Morocco

Morocco is an immediate and exciting immersion in another world, where Arab and Berber blood, history and culture are inextricably bound. The snow-capped Atlas Mountains are the backdrop to Marrakech, where life revolves around the Djemaa el-Fna square with its fire-eaters and snake charmers mesmerising crowds of onlookers.

The Imperial Cities, Marrakech, Fez (host to the annual Fez Sacred Music Festival in June), Rabat and Meknes have a wealth of gardens, palaces and a maze of little streets and souqs to explore. The services of a good guide, which Original Travel can arrange, are strongly recommended.

Elsewhere Original Travel favourites include the largely unspoilt Atlantic coastline and picturesque Essaouira, and the excellent trekking opportunities and chic kasbahs of the Atlas Mountains. Beyond this mountain range the Sahara beckons and is best explored with a knowledgeable guide and 4x4 vehicle.