Frugal travel tips for Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech can be a bargain for savvy travelers. The two must in Marrakech, Djemaa el-Fna and the souks are free. Frugal though she can't resist shopping.

The point of reference that I use to orientate myself is the Tower of the Koutoubia mosque. The tallest of the city, can be seen from anywhere near the Medina, the old town.

The food stalls at Djemaa el-Fna.

From the Tower of the Koutoubia mosque, the Djemaa el-Fna is only a few steps North.

During the day, this square is filled with dancing monkeys, orange juice (2 Dirham-about United States note-for a glass of orange juice-$0,54: a common "trick" is to charge extra if you don't want ice, remember that this is a hot country with small portable refrigeration, ice is at a premium for oranges abundant) and other animators.

But the real action begins at sunset. Food carts are out and so do the opportunities. Prices are usually the locals do, expect to be charged a higher price if you don't speak the language, especially if you don't want to haggle. Still you can get a bowl of harira soup chick pea based for 2.5 Dirhams (about $ 0.69 U.S.). The round loaf commonly eaten with this soup may be purchased for 1 Dirham (US $ 0.27).

The Souk

Suk are a maze of small shops, located right beside the Djemaa el-Fna. These stalls can be confusing and enterprising locals insist that pay guides are needed. Unless you're looking for a specific stall, are not. If you "lose", simply walk in one direction until you exit.

Suk are one of the best places to get souvenirs, fabrics, leather shoes and tajine (the cone as clay dishes used to prepare the dishes of local cuisine). For spices, grocery stores are a better deal. For the best deals, bargain. Expected by the keepers of the store.

The Menara

You may be tempted to visit Menara, another free site. We saved the taxi fare and walked out from the foot. We were disappointed. Mainily consisted of a gigantic pool of standing water with a small shell of a building. The building charges an admission fee.

If you don't have a burning desire to see olive groves or a common adolescent hang out site or has too much time on your hands, spend your energy to explore other interesting areas of the city.

Marrakech is a wonderful city, charming, full of exotic sights and smells and tastes. And with proper planning, must not break your travel budget.

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Marrakech-Morocco's heart

If you're looking for a weekend or an initial basis for backpacking around Morocco, Marrakech promises a unique and fascinating. From the chaotic streets awash with bicycles, mo-peds and drawn taxi for the extraordinary sights and sounds of Plas Djemaa el-Fna, Marrakech droning atmosphere is one that is impossible to forget.

Plas Djemaa el-Fna
The main square of Plas Djemma el-Fna is a remarkable place that simply can't be seen, it must be experienced with all five senses. By day, an array of snake charmers, monkey and all sorts of dance artists compete for money from tourists. At night the place really takes life. Itinerant charismatic invite tourists with traditional Moroccan tajine, while the backbeat ceaseless Bongos energises the insane crowd.

Souk
No visit to Marrakech is not complete without a trip to the city sprawling labyrinthine Souk. Everything is for sale here, ranging from hand-woven carpets and jewelry to camel's skin and dried lucky Chameleon bongos.

A word of warning, do not go there expecting to Browse peacefully. Nothing more than a second look the goods usually available will result in being driven in a shop from one of the many market vendors and extricate themselves Football can be extremely difficult without a purchase.

Be prepared to haggle for everything you buy here, as sellers generally ask a starting price of at least three times the actual value. This can sometimes be difficult and nerve-racking, but once you have mastered the art you will be greatly rewarded by a greater understanding of people and their culture, in addition to being able to collect some business well.

Accommodation
Marrakech has many budget hotels which are ideal for backpackers and independent travelers on a shoestring. Hotel Afriquia is highly recommended, with clean rooms single, double and triple rooms from just 50 dirham (about £ 3) overnight and boasts a view of the fabulous roof terrace of the city's breathtaking backdrop of the High Atlas mountain range.

Of touts and False guides
One of the most important things to remember in Marrakech is to always look like you know where you're going, regardless of whether you actually irremediably lost (which is fairly likely, given the lack of road signs).

Be wary of anyone who offers to help you find a particular reference point or a position, as the city's unemployment rate means that a good many young men who offer services in guiding you aggressively there, but often this will result in conducted in a family-run boutique where they receive a Commission.

Moving
For backpackers planning on exploring Morocco, Marrakech is an ideal base. Centrally located, the city has rail connections to northern cities like Casablanca and Tangier and also offers easy access to climbing in the vicinity of Jbel Toubkal, the highest mountain in North Africa. If you travel further South, by bus or taxi gran, expect long journeys more tightly winding mountain roads.

Chris is a freelance writer and ghostwriter based in East of England. For more articles, or to discuss a project http://www.fertilewords.com , visit

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Top 5 Must-eats of Morocco

Morocco is filled with delicious cuisine with a unique flavor. Is perfect for anyone, savory and delicious. There are so many different options in Moroccan menu that travellers sometimes get overwhelmed with the choices. All foreign sounds and slightly scary. Five favorite foods include couscous, Morocco's tajine of chicken, beef and plum tajine, Bastille and the kefta traditional tajine.

Couscous is widespread throughout the world. You can find a lot of supermarkets in America and other countries. Is small bits of wheat, barley or any kind of pasta. It is steamed and then topped with various vegetables. Vegetables are usually steamed and usually include carrots, potatoes, chickpeas, cabbage, squash and Zucchini. Are artistically arranged in a heap on top of the meat. There are vegetarian couscous options if you prefer. Is one of the unique dishes in Moroccan cuisine that you do not eat with bread. Couscous is truly a culinary delight.

There are many types of tajine of chicken. You can get the chicken with French fries, lemon chicken or chicken with lemon and olives. More favorite is the chicken with lemon and olives. This delicious dish consisting of chicken tender pieces of boiled in a broth of onions, lemon slices and Moroccan spices. The broth is then reduced and added to the pot. Green olives and lemon peels usually decorate the finished result. You eat all Tajine with slices of bread, Moroccan khobz.

Beef Tajine and plum is another type of appetizing of tajine. The beef is cooked to perfection, flavored with onions and spices. Plums were formerly flavoured with cinnamon. This dish combines savory spices with meat, sweet cinnamon leaving a taste to remember. Toasted almonds and sesame seeds are sometimes added as a garnish.

Bastilla is a specialty of Morocco and the Arab world. And it is not known to many other countries, but it is definitely a must. Bastilla is a thin shell of paper pulp that is stuffed with a sweet and savory filling. The filling is made from almonds and walnuts, ground meat, onions, sugar and cinnamon. Shell is skillfully dusted with powdered sugar and cinnamon.

Kefta tajine is a meal more rustic of Morocco, not the type to be served at weddings or fancy meals. And it is usually served in the Sahara desert, in Berber tent and gives the true flavor of Morocco. Is a tomato-based, tajine with small balls of spiced ground meat distributed in it all. As a final touch, break the eggs on crisp tajine, Cook the eggs. The combination of eggs, meat and tomato is excellent.

When eating in Morocco, there will certainly never a moment bland! Every single dish is flavored perfectly why Morocco is so famous for its cuisine. Be sure to try every one of the first five dishes in Morocco!

Jaffar Wilson currently works with experience It! Tours offers custom packages designed tour in Morocco and trip to Libya

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Morocco shopping

As soon as you visit a foreign country, you want to collect small souvenir to take with you in your country of origin. Morocco is no exception. There are so many buy unique things in Morocco! With a stroll through the streets of the medina, you will see thousands of beautiful art objects. There are Berber carpet, pottery shops, stores of spices and scents and glittering gold teapots, and many other things to the store for fun! The tricky thing in Morocco is knowing how much to pay for each element and when to bargain.

There are many shops of carpets in Morocco, especially in Medine. Everyone will sit as they develop after carpet rug, telling the story of how they came to be. Watch with amazement with a cup of mint tea, as show how intricately knotted are. There is a rainbow of colors, patterns and sizes to choose from. There are modern style rugs and carpets. Each belt has a story behind rows of tiny knots that make up the entire project. Shopkeepers sometimes exaggerate the authenticity of the carpet and ask for a price more than its worth. You should not hesitate to haggle for a price that is more willing to pay. You should examine the carpet in advance to make sure it is in good condition.

The pottery of Morocco is well known. The colours are usually the traditional blue and white, in painted drawings by hand. A fun excursion would be to go to the place where they are made and watch the painters draw closely on ceramic models. No two pieces are exactly the same. Sometimes there is braided silver metal to it to decorate a bit more, or are added other colors. Moroccan ceramics can be found in any color, not just the blue and white. It would be fun to have little pots for a tajine brings fresh salt and pepper. Before you buy one, make sure there are no burrs or cracks and that the coloration is good.

One of the best places to visit during a tour of the medina is the Spice shops. They have whatever spices you could dream of, with perfumes, lotions and balms of healing. All lotions are oil-scented flower, made in Morocco. The stores also feature women of Saffron, the expensive spice that carefully out of the flower centers. They have cures for every ailment, since snoring of aches and pains. The shop is full of attractions and intriguing odors. Some spices are quite expensive, due to the time needed to collect, but again, don't be afraid to haggle with Audacity.

For a true reminder of Morocco, you might want to bring a silver teapot. Moroccan hospitality offers always the mint tea, and it might be fun to try to do that at home. You can walk into stores filled with pots and dishes SEKT. You can decorate the walls at home with the gold plates engraved by hand, if they are too fancy to eat outside.

Morocco is a better place than any shopping mall or supermarket because it is all hand made and has its own character. There are elements of all rights and must not be advertised on any commercial, advertises itself. Come and enjoy the beauty of Morocco and the treasures it holds.

Jaffar Wilson currently works with experience It! Tours offers excursions in Morocco and trip to Libya

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First impressions of the visit of Morocco

Having never visited Morocco or even Africa, I was very excited at the prospect in mid-November 2005.

Soon boarded the aircraft Royal Air Maroc to London Heathrow in a late Saturday afternoon I was in another world. Ads and signage in English, French and Arabic. Moroccan cuisine, style and hospitality.

Upon arrival at the Airport Mohammed V after passport showing you several times I was soon on the highway to Casablanca which is the main city of the country (but not the capital). It seemed rather than being in France-signage autoroute, a French chain of DIY store properties, but not so once the taxi had entered Casablanca itself. Here there were people walking in front of the car, just about avoiding other ones and I was\very glad that I did not actually help, in particular with the lack of seat belts (or even just one!) that worked.

There is a large French influence in the country was ruled by French and Spanish until 1956 and lots of new and old architecture is a lot of French influence and even mail boxes are the same shape and the color yellow, as in France.

November, probably isn't the best time to visit the country, particularly if you don't want to get wet. The rainy season is from October to November and April to may. My second day I took the train from Casablanca, in Rabat, the capital. There is a very efficient rail network and inexpensive which is mainly in the North of the country. Unfortunately, just before arriving at Rabat the heavens open. The day before had done as I explored Casablanca, but the visit to Rabat only lasted just over an hour, because this wasn't rain, flooding roads and was suddenly assumed the appearance of the rivers. So much to explore Rabat.

The day before in Casablanca was much more successful. I spent a while reading the book of popular traveller's Guide that helped me to better understand the culture and people. Wasn't too surprised with offers from people who want to help, demonstrate and ask for money. Men, holding hands as they walked along or kissing when they met (as a guard salute a passengers) was part of normal life, it happened because they were friends, not a sexual relationship as conceived of in the West. I also knew that had to be careful to take photos, how many women are not happy about this.

The city has a mosque of Hassan II, a spectacular site, which is constructed with a glass floor on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean. The Minaret is the tallest in the world-200 hundred meters high. In addition, the roof opens and closes.

Unlike many European countries, where taxis are modern vehicles, in Morocco, you will find the taxi "Grand" great that normally travel with as many people as legally possible going from city to city, and are usually a Mercedes at the time of the years ' 80 which will be a certain color depending on the country or towns rely. Each city will also have its own color "Petit Taxi". Theses are usually Peugeot and Fiat (color coded for each country or city) that quite possibly started life in 1980 's and 90 's in Europe and were exported to the South to start a new lease of life as a passenger carrying vehicle for four.

Movement on Marrakech (known locally as Marrakech) in the train proved to be very interesting. Paying the additional amount of first class at least guaranteed a comfortable place, although my limited experience in second class has not been shown to have any discomfort. The landscape changes with more and more "dryer fields", cactus also be cultivated in places and farmers using plows pulled by horses or donkeys. Atlas in the distance you see as you enter in Marrakech. Many people decide to stay in the "Ville Nouvelle" where you'll find Western-style hotels and villa complex a few miles outside where are enclosed by the rest of the "real" world. I was in a small Riads in the heart outside the Djemaa el Fna square-the square in the center of big cities of Medina.

Riad a is a type of Guest House which is normally built around a patio garden. Normally some of the rooms are open to the elements and there is not much rain there as closer to the coast. The experience of reaching the destination has been changed. A petit taxi to the edge of the Jemaa el Fna square, and then because taxis are not allowed after noon you must hire a porter and cart.

The square is full of restaurants, mobile merchants, snake charmers and seems to be very much alive the most hours of the day. There are also numerous rooftop bar where you can get a superb view of the day or night of the surrounding scene, including the Koutoubia mosque. If you want to sit there and have a beer or a glass of wine, think again. Morocco is an Islamic nation so the consumption of alcohol is not a high priority. Although the wine and beer are produced in the country, many cafes and restaurants only serve light drinks (Coke, orange juice, mineral water, coffee, etc.) or national. -drinking mint tea. I certainly wouldn't have a problem in hotel "Ville Nouvelle".

The food is generally excellent and very reasonable as well. The Moroccan-traditional Tajine (a steam cooked meat stew) and Couscous were tried.

The country has large contrasts of wealth and poverty. There are numerous developments in construction as holiday homes near Marrakech and the three-hour drive back to Casablanca to take a plane back home took new zones and prosperous past little city areas "slums" of small buildings with corrugated iron roofs kept pressed with boulders and each with a satellite dish. The cabbie made a couple of stops to buy cigarettes. By the side of the road, someone would come with the package or packages. On every occasion the driver bought 2 cigarettes.

Jobs are very important, that host a Riad said a waiter at a restaurant cannot afford to make mistakes. He knows that there is another million unemployed waiting to take the job. There are many police around. Normally going around in four or more. Man roadblocks at the entrances and exits to most cities. This is probably high security, or may be giving the force employed more to do.

If we're going on vacation, make sure that you spend your Dirhams before arriving at the airport. You will not be able to change themback in departures, or spend it on drink or tobacco at Duty Free-accept only euros.

The village is great-about California USA, there is much to see, I'd like to visit other cities like Tangier and Fez. Although it was raining in Casablanca and Rabat it was hot and dry and sunny in Marrakech and the last night of 17 degrees Celsius, on the roof of the Riad was a nice contrast to 24 hours later back in the South of England, which was undergoing a first cold spells of winter.

Philip Suter is a Director of JML Property Services, a United Kingdom based company that offers online insurance products and a vacation home http://www.jmlvillas.com/ service advertising and management training in the United Kingdom. He is a very experienced property consultant with over 30 years working in Residential letting business and served in the National Council of ARLA. He is a member of the National Association of estate agents (NAEA) and member of the Association of residential letting agents (ARLA)

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Morocco - The African Connection

When people think Morocco the first thing that comes to mind for many of them is desert and good food, this however is only the tip of the iceberg where African safari packages in Morocco are concerned. The Moroccan landscape is vastly contrasting and provides a beautifully rugged playground for the adventure enthusiast. This is not to say that Morocco does not provide the ultimate in luxury and relaxation, the good food for which it is famous can be enjoyed in the numerous hotels and resorts that dot the coastlines. When it comes to African holiday accommodation Morocco provides some the best on the continent, it is the perfect holiday destination for most types of people looking for African safari packages or just a beautiful place to relax and explore a culture.

Whether it's a serene hot air balloonride over the desert or a 4x4 adventure in the Atlas mountain range or simply relaxing in the Kasbah of Casablanca with a plate of local tagine you can be sure to find something that will tickle your fancy. Adventure holidays in Morocco have become a popular option for those in the United Kingdom looking for African safari packages due to its proximity to Europe yet vastly different culture and climate.

The Sahara desert that borders Morocco provides an endless supply of adventurous activities as well as some more relaxing memory creating pass times. Few people can resist the romance of a camel ride through the desert, to recreate that Laurence of Arabia experience. A trip into the desert on a camel to a traditional campsite, where you'll enjoy traditional Moroccan cuisine and camp under the stars is perhaps the best way to experience true Moroccan hospitality and culture. African holiday accommodation doesn't come any more authentic than this.

If you want something to get the heart racing then canyoning in the Ourika Valley might be just what you're looking for. Canyoning involves abseiling down the steep gorges of the Ourika River Valley and this is no dry river bed. It an adrenalin-pumping yet awe inspiring experience and should not be taken on lightly. Morocco's climate lends itself to a day spent splashing around in rivers and been drenched by waterfalls. If you're looking for some adventure in Africa, travel doesn't get any more unique or exciting than this.

Alternatively for an adventure with a difference try a 4x4 tour of the Atlas Mountain range. This historic mountain range played a significant part in the myths and legends of the ancient world. It was believed that world rested on the shoulders of the God Atlas, this massive mountain range, it was believed, was where the world rested. Driving along these rugged mountain roads can be a bone rattling experience.

For something equally bone rattling but slightly wetter you can try white water rafting in either the Ourika River or the Ahansal River. Nothing will make your African safari package holiday an adrenalin adventure to remember quite like a day spent shooting through the rapids of a fast flowing river. Morocco is certainly one of the jewels of Africa, travel to this amazing country and you will be left with memories that will last a lifetime.

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Lavish Riad in the Fes Medina (Morocco) - La Maison Bleue

The main house of La Maison Bleue, considered one of the most luxurious places to stay in Fes, offers peace and beauty amidst the hustle and bustle of one of the oldest walled-in cities in the world.

Features

The heart of La Maison Bleue is a courtyard surrounded by three Moroccan salons. It also has a roof top terrace, and a library with historical books, letters written in calligraphy, and beautiful oil paintings.

Rooms

La Maison Bleue has five deluxe rooms and one single room. Each room is equipped with a bathroom, telephone, television, internet, air-conditioning, mini-bar and safe.

Dining

Enjoy delicious Moroccan breakfasts in the courtyard, and mouth-watering Moroccan cuisine in a candlelit salon for dinner. Each dish will be served by waiters in traditional Moroccan attire with all the traditional Moroccan trimmings such as Moroccan salad, pastries and mint tea.

Riad Maison Bleue

This 19th century house, located in one of the most historic neighborhoods the old medina, is a celebration of Arabo-Andalusion architecture. Historically the home of an important judge and professor of theology, Moulay Bel Arbi El Alaoui, it was also the birthplace of the famous Moroccan philosopher, Aziz Lahbabi.

Features

The Riad Maison Bleue consists of three interconnecting courtyards. The main courtyard, which has a swimming pool and a garden, is surrounded by three deluxe rooms and a Moorish salon. The riad also has three terraces, each with stunning views.

Rooms

Accommodation includes 11 deluxe rooms and 2 standard rooms. Each room is equipped with its own bathroom, air-conditioning, telephone, television, internet, mini bar, and safe.

Dining

Enjoy traditional home-cooked meals served on the lovely terraces when it is warm, or in the covered courtyard during the colder months.

Private Accommodation

The Riad Maison Bleue offers private accommodation, Pavillion de l'Astrolabe, which consists of 4 deluxe rooms and 1 standard room. These rooms, along with 2 Moorish salons, are centered around a private courtyard with a fountain.

Spa

The spa of La Maison Bleue offers traditional body treatments, hammam, massages, and aromatherapy. You can enjoy a range of massages and treatments for different health and relaxation benefits. Massages and treatments offered include toning massages, oriental foot massages, traditional soap scrub, body masks, clay and henna wraps, and much more.

The spa of La Maison Bleue includes a treatment room, a fitness room, and a relaxation room (with wonderful views over Fes).

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Looking Into the Exotic Fes, Morocco

Fes Morocco is definitely one of the most popular cities in the country. After Casablanca and Rabat, Fes is Morocco's third largest city. Fes has a special place in Morocco's history as it was one of the four imperial cities, together with Rabat, Marrakech, and Meknes. Currently, the city is divided into three sections: the Fes el Bali, the Fes-Jdid, and the Ville Nouvelle. The Fes el Bali is the old walled city of Fes, and is one of the largest, if not the largest car-free urban area globally. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is also home to the world's oldest university that is still operating; the University of Al-Karaouine.

Another priority place to go when in Fes Morocco is the Dar Batha Museum. This museum used to be a palace in the 19th century of Sultan Moulay al-Hassan I. Currently, it houses a garden and a comprehensive compilation of native arts and crafts. During afternoons usually in the month of June, the Fez Festival of Sacred Music is held here. Another noteworthy museum is the Nejjarine Museum, which used to be a fundoq, or an inn for travelling merchants and their animals in the 18th century. It has been restored, with the addition of a square and carpenter's market.

If you want to get a taste of authentic Moroccan cuisine in Fes Morocco complete with an authentic atmosphere, pay a visit to Le Palais de Fes. Located in Rue Makhfia, you may enjoy dining in the terrace while looking at the splendid view of the Medina. Group bookings are accommodated and a carpet shop is located on one floor of this former ancestral residence. For men, visiting a hammam, or a public bath, is part of an authentic Moroccan experience in Fez. Bring a Moroccan friend along so that you will be primed of proper behavior and things to bring.

If you want to go royal, visiting the Dar el-Makhzen is highly recommended. This palace serves as the official residence of the Moroccan king when he is in Fes Morocco. The palace is surrounded by imposing walls and secured by an intricately-designed doors ion bronze and brass. There are still offices functioning in the palace, and there is also a mosque, gardens, a zoo, and a medersa or a school for learning Koran.

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Cakes in Morocco

Gastronomy in Morocco is a fascinating domain that gives visitors another chance to discover the Moroccan culture, an amazing fusion of cultures and colours, especially since Moroccan cuisine shows the variety of Moroccan society. The preparation of cakes expresses too the great savoir-faire of Moroccan women, who have done many efforts to develop and innovate in this domain, a discipline that has been transmitted from generation to generation and that, day after day, its shows that a successful balance between modernity and originality can be achieved.

In this article I intend to explore some of the specificities of preparing cakes in Morocco. I will also mention some of the most famous types of Moroccan cakes.

Variety is the key word if when talking about cakes in Morocco. First, visitors to Morocco will see that women in Morocco rely on totally natural products when preparing their cakes. The most common products used in cake baking are almonds, nuts, raisins, and rose water. All these products are usually used for decoration, perfuming or stuffing.

Also, Moroccan women prefer to use several motifs that depict and evoke nature, such as flowers, plants, fruits and some geometric patterns like triangles, circles, waves, etc.

Moreover, visitors will find different and varied types of cakes specific to each region in Morocco. We can say that cakes in Morocco can be divided into two main types: on the one hand, there are some cakes that are presented in everyday life with the tea, like "elfakass", which is a very simple cake, prepared with flour, sugar, oil, eggs, and sesame seeds. It can be perfumed with orange juice and has the shape of a half circle. The "ghoriba" is a round cake prepared with oil, icing sugar, flour and can be livened up with dates, honey, cinnamon, peanuts, etc.

On the other hand we can find some other types that are often presented in special occasions. Such is the case of, for example, the "chbakia", which is prepared with flour, butter, saffron, and some other ingredients depending on the regions. This cake can be irrigated with honey and decorated with sesame and almonds and is prepared for Ramadan.

There are also the "lebriwat", which are triangles prepared with very fine paste stuffed with almonds and sugar, fried in oil, and irrigated with honey. In addition to these, there are many other cakes elaborated for special occasions, such as the "lkaak", which can take many shapes and show different motifs and is presented during the "Achoura" day.

Also the "kaab ghzal" or "gazelle's horns", one of the most famous cakes in Morocco, are usually eaten in special occasions. They are in the shape of a crescent and are stuffed with an almond paste and perfumed with orange blossom essence.

Moroccan cakes can thus provide you with a clearer idea of the great civilisation of Morocco. Moreover, it shows the creativity of Moroccan women, as well as their knowledge and respect for tradition.

If you want to discover the delicious Moroccan cakes I invite you to come to Marrakech, where you will get an excellent chance to enjoy all types of Moroccan cakes and will certainly change your view of patisserie. The Ochre City is waiting for you and welcomes you with open arms, inviting you to enjoy some magical moments full of joy and happiness.

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The Recipes and Foods of Morocco

Morocco is a North African nation that is the most Westernmost of the countries of the Maghreb. It has coastlines on both the Mediterranean and Atlantic oceans and, as might be expected, fish and seafood play an important part in Moroccan cuisine.

The country, like most of North Africa was originally Berber, became Arabic and was subsequently a Spanish and then a French colony. As a result the cuisine of Morocco is extremely diverse and great use is made of saffron, ginger, walnuts and almonds.

Couscous is the national staple and is typically served with stews made of fish, chicken, meat and vegetables. Moroccan cuisine also ranks as one of the World's great cuisines.

Below are two classic Moroccan recipes:

Chicken with Tomatoes and Honey

Ingredients:

3 whole chicken breasts on the bone (with their skin), split in two

2 onions, peeled and finely chopped

6 garlic cloves

1 cinnamon stick

1/2 tsp ground ginger

generous pinch of saffron

2kg very ripe tomatoes, blanched, peeled, and roughly chopped

1 heaped tbsp dark honey

juice of 1 lemon

salt and black pepper

olive oil for frying

Method:

Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan and use to brown the chicken breasts all over. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. Tip the onions to the pan and fry until golden before adding the garlic and spices (except the saffron). Fry for 2 minutes then add the chopped tomatoes and season liberally.

Continue cooking over high heat until the tomatoes break down and release their juices. At this point reduce the heat and return the chicken to the pan. Reduce the heat to the merest simmer and continue cooking for about an hour, or until the meat is completely tender. Remove the chicken at this point and transfer to a warmed serving dish.

Continue cooking the sauce until it begins to caramelize and thicken then crumble-in the saffron, add the lemon juice and honey. Allow the sauce to cook for a further five minutes, stirring constantly. Adjust the seasonings, pour the sauce over the chicken and serve.

Moroccan Harost Balls with Dates, Sultanas and Nuts

Ingredients:

400g pitted dates

100g Sultanas

100g raisins

100g walnuts

1-2 tbsp sweet red wine

Method:

Add the dates, raisins and walnuts to a food processor and process until the mixture is finely chopped and begins to stick together. Add enough of the sweet red wine to form a sticky mass.

Line a baking sheet with greaseproof pager and drop slightly-rounded teaspoonfuls of the mixture onto the lined sheet. Roll each mixture round into hazelnut-sized balls with moistened palms.

Place in the refrigerator and allow to cool for at least 3 hours, or until the balls are firm

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The adventure of Morocco

Some experiences are thought to create psychological and physiological arousal by an exciting, unusual, bold, risky and uncertain undertaking termed adventure. It is a major pursuit of it in itself. An adventurer or adventuress is the one who believes in the existence of fun from risks in life; be it physical, financial or psychological for the recreation with excitement endured in the process. Travelling can be the most satisfying adventure involving exploration and tourism to remote, exotic as well as hostile areas by stepping out of one's own comfort zone.

Struck by Lonely Planet or Travelogues, Africa is place of deprivations but not when it comes to adventurous explorations. With every turn of the head, there is something new and exciting to venture out into being one of the many authentic destinations. It's second to Egypt as a North African holiday destination.

It is a constitutional monarchy located in the North Africa. The political capital of the country is "Rabat" with "Casablanca" being the largest city. It has always been known for its Islamic liberalism and openness towards the Western world. Morocco is a diverse place with culture and geography. Languages spoken here are Darija (Moroccan Arabic), French and Berber. Same way Moroccan literature is written in Arabic, Berber and French. Rock-influenced chaabi bands are widespread with trance music with historical origins in Muslim Sufi music.

The landscapes are a wild mix up of mountainous regions, calm coastal enclaves and barren deserts. Morocco borders Algeria to the east, Spain (through the Straits of Gibraltar) to the north and Mauritania with the Western Sahara to south. There is miserable climatic variation in the country. In the north, around Tangiers and the Rif Mountains; sunny and dry summers run from May to September. South experiences desert climate with very little rain, soaring temperatures during the day and sharp drops to cooler temperatures at night. During rainy season, The Atlantic coast receives rain and during winters, the High Atlas Mountains are blessed with snow.

There are frequent flights from most major European cities to Morocco and an option of overland travel through Europe via the Straits of Gibraltar. The infrastructure in Morocco is good with well serviced roads and public transport in the North as well as Central regions but further south the roads get narrower plus bumpier. The major cities of Morocco are Marrakech, Fès, Tangier, Casablanca and Rabat. Notable fact is that Morocco is the starting point for travelling all across Africa.

The country is divided into three natural regions. The fertile northern coastal plain along the Mediterranean contains Er Rif; the rich plateaus and lowlands lying between the Atlas Mountains. It extends in three parallel ranges from the Atlantic coast in the southwest to Algeria and the Mediterranean in the northeast. The semiarid area in southern and eastern Morocco merges into the Sahara Desert. Morocco has the most extensive river system in North Africa with most of the rivers flowing towards the Atlantic or Sahara. The Moulouya is an exception and flows to the Mediterranean. Principal rivers of the country are Oumer River, Sebou, Bou Regreg, Tensift, Draa, Sous, Ziz and Gheris. Its 1800 kilometers of coastline offers exhilarating waterborne and wind loving activities in this region. Seaside entertainments include surfing, kite surfing, wind surfing, Trekking, rafting, mountain biking, off-road driving are inland sources to boost up the adrenaline.

The best time to visit the place is the autumn as it marks the end of the Muslim period of fasting, Ramadan. Though the accommodation prices hike, it is the time to dive into the winding streets of the Fès medina or even snag you a wife at Imilchil's Berber Marriage festival. The warm days and cool nights of autumn offer a great deal with nature in Morocco. The High Atlas Mountains, the Anti-Atlas Mountains with volcanic Mt. Siroua, Mountain Jebel Toubkal (North Africa's highest peak), Rif Mountains in the north and the gorgeous Ameln Valley hold the major attraction for trekking destinations. Set beneath the peaks of the Rif Mountains with red-tiled roofs, bright blue buildings, and narrow lanes converging on a delightful square; "Chefchaouen" is one of the prettiest towns in Morocco. Avoid visiting the place in August due to the immense heat it tolerates at that time and the holy month of Ramadan when most of the restaurants will be shut during the day.

The currency utilized here is Dirham (Dh) with 8.15 Dirham equal to 1 US Dollar. The common phrases of communication with the Moroccans whose most cherished possession is their dignity are Ssalamu'lekum (hello, literally peace be upon you); Shukran Bezzef (thank you very much) and Insh'allah (God willing). Handshakes are the customary greeting between individuals but are somewhat weak according to western standards.

The people of Morocco are well-known for their warmth, hospitality and inhibition. It is very common to be showered with invitations for coffee or tea throughout one's stay. The cuisine of Morocco is rated among the best in the world and falls into two specific categories. The first category requires intensive supervision and the host do not participate in the preparations. No women are present and the male host merely oversees the banquet with his sons and servants. Men squat on mattresses or pillows around low and beautifully laid tables. A silver ewer of perfumed water is taken around and poured over three fingers of the right hand of each guest. The host claps his hands to begin the meal. One course after another and each delicacy is served until Chban (complete satiation) is achieved. To finish the Savor, silver ewer filled with warm water is presented to clean the mouth, lips and hands.

The meal is considered as a feast for the Gods which begins and ends with Bismillah (God's blessing). In the second category of cookery, the dishes are prepared with love and care by the mistresses of the homes (Dadas). She spends hours with her glazed earthenware with copper cooking dishes, her kanoun (the movable clay brazier) and the charcoal to perfume the kebabs which allows the sauces to simmer under its heat. A folded carpet serves as a seat. The Dada is dressed in a long colorful robe with the scents of coriander, cumin, saffron, marjoram and onion mingling with the pungency of olive oil as well as the sweetness of sandalwood, mint plus roses to delight the senses. The dinner starts with Bstilla, followed by the typical brochette or kebab flavored with bits of beef or lamb fat. Next comes the Tajine (chicken or meat in a spicy stew which has been simmered for many hours) served with a flat homemade bread called Khubz. In Morocco, as in most Arab lands; every household makes its own bread. After the Tajine, a Batinjaan Zalud (eggplant salad or chopped tomato salad) is served as a separate course. After this, Couscous Marrakesh, the marvelous Moroccan national dish made of semolina with each grain separate from the other is served. The dinner is completed with slices or wedges of peeled melon La Morocaine pastries made with honey and almond land finally a small glass of mint tea. The following dinner is a very much simplified version but it is delicious gives the "feel" of Morocco.

To know the high risk associated with the trip and avoidance to death, check the latest travel news and advisories with current government warnings if you are heading to the area for the history of explosions. Travelling to the Western Sahara region of Morocco is not advised due to the presence of landmines. Though amidst all the fuss; Moroccan adventure caravan tour, North morocco plus Fez Escape tour, Moroccan adventure holiday and self drive tours to the southern coast of Morocco can be a boon to an adventurous mind. Morocco is enlightened with such undoubtedly splendid pride and vastness available in resources to fulfill the lavish hunger for adventure, food and life. It can surely be an obsession that would make one smile with an inspiration to give.

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Moroccan Adventures With Air Tickets to Morocco

The magic of Marrakech and Casablanca, the rolling dunes of Sahara desert and the soaring beauty of Atlas Mountains! There are plenty of reasons to choose Moroccan holidays.

The imperial cities of Marrakech and Casablanca top the travel itineraries of vacationers grabbing flights to Morocco. These cities are laden with tourist delights and promise to dazzle tourists with a multitude of attractions and shopping options.

With top class airports, these grand cities are easily accessible for tourists taking flights to Morocco. Unsurprisingly, numerous airlines sell cheap tickets to these destinations encouraging countless tour operators to sell customized holiday packages for these cities. The efficient shuttle service and airport trains make these cities even more appealing.

Casablanca

This thriving city is an enigmatic melting pot of traditional and modern traits. Casablanca rewards visitors with delightful sightseeing wonders that make one's stay in the city gratifying. Unsurprisingly, Casablanca flights sell like hot cakes.

A perfect refuge for pilgrims, the Hassan II Mosque is an intricately designed mosque that proudly propounds the Arabic architectural genius and welcomes cultural enthusiasts. Hassan II Mosque entices devotees from around the globe to look for Casablanca flights.

For budget travellers taking cheap flights to Morocco, there is no dearth of cheap dinning options and New Medina is one of the finest of them all. This unique dinning location in Casablanca has a maze of fast food chains and restaurants that serve delectable cuisines.

The Square of Mohammed V is a trendy shopping location in Casablanca and is hugely popular among the visitors. It houses string of stores that sell clothes, perfumes, books, and other items at competitive prices.

Marrakech

Marrakech is an archetypal Arabic town. The fascinating cultural and historical legacy of the city is a big temptation for leisure vacationers. The city is hit even among budget travellers as numerous carriers provide cheap Marrakech flights. In fact, it would not be wrong to say that most who book Marrakech flights are the travellers with modest travel budget. Lavish holidays in Marrakech are no problem too.

Tourist charms in Marrakech like Koutoubia Mosque, Dar Si Said Museum beguile art-enthusiasts to look for tickets to Morocco.

Rue Souq Smarine, a popular tourist location in Marrakech, is home to traditional bazaars and entices bargain hunters to book cheap flights to Morocco. The bazaars remain crammed full of tourists haggling hard to pick up souvenir items at rock-bottom prices. Spices, dry fruits, jewellery, carpets, wooden handicrafts, fabrics, shoes and cookware- these local bazaars offer almost every conceivable product and that too at dirt cheap prices!

Numerous food stalls and vendors at popular dinning locations in Marrakech serve some flavoursome cuisines. Foodies get spoilt for choice as the spread encompasses global as well as ethnic cuisines.

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Morocco-Moroccan cuisine epicurean & what it means

Food is reflected through the language barrier or gap culture. Is that a special element of life that can make a person feel at home even when "home" is a thousand miles away. Part of a visit to another region of the world is taking in all the wonderful tastes and smells that foreign cuisine can provide. Providing a window into what makes a food culture, gives one the opportunity to explore different dishes. Cuisine of Morocco will not disappoint you. There are a variety of places that allow you to experience the vibrant flavors ranging in Moroccan cuisine foreign travelers.

Some good restaurants

A Moroccan dining experience begins at the restaurant Le du Riad Monceau. This charming lunch is owned and managed by the famous French artist, Isabelle Aubry. The dining area is located within the area of Riad accommodation by providing the ultimate dining experience for couples, families and friends. Menu selections features traditional Moroccan cuisine, such as fruit skewers with sauce topped with honey citrus. Meals can be served in the main dining room, lounge area or pool tables characteristic patio.

Journey of 10-15 minutes outside Marrakech to discover the culinary wonders of The Bo Zin. Here guests will delight in the experience of Asian cuisine fused together in a lively atmosphere. Almost every evening presents the musical talents of DJs that play a nice blend of music. Once dinner was deleted from the table, the music is kicked up a notch and starts dancing. Staff members have been known to go out on the dance floor and dance the night away with guests. An outdoor patio area with comfortable sofas and music that is perfect for this after dinner drink with friends or a toast at the end of another great day in Morocco.

Arrival to The Foundouk is unlike any other experience in Morocco. Many guests are left by taxi or other transport services to what appears to be a desolate place. From out of nowhere a man arrives dressed in beautiful clothes and carrying a lantern. This will serve as a guide of the diner in the restaurant's location. Walk down a small roadway and entrance door of the restaurant. Once inside, antique decor Marrakech adds an elegant environment. Taking center stage is a magnificent chandelier candle that attracts the attention focal from every corner of the restaurant. Menu selections feature a menu of Moroccan cuisine, while the reverse shows European cuisine.

Guests can enjoy a dinner at Tanjia. This three-story restaurant has a bar on the ground floor and two main levels to eat. The bar is an ideal place to grab a quick drink and aperitif before dinner or enjoy the evening with friends. Venture upstairs to enjoy a great meal in the balcony covered by an atrium that sprays water mist to keep the Moroccan warmth. After dinner enjoy the attraction of the evening in a show of traditional Moroccan belly dance.

Wind down a great day in Morocco with a stop at Café Arabe in Marrakech. This three-level restaurant and bar serves drinks and dinner that are an adventure all on their own. Each level of the restaurant offers food and beverages. The terrace on the roof top offers some of the best views in Morocco. Menu selections feature traditional Moroccan dishes alongside Italian delights. The staff is always available to fill a glass of wine or bring your next course at the table and personable.

One of the hidden gems of Marrakech is the Cafe in the ground, owned and operated by Niam, former high-level california restaurant owner turned dalmation and owner of a plantation agricultural biological olive, opened a little restaurant in a small Riads in the central part of the medina. Having some of the better choices and more simple mene around, your taste buds and satisfactory cells not be left hungry. Niam also sells organic olive oil and argon by his farm here. This place is highly recommended and left undiscovered. (Cause I know, I am his friend.)

Casablanca: culinary Cuisine

For a culinary change of pace, take a trip to Casablanca to live Kiotori. This restaurant holds the distinct honor of being the first Japanese restaurant in Morocco. Diners will be treated to authentic Japanese culinary tastes and odors with dishes directly from areas of Japan and Asia. Once inside the gates, Diners are swallowed in simple Japanese decor it emits a Zen-like atmosphere among the members of the staff personable.

Another great dining experience can be found at Tahiti Beach Club restaurant. Diner will enjoy panoramic views of the nearby Beach, botanical garden and the city of Casablanca. Menu selections are delicious international cuisine portions that will delight everyone at the table. Staff members are fluent in Arabic, French and English. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

A visit to Morocco or other restaurant on your holiday Morocco wouldn't be complete without indulging in all the region's culinary aspects as well. Each eatery and dining establishment offers a different twist on traditional Moroccan dishes, offering others from all kingdoms of the culinary world culture. Diners Club will not be disappointed, with the menu selections offered and are often a need to ask a second bite or try something new. One thing is certain, Moroccan cuisine will not have people asking for a doggie bag to take home leftovers. Each delicious bite will be consumed on the site.

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My Moroccan adventure-how I fell in love in Morocco

My Moroccan adventure started as a man in search of love. My friends and family have difficulty understanding the lengths to which I will go in my quest for the perfect companion. It all started in May 2006, when I broke up with my ex-wife. This was the second time that we divided in 2 years. However, this time was different and I just felt the need to move forward, so I started my research during this separation where else but the internet. And that's where meeting Hajar. In my first communication with hajar who has done something that I liked and appreciated, gave me his phone number. I really like the phone conversation and believe it or not I also added text messaging to my phone until 2010.

I remember the first call and she told me that she was in the car and could call her later. At that time couldn't imagine her in the car or what kind of car that she was in etc. But after my first trip to Morocco I could imagine her in the car and I could clearly remember some of our very special moments together in the car.

I meet Hajar in the summer of 2006, and at that point in my marriage seemed as though we were surely headed for a divorce. I spoke with Hajar quite often throughout that summer and she knows very well. I don't remember exactly when, but at some point in the autumn of 2006 made arrangements to visit Hajar for the first time right after the Christmas holidays. It was in this period that I decided that I needed to file for a divorce. I have already said that I was still Hajar married, and she was very understanding and still wanted me to come to meet her and her family.

So off I went, and this is where my Moroccan adventure begins. I flew out of JFK with a small stop in Amsterdam. The cost of a trainer in flight from New York metropolitan area ranges from $ 800.00-$ 1,200.00 depending on time of year you travel so check the internet for the best prices from your area. Our services include an English speaking tourist guide as food, accommodation and transport. Prices vary depending on your taste. See our web page located below.

Now let us continue. I remember landing in Casa Blanca, and only be overcome by fear. My friends and family had told me I was crazy for traveling oversees to meet a woman. After all, couldn't find a decent woman right here in the United States. And what happens if they were right and then really I started having doubts. I mean I did not know Hajar or his family and I was going to get off the plane and enter a country that I was not familiar with and I couldn't even speak the language. But it was too late for that now so evacuated the aircraft and let my adventure begins.

Hajar was there waiting for me at the airport with his father. I did not know what are our plans, but would soon discover. The Casa Blanca is a train which connects directly to it from the city so we bought tickets and boarded the train to head off to our destination. We were on our way to Mirit was unaware that at this point. Morocco is a Muslim country and I am Muslim. However, I am a Muslim American and I'm not accustomed to the entire country for EID. So how would we discover a mad dash back to Mirit was 6 hours away.

The train journey from the airport to the Casa Blanca for the city of Casa Blanca is about 45 minutes. From there it would take a train to Meknes, which is about 3 hours away. The train journey was pleasant and we were happy to finally meet them both. When we got off the train in the city of Meknes we walked out of the station which I seemed to be dark and desolate. His father was taken away leaving us just for what seemed like an eternity and that fear time overtook me and I realized that if these people had malice in their hearts and some sort of sinister plot in mind then this would be their perfect opportunity. The return of the father, she looked at me and translated these exact words-my father found a car to take us to Mirit and says that she looks so don't speak Moroccan because if you know you're a foreigner and you want more money. All three of us came on the back seat of an old diesel sedan Mercedes Benz and Hajar was in the middle. A short time around Hajar tapped her shoulder that gives me a signal to rest my head on his shoulder which I gladly obliged and was my first ride in the car with joyful Hajar.

Once we arrived at home in Mirit I felt completely safe and was asked if I wanted to take a shower which of course I did when I had traveled for more than 36 hours. After we sat down for a meal, chicken taijin, oh how I can taste the food, as I write these words. Moroccan culture it is customary to eat a communal dish and for me it was a great experience. It was that night that I meet his brother Ashrof who spoke perfect English, much to my pleasant surprise. I spent the next 3 days enjoying the feast EID and I also had the opportunity to slaughter a lamb. My host family was very hospitable and I found the Moroccan people to be very friendly in General. When I left Morocco after that first trip that I could not wait to return.

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Investing in Morocco Property in 2009

The ascension of King Mohammed IV to the throne of Morocco in 1999 sparked a series of events that have resulted in Morocco property becoming a target for property investors from around the world.

An ambitious reformer, King Mohammed is the man behind the Vision 2010 plan, which aims to boost visitor numbers to 10 million per year by 2010, and build 250,000 new hotel rooms.

So far, it appears to be working. In 2007, 7.4 million foreign tourists visited Morocco, and this influx of visitors has prompted overseas investors, including thousands of Britons, to snap up villas and apartments in the coastal areas earmarked for growth under Vision 2010.

Known as Plan Azur, this part of King Mohammed's strategy provides for the construction of six new resorts in areas like Plage Blanche and Lixux. Also popular with overseas buyers are Marrakesh, Tangiers and Agadir on the Atlantic coastline.

Investors are also increasingly interested in property in Fez, the country's third-largest city, where prices remain low compared to property in Marrakesh, for instance.

Economic growth in Morocco during the second quarter of 2008 was up 6.5 per cent year on year, but in common with most world economies, the country is now facing more challenging times.

Officials believe that visitor numbers in 2008 are likely to be down on 2007, as the credit crunch and falling disposable incomes impact on tourism.

These factors are also affecting the property market, but the fact that the pace of development is being controlled should mean that unlike its near neighbour, Spain, Morocco won't suffer from oversupply.

When the dust settles on the global economic slowdown, Morocco could also find itself benefitting from the fact that it remains a low cost economy - westerners can holiday cheaply here, and ex-pats can take advantage of the country's low cost of living.

Rental yields in Morocco are currently in the 6.5 to 8 per cent range, which might seem modest compared to some emerging markets, but which should also be sustainable in the medium term.

Mortgages with a loan to value to ration of up to 70 per cent are available to foreigners to buy property in Morocco, although the banks have become more cautious in response to the credit crunch.

Morocco property prices rose by 20 per cent in 2006 and 15 per cent in 2007. Figures for 2008 are not yet available, although growth rates are likely to have dipped somewhat.

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Morocco-tourism the priority?

Moroccan tourism industry soon could possibly benefit from a wider range of major attractions such as the influx of a large number of visitors has necessitated the need for improved infrastructure, recreational facilities and leisure outlets. The Government's efforts to make the economy less dependent of agriculture pays dividends. Authorities in Morocco are keen to diversify and generate sustainable economic growth in the long term to increase trade and tourism that aims to increase the number of annual visitors to 10 million by 2010.

Search from a World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) found that the number of tourists in the country has increased by 14 percent last year. Witherspoon has attracted foreign arrivals 7.4 million in 2007. Morocco is proving to be very popular among European tourists as nearly three million hailed from France; 1.6 million visitors from Spain and 419,000 British tourists last year. The tourism industry is now an important source of growth of the economy of the country, and this has generated nearly a tenth of its gross domestic product last year. The holiday industry generated income of £ 3.8 billion in 2007, which is 12 percent more than during the previous year.

Morocco is considered as a holiday destination of cost-effective. The "fabulous" weather, beautiful scenery, beaches and a relaxed pace of life has contributed to make Morocco a hotspot for foreign tourists and overseas property buyers. Moreover, statistics suggest that there is growth potential in the market to buy to leave the country, such as the increase in the number of foreign arrivals means that demand for holiday accommodation have soared.

The main reason for the increasing popularity of Morocco, among tourists and second home buyers is easily accessible with the airlines, while the low cost of living and large areas of historic interest makes it an attractive proposition. The price to enter an attraction in Morocco is 3 times less than in Spain. Food and drink in Morocco costs less than that of European countries. Figures have shown that on average, a pint of beer can be purchased for only 51 p and Spain would have cost £ 1.56 while a three-course meal is priced at just over £ 10 and £ 17.50 in Spain is.

This suggests that buying property in Morocco could be a potentially lucrative, as investors in Objects might be in line to benefit from good returns and potentially the proceeds of the capital growth. The intensification of tourist-related construction in recent years has suggested that the country has become increasingly popular.

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Exciting places to visit in Morocco

Although Morocco is a country in Africa, in many ways is a country. It is related to the Mediterranean compared to the rest of Africa. Is mainly due to the fact that it lies on the North-Western Africa, and is separated from the rest of the continent from the Atlas mountains and Sahara. Being located with coastlines on both the Atlantic and the Mediterranean, mountainous interior remained independent for centuries. However, the country has developed a rich culture mixed with Berber, Arab, European and African. Morocco is an ethnically diverse country with a rich culture and civilization.
Tourism plays an important role in the economy of Morocco. The mixture of cultures that have come here through history has made Morocco a interesting place to visit. Beaches, museums, archaeological sites, historic sites and monuments and art galleries are among the attractions to visit. Be dominated by the mountains of North and South, desert in Morocco makes the Sun on the sandy beaches and trekking high mountain available both.
Rabat is the capital city of Morocco. It has many historical monuments and some of the most important museums of Morocco, due to significant architectural heritage. The doors of the Kasbah of Oudaïa, the Minaret of The mosque Hassan (XIIe century) and the necropolis Chella are among the best places to see in Rabat. Best Archaeological Museum of Morocco, as well as those different, the Royal Palace of Main and important learning institutions also exist in the city. Rabat is a market town and industrial and play an important economic role for Morocco.
Casablanca is one of the largest artificial ports in the world. Is the most important city in Morocco and the country's economic capital. Offers a lot of places and its many beaches attract surfers. As a cornerstone of Morocco, Hassan II mosque is the largest and most important mosque in North Africa. Its traditional Arab and Islamic architecture is very important and is one of the most evocative monuments. The Corniche, Habous des Quartiers, palazzo reale are places to see in Casablanca.
Marrakech is a tourist and commercial centre. Is a cultural destination. Djamaa El-Fna square, El Badi Palace, Koutoubia Minaret of Koutoubia & gardens are attractive places for tourists.
Essaouira has a beautiful beach and a suitable location for windsurfing. The Andalusian Music Festival and Gnawa, its medina, pleasant climate and beaches attract tourists.
Ouarzazate, Tangiers, Fez, Meknes are among the major cities of Morocco.
Museums of Morocco, as the Dar Batha of Fez, the Museum of Marrakech Oudaïa are attractive. They reflect the richness of cultural heritage.
Markets of Morocco with carpets, wooden statues and jewelry are fascinating. Morocco is described as a land of art and emotions. Consequently, the painters have always been interested in Morocco. Delacroix, Matisse, Torres, Miro, Francis Bacon and Edouard Degas are among those names that have been fascinated by beautiful local scenes.
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Buying Property in Morocco - An Attractive Overseas Investment

The property in Morocco is fast becoming an overseas investor favorite due to its transparent economy and huge potential on this flourishing market. The media has indeed elevated its status by such large projects as the 'Vision 2010' which encompassed vast economic developments and widespread upgrades to the tourist sector.

There has been an increase in televised programs and newspapers that continuously publicize the rise of the Moroccan property market, with statistics now showing that currently 3 out of 5 African properties owned by Europeans overseas are within Morocco. This figure is very likely to increase as the government continues to push more initiatives to favor foreign investment and tourism, a win-win situation as the country's economic growth steadily increases and foreign investors will eye a much more favorable market amongst its nearby competition of the likes of Spain, Egypt, Turkey and even Dubai, which are struggling with the pace at which Moroccan properties are rapidly converting.

According to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), tourism in Morocco is set for steady growth within the next 5 years by between two and four percent. More tourism means the need for more accommodation; the property rental in Morocco is booming and attracting investors in the plenty. Luxury hotels are being built and upgraded all over the country; to name Marrakech that will be opening 20 large 5 star hotel within the festive season alone.

Among the British who now see Morocco real estate as a better option than its Spanish counterpart, so do the Spanish, the French and the Italians. Where the Spanish property market is over saturated with higher risk and prices, the Moroccan property market is still young and has a lower risk to returns ratio.

Moroccan property investor view points:

• Excellent all year round weather conditions

• Purchase tax only 1.0% on the total price

• Government registration fee 4%.

• Legal fees 0.5%.

• Property Agency commission 2.5% - 3%

• Rental income taxed at 13.5%. Rental income is free from tax for the first 5 years.

• 20% Capital Gains Tax if sold within 5 years, 10% to 10 years, 0% thereafter.

• Casablanca and Marrakech property prices average at around ?2,000 m².

• Local property rental market yields at around 7% - 10%

• Real Estate prices may increase by as much as 35% in some hot spots

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Morocco Tourism

Ai piedi del paese, dove le coste romances pianure accanto all'orizzonte, dove i minareti colossali apparentemente sussurrano i racconti di cultura, tradizione e storia alle orecchie del cielo, dove i visitatori sono coccolati con i momenti di dove il dessert ondeggia via a strapiombo bliss e dove artigianato mark i fenomeni culturali del luogo - tale è l'atmosfera tonificante del Marocco.

L'etnia multiculturale offre un ambiente molto favorevole ai visitatori dove da un lato si pu? indulgere nell'estasi dell'acqua verde smeraldo mentre su altri il sentire il calore dell'amore alla sabbia bianca nel deserto, dove possono vedere lussureggianti vallate, sfidando le cime delle montagne Atlas. Nessuna meraviglia Marocco gode il fascino di essere una delle mete più frequentate dell'Africa negli itinerari del giramondo globo.
Marocco ha avuto un passato glorioso dove gli abitanti originari di esso, i berberi, dovevano vedere le invasioni dei fenici, Carthiginians, Vandali, bizantini ecc. E stato solo nel 682 D.C. quando gli Arabi arrivarono qui che ha visto diverse dinastie stabilito dagli arabi. La storia del Marocco è contrassegnata con un conflitto tra i Berberi ed arabi. Le dispute territoriali del Marocco anche formano una solida base di storia del paese.

La favolosa storia esegue il rendering di un'autentica cultura al Marocco. Non essendo un paese musulmano, le linee sono mai attraversate. Indossare abiti ostentate non è consentito alle donne del paese. Anche qui i visitatori devono essere consapevoli di questo fatto per godere di un tour gratuito senza problemi qui.

I sentimenti religiosi sono accuratamente venerati dai cittadini e soprattutto durante il mese di Ramadan di buon auspicio. L'omosessualità pu? essere il brusio del mondo moderno, ma qui è un reato penale. I rapporti sessuali fuori dal matrimonio sono legalmente punibili. Ma il conservatorismo del Marocco non significa che essa è in ritardo rispetto nella modernità. Marocco, a modo suo, è una perfetta miscela di mode contemporanee e della cultura tradizionale.

I visitatori del Marocco hanno enormi opportunità in ammollo se stessi nel rapimento di divertimento attività. E molto difficile resistere alle tentazioni di sport d'avventura del Marocco, tra cui trekking ed escursioni a piedi, camminando sulle montagne Atlas, golf, equitazione offerti presso i club, sport acquatici che sono una vera attrazione del sole baciato spiagge, sci, e il motore a quattro ruote unità. Queste attività sono più che sufficienti per tenere occupati i viaggiatori.

I viaggiatori al paese non possono permettersi di perdere anche alle attrazioni turistiche del Marocco. Queste attrazioni hanno garantito un posto permanente nell'itinerario di viaggiatori. Alcuni di essi includono la Moschea Koutoubia (Moschea dei librai), Piazza Djemaa el-Fna, Museo Dar Si Saïd, tomba di Saadian, Oukaimeden a Marrakech; Moschea di Karaouine, concerie, porte della città di Fez, Zaouia Moulay Idriss II in Fez.
Rifugi di Rabat alcune delle migliori attrazioni del Marocco come Kasbah des Oudaias, palazzi, musei archeologici, giardini, la cittadella di Chellah, Hasan moschea, Madina, Casablanca, Temara e molti altri. I luoghi più famosi del Marocco che sono sulla lista dei viaggiatori sono Asilah, Fez, Marrakech, gole di Imlil, Rabat, Tangeri, Tineher, dune di Merzouga e Zagora.

Per avere un'esperienza di vita, un viaggio in Marocco è un requisito. Cos? che cosa stai ragazzi aspettando? Appena le valigie, ottenere le vostre prenotazioni fatto e ci si vola per il Marocco avere un piatto di cultura, tradizione, arte e artigianato, sport d'avventura, divertenti attività riempita, cuore palpitante destinazioni e scintillante attrazioni turistiche.

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Islamic society, human rights and the death penalty-death penalty in Morocco

Global context

Historically almost all societies have used the death penalty to some extent. Today almost the whole of Europe, most of Latin America and countries such as Australia, New Zealand and Canada have abolished the death penalty from their law and practice. However, some countries like the United States, Guatemala and much of Asia and Africa remain. There are 69 countries still apply the death penalty and about 30 others who still have in their own right.

Current position

In theory, Morocco maintains the death penalty for ordinary crimes and military; However, the death penalty is not carried out since 1993. Article 16 of the Moroccan Penal Code allows the death penalty for murder, torture, armed robbery, arson, treason, desertion or an attempt on the life of the King.

History

The last execution was carried out in 1993 on the head of the Police Commissioner Mohammed Tabet, General Intelligence. He was executed for using his position to rape of hundreds of women and girls.

More recently, there was a man sentenced to death for stabbing a couple of stranger into their home in Rabat. The June 18, 2007, a Moroccan appeals court upheld the death sentence. There are currently 131 people on death row, including 7 women. However, the death penalty is still the constitutional prerogative of the King and King Mohammed VI has not yet signed a death warrant since became King in 1999.

Royal pardon

In Morocco, it is customary to celebrate national holidays and religious with a Royal pardon of prisoners. In November 2005, King Mohammed VI granted royal pardons and reduced sentences to 10,000 prisoners Morocco's 50th anniversary of independence. More recently, the King pardoned 9,000 prisoners to celebrate the birth of his daughter (February 28, 2007). Many death row inmates have seen their death sentences reduced to life sentences through this grace.

Terrorism

In today's political landscape, terrorism is considered the largest obstacle to abolish the death penalty in Morocco. In May 2003, the Moroccan Parliament has approved a new anti-terror law, which made ordinary crimes eligible for the death penalty if they are considered terrorist offences. By August 2005, more than 2,000 people had been charged with crimes related to terrorism. 903 of these were given custodial sentences, while 17 were sentenced to death.

Current debate

In 2003, a civil entity representing 4 organisations, Coalition Nationale pour l'abolition de la Peine de Mort au Maroc (CNAPM), was created to work towards the abolition of capital punishment in Morocco. Capital punishment debate, started by thinks Le Front des Forces (FFD), led to the establishment of a Commission of Jurists to review the Moroccan Penal Code regarding the death penalty. According to Mohamed Bouzabaa, Moroccan Minister of Justice, the review is in an advanced stage and it seems that the debate between Moroccan lawyers is increasingly oriented towards its abolition. In October 2006, it was announced that a bill for the abolition of the death penalty would be presented to Parliament for a vote in spring 2007. Bouchra Khiari, Deputy of the party which leads the project to end capital punishment, FFD, says that the Bill is ready and was presented to the General Secretariat of the Government.

Political positions

For:

The project to end capital punishment is led by thinks Le Front des Forces (FFD). The support is coming from Parties, as the Union Socialiste des forces Populaires (USFP) and The Parti du Progres et du Socialisme (PPS). Malika Oulialy, Member of the PPS, asserts that the abolition of capital punishment in the process of democratization of the country. She believes that it is important for a company to respect the right to life. Ahmed Kouza, Member of Amnesty International, Morocco claims that the death penalty has no place in today's Morocco as "leave no possibility of correction and reintegration for prisoners in society."

Against:

Resistance to the Bill for the abolition of the death penalty is provided by the parties de la Justice et du Développement (PJD). Are the only Government recognized the Islamic party, and argue that the death penalty is consistent with the law of Sharia. Islamic groups claim that Sharia law determines the punishment in crimes such as murder and adultery.

Islam and the death penalty

In support of abolition:

Muslim proponents in favour of abolition take that God has made sacred life, and therefore the abolition of capital punishment does not contradict the teachings of Islam. Oulialy, PPS, says that "Islam has forbidden the killing. Therefore, there is no contradiction between Islam and a culture of human rights. " Qur'anic support for the position: "no one can die except by permission of God, the words being fixed as by writing" (3: 145).

In support of the death penalty:

Many scholars believe that the Qur'an indicates the allowances for capital punishment. The main support for this position is: "not life, which God has made sacred, except for Justice and the right to take. So does he command you, so that you can learn wisdom "(6: 151). Another indication that the Quaranta, supports the use of capital punishment is: "and we prescribe for them in life for life, eye for eye, nose for nose, ear for ear, tooth for tooth, and wounds of retaliation. But anyone you forgive (in the sense of charity), must be the atonement for him. Anyone who considers not what God has revealed, such as wrongdoers "(05:45).

Offences punishable by the death penalty:

According to Islamic law, there is an allowance for the death penalty in cases of intentional murder and Fasad fil ardh (spreading mischief in the land "). This is based on: "...If someone kills a person-unless it be for murder or for spreading mischief in the land-it would be like if he killed all people. And if anyone saves lives, it would be as if he saved the life of all peoples "(05:32). "Spreading mischief in the land" is generally understood to include crimes such as treason, apostacy, terrorism, piracy, rape, adultery and homosexual behavior. The Qur'an give a chance for the victim's family to forgive the perpetrator and forgiveness in encouraged.

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