Morocco

The Basics:

The Kingdom of Morocco is in North Africa, bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. The population is over 38 million people. Its primary land borders are Algeria and the Western Sahara. The highest peak is Mt Toubkal at 13,671 ft

Casablanca is the largest city, however, Rabat is the capital. Other large cities include Fes, Marrakesh, Meknes, Sale and Tangier.

Morocco has been inhabited since Paleolithic times, dating between 190,000 and 90,000 BC. Morocco was part of Umayyad Caliphate which introduced Islam in the early 700s. From the 11th century s series of Berber Dynasties arose followed by centuries of battles. Morocco was the first country to recognize the USA as an independent nation in 1777. Morocco achieved independence from France in 1956, the Sultan agreed to a constitutional monarchy with a democratic government.

Crown Prince Sidi Mohammed took the throne in 1999, he is extremely popular.

Tourism is one of the most important sectors of the economy, 49% of the tourism is from international visitors, it is estimated that more than 12 million tourists will visit in 2024. Agriculture employs about 40% of the workforce; arable crops in the north and olives, citrus and fruits in the south. Agriculture and fishing are already seeing negative impacts of climate change.

Currency :

Moroccan dirham (MAD) – Credit cards are widely accepted in the cities, but you won’t get the best prices if you don’t have cash (and negotiate)

Language:

The official language is Arabic or Tamazight, but there are variations in Moroccan Arabic and Hassamiya Arabic, Berber is still spoken too. French is/was taught in schools, though the King recently decreed that English be taught.

Religion:

Mostly Islam, with almost all of those being Suni. Very few other religions are present.

Time Zone:

The same as the UK i.e. + 5 hours from New York New Year’s eve. Morocco doesn’t follow daylight savings time so adjust your watch based on that knowledge.

Visiting

Getting there: Situated in the North Africa accessible by major airlines. Casablanca: TAP, Royal Air Maroc, Air Canada. Rabat: Ryan Air, Royal Air Maroc. Marrakesh: United, Turkish Airlines, TAP, Swiss, Royal Air Maroc. It’s possible to take a ferry to/from Tangiers, Agadir and Casablanca.

Destination ( 1 week +) =

Morocco is an exotic destination for many people; the amazing history, culture and cuisine plus natural wonders are a draw. There is a lot to see and do, below are just a few ideas that you can think about – keep the weather in mind as it can get very hot in the summer and the mountains are freezing in the winter. Also try to avoid Ramadan as it can be hard to travel and find places to eat.

Marrakesh

Easy to get to, this Imperial City has a lot to offer.
Majorelle Gardens – after a long flight enjoy the beautiful gardens and then visit the Museum of Islamic Art. Go to the garden early in the day to avoid crowds.
Medersa Ben Youssef -a 14th century relgious school beautifully renovated
Go to the Souk Semmarine – Marrakesh has a number of markets and this is one of the best ones to visit
Bahia Palace – photo worthy decor
Take a cooking class

Casablanca

A very large modern city (every few years they demolish a section and rebuild) and I found I dirty and noisy. My least favorite city in Morocco.
Visit the seaside promenade and the Hassan II Mosque
The Hotel Le Doge is a beautiful art deco respite from the noise. Beautiful rooms, a nice restaurant and excellent service. Also walking distance to a fascinating little museum, Abderraham Slaoui Foundation, housing Berber jewelry, vintage posters and antique glass.

Rabat

After being in Casablanca, Rabat was like arriving in Beverly Hills. Big tree lined boulevards, sweeping vistas and clean.
Despite the modern aspects of this Capital city, the Medina here is wonderful. A great selection of food ( I recommend a food walking tour) art, souvenirs and clothing. It’s an easy Medina to navigate and the vendors are not pushy.
Across from the Medina is the Kasbah, dating from the 11th century it’s beautifully preserved.
There is also the Mohammed VI Museum of Modern and Contemporary art.

Fez and Meknes – you visit both on the Trail of the Kings ride

Fez

While there are many things to see in Fez, most people head to the Medina,
The Medina offers an insight into both the history of Fez and the current way of life, in addition to the famous Chouara Tannery, where leather hides are washed and dried, there are countless rug stores, restaurants, vendors, and fascinating architecture throughout.
If you ride the Trail of the Kings you’ll spend time in the Medina followed by dinner there.

Meknes

Meknes is a Royal city, close to the Roman ruins of Volubilis – which you’ll see on your ride.
The Mausoleum of Moulay Ismail is an impressive tomb and there is a museum containing textiles, crafts and Jewelry close by, Dar Jamal Museum.
The royal stables, there used to be 12,000 horses, are about 1 mile from town.

Agadir

I did not make it to Agadir, it wasn’t on my itinerary and there had been an earthquake. However, it’s a beach town,with a lot of tourists!
The Souk is one of the largest in Morocco, with 12 separate entrances.
Visit the Museum Municipal du Patrimone Amazigh, dedicated to Berber heritage.

What to eat and drink

Moroccan food is delicious. So many amazing flavors and aromas, you will never be hungry
Firstly, consider taking a food tour or cooking class. . Travelingspoon is a great company to hook you up with locals.
Breakfast: Amazing fluffy pancakes called baghrir served with honey or jam. M’smmen a savory pancake; goat cheese and olives, thick and creamy yogurt and fresh fruit.
Pastries and Sfenj: cakes, sweetened pastry and donuts, napoleans and honey glazed everything!
Dips/side dishes: Zaalouk made from eggplant and tomatoes and tatoutka
Tagines. The most traditional way of cooking in Morocco. You’ll see street vendors with individual sized ones and larger family versions. Usually served with couscous and Khobz a Moroccan thick white bread.
Pastilla: My favorite dish – think layers of filo wrapped around a filling of savory meats or fish
Coucous: Not the dull lifeless bowl you see at home, Moroccan coucous takes hours to prepare is a fluffy delight often flavored with onion and almonds.
Drinks: Only drink bottled water. Mint tea (it does have caffeine unless you request steeped mint – no tea); lemonade, mixed fruit juices, nous nous – half coffee/half milk, layered in a glass.