5th June 2014
Today marks the arrival of Andre and David from Dubai at around 2pm so Willy decided to use the morning to explore the mosque and Rick’s Café in Casablanca. Rick’s Café is a rebuild of the original scene seen in the famous movie Hotel Casablanca which was screened way back in 1942.
The piano where Sam supposedly played the famous song “as times go by” still stands amongst all other recreated furnishings and architecture and Willy could not resist trying to pose as “SAM “
..Much to the Joy of the barman:
Willy then proceeded to visit the great mosque in Casablanca which in itself is quiet a monument to be seen. The mosque can accommodate some 25000 people inside and 80000 people outside. It is said to be the 7th biggest mosque in the world and it really huge
Inside the mosque on cannot stop admiring the finer details of the architecture and workmanship which took place during the construction which was completed in 1993.
Special ablution and washing facilities are provided for the visitors to clean themselves before praying
The Mosque is called Grand Mosque Hassan 2 and worth a visit to whoever comes to Casablanca.
Time to go back to the Hotel to welcome Andre and David with a traditional Casablanca beer
And after a few of those and feeling hungry the 3 decided that it is time to have some good Morocco food.
The first idea to go back to Rick’s café for dinner was not successful as the bouncer outside insisted on long pants only (much different to the morning when Willy visited the landmark). The decision was made not to walk back to the hotel and change into long pants (just to please the bouncer) and so another noble piece of Moroccan restaurant was found close by. The restaurant must have been the remains of an old fort with big iron gates and canons obviously to defend Casablanca by any attacks from the seaside.
The food and surroundings were great and the fact that no alcoholic beverages could be sold was hesitantly accepted by the group of 3.
With a few “loop dops” and watching France beating Honduras in world cup soccer the day was completed.