We decided to actually do some planning for this trip. Now planning will be defined as packing earlier than the day of departure and having at least the first nights lodging and a car rented. The flight to Casablanca is direct from JFK and is only 7 hours. Was able to save about $250 per ticket flying on tickets purchased for Spain that were not used (i.e. went to airport a day late).
Travel Advice (remember, we prefer self-directed travel)
Frommer’s site is a great starting place to find operators and good deals. Once you find the operators, check out their website as some deals do not come up on Frommer’s. Frommer’s Budget travel magazine can also be good if you like to read paper.
Guidebooks – All guidebooks disappoint in one way or another. Lonely Planet and Rough Guides are the most reliable while Eyewitness Travel Guides are the most visually appealing.
Cheap airfare – try many websites, try +/- 2 days, find the cheapest flight then book it at the airline’s site, try a consoladator (takes at least a day). Package operators can get you better deal but you are stuck with their itineraries. The “fly and ride” deals can be good. If you want everything planned but inexpensive, try Go-today.
Car rental – same as airfare although those memberships can save you. Book the smallest car you can get. A/C is not standard so remember to specify it if needed.
Where to stay – check out other travelers travel journals to find places. Many places cannot be booked online.
