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Morocco is certainly
unlike any other place in the world. A
strong Muslim nation but so far from many
other Islamic countries and so close to
westernized Europe, Morocco has a unique and
interesting flavour.
The combination of
languages spoken here gives an insight into
the country's past.
many of the
indigenous Berbers who've inhabited Morocco
since at least 8000 BC still speak their
indigenous language; the main language is
Arabic after the introduction of Islam into
the country around 670 AD; and the second
language is French as a result of the time
Morocco spent under French control until
becoming independent in 1956.
Today, Morocco is a reasonably conservative
Muslim nation that is well known for its
amazing cuisine and welcoming locals.
Tourism is a growth industry here with many
people from around the world keen to
experience its unique and interesting
culture. Don't pass up a chance to visit a
local market where you can experience the
rich smells and colours and meet some of the
locals. Remember to haggle, as it's the
custom. The food is influenced by the
indigenous Berbers as well as the Arabs -
well-know dishes include couscous and tagine
but there are many other strings to
Morocco's food bow.
For you, a trip to Morocco will be a bit of
a culture shock. Embrace the differences and
respect the locals and you'll have a safe
and interesting trip. It's safe for women to
travel alone - tourists are very common here
now. Locals are prohibited from drinking but
tourists aren't - there are plenty of places
that can serve you a beer around Agadir.
While not required, it is respectful to
avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public
during the month of Ramadan when Muslims
fast during the day, only eating at night.
While most restaurants will be closed for
lunch, the tourist ones will remain open so
it's okay to eat there (non-Muslims are
excused from the fast). At the end of
Ramadan is a public holiday, Eid al Fitr,
when nearly everything closes (for up to a
week) as people travel back home to their
village. |
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