Tangiers is a fascinating Moroccan city to visit. It has many of the things that travellers love--a sense of exotic mystery, interesting history, beautiful vistas, unspoiled beaches, and friendly people. It is an interesting mix of north Africa, Spain, and France and is separated from Spain only by the 20 miles of the Strait of Gibraltar.
Frequent ferries make the short crossing from Europe each day which takes 30 minutes to one hour depending on the season.
The house is 5-10 minutes walk from the port, close to the Musée de la Kasbah and within walking distance from all the city attractions. It is very close to the Socco, where you can browse all the wonderful Moroccan crafts, and a 15 minute walk from the nearest beach.
The Kasbah lies at the top of the Medina market place. I chose this residence because it has a lovely bohemian feel and you are right in the heart of the bustling Tangiers culture. As you may know Tangiers is famous for being the hideaway of numerous celebrated artists as poets such as Paul Bowles, Cecil Beaton, William Burroughs, Joe Orton, Jack Kerouac, Truman Capote and Allen Ginsberg,
The house is located half way down a small dusty alley-way so you are right in the heart of the real Morocco. It is old, traditional and rustic in style with coloured and white-washed walls throughout. The house has all mod cons including free Wifi throughout the house and on the roof terrace. Please note that this house is not in a tourist area and your neighbours will be Moroccans. This house suits someone who would like to be immersed in Moroccan culture.
The house has two double bedrooms (4.5m x 2.1m), one bedroom with two single beds (4.1m x 2.1m), a main bathroom with bath and shower (2.5m x 2.1m), a second bathroom with toilet (1.55m x 2.2m), a dining room/living room (4.5m x 2.1m), a kitchen (3m x 2.1m), a balcony (1m x 4m) and a roof terrace (5m x 5.2m). There is also a flat screen wall-mounted TV with satellite broadcast. And an extra double sofa-bed.
Please note that two of the bedrooms do not have windows (which is common in Moroccan town houses to keep the rooms cool). There are steep stairs between each floor (see photos) - the house is not recommended for those with mobility problems or very young children.
The house will be thoroughly cleaned for you before arrival. My agent Abdellah, a charming Moroccan man who is studying at university can meet you at the Hotel Continental which is very close to the house- and accompany you to the house to explain how everything works. If you would like Abdellah to meet you at the port or airport there is an extra charge of 100 dirhams or 10 euros (for meet and greet at port) or 300 dirhams or 30 euros (for meet and greet at airport).
If there are any questions or problems during your stay, Abdellah can sort everything out for you. I am also available by phone or email..
Further details
There are four flights of stairs which can be a bit steep so the house is not so suitable for those with difficult mobility or very small children unless they take the rooms on the first floor only.
Further details indoors
This is a traditional town house in the Kasbah with all mod cons. There is a fantastic roof terrace where you can look over the city of Tangiers and the sea, in comfort. Inside the house, there are doors with glass panes full of different colours, beautiful Moroccan tiles, coloured walls and Moroccan carpets throughout. It is ideal for a couple (if you want lots of space), a family or a bigger group of people who want to get away from modern tourist properties, and want to experience the real Morocco..
Already supplied for your visit are the following:
All bed linen including sheets, covers, pillow, pillow cases and blankets;
All cutlery including knives, forks and spoons;
All kitchenware including bowls, plates, mugs, glasses, cups, kitchen tools and place mats;
Basic condiments for use in the kitchen;
Towels for all the family;
Hot water available from water heater. From cold, the water takes 30 minutes to heat up. Once heated it lasts for a few days.
Digital TV with many channels.
Free Wifi
Fans in every room (or heaters for the winter)
All utility bills are included in the price.
There are two double bedrooms (4.5m x 2.1m), one bedroom with two single beds (4.1m x 2.1m), a main bathoom with bath and shower (2.5m x 2.1m), a second bathroom with toilet (1.55m x 2.2m), a dining room/living room (4.5m x 2.1m), a kitchen (3m x 2.1m), a balcony (1m x 4m) and a roof terrace (5m x 5.2m).
The house is located up an alleyway where there are other houses owned by mainly Moroccan families. There are plenty of establishments to buy food nearby.
About the Owner
Debbie Winterbourne is an English woman living in London who has always had a passion for the city of Tangiers. She first visited the city as a teenager and was mesmorised by the amazing sights and sounds of this wonderful place. Over the years she has visited Tangiers many times and four years ago she decided to buy a house in the coveted area of the Kasbah, the old walled city of Tangiers. She has now completely renovated the house and it is a simple, clean, beautiful and artistic residence ready to rent to anyone wanting a holiday home in Tangiers.
She works in partnership with her business partner Abdellah who lives in Tangiers. Debbie lives in London and is happy to help with all email, calls and queries about the house.
Further details outdoors
The house is accessed through a pedestrian alley way. It is possible to park a car two minutes walk from the house, and will cost you around 1 euro per night. The Kasbah area has magnificent views across the sea. There are plenty of small shops around for you to purchase food. There is also a wonderful cafe a stone's throw away where you can have a mint tea whilst looking at the sea.
Note that the famous Café Hafa is within walking distance of this house.