Traveling to Morocco: A Journey to the Country of Colors and Diversity

Traveling to Morocco: A Journey to the Country of Colors and Diversity

Morocco is a country located in North West Africa, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. Morocco is characterized by its geographical, cultural and historical diversity, as it includes the high Atlas Mountains, the vast desert, the beautiful coasts, and the old and modern cities. Traveling to Morocco is an opportunity to discover a country rich in colors, flavors, traditions and hospitality.

 Morocco's Landmarks and Cultures

Morocco is a country that boasts its cultural, artistic and religious heritage, which reflects the influences of different civilizations and peoples that passed through or settled in it. Among the prominent cultural landmarks in Morocco:

- The Four Imperial Cities:

 They are Marrakech, Fez, Meknes and Rabat, which were the capitals of the Moroccan states in different stages of history. These cities are distinguished by their architectural, historical and artistic landmarks, such as palaces, mosques, markets, schools, tombs and gardens.

- The Old Cities or the Ancient Cities:

 They are the old parts of the Moroccan cities, which retain their traditional and authentic character. The old cities consist of a network of alleys, houses, shops, workshops, temples and parks. The old cities also include the Jewish quarters or the Mellah, which testify to the coexistence of cultures and religions in Morocco.

- The Kasbahs and the Berber Villages: 

They are groups of fortified and decorated clay houses, which are located in the mountainous, oasis and desert areas. The kasbahs and the Berber villages reflect the history, identity and life of the original inhabitants of Morocco, who descend from the Amazighs. These areas are also famous for the festivals, music, dance and handicrafts of the Berber culture.

- The Archaeological and Historical Sites: 

They are sites dating back to prehistoric times or ancient or medieval or modern times, which witness the development of civilization and society in Morocco. Among these sites: the Hrhoura caves, the Kandoussiya Zawiya, Volubilis, Ouzoud waterfalls, Sebou canal and the Martyrs cemetery.

 Challenges of Traveling to Morocco

Traveling to Morocco is not a difficult or impossible matter, but it may face some challenges or difficulties, which can be overcome by planning, preparation and flexibility. Among these challenges:

- Language:

 The official language of Morocco is Arabic, but it differs from the classical Arabic or the Arabic used in other Arab countries. Also, many Moroccans speak the Amazigh or Berber language, which is divided into several dialects. In addition, many Moroccans speak French, Spanish or English as second languages. Therefore, the traveler may face difficulty in communicating or understanding with some people or in some places. To avoid this problem, the traveler is advised to learn some basic words and phrases in Moroccan Arabic or Amazigh, or use translation applications or seek the help of tourist guides.

• - Transportation:

 Transportation in Morocco is available by various means and options, such as airplanes, trains, buses, taxis and private cars. However, the traveler may face some problems or differences in transportation, such as congestion, delay, crowding, speed, safety, comfort or price. To avoid these problems, the traveler is advised to research and compare between different means of transportation, and book and buy in advance when possible, and make sure of the quality, reliability, license and insurance, and negotiate the fare or agree on the price before riding, and abide by the rules, instructions and respect.

- Culture: 

Moroccan culture is a diverse, multiple and tolerant culture, but it also respects its traditions, customs and values.