Morocco July 2000

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Executive Summary

The FlamStings went to Morocco, in July of 2000 for a couple of weeks of cultural exchange, hiking, and visiting relatives...

Map

This is a map of the 'northern' part of Morocco. The country is in the process of annexing  what used to be called the Spanish Sahara. The major cities are Casablanca (where the international airport is), Rabat (the seat of government), Fez (the soul of Morocco), the northern port of Tangier, and Marrakech which was our gateway to the Atlas Mountains. 

Of general traveler interest:

• The people are courteous, curious, and cautious. Mostly Moslem, you'll hear tape recorded prayers blasted at all hours. Respect their standards of propriety when visiting their monuments and Mosques. That means wear clothes that cover.
• Read the State Department Advisory for Morocco.
• The durham is the unit of money in Morocco. Equivalent to about a dime. US currency is recognized and accepted most places. Your VISA card also works.
• Rug merchants live up to their reputation, mint tea can be poured from great heights.
• If you go on a tour of a tannery, do not refuse the mint leaf gas mask offered. 
• Bring water filters and be ready to buy water in quantity. Two brands are available, Sidi Ali and Sidi Harazem, of which Sidi Ali is the tastier.
• When you go out to eat, you may be approached by a person who basically extorts money (maybe 10 dh) from you for the ostensible service he performed, that of "guarding" your car. They are supposed to have a blue coat-like shirt on to be able to run this racket. Enjoy the protection, you are not in Kansas anymore.
• Sunscreen is your friend; you can always take off that goofy hat for pictures.

Some Vocabulary

•  Suq - pronounced 'suke' is the name for a local store.
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Last update: Tuesday, January 02, 2001