Morocco Dance Trip

Join Nagwa Sai'd in Morocco
"Land of the Farthest Setting Sun"
September14th, 2002

Royal Palace of Fez

From the majestic mountains crowned with snow to the towering sands of the Sahara, Morocco is a place of contrast and beauty, a world of wonder and surprise. Mystical, magical, and timeless, it is the home of dreams, enchantment,and stories of the Arabian nights. It is a mesmerizing blend of the old and the new, an unusual place where the past exits within the present. While modern cities pulse with excitement, ancient kasbahs (fortresses) stand as testaments of time. Harem gardens and royal palaces beckon, as the ornate gateways of the age-old medinas (old cities) lead the way to an era long thought gone. As each golden day draws to a close, the desert sun descends upon the oasis and the Moroccan moon rises high in the night to cast its magic across the starry sky. Alluring and exotic, the “land ofthe farthest setting sun”, is a place unlike any other.

Truly unique among the countries of the world, Morocco has the intriguing distinction of being governed by a constitutional monarchy. It is also one of very few places were Muslims, Christians, and Jews co-exist in harmony. Mosques, churches, and synagogues stand peacefully along side one another. The people of this exotic story land are a fascinating array of Arab, French, and Berber (the natives of the land). Today, many Arabs and Berbers live just as they did hundreds of years ago, still following the traditions of their culture. The Kingdom of Morocco is far from the Middle East and a very safe destination that cordially welcomes Americans.

This 11 day escorted dance adventure is almost all-inclusive and will depart from JFK on September 14th,2002. The trip will start out in world famous, white washed Casablanca, with a tour of this delightful, French and Arabic city. The focus of the day will be the incredible Mosque of Hassan II. The architecture, with its soaring minaret, exquisite courtyard,heavenly arches, and lovely Turkish bath, is not only beautiful but truly amazing. The mosque itself has been built right into the Atlantic Ocean and its magnificent ceiling opens to the sky.

Kasbah in Fez From there, it will continue on to the imperial cities of Rabat and Meknes. Among the sights to be visited are a royal mausoleum, a fascinating kasbah that contains the remains of an ancient royal palace, and the magnificent and extensive Roman ruins of Voulobulis. The tour will then proceed to the crown jewel of the imperial cities: ancient Fez, where time seems to have stopped. A walk through the immense and captivating kasbah is a walk into the past. Fez is incredible, almost indescribable, and certainly unforgettable. It is a place that transcends time and must be experienced to be believed.

Then, it is on to the imperial, rose-colored city of Marrakech, magical home of the Arabian Knights. It is here, in the fabled “Pearl of theSouth“, that the Dancing Goddess Workshop will be held. Nagwa Sai’d has been selected as the featured instructor. She will be teaching three dances over five four hour classes, with an emphasis on proper posture and technique. Ample time will be allowed to cover each one comprehensively, as Nagwa’s goal is to improve each participant’s dancing ability. The dances will be on an intermediate to advanced level. However, beginners are more than welcome

Half-day excursions will be made to royal tombs, palaces, gardens, and an authentic Berber home. Time will also be reserved for touring and shopping in the winding alleyways of the fabulous souk (old market place), which is located within a huge kasbah. There will also be a visit to the famous Place D’Jemma El Fna Square with its fine entertainment, including snake charmers and fire-eaters. One afternoon will remain free to enjoy the beautiful pool and the shops at the hotel, to ride a camel, or to perhaps take a carriage ride through the lovely, romantic city.

The highlight of the trip will be an exciting hafla held at an authentic Moroccan restaurant. Each dancer will be given the very rare opportunity to make her debut in magical Morocco. This will undoubtedly be a trip to remember.

For more information or to obtain a brochure contact Li’a:
Voice Mail 610-996-4360
E-Mail DancingGoddesses@aol.com

Click on a picture to see larger version
Anciant Palace of Meknes Ancient Palace of Meknes Berber Home in the Mountains Camels in Desert Medina in Fez Moroccan Waterbearers
Mosque of Hassan II Palace of Rabat Ruins of Voulubulis Sa'adian Tombs Place D'Jemma El Fna Square

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