Every semester, hundreds of students join Al Akhawayn University coming from different cities. Although it is exciting to start a new adventure within the community, students are usually unsure of what their trips outside of campus would look like in Ifrane. Hence, if you’re a newcomer looking forward to discovering the best places in town, we have got a treat for you. Here are 7 nearby places you should visit as an AUIer.
KHALTI & PLATANE IN LMARCHÉ
A place where everyone goes when missing home and craving Moroccan food. Located in the Marché, these two food places over a wide variety of dishes at affordable prices. Khalti makes Msemen in all shapes and ways you can imagine and Platane makes mostly traditional dishes such as Tagine, Harira, etc., making it the best place to go when feeling homesick.
Famous Msemen by Khalti 
AUIers & International students enjoying their tagines.
Location: Marché, Ifrane downtownFOR YOU
“After midterm or final season, a trip to For You with my besties is much needed”
Arrach Rima, Sophomore student at AUI
It is no exaggeration to say that “For You” restaurant is almost every AUIer’s destination on a Friday or Saturday night. It is perfect for “squad gatherings” since the place is vast and can fit a big number of customers. It is also wonderful for bonding with friends and meeting new people. On top of that, it englobes a variety of plates starting from fast food, salads, and pizzas, to Asian food and dessert.
Rima and Hajar having a great talk at For You. 
Some waffles and crepes in For You
Location: Rue Akasyasse, Hay Riad, Ifrane, Morocco. FOODIE & BONSAI IN DOWNTOWN
Each student has their own food preference, but it is undeniable that Foodie and Bonsai are two equally popular restaurants for the AUI community.
On the other hand, Bonsai is an Asian restaurant offering a pure Chinese experience throughout the different delicious plates as well as the unique decoration.
“Bonsai reminds me of so many laughs and good memories with friends. On top of that, the design, the music and the food make a very poetic mixture that takes you on a succulent trip”
Soufiane Mahmoudi, Sophomore Student at AUI
My favorite plate at Bonsai. 
Friends enjoying their meal at Bonsai.
Location: Hay Riad, Ifrane center. Foodie is specialized in burgers while still providing other dishes including wraps and tacos. It has a well-decorated space where students enjoy their meals.
Hiba enjoying waffles at Foodie. 
Foodie’s burger.
Location: Hay Riad, Ifrane center. MICHLIFEN GOLF & RESORT HOTEL
Exactly near campus, students have the opportunity to visit one of the most popular and luxurious hotels in Morocco: Michlifen. The mixture of the alluring architecture, the rooftop view, and soft music provides visitors with a magical experience they can never forget. The place is ideal for relaxing after a stressful week of hard work on campus and for diving into deep conversations with close friends. It is also perfect for Instagram pictures and when you receive an unexpected amount of cash 😉
My roommate Chaymaa and I in Michlifen. 
Sunset in Michlifen
Location: Hassan II Avenue, Ifrane, MoroccoLa Prairie PARK
Unlike other green spaces in Ifrane, la prairie park is located in the heart of the city not far away from campus. Walking or cycling, it is always a pleasure to visit this peaceful place full of swans. On the weekends, the park is oftentimes full of tourists, families, and kids which creates a warm tranquil atmosphere for students. Plus, the park’s ambiance constantly changes depending on the season which is even more exciting! It is also perfect for Instagram pictures.
“The view from the top where you can see the lake clearly and the clean fresh air that you get to inhale can easily give you a mind detox. This park has a special place in my heart as I shared many amazing memories in it with my friends. It is a wonderful spot for picnics, walks and jogging as well.”
Bourhnane Ibtissam, Sophomore Student at AUI
Soufiane and I went cycling in Park La Prairie. 24th, January, 2020 
Park La Prairie during summer times.
Location: P24, Ifrane
