white people are not indigenous to South Africa. So that's why Algiers is a more or less Islamic city, as opposed to, you know, a traditionally African city, but nonetheless, algiers and Casablanca are still in Africa. Okay, and that's what we're promoting tourism in African content. So I can say Algiers is possibly the northernmost city on the continent and it also sits, you could say, because of that sits also within the confines of the Mediterranean. And so, given that, then, algiers is a city that makes its history and does with Mediterranean, islamic and African charm.

Speaker 1: 3:46

So if you're wondering why this capital city does not spot on your travel list, here's why you need to go to Argyris. So it's got the historic Kashmir of Argyris, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and this ancient medina is a maze of narrow alleys, ottoman palaces and revolutionary tales, and I'll talk more about that in a minute. You've also got the Martyrs Memorial. So this, this is a massive memorial that towers over Algiers, and this monument honors those who fought bravely for Algiers independence from the French and also offers stunning panoramic views of Algiers. Also, notre Dame Afrique, which is a stunning basilica placed on a cliff, blending Neo-Byzantine architecture with sweeping sea views.

Speaker 1: 4:49

Also, if you're into culture and architecture, we definitely want you to go to the Hussman-style boulevards. So Algiers is basically like an African Paris. So I know Abidjan is also similar to Paris as well, but because of the deep French influence, you know a lot of the roads, the boulevards are missing out on Paris. So Algiers has got a very, very Parisian feel to it, and especially around Rue des Ruches-Morins, also Algiers within Algiers, and especially around Rue des Ruches Murois, also within Algiers, you've got the National Museum of Fine Arts, one of Africa's largest art collections with works by Monet and Matisse alongside Algerian and also traditional African masterpieces. And they've also got Jama'at al-Dazir, africa's largest mosque, a modern marvel with intricate Islamic design. So that's a place that you definitely want to visit. Jama'at al-Daziyah, which is Africa's largest mosque, definitely, you know, worth visiting, particularly with this intricate Islamic infused and influenced design. Now again, if you're into nature and coastal beauty, we recommend you visit Jardin des Cies du Hommage, which basically is a um. Basically, I think in French it translates as the garden of um leaves or something like that. I mean, if you speak French you probably translate it better than I can, but anyway, this is a botanical garden with tabby fiscus trees and clean, your charm. Okay. And this, by the way, you know, played a cameo in these Tarzan, you know, makeup films. Also, rj's offers stunning senses of the Mediterranean because, like I said, it's in another most part of Africa and you can see the Mediterranean, you know from a distance, from the coast of Argeas.

Speaker 1: 7:02

Now, some of the cultural experiences you definitely need to try in Algiers, as I mentioned earlier on exploring the historic Casbah. So wander through the Unesco Casbah, which is a labyrinth of Ottoman era homes. So you know, algiers part of the jail was colonized by the Turks, as well as the French and others and the Arabs, so our jails have a very unique mixture of Turkish, african, european and Arabic Islamic kind of feel to it, and this is none more emphasized by the Kasbah, where you see hidden courtyards as well as the artisan workshops. Again, you can also visit the Kachur Mosque, which again typifies the influence of all the different influences of Algeria. So this building is a stunning blend of Moorish, which are black people, and Byzantine architecture, which has a rich with a rich colonial history. Again, you could dive into the art scene by, like I said, the National Museum of Fine Arts, which houses Algerian and European masterpieces and, in fact, is one of Africa's largest art collections. You can also discover more contemporary works and street murals also within the Museum of Modern Art of Argyres.

Speaker 1: 8:52

Now, definitely, if you're a foodie like myself, you want a sample of Argyrian cuisine, so you can try this. This is like couscous brie and coba in family-run restaurants or bussing markets and you can join a cooking class in the Kasbah and you can learn how to prepare authentic Argyrian meals like kush kush. You can also visit iconic landmarks like the Martyrs Memorial, which is a tavern tribute to those men and women who fought bravely for Argyrian independence from the French, who fought bravely for our Jews' independence from the French. You can also, like I said, step inside the biggest mosque in Africa, jamaa el-Daziyah. You can also relax in nature by the Botanical Gardens which I've just mentioned, and you can also enjoy mint tea and Mediterranean views from the rooftop cafes in Bab el-Owid. So Algeria also has a lot of local crafts, so you can browse around on some markets for home, for handmade pottery, textiles and silver jewellery. You can also visit Palais de Paix for a glimpse into the Ottoman elegance and local craftsmanship.

Speaker 1: 10:17

So if you are into your music and vibe and that kind of because Algiers has also a vibrant nightlife which is a blend of laid-back elegance, live music and Mediterranean stroke African charm. So live music lounges include Farzo Wanwi at the Sheraton Club, which offers a chic lounge vibe with live bands playing everything from Nigerian classics to international hits. You've got the Pasha Nightclub in El Meru, which is a popular spot for dancing and DJ sets with a lively crowd and upbeat atmosphere. You've also got cosmopolitan bars that blends restaurants and nightclubs and with themed party nights and a dance floor that really rests. And if you like your trendy bars, then we recommend you go to bars like El Medina, which is a rooftop bar that serves a stunning view of the Mediterranean alongside signature drinks and DJ sets, which is a rooftop bar that serves a stunning views of the Mediterranean alongside signature drinks and DJ sets. Also, you know, you can go for evening walks along the coast or through the Jardin de l'Essai de Hamas. That offers quieter, romantic side of Algerian nightlife.

Speaker 1: 11:47

So that, in a nutshell, is what you can see and do in Algiers, and I'll put a video of what you can see and do in Algeria for one of our great YouTubers, wadimaya. He recently went to Algiers to see for himself the stunning nature of the city and also to see where Africans in Algiers live. So when you go to Algiers, you won't see many Africans within live. So when you go to Algiers, you won't see many Africans within the downtown area, but you go to the outskirts of Algiers. That's where you see a lot of Africans. So this is also encompassed within the video that Wadden Meyer did on the visit to Algiers. All right, so that's Algiers in Algeria.

Speaker 1: 12:27

Now let's look at casablanca in morocco. So casablanca is basically morocco's southern part and heartbeat. It's a city where tradition and modernity dance together in a very, very african stroke atlantic breeze. So why you should go to casablanca? Breeze. So why should you go to Casablanca?

Speaker 1: 12:54

Casablanca is a very, very modern, contemporary African city with both European and Islamic influences. Obviously because, like I said, you know, north Africa was colonized by Arabs, europeans also. You have the obviously the Moorish influence there. So one of the marvels of visiting Casablanca is the Hassan II mosque, which is one of the largest mosques in the world and it's perched dramatically over the ocean and non-muslims can even tour its stunning interior. Also, within Casablanca, there's art deco and colonial buildings. So the city centre is a treasure of 1913 architecture blending European, islamic and African flair.

Speaker 1: 13:50

So that's a very so we go to Casablanca. You'll be struck by the buildings, you know, and the architecture which, like I say, has that, you know, essential mix of African, european and Islamic influence. Also, there's the coastal vibe. So there's the End Dive, corniche, which is a lively seaside promenade that's lined with cafes, clubs and beaches, and it's very perfect for sunset walks or jet skiing. Casablanca is also famous for beach culture, so you can go to Casablanca, and you know, there's many, many beaches on the coast that offer everything from diving, scuba diving to even boating, all right.

Speaker 1: 14:37

So again, when you visit Casablanca, you need to go to the Moroccan Mall, which is one of Africa's largest shopping centres, which combines African goods with luxury brands with also local Moroccan crafts. There's also the Habush Quarter, which is a charming district of Casablanca that is a mix of traditional markets and artisan shops, ideal for authentic souvenirs. So if you want to get an authentic souvenir from Casablanca, morocco, to bring back with you, then I definitely would advise you visit the Habush Quarter. That offers, you know, artisan shops which feature authentic Moroccan stroke African souvenirs. Now, if you're into a nightlife, then I definitely recommend you visit Rick's Cafe, which was part of the film Casablanca, and also it plays like jazz music and also got a Moroccan vibe to it, and also there's festivals from Casablanca to Le Boulevard, so the city is a mix with music and art festivals throughout the year. So if you go to Casablanca about this time, you probably bump into one of those music and art festivals that take place throughout the year in Casablanca.

Speaker 1: 16:11

Again, if you're a foodie as well, casablanca is definitely a place to be. You can sample Moroccan delicacies like good sardines, tangerine and also mint tea in both upscale restaurants and local bars or local restaurants, as well as street side stores. Also, you can visit the central market for fresh seafood that's cooked on the spot. So the thing about Casablanca is that it's a perfect launch pad for day trips to either Rabat, which is the capital of Morocco, el Jaidi or even the Sahara desert. So Casablanca is full of gems that blend African, islamic and European tradition, alongside Bonne and Flair.

Speaker 1: 17:10

So things to do and must see, as I mentioned earlier on the Hassan, the second mosque, which features a 210 metre minaret and also features stunning Moroccan craftsmanship. As I mentioned earlier, you want to go to the Quartet Habous, which is a charming district with European and African architecture, arts and shops and peaceful courtyards. It is also great for buying traditional goods like spices, leather and pastries. You also want to visit the Abd al-Haman Shoaib Museum, which houses a private collection of Moroccan art, vintage travel posters and jewellery. You also want to go to the Museum of Moroccan Judaism. Believe it or not, there were Jews in Morocco before they were expelled, so this museum is the only Jewish museum in the Arab world showcasing Morocco's rich Jewish heritage. It also includes synagogue replicas, traditional clothing and historical artifacts.

Speaker 1: 18:23

All right, so these are some of the things you can do and see in Morocco, and so I'll definitely, you know, recommend that you go to Casablanca and also Algeria as well. So, if you found this edition of tourism in Africa useful, highlighting two stunning cities in North Africa, namely Algiers in Algeria and Casablanca in Morocco, both of these cities have high, first class infrastructure in terms of railway, in terms of public transport, in terms of, you know, algiers has, you know, underground networks similar to London. Casablanca has a tram network similar to what you find in Rome or Manchester or Amsterdam, so infrastructure and getting around both cities are not difficult at all. So I hope you've enjoyed this edition of Tourism in Africa featuring Algiers and Casablanca. All right, so next week we'll conclude tourism in Africa by finding out, by getting you, another stunning African city that you must definitely visit. All right, so, for myself, kwame, and for the crew here on Africa In Focus. Thank you very much for listening and we'll see you next week for some more tourism in Africa.