Asilah is an elegant coastal town with a rich history and a population of around 20,000. First impressions are of the wonderful ramparts and turrets built by the Portuguese in the 1500's. There are wide avenues and a pretty palm-lined seafront boulevard, here can be found some of the towns best restaurants – many operated by Spanish owners. Casa Garcia, Casa Pepe and Al Kasabah are among the better known, all serve superb fish and shellfish dishes at a fraction of prices at home. There are plenty of little cafes to choose from plus a discothèque at the Hotel al Khaima.
The Medina or old quarter has ancient but well kept blue and white houses. Little shops with friendly shopkeepers sell a variety of Moroccan handicrafts. Every facility is available in Asilah including banks, chemists, church, numerous hotels with bars open to non-residents and a hospital. The fishing port is a pleasant place for a stroll and there are plans for a yacht Marina.
The Mayor of Asilah is also the Moroccan ambassador to the USA and during the late 1970’s this forward thinking gentle man inaugurated an annual summer Arts Festival attended by musicians, painters, poets and writers from all over the world. The financial impact of both tourism and the Arts Festival has transformed Asilah and the town is now extremely clean and prosperous. Evidence of this appeal are signs on houses in the Medina 'This house not for sale'!!