Asila -- A Taste of Serenity

Sunsets: Whether you are viewing from a private roof, the lookout at the southern end of the Medina, along the ramparts, or best yet, the roof of Raisouli's Palace.

The daily market takes place right outside the Medina through Bab el Homer every morning and evening. You will find everything sold here. Be prepared to be jostled; this is not a place if you are claustrophobic. There is also the weekly market outside the Medina every Thursday. Watch your wallet.

Hammam: If you’re female and not too modest, get to know a local woman, as you might get the privilege of going the public bath. It's fantastic.

International Art Festival: This takes place the first two weeks of August. This is a very crowded time, but exciting. See the artists painting their murals, working in the print shop, or performing in the Center or Palace.

The experience of the Medina strikes all of your senses; words and pictures are really not enough to explain the magic. The sounds of the street vendors, the muezzin calling the people to prayer, and children playing in the street are an integral part of this amazing experience.

Quick Tips:

Remember to check the hours of the local banks for changing money. The hours vary from bank to bank.

The internet cafe immediately outside the Medina (through the gate by the main mosque) is the best. It's only the equivalent of .50 per half hour. It gets very crowded with local people, so it is best to get there first thing in the morning.

You don't need a guide to get around Asilah.

Never pay the first or even second price that someone tells you. You must always bargain. It's all part of the game and expected.

Best Way To Get Around:

The best way to get around Asilah is walking. Every place in the village, whether in the Medina or outside, is in walking distance. Taxi is the best way to get to the beaches, whether Breich or Paradise. In both instances, you must arrange a time for the taxi to pick you up at the beach. You won't find any taxis at the beaches or on the road. They are dispatched outside the Medina, one block from the bus station. Some do walk to Paradise, but it is long and hot. The other option for Paradise is a donkey cart, but be prepared for a bumpy ride!

This family-run cafe is the place to have your morning or late afternoon (pre-sunset) cup of tea or coffee. This is the only restaurant in the Medina and the best people-watching spot. You can purchase homemade cookies from the local "boys" who carry the trays on their heads. These are always fresh and delicious.

The food at the cafe is freshly prepared, extremely inexpensive, and quite good. You can have a simple lunch or dinner here.

The service is good and the owner friendly.

Casa Pepe has been around forever. The food is wonderful. You can dine al fresco or inside. Try the anchovies for an appetizer. They are not like anything you've tasted. You can get usual Spanish fare, but can also enjoy a steak and fries. They good food, a nice atmosphere, good service, and you won't be rushed.

If you're a seafood lover, Casa Garcia is the place for you. The fish is fresh and delicious. The decor is simple and outside dining is most pleasant. The service is good.

This festival is what made Asilah a tourist attraction. It takes place during the first two weeks of August every summer. Artists, both studio and performing, are invited from around the world.

Painters are given a wall in the Medina to paint a mural on. The subject is their choice. These are colorful, wonderful, and in many different styles. It's fun to watch the artist at work and see the progress from day to day.

Musicians and dancers are also invited and they perform either at the Hasan Center (across from the main mosque) or in the Palace. Tickets are usually required, and cost the equivalent of $5 to 8.

There are also conferences that focus on a different global topic each year. They are very informative, educational, and interesting. These take place in the center.

The Hasan Center also has an art gallery, which is open free to the public. The exhibits are varied and quite good. There is also a small gallery in the El Kamra. Tower in the main square of the Medina. Again, there’s no admission.