BLENDING TWO worlds - Europe and Africa - and bathed by two seas - the North Atlantic and the Mediterranean - Morocco is a cultural melting pot which promises the holiday traveller a truly original vacation.

With 3,500 km of coastline, snow-clad mountains, fertile plains, steep gorges, the vast emptiness of the Sahara and an intrinsically Arab heritage, it combines a host of outside influences from its long history of conquest and colonial settlement.

Over the centuries, the indigenous Berbers mingled with incoming Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Portuguese, Spanish and French to create a rich, fascinating cultural casserole. The evidence is on every side - in its buildings, its cuisine and its picturesque feasts and festivals.

This summer Emirates, the Dubai-based international airline, has launched flights three times a week to Casablanca, Morocco's largest city and economic heart. And Emirates Holidays, the Gulf's premier inclusive tour company, has created a wide range of top quality holidays based on Casa, as the locals call their exciting city.

With the company's commitment to professionalism, eye for detail and some of the keenest prices in the market, these offer the ideal way to get to grips with this exotic, mystical destination.

For sightseers, Hassan II mosque, the world's largest and most spectacular, is the prime landmark. Stroll the spacious avenues around Place Mohammed V, a popular square with impressive Moorish architecture. Wander the narrow streets of the bustling Habbous district, lined with arcades linking one souk to the next and selling souvenirs and local crafts. For a taste of Casa's true charm, join the crowds thronging the beaches, cafes, restaurants and nightclubs which line its splendid corniche, or simply relax and watch the world go by.

Marrakesh, which gave the nation its name, is one of its four imperial cities and known as the 'red pearl' for its colourful walls. An oasis on the fertile Haouz Plain, this mystical settlement lies beneath the High Atlas mountains, an excellent starting point to explore the picturesque Ourika Valley.

At its heart is vibrant Djemma El Fna square where, during the day, it is possible to find magicians, jugglers, musicians, dancers, acrobats, fortune tellers and women selling baskets.

As dusk falls, showmen make way for food sellers and mouth-watering aromas fill the air. Don't miss the picturesque medina, where musicians and belly dancers entertain visitors.

The city is also famed for its souks which sell copper, carpets, keftans, dry fruits, spices, pots of henna, kohl, mint and musk. A good way to enjoy the street life is a leisurely ride through them in a horse-drawn carriage.

Agadir, destroyed by an earthquake in 1960, is now a major tourist resort. Breezes off the Atlantic make its beautiful fine sand beach a pleasant spot to relax all year round, and the corniche has a host of restaurants offering traditional Moroccan cuisine. Shops near the hotels and town centre sell traditional handicrafts, while vibrant discotheques and nightclubs keep night owls entertained.

At Casablanca, Marrakesh and Agadir airports, Emirates Holidays customers will be met after customs by a representative holding an Emirates Holidays board. Clients can contact representatives during office hours to book tours.