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We begin our journey
at Malaga’s international airport, receiving daily
flights from many UK airports from as little as £19*.
From Malaga a splendid 90 minute journey takes us along
the entire expanse of the delightful Costa del Sol
before arriving at the port of Algeciras. Scores of
daily connections by ferry and hydrofoil ensure a
fantastic boat trip over the straits of Gibraltar to the
port of Tangier in Morocco. If we keep our eyes open we
may also be lucky enough to see the dolphins swimming
along beside the craft.
From Tangier, a thrilling 90
minute journey by car takes us directly to Marina
Smir.
This is the scenic route, although there are
quicker alternatives for those wishing to reduce journey
time, such as direct flights to Tangier. Also, a brand
new international airport is to be constructed very near
to our final destination in 2007.
It is no secret
that Morocco's elite and its international residents
enjoy living in luxury. For this reason the leisure port
of Marina Smir has been constructed. Built to rival the
world famous Puerto Banus, the Marina is located a short
drive from the town of Tetouan.
The Spanish colony of
Ceuta is 10 minutes drive from the Marina. Crossing the
border into Ceuta is a simple matter of showing one's
passport. The colony offers world class duty free
shopping and makes a great day out. It also provides a
quicker way to arrive from Spain, although this would be
to the detriment of the breathtaking drive from
Tangier.
Traditional shopping can be exciting in the
"Medina" (Bazaar) of Tetouan, stalls and busy shops are
plentiful offering all types of goods - Carpets,
Clothes, Jewellery, Designer Brands etc.
Meanwhile, a
huge European style supermarket is just 15 minutes drive
from the Marina.
Golfers will be pleased with the
proximity of the Cabonegro Golf Course - 18 lush holes,
just 15 minutes drive from the Marina. Marina Smir
itself is attractive, with top quality cafes, bars,
restaurants & hotels complete with leisure
facilities and a large, un-spoilt beach of soft white
sand.
Although modelled on the famous "Puerto Banus",
Marina Smir tends to be far less densely built up and
makes for a pleasant, relaxing place to take a stroll in
the warm sunshine. Although the Muslim faith is widely
practiced, it is in a benign form.
Foreigners are
respected and warmly welcomed. Alcoholic drinks are
readily available in bars, restaurants and
hotels.
The luxury "Malabata" casino at Tangier plays
host to gambling games of every kind. For the purchase
of £125 worth of chips, the casino offers accommodation
for the night free of charge.
Lovers of exotic
gastronomy will enjoy sampling inexpensive local
Couscous, Tajine and other delicious Moroccan dishes.
Sip a delightful mint tea for refreshment on a warm day.
Several smaller towns and villages surround Marina Smir,
offering the delights of local cuisine in unique
surroundings - again all at low prices - a cup of fresh
coffee might set you back 30p whilst eating out can cost
around £5 per head for a full three course
meal.
Getting around could not be easier (or
cheaper!) taxis are found everywhere - a typical fare of
£1 for crossing an entire city is not uncommon. A
chauffeur and car can be hired for around £14 per
day!
Families will find it easy to settle in the area
too, due to the existence of two international schools
in Tangiers - one American, the other British, both
educating up to A-Level/High school level and reached in
around 90 minutes.
Medical facilities including a
state of the art hospital can be found in Ceuta just 10
minutes away.
*Fare based on flying one way with
Monarch scheduled out of Luton Feb
2005
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