Rabat, Morocco Travel Guide

Finally the first of a few Morocco travel posts. First is Rabat which was my first Moroccan experience. Rabat is the capital city nestled somewhere between Casablanca and Salé. The new city as the name implies looks new, but go into the medina {old city} and you are surrounded by colorful tiled walls and beautiful doors - where you can get more of an authentic and cultural experience. We spent a total of three full days exploring the area and here's what you need to know.Where: Rabat, MoroccoWhere to Stay: La Tour Hassan HotelTransportation: Petit Taxis are all blue in color, mostly Fiat UNO and Renault DACIAS. This inexpensive way to get around town usually won't exceed 25/30 MAD, the minimum fare is 5/6 MAD. Be sure to check the meter is running to avoid being over charged at the end of the trip, although this is much less of a problem than in other cities. Don't be surprised if the taxi stops to pick someone else up. Avoid the white Mercedes Grand Taxis when traveling around Rabat. They are much more expensive and less safe than blue petit taxis.Places to Visit: River Bou Regreg, Kasbah of the Uduyas, Andalusian Gardens, Mausoleum of Mohammed V, and Hassan Tower. Chellah Necropolis was on my list but we ran of out of time.Where to Shop: The Pottery Market called Oulja, Rue De Consuls {the market}, and Atchimies {a beautiful local boutique with price-fixed items such as pottery, plates, tea glasses, tagines, and linens}. If you get overwhelmed with the markets, Atchimies is your place to go. What I loved about it is that they have already preselected beautiful items, so you don't have to go to the markets digging for the good stuff.What to Buy: Rabat isn't a big tourist city so you are more likely to get better deals on products. Pottery, Moroccan tea glasses, and baskets are all good choices.Bargaining: Bargaining is completely natural in Morocco so don't pay attention to the initial prices. The best thing to do is to research how much they cost at a fixed-price store and when you visit the markets set your mind on how much you are willing to pay. Try to negotiate fairly and with respect. You should always take your time when bargaining. You might get a better deal than some other tourists with less patience or experience. So be patient and stick to what you feel is a fair price.Where to Eat: For Moroccan food try Ch'hiwates du Terroir, and Sa Caleta was an excellent Spanish restaurant. If you feel the need to try street food {I did!} Rue de Consuls has an excellent corner spot for a "Moroccan sandwich."