Last updated at 11:00, Wednesday, 03 March 2010

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Advertising feature. Visiting the Koutoubia Mosque is only one of many interesting things to do in Marrakech. Whether you’re a devout religionist or a virtual atheist, explore your spiritual side and embark upon a pilgrimage to Morocco, Algarve, or Jerusalem.

Ease into your religious journey with an Algarve tour. One of Portugal’s most visited cities, Algarve offers an amalgamation of travel experiences. You can find adventure at one of its many theme parks, enjoy breathtaking views in Cape St Vincent in western Algarve, relax on its beaches, indulge in some wine tasting, and/or discover obscure beautiful scenery during an Algarve sea cave cruise. It’s easy to get distracted with all there is to do in Algarve, but don’t forget to visit Fatima, home to the Basilica of our Lady of Fatima and the Chapel of Apparitions.

Head to Marrakech, Morocco’s most popular tourist destination, to see the Koutoubia Mosque. It is over 60m in height, making it visible from almost anywhere in Marrakech and a distinctive landmark of the city. So you shouldn’t have a problem finding the Koutoubia, but if you do, child “tour guides” will appear out of nowhere and be happy to guide you there (for a small fee, of course). While non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the Koutoubia Mosque, you can absorb its piety from the meticulously maintained gardens, adjacent to the mosque. If you’re looking for what to do in Marrakech, you won’t have to look for long. Chances are you’ll end up at the Djemma el Fna square, located in the Medina (or old quarter of Marrakech), without even trying. Here, snake charmers and performers will enchant you while henna artists and vendors try to befriend you. The nightlife in Marrakech can be quite lively, if you’re willing to look for it. There is no shortage of other things to do in Marrakech, including free activities in Marrakech like roaming the souks (or markets) and sightseeing (Yves Saint Laurent’s Jardin Majorelle, Marrakech museum, Palais de la Bahia).

What more suitable destination for a religious journey than Jerusalem, conceivably the most holy city in the world. You can embark upon Jerusalem tours with different religious perspectives (Jewish Tours, Catholic Tours, Christian Tours) or more generic ones (Holy Land Tours, Pilgrimage Tours). However you decide to experience Jerusalem, make sure not to miss the Wailing Wall or the famous town of Bethlehem. Before heading back to reality, reflect upon your pilgrimage while floating peacefully in the Dead Sea.

Whichever place your choose – Algarve, Marrakech, or Jerusalem – your religious experience will intertwine with an equally gratifying travel experience, resulting in an unforgettable pilgrimage.

First published at 11:03, Monday, 01 March 2010
Published by http://www.hexhamcourant.co.uk