Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa

MOROCCO, THE WESTERN KINGDOM OF AFRICA

MOROCCO, THE WESTERN KINGDOM OF AFRICA 

The Kingdom of Morocco (once known as the Kingdom of Marrakech) is a country in the Maghreb region of North Africa, and its capital is Rabat. Morocco’s largest city and main Atlantic Ocean port is Casablanca. Morocco borders Algeria to the east, Western Sahara to the south, the Mediterranean Sea to the north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. It is the only African country with exposure to both the Atlantic Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. Morocco (in Arabic means The Western Kingdom) is a highly elevated country (about 2,600 above sea level). Morocco experiences typical Mediterranean weather (hot, dry summers) with mild, wet winters. It is famous for its towering mountains, beaches and coasts, desert oasis, food, ancient cities, souks, medinas, and culture. Morocco’s largest city and main Atlantic Ocean port is Casablanca. Its primary resources are agriculture, fishing, forestry, mining, and tourism. It is an affordable destination with a population of over 37 million. Please continue reading to learn more about what it is like to visit Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa.

Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Moroccan flag everywhere

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DON’T CANCEL YOUR MOROCCAN HOLIDAY

First, let me advise anyone who is contemplating whether or not to visit Morocco. JUST GO!! As I always say, newscasters constantly exaggerate when anything happens in a country and oftentimes highlight the worst parts. MORROCO IS JUST FINE! IT IS BEAUTIFUL AND LOOKS LIKE NOTHING EVER OCCURRED. All the cities I visited were untouched by the earthquake. You will never know anything took place in the country. When I went to the areas where it was felt the strongest, there was minimal damage to the infrastructure, even though many people died due to the compact building structures.

The earthquake was near the Atlas Mountains, in the Maghreb Region, a few hours’ drive from Marrakech. They have cleaned up so well that the damage looks minimal. The tour guide to the mountains said many potential visitors cancelled their trip to Morocco after the earthquake. Those who did so missed out big time. Unlike myself and others who contacted the hotel and did our research before embarking on our trip.

Earthquake damage in Morocco. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Earthquake damage in Morocco
Tents in the earthquake affected areas in the Maghreb region. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Tents in the earthquake affected areas in the Maghreb region
The earthquake affected areas at the foot of the Atlas Mountain in the Maghreb region. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
The earthquake affected areas at the foot of the Atlas Mountain in the Maghreb region
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APPLYING ONLINE FOR A MOROCCAN VISA

The Morocco visa application procedure is fairly straightforward: You apply on the official Moroccan Visa website and fill out and complete the online application form. Additionally, you must submit a passport-size photo (no more than six months old), the scanned copies of the biometric page in your passport and other documents stipulated, to the Moroccan Embassy. 

Once you are successful, a soft copy of the visa will be emailed to you, which you then print or scan (soft copy) because you need to present it at the airline at check-in before being allowed to board the aircraft. On arrival at the airport, you submit your passport to have the original visa placed in it. 

However, if one of the prerequisites of qualifying to submit a visa application online (they don’t afford every country this privilege) was because you have a U.S.A, Canadian, Australian, or other visa. Be advised, that on arrival at the airport, you must show proof of said visa before advancing to immigration. You must also have travel insurance and hotel bookings.

Please note your passport must have at least two blank pages (as stated on the application). However, they did not place a physical visa in my passport but I received a stamp instead. It could possibly be because my passport only had one blank page. I am uncertain if this was the case here. 

Kasbah des Oudayas - Rabat. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Kasbah des Oudayas - Rabat

ENTRY INTO MOROCCO

Entering the Mohammed V International Airport in Casablanca was smooth, even though the visitors’ line was super long. As soon as you exit the plane, the officials check your passport before you proceed to the immigration department.  The arrival section, and to a lesser extent, departure sections of the airport, is a “get in and get out” type of airport. What do I mean by this? There is not much to admire, because of inadequate lighting, blank walls, and some real doldrums feel.

Morocco has 25 airports, so I am unsure of the aesthetics and feel of the others. Anyhow, the immigration officers were quick, very thorough, and pleasant. All my documents were in order, I received my stamp, no questions, and then he said, “Welcome to Morocco.” The luggage pick-up section and duty-free sections were also dull. Casablanca is not the capital, Rabat is, so maybe that airport might be aesthetically warmer. 

Here is a point to note; If you use a taxi to/from the airport to/from your accommodation, the process is quick and hassle-free. However, if you use the metro to/from the airport, you must endure a line up for luggage scan, similar to T.S.A. search…jackets off, etc.

It was then off to luggage pickup, an easy exit through customs, and out the door to transport in less than 30 minutes. Even though the airport was a bit lacklustre, the workers were all very hospitable and smiled as I walked by. What was I first thing I noticed as I exited the airport building? The moon. It was visible even though it was not dusk. Undoubtedly, it is the biggest I have ever seen the moon in any country. Throughout my stay, I couldn’t help but to be in awe at the appearance of the moon on that side of the world, compared to Europe and the Americas where it appears to look smaller.

arrival at Morocco Airport
The moon appears bigger in Morocco. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
The moon appears bigger in Morocco
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Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa Cont...

TRANSPORT OPTIONS TO/FROM THE CITY OF CASABLANCA

From the Mohammed V International Airport to downtown Morocco, it is approximately 25 – 30 minutes. Taxis are the most expensive and convenient and cost about 25.00 USD to 35.00 USD. The train (the train station is in the Arrivals Area Terminal-1) takes approximately 45 minutes and costs 3.00 USD. Presently, there are no Uber, Bolt, or other Ride-sharing Apps in Morocco.

Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa Cont...

CITIES I VISITED IN MOROCCO

While in Morocco, I visited four cities and remained long enough to enjoy the beauty, food ambiance, and the friendliness of the people. They are Casablanca, Rabat, Fes/Fez and Marrakech. There are so many other cities I would have loved to visit, such as Tangier, Agadir, Errachidia, and Essaouira, among others, that offer much uniqueness. However, due to time constraints, distance between cities (some as much as 6 hours’ drive, one way), and budget management, I had to skip them. For those visiting, I will recommend a visit to any or all because of what I have heard and seen on videos. I will now share some of what I experienced in the cities I visited.

Casablanca sign. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Casablanca sign

ABOUT THE CITY OF CASABLANCA - Why should you visit?

Casablanca is the largest city in Morocco, having over 3.8 million inhabitants, and is divided into fifteen districts. It is a city like no other, with most people speaking French and Darija (Moroccan Arabic). Morocco has influences for every race and tongue, including its cuisine.  Casablanca was founded in the 8th century and became the major trading port in the 14th century. The city is one of the biggest tourist hubs in Morocco.

It offers shopping, nightlife, and business with bustling streets.  Understandably, because it is such a big city, you will need transport to explore it (no one can walk the entire city in one day), unlike Rabat and Fes. There are restaurants, bars, the Medina, business and cultural sites.

It is a unique, vibrant, and beautiful city with a lively culture. If you like the bustling life, nightlife, food, and shopping and are not looking for too much of a touristy experience, then Casablanca is for you, though there is much to see and do.

Hassan 11 Mosque, Casablanca . Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Hassan 11 Mosque, Casablanca
Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
CoraDexplorer at the Hasan 11 Mosque in Casablanca
Casablanca Urban Agency. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Casablanca Urban Agency
The street cars in Casablanca. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
The street cars in Casablanca
Casablanca Settat buildings. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Casablanca Settat buildings

I must admit that many side streets are a tad dirty and yes, a foul smell accompanies it. Its souks are also not as impressive as Marrakech, Fez, or Rabat, regarding quality and variety, but it is a definite must-visit. To my amazement, the city was almost quiet on Sundays, unlike Marrakech. Casablanca is home to the Hasan 11 Mosque, previously the biggest functional mosque in Africa. It can accommodate 105,000 people and is the 14th largest worldwide. 

Although they promote Marrakech as the most popular tourist hub, I prefer Casablanca. Why? Because it is relatively quieter, I love its white buildings and gorgeous Corniche. It also does not have the smell of horse excrement (from the thriving carriage rides business in Marrakech) and fewer motorbikes and traffic than Marrakech. 

The city was a bit more calming to my nerves and spirit. Please note that the temperature ranges differently in these cities accordingly; Casablanca was colder than Marrakech, but Rabat and Fez felt the most frigid of the three at the end of October/November. The day I left Casablanca, the temperature was approximately 17 degrees Celsius.

L’Eglise du Sacre-Coeur . Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
L’Eglise du Sacre-Coeur
Chamber of Commerce and Industry building – Casablanca. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Chamber of Commerce and Industry building – Casablanca
Court of the First Instance - Casablanca. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Court of the First Instance - Casablanca
Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
CoraDexplorer in Rabat

ABOUT THE CITY OF RABAT - Why should you visit?

Rabat is the capital and royal city of Morocco. It is a modern city and rests along the shores of the Bouregreg River and the Atlantic Ocean. Rabat is the seventh-largest city in Morocco, comprising a little over .5 million people. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is the seat of the Royal family. It is known as the Washington City of North Africa because of its boulevards, embassies, parks, and government buildings. Rabat has lots for any visitor to enjoy.

If you are into historical sites and culture, Rabat is for you because it has more monuments and historical sites than Casablanca. Its sites are close together so you can walk to see them all even though transport is efficient. Rabat has many lakes and forests lacking in Casablanca but is not a city with a vibrant nightlife found in Casablanca and Marrakech. 

The Rabat Medina and Riads are some of the most unique things I have experienced. It is literally like a maze. Consequently, I could not find my hotel recurrently, even with photos and videos on my way out. Picture an entire town enclosed by tall pre-historic century-built walls with an entrance, and inside these walls are residential homes, hotels, souks, etc. in maze-like streets (most are not accessible by vehicles). It is similar to the Medinas in other cities, but I found Rabat and Fez’s most impressive. It is truly an amazing wonder of the world.

Beautiful and clean Rabat. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Beautiful and clean Rabat
buildings in the city of Rabat . Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
buildings in the city of Rabat
Narrow streets in the Riad/Riyad in Rabat Medina. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Narrow streets in the Riad/Riyad in Rabat Medina
buildings in the city of Rabat . Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
buildings in the city of Rabat

The capital of most countries is usually the most bustling, polluted, and dirtiest. On the contrary, I was surprised by the cleanliness, clean white, beautiful buildings, smooth traffic, and generally quiet ambiance of Rabat. The loud honking of horns, motorbikes, etc. is not part of this city, and the locals also seem more laid-back and satisfied. Its medinas are gorgeous, and the souks and shopping streets are neater, cleaner, and well-organized. My favourite place in the city was Kasbah des Oudaias/Uudayas (the view of the ocean and surroundings was breathtaking). Rabat’s carpet market is also a must-visit. Of the four cities I visited, this was my favourite. It is an amazing capital and just the way I like it.

The Rabat Medina. The Rabat Medina. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
The Rabat Medina
buildings in the city of Rabat . Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
buildings in the city of Rabat
buildings in the city of Rabat . Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
buildings in the city of Rabat
View of the Promenade and Maroc beach from Old Medina. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
View of the Promenade and Maroc beach from Old Medina
Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
CoraDexplorer enjoying the view of Promenade and Maroc beach
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The Marrakech sign. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
The Marrakech sign

ABOUT THE CITY OF MARRAKECH - Why should you visit?

Marrakech is the fourth-largest city in Morocco, having almost 1 million inhabitants. It is known as the Pink City (because of the pale pink colour of the buildings), and during sunset, it creates beautiful lighting. They also call it the city of luxury thanks to its luxury spas, hammams, traditional houses, palaces, 5-star hotels, and restaurants, and surrounded by deserts. It is the more popular tourist spot because they gear the industry towards tourism there than in Rabat and Casablanca. Marrakech is at the bottom of the Atlas Mountains and offers phenomenal architecture, history and gorgeous scenery.

Unlike Casablanca, where you will find more locals, in Marrakech, you will find more tourists and offer a more authentic Moroccan experience. Marrakech is one of the 21st-century top destinations with so much to offer. A red wall surrounds the heart of the city. There you will find the Medina (an explosion of scents and colours), El Fina Square (the Moroccan Time Square), and the largest mosque in the city. With so much to see and experience in this exquisite city (both inside and outside its walls). Accordingly, it is the top spot to visit in Morocco.

pink buildings and horse and carriage in the city of Marrakech. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
pink buildings and horse and carriage in the city of Marrakech
pink buildings in the city of Marrakech . Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
pink buildings in the city of Marrakech
pink buildings and motorbikes in the city of Marrakech. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
pink buildings and motorbikes in the city of Marrakech
The Marrakech Medina. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
The Marrakech Medina

Marrakech is the ideal place for sightseeing because of its location for trips outside the city. Not forgetting its tasty foods and history in cities nearby. A visit to Atlas Mountain, camel rides, and desert buggy rides are all must-dos before leaving Marrakech. Within the city center, you can find many horse and carriage rides, but this also comes with a smell of horse excrement. This I disliked, along with the prevalence of motorbikes. Because everyone, including myself, had to frequently move out of the way on the congested streets, especially in the Medina, inaccessible by cars. It reminded me so much of Vietnam (where there are over 1 million bikes in the city) and was a bit of an annoyance. Despite this, overall, it is a beautiful city.

Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
The Koutubia Mosque – Marrakech
Royal Theatre – Marrakech. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Royal Theatre – Marrakech
the streets of Marrakech. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
the streets of Marrakech
pink buildings in the city of Marrakech. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
pink buildings in the city of Marrakech
The Fez Metro station. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
The Fez Metro station

ABOUT THE CITY OF FEZ/FES - Why should you visit?

Fez/Fes is the second-largest city in Morocco. It has over 1.1 million inhabitants and is another unique city. Fez has the oldest Medina in the world and is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It is home to the Al Quaraouiyine University, the first and oldest university in the world (a definite must-see).  Fez has the world’s oldest water clocks (built in 1357) and many tanneries which produce the best quality leather worldwide. Additionally, the majority of the mosques in Morocco are in Fez. The city reminds me somewhat of Rabat because they both have the same feel… laid-back and clean. Fez has medieval architecture, quaint, narrow streets, walled Medinas, and vibrant souks. It is a car-free Medina city, built in the 9th century. Therefore, you can imagine a trip to Fez is a historical and educational treat.

Fes el-Bali. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Fes el-Bali
Bab Boujloud – Fez. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Bab Boujloud – Fez
The door of the oldest university in the world - the Al Quaraouiyine University formerly the Kairaouine Mosque - Fez. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
The door of the oldest university in the world - the Al Quaraouiyine University formerly the Kairaouine Mosque - Fez
Sitting oin the stairs of the Al Quaraouiyine University (Kairaouine Mosque) - Fez. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Sitting oin the stairs of the Al Quaraouiyine University (Kairaouine Mosque) - Fez

Other important Tips You Should know about Morocco

  • The languages spoken – Moroccan Arabic (official language), Tamazight, Berber, French, and English.
  • Official currency – Moroccan Dirhams (MAD)

            1 USD = 9.69 MAD           

             1 Euro = 10.89 MAD

             1 Pound = 12.68 MAD

  • Although Muslims make up 99% of the country, female visitors do not need to cover up, but discretion is advised. (From my observation, many young Moroccan ladies wore revealing, tight, or very skimpy outfits). Therefore, it means they are not as strict on dress wear as other Muslim countries.
  • The Atlas Mountains cover a lot of Morocco’s landmass. It reaches 4,167 meters and stretches 2,500 kilometres.
  • Morocco is the African Hollywood, and rightly so. They filmed many movies in different locations in Morocco, such as Cleopatra, Gladiator, and Vikings, and some episodes of the Games of Thrones.
  • Some famous persons from Morocco are; Jean Reno(he is an actor in Pink Panther, Da Vini Code, and Godzilla). Ibn Battuta – Geographer (one of the most important explorers in the world). The Hip Hop Artiste – French Montana, and Gad Elmaleh Moroccan-Canadian stand-up comedian), among others. 
  • Morocco is the home to the Al-Qarawiyyin/Al Quaraouiyine (Al-Karaouine). It is the world’s first university and still operating today. In 859 AC, a female Moroccan (Fatima Al Fihria) created the university. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • For the cat lovers, photographers and even those with allergies, know that Morocco has many street cats. For many, it is a great attraction. (I was also meticulous where I placed my feet… haha).
Process of making virgin Argan oil by hand. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Process of making virgin Argan oil by hand
Camel ride in the Agafay Desert

Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa Cont...

 
  • Moroccan Ski resorts in the Atlas Mountains are popular and attract many tourists worldwide. It is also the highest ski resort in Africa. Qukaimedin elevates at 7500 to 10,500 feet.
  • Nearly 45% of the locals are employed in agriculture. However, only 19% of the land is farmable due to droughts.
  • In 1777, Morocco was the first country to recognize the United States of America as an independent nation. This occurred one and a half years after the U.S. Declaration of Independence.
  • Morocco’s most popular export is its world-famous dates. It exports more than 90,000 tons yearly. I must add, that they are huge, delicious, and moist (not like the dry, crusty ones I usually buy elsewhere).
  • Morocco is an official member of the United Nations since November 12, 1956. It is also a member of the African Union, and the Arab League, and the United States of America granted it Non-Nato Ally status.
  • The most popular beverage served is mint tea. They serve it with almost every meal, as a welcome beverage at the hotels and everywhere. I found it quite enjoyable and so refreshing.
  • Morocco is the world’s largest producer and exporter of sardines.
  • The Barbary or Atlas Lion is the “National Animal” of Morocco. They shot the last lion in 1942 and protected the rest in zoos due to their extinction.
  • Morocco is the first African or Arab country to reach the Women’s World Cup Football Semi-finals The player Nouhaila Benzina has also made the history books as the first player to wear a hijab in a Women World Cup match.
  • The Moroccan city of Old Fez or Fez-el-Bali is the largest active medieval city in the world. The modern location of Fez was founded in the 8th century AD. 
  • The Thuya (known as an ancient and exotic wood) is found only in Morocco and is used for the dashboard of Rolls Royce and other expensive automobiles because it is a symbol of wealth.
  • The “camels” in Morocco are not the typical camels. They are dromedaries (Arabian Camels) because they have no or one hump, whereas regular (Bactrian camels) have two.
Camels in the Agafay Desert. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Camels in the Agafay Desert

ABOUT THE MOROCCAN PEOPLE

Moroccans are mainly Arabs and Amazighen, and some are also known as Berbers (descendants of pre-Arab inhabitants living in the Maghreb region). They co-exist in peace and love. Moroccans are very industrious, business-like people. Somehow, everyone seems to be into business or trying to sell you something. It seems most locals practice entrepreneurship, no matter how small or insignificant it may appear. 

They are very kind, hospitable, and pleasant. Not only the people in the service industry such as those at the hotels/guesthouses would always try their best to make you feel at home, but the ordinary “man on the street” such as the vendors, police officers, etc. Furthermore, patriotism is alive and well in Morocco. Because no matter how financially difficult it might be for some locals, they all confessed love for their country. Moreover, just about every 100 steps you take in the cities, you can see a Moroccan flag blowing in the wind, painted on a wall, rock or side of a building. Now that is patriotism.

Move over Philippines, I think I found my new no.1 sweetest people. I cannot stop raving about my visit to Morocco. They certainly should be added to my list of the 21 friendliest people and countries to visit. Even now, I am in another country, and I am told, “Can’t you talk about something else other than Morocco?” Haha, jealousy eh! From my first encounter with the Moroccans while waiting to board the plane and during my flight, I was already in conversation with them. They approached me with curiosity, even though most spoke little English. Some even thought I was Moroccan (this was very common in the city, many thought I was also a local).
Another thing I observed on the flight from Turkey to Morocco, no one reclined their seats. Talk about plane etiquette and consideration for each other.

Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
CoraDexplorer & two Rabat locals
Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
CoraDexplorer and the locals at Bab Boujloud – Fez

Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa Cont...

Additionally, when I was on the trains or at the airport, everyone wanted to share their snacks with me and insisted I partake. Even on my flight out of Morocco, I met one young lady who sat in the seat behind me to whom I gave a dollar from my country as a souvenir, and she insisted I accept 20.00 Moroccan dollars, which I refused because I was happy to get rid of it all at the airport. I unwillingly accepted. A second later, she handed me a beautiful pearl hair accessory, which I insisted she kept. However, she and her husband insisted it was a farewell gift from Morocco (it seems she had recently bought it because the tag was still attached). I think she is one of the managers at the Conrad Hotel. Thank you for your kind gesture, Omaya.

For the many people who made my stay enjoyable, thank you, Manar and family, Yassire, Mohammed and family, the lovely ladies on the train, and even my hotel manager (Anwaar) at my Marrakech hotel who did my laundry, folded my clothes, and placed them in my room (so sweet). My hotel manager at my Casablanca hotel prayed before my suitcases (which were overweight) for God to lighten them and to have no issues at the airport…seemed it worked.

Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
CoraDexplorer, a USA and Brrazilian visitor at the Imlil Waterfall

Everywhere I went in Morocco, people said hello and welcome to Morocco, smiled, wanted to assist, share, and always wanted to communicate. What a hospitable and lovely people. Notwithstanding, there are many poor people and beggars in these cities, but it does not take away from their spirit or personalities. I witnessed people in restaurants sharing their meals with people on the outside without being asked.

The good old days of caring and sharing are alive and well in Morocco because, on numerous occasions, I saw total strangers dining at restaurants, and one finishes eating with much food remaining on their plate and gives it to someone else who is still eating. The other diner accepts without saying no, as though it’s families eating together (I am like, this place is not real!). All this reminds me of when I was a child, and people did not have many hang-ups and false pride.

Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
CoraDexplorer on the steps of the Kasbah des Oudayas - Rabat
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HOW SAFE IS MOROCCO?

Morocco is a safe country. From my observation, there were no incidents crime-wise to report (locals, visitors, or myself). From my interactions with the locals, it seems crime is at an all-time low. Of course, no country is perfectly safe, and incidents of pickpocketing are to be expected. However, crimes like being held up at knife or gunpoint in Morocco are unheard of. Only the police are allowed to have guns in Morocco. They do not exempt any business owners or high officials. Therefore, gun-toting bandits are unheard of in the country. I walked day and night along some shady-looking streets and passed guys sitting by the roadsides, but none ever interfered with me. I felt safe the entire time. 

Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
CoraDexplorer in The Atlas Mountain

Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa Cont...

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HOW EXPENSIVE ARE THE ACCOMMODATIONS, MEALS, AND TRANSPORTATION?

Morocco is an inexpensive country, and it is perfect for the budget traveller. This includes meals, accommodation, and all public transport. In Morocco, the public transport system comprises buses, trains, tramways, grand and petit taxis. There is no need for “special” discount transport cards because even the taxis are affordable and used most by visitors and locals alike. For this reason, had I visited sooner, it would have  been added to my list of the 15 cheapest countries to visit  worldwide.

The Souks in the Medina. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
The Souks in the Medina
The Souks in the Medina. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
The Souks in the Medina

ABOUT MOROCCAN FOOD

Traditional Moroccan cuisine features mainly Mediterranean fruits and vegetables and meats such as lamb, goat, chicken, and Mediterranean seafood. Its cuisines are a mixture of Arab, Mediterranean, and sub-Saharan influences. Moroccan meals are more of a Middle Eastern than African twist. They use many spices such as coriander, cumin, turmeric, saffron, and herbs like parsley, mint, and garlic, so the meals are quite tasty (no salt and black pepper only as seasoning type of cooking there). Morocco has a spice called Ras el Hanout (a combination of 27 spices), and it is the best. Their meals begin with a hot or cold salad, followed by a tagine, then a meat dish (couscous being the most famous). 

They also serve every meal with bread. I have never seen so much bread everywhere in any country before. There is bread on bikes, counters, and even on the streets. It seems Moroccans love lots of bread. I must point out one fact and can boast that Morocco has the best mint tea I have ever tasted. Vietnam is a tie or close second regarding flavourful and delicious, fragrant teas. Here are a few dishes you must try when in Morocco.

Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Mint tea in Morocco
Bread in Morocco. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Bread in Morocco
Bread on the streets in Morocco. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Bread on the streets in Morocco

Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa Cont...

Tagine with meals ready to be served. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Tagine with meals ready to be served

MOROCCAN FOODS YOU MUST PARTAKE OF

  1. Tagine (this dish is ground beef, chicken, lamb, veggies, etc. mixed with coriander, garlic, cinnamon, and parsley, slow-cooked in a clay pot. It is a popular roadside cafe and top-notch restaurant dish). Note the word -Tajine/Tagine refers to the shallow ceramic or clay pot. Similarly, is the name given to the food they cook in it.
  2. Fish Chermoula (Chermoula is a mixture of herbs used when grilling fish cooked over coals with a combination of herbs and spices and often served with a dipping sauce).
  1. Zalouk (this is a spread made with eggplants, tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, spices, and bread).
  1. Couscous – National dish (a fine wheat pasta made with semolina, wheat flour, barley, and corn. They then steam or stew with meat and or vegetables).
  1. Makouda (a Moroccan street food which is little deep-fried potato balls dipped into spicy harissa sauce).
  1. Loubia (a traditional dish consisting of stewed white beans in zesty tomato sauce and garnished with coriander and parsley, then served with Moroccan bread).
  1. B’stilla/Bastilla (this is a pie-shaped paper-thin pastry with a blend of chicken or pigeon meat, almonds, and eggs with spices such as saffron, coriander, and cinnamon. They sprinkle with icing sugar and cinnamon before serving).
Tagine. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Tagine
Couscous. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Couscous
Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Delicious fish Moroccan style
Instant Pot Vortex Plus 6-Quart Air Fryer Oven, Quiet Cooking, From the Makers of Instant Pot with ClearCook Cooking Window, Digital Touchscreen, App with over 100 Recipes, Single Basket, Black

MUST DO/VISIT SITES OF INTEREST IN MOROCCO

  1. Marrakech (I highly recommend visiting this city. The train ride is almost 3 hours, and the bus is about 3 and a half hours from Casablanca. It is a definite must-see for the Souks, history, and beauty).
  2. Djemaa El Fna, Marrakech (the Time Square of Marrakech).
  1. Hassan 11 Mosque (one of the most impressive mosques in Morocco. It is also the only one open to non-Muslims) – Casablanca.
  1. Quartier Habous (perfect shopping area always filled with tourists and shoppers, a lively area with cafes, olive market, souvenirs, and excellent shopping. I highly recommend) – Casablanca
  1. Tamaris Aquapark (an excellent water park for families and just about anyone, with good prices and excellent food stalls). – Casablanca
  1. Notre Dame de Lourdes (a truly magnificent Catholic church with gorgeous 1950s stained glass windows. You will be amazed by it). –Casablanca
  1. The Corniche (one of the best spots in the city. It overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and is in line with beach clubs, cafes, and restaurants). –
  1. Ain Diab (a gorgeous beachfront with many bars and restaurants. with a breath-taking beach and coastline). – Casablanca.
  1. Hassan TowerRabat.
  1. The ChellahRabat.
  1. The Kasbah des OudayasRabat.
  1. The Souks and Medinas (UNESCO World Heritage site) – Fez
  1. The Al Quaraouiyine University (the first and oldest university in the world) – Fez.
  1. Visit the Maghreb region to view the Atlas Mountain. A camel ride in the desert is also a must-do. (I highly recommend the Amzil Ticket Tour Company for these They are inexpensive and very reliable).
The Atlas Mountain - Maghreb Region. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
The Atlas Mountain - Maghreb Region
The Agafay Desert. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
The Agafay Desert
Arriving at the Marraketch metro station. Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa
Arriving at the Marraketch metro station
Hiking in the hills

CONCLUSION

Morocco is an extraordinary country. I feel so blessed to have visited. It is cheap, has delicious food, beautiful, hospitable people, and is safe. What more can a traveller require on any vacation!? Every city has something different and more unique than the other. I did not visit the coastal ones, but from what I have heard, they sound picturesque. The budget traveller will feel at home in any of the Moroccan cities. 

In conclusion, do not be too paranoid about what you hear and see in mainstream media. Do your research and see the world no matter the region of the country. I was happy when the Moroccan authorities finally placed the visa application online because presently, there is no Moroccan Embassy in my country. It allowed me to visit such an extraordinary country. I am truly grateful. Moroccan is truly the kingdom of Africa. Its beauty, uniqueness, warmth, and friendliness of the people touched your heart. I therefore highly recommend Morocco, the Western Kingdom of Africa, to all travellers. Go and Enjoy.

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