MOROCCO MOSAIC9 NIGHTS ■ SEPTEMBER 5, 2022

AAA Travel invites you to join us on this special adventure from the Sahara and across

the High Atlas to ancient medinas and fishing villages. Morocco is full of history and

beauty and you will experience the kaleidoscopic of best-preserved medinas where

ancient rhythms still resonate. Spend an enchanted night at our stylish tented camp

deep in the Sahara and experience the magic and romance of our luxury Riads. Explore

four UNESCO World Heritage Sites and an array of finely preserved ruins dating

back centuries. You’ll plunge into the twisting alleyways and atmospheric streets of

Marrakech to explore the city’s famous souks and savor the finest Moroccan cuisine

with a private cooking class. This is a fascinating and comprehensive tour of Morocco

and a once-in-a-life time experience, so please join us and reserve your spot today!

From $6,299 per person, land, based on double occupancy

AAA EXCLUSIVE HIGHLIGHTS■ VIP Arrival services in Casablanca including transfers

■ 9 nights luxury accommodations including a stayin a Riad

■ All tour transportation by luxury motorcoach withprivate driver

■ Explore 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites; Volubilis,Meknes, Aït Benhaddou, and Marrakech’s Djemaael-Fna Square

■ All museum and monument entrance fees

■ Dinner at Rick’s Cafe

■ Camel ride over the dunes in the Sahara

■ 4x4 Jeep Rides and the Sahara Sunrise

■ Travel the Fabled Route of 1,000 Kasbahs

■ Cooking Class in Marrakech

■ 26 meals, with wine at lunch and dinner: 9breakfasts, 8 lunches, 9 dinners

■ Expert Moroccan Trip leader and local guides

MOROCCO MOSAICITINERARY

Day 1 Welcome to CasablancaOn arrival at the airport in Casablanca, our VIP Welcome Service includes assistance through immigration and customs formalities. Check in to your luxury hotel, The Four Seasons, where you’ll have time to relax and recover from your travels. Tonight, we sit down to an à la carte dinner at Rick’s Café. Since 2004, this tribute restaurant has delighted thousands of classic film buffs who come to dine in a setting that faithfully recreates the bar made famous by Rick Blaine (Humphrey Bogart) and Ilsa Lund (Ingrid Bergman). The ambience is truly memorable and the chefs prepare wonderful Moroccan and International dishes. (D)Hotel Four Seasons – 1 night

Day 2 Onward to Rabat + FèsThis morning, join our expert guide to visit Casablanca’s stunning Hassan II Mosque. Set on a platform that extends into the ocean, this 20th-century icon with its graceful minaret is regarded as one of the most beautiful mosques in the world. Then we’ll travel to Rabat to explore the Oudayas Kasbah, a walled city within the city; founded in the 12th century. We'll also see the splendid Mohamed V Mausoleum and marvel at the Hassan Tower, an unfinished but impressive minaret started nearly 1,000 years ago. Rabat is the government capital of Morocco and home to the royal family. With its cosmopolitan, contemporary vibe reflected in the young people of this city and the diversity of cuisine, it is no surprise that MOMA has recently opened here. Our day ends in Fès at the luxurious Hotel Sahrai. After dinner, settle in to your beautifully styled guestroom for a 3-night stay. (B, L, D) Hotel Sahrai Fes - 3 nights

Day 3Immerse in the Imperial City of FèsFounded in the 8th century, this ancient city emerged as the capital of the ancient Marinid Dynasty in the 13th and 14th centuries. With so much history and glory, the city offers great monuments and enduring institutions that will highlight our full-day of guided touring. In the still-vibrant historic core of town, where many buildings date back to the founding days of the Marinid Dynasty, we’ll see two of Morocco’s oldest learning centers, the Al-Attarine Madrasa and Bou Inania Madrasa are lauded as among the most extravagantly beautiful medieval buildings in all of Morocco. We’ll visit the much-photographed Nejjarine Fountain, famous for its ceramic mosaics. In the Fès medina, we’ll visit the tanneries and the colorful and lively souks where you can shop for fine silks, rugs and unique artisan crafts. This evening, enjoy the fine Moroccan and Mediterranean fusion cuisine of Dar Roumana. (B, L, D)

Day 4Excursion to Volubilis + MeknesThis morning, we head outside of Fès to explore the archaeological site of Volubilis, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. With finely preserved ruins dating back to the 3rd century, this remarkable ensemble of temples, baths, a basilica, brothels, and finely preserved mosaic floors offers a unique look into the ancient history of Roman Africa. Next, it’s onward to Moulay Idriss. Built along the slopes of two neighboring hills, this picturesque town is the final resting place of Moulay Idriss I, revered as the nation’s religious and secular founder. Non-Muslim visitors are not allowed inside the royal tomb, but our guided visit here will deepen

our understanding and appreciation of the country’s culture and faith.Our journey continues to Meknes, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Renowned for its blending of Spanish and Moorish architectural styles of the 1600’s. We’ll learn about Morocco’s ancient Jewish history as we explore the mellah, the ancient walled Jewish quarter inhabited since the early days of the city. We will return to our retreat in Fès for some relaxation time for our last night in this mystical city.(B, L, D)

Day 5Through the Ziz Valley to Merzouga + The SaharaLeaving Fès behind us, we’ll make our way into the undulating hills and fragrant Cedar forests of the Middle Atlas Range. Passing through Ifrane, referred to as “The Switzerland of Morocco,” this charming town was built by the French in the 1930’s. Our journey continues into the Ziz Valley, fed by the waters of the eponymous river. Punctuated by small communities, green date palm trees and dusty ancient kasbahs, this region promises mesmerizing scenery and a chance to witness timeless scenes of rural life.In Erfoud, perched on the edge of the Sahara, we’ll transfer to 4x4 vehicles and journey deeper into the desert sands to our Luxury Camp, set amidst the dunes of the vast Sahara. Enjoy a camel ride over the dunes and watch the sun set over the desert as you refresh with a cup of traditional Moroccan mint tea. Later, we’ll dine on fine Moroccan fare served under a canopy of stars. Before retiring to your private tent, enjoy Berber music and congenial conversation around the campfire. (B, L, D)Mergouza Luxury Desert Camp - 1 night

Rates are per person, land only, based on double occupancy. A NON-REFUNDABLE deposit of $800 per person is due at time of booking. Hotels, events and itinerary are subject to change. Events and inclusions listed may be substituted/eliminated based on passenger participation and have no cash value. A passport is required for US citizens valid 6 months beyond return date. This tour requires average physical activity. You should be in good health, able to climb stairs and walk reasonable distances, possibly over uneven grounds. Change and Cancellation fees apply. Contact your AAA Travel Advisor for full details. The Auto Club Group is not responsible for errors or omissions printed in this document. 19-TR-0295

WHY AAA TRAVEL?Only when you book with us, you get:

■ Extra savings, perks & special experiences

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Do more & worry less! Stretch your vacation dollars further with AAA Travel.

Day 6The Route of 1,000 Kasbahs to OuarzazateEarly this morning, we’ll venture in comfortable 4x4 jeeps deeper into the vast expanse of the Sahara and experience the sunrise. We’ll watch the sun’s first golden rays strike the tawny desert dunes and then return to our encampment for a hearty breakfast. Leaving the Sahara behind us, we’ll begin our journey toward to Rissani, a 17th-century ksar that rose to importance in the days before the Alaouite Dynasty came to power. At the nearby ruins of Ksar Abbar, you’ll hear a fascinating tale of its erstwhile residents – disgraced members of the Alaouite family who were banished to live here and virtually abandoned, just as the town has been. As we make our way through the spectacular Todra Gorge, we’ll marvel at steep canyon walls that soar more than 500 feet on either side; this stretch of our ride is one of the most memorable drives you’ll ever make! We’ll travel into the Dadès River Valley, where orchards and villages are surrounded by arid hills and desert rock formations. Our journey continues along the fabled Route of 1,000 Kasbahs; tracing an ancient caravan route, this journey is punctuated by spectacular canyons and valleys, old fortified towns and hilltop citadels. Tonight, we’ll enjoy an à la carte dinner and a restful overnight at Berbere Palace, an enchanting hotel on the edge of the desert. (B, L, D)Berbere Palace – 1 night

Day 7Across the High Atlas to MarrakechAnother unforgettable day begins this morning at Taourirt Kasbah. Built in the 19th century for one of the region’s most powerful clans, its impressive architecture reflects the wealth that the founding el Glaoui family amassed from their control of a strategic caravan trade route that connected Morocco with West Africa. Then continue to Aït Benhaddou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site widely regarded as an exceptionally fine ksar, the fortified towns that can be found throughout southern Morocco. Within the earthen walls, punctuated by gates and towers, you’ll be awed by the tight cluster of buildings, some look like small fortified castles. You might recognize Aït Benhaddou

from many notable films; Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, The Man who Would be King and The Jewel of the Nile all have had scenes set in this striking ksar. Crossing the 7,400-foot Tizi n’Tichka Pass, we’ll have spectacular views of the mountain landscapes before arriving in Marrakech. We’ll check in to the exceptional Les Jardins de la Koutoubia, in the heart of Marrakech's Medina with a thousand and one scents and colors, right next to the legendary Jemaa el Fna square. Tonight, we’ll gather for a casually elegant cocktail party and dinner here at Les Jardins de la Koutoubia. (B, L, D)Les Jardins de la Koutoubia – 3 nights

Day 8Explore Imperial MarrakechThe tranquil pace of riding a horse-drawn carriage is the best way we know to experience the timeless atmosphere of this ancient Imperial city. Founded in the 11th century, Marrakech is blessed with a myriad of historical landmarks and sites which we’ll explore today with our engaging Moroccan guide. Against the dramatic backdrop of the Atlas Mountains, the tranquil Menara Gardens were first established 900 years ago as an orchard for palm, olive and fruit trees. Today, you’ll still find ancient olive groves and a reflecting pool watched over by a beautiful 19th-century pavilion, said to be built on the site of a much older structure of the Saadian era. Visit the amazing Saadian Tombs, constructed in the late 1500’s, they were sealed for centuries until their rediscovery in 1917. Lavishly decorated with brilliantly colored tiles, graceful Arabic script and elaborate carvings, the tombs were remarkably preserved and have been further restored to their original glory. We’ll plunge into the twisting alleyways and atmospheric streets of the Marrakech medina to explore the city’s famous souks. Your exploration will reveal a startling array of merchandise including pottery, antiques, carpets, jewelry, shoes, leather goods and spices! We’ll take time to experience the entertainment in the Djemaa el-Fna Square, with fascinating snake charmers, acrobats, henna artists and musicians that make this the cultural heart of Marrakech. Tonight, we’ll enjoy the famed

Italian cuisine of Pepe Nero, an enchanting restaurant set in a beautifully restored landmark building. (B, L, D)

Day 9Flavors and Sights of MarrakechThis morning, you’ll delve into this rich world of Moroccan cooking with our specially arranged cooking class with a skilled chef at La Maison Arabe Cooking School. Moroccan cuisine reflects a rich blend of Mediterranean, Arabic, Andalusian and Berber culinary traditions – and the result is a varied palette of textures, spices, ingredients and flavors. Fresh vegetables are widely used along with beef, lamb, chicken and the freshest of sea foods. After this fun and memorable affair, you’ll sit down to a congenial lunch featuring the dishes you and your fellow student-chefs have prepared. This afternoon has been left unscheduled so you can explore on your own. Our in-the-know Moroccan guide will be on-hand with suggestions and assistance so that you can take advantage of your time here in Marrakech. This evening, we’ll gather for a lovely dinner at Palais Soleiman, an elegant restaurant famed for its fine cuisine and extraordinary setting in a beautifully restored 17th century riad. (B, L, D)

Day 10Depart MarrakechWe’ll be escorted to the airport today for our onward journey, taking with us unforgettable memories! (B)