Morocco’s an expat’s dream!
Location: Africa
Capital City: Rabat
Other Important Cities: Casablanca, Essaouira, Fes, Marrakech
Currency: Dirham
Language: Arabic, Tamazight
Calling Code: 212
Internet TLD: .ma
Electricity: Morroco runs on 127/220V 50Hz. Electricity is mainly provided by the state-owned Office National de l’Electricite et de l’eau Potable ONE.
Website (French): www.one.org.ma
Emergency Numbers:
Ambulance: 15
Fire: 15
Police: 19
Morocco’s cultural landscape is as diverse as its geography. Containing coasts, mountains and desert, this North African country displays the traditions that has been passed down from generation to generation. From souqs, medinas, to hospitality and cuisine, Moroccan culture, although faceted with other influences, is distinctly unique. Morocco is not only a dream destination of tourists, but also home away from home for longtime expats.
Expat Clubs
American International Women’s Club of Casablanca
AIWC Casablanca Mission statement is to provide financial and other support to those, in Morocco, who are most vulnerable; to promote a better understanding of Morocco; and to unite English-speaking women of all nationalities, especially in welcoming newcomers to our community.
Website: www.casablancaaiwc.org
American Women Living in Morocco (Yahoo Group)
Email: American_Women_living_in_Morocco@Yahoogroups.com
Website: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/American_Women_Living_In_Morocco
International Schools
Casablanca American School
Casablanca American School (CAS) embraces an American Educational system of teaching that offers an International Baccalaureate program in a learning environment that nourishes your children’s unique qualities.
Curriculum: American, International Baccalaureate
Address: Route de la Mecque, Lotissement Ougoug, Quartier Californie, Casablanca, Morocco, 20150
Tel: +212-522-79-39-39
Fax: +212-522-21-24-88
Email: contact-cas@cas.ac.ma
Website: www.cas.ac.ma
George Washington Academy Casablanca
GWA opened in 1998 with 52 students; today we have more than 790 students from 39 nationalities taught in their purpose-built campus by a majority of North American instructional staff. The school received full accreditation by the Middle States Association in 2009.
The cost of living in Morocco is relatively low compared to Europe and North America. Expats both rent and buy properties, depending on the purpose and duration of their stay in the country. Apartments for sale go for as low as $35,000. Apartment rentals are as low as $325. Cityred Morocco is a leading real estate service provider first opened in England. They have a variety of listings across main Moroccan cities: cityredmorocco.com
Marrakech, the capital of Morocco holds a distinct charm among tourists. Moroccan culture is so embedded and evident in this city, it’s a total immersive experience. Traditional marketplaces, old-fashioned vendors and unwavering hospitality, the city is a welcome breath of fresh air from expats who needs to something different; metropolitan yet reflective of heritage.
The other city, Casablanca is the opposite of Marrakech. Its namesake Hollywood film does not do it justice; this city is the economic and commercial center, the progressive side of Morocco. Expats who are looking for the same Western amenities such as bars, clubs and hip restaurants and hang-outs, will find it in this Casablanca, thanks to its openness to European and American popular culture. They will also find the same traffic jam and buzzing sound of the city moving fast. Despite the city’s plunge into the fore of commercialism, it managed to retain its roots through historical architecture and environment.