Unless you already speak Arabic, you may be wondering how to best communicate with locals when you travel in Morocco. As with any population, Moroccans tend to appreciate visitors who attempt to speak their language. However, in Morocco, Arabic is not your only option! (more…)
The Kingdom of Morocco is a diverse country with an easily recognizable and rich culture. However, when you look closely, Morocco is also a melting pot of foreign influences. The geographic position of Morocco and its history have resulted in a complex web of cultural contributions. Moroccans are extremely proud of this fact and thus view their country as open and welcoming. Apart from the recent and obvious French influence, Morocco has a strong connection to Spain. (more…)
Melilla is a Spanish enclave located on Morocco’s eastern Mediterranean coast. About halfway between the Moroccan cities of Al-Hoceima and Oujda, Melilla is less visited by tourists than its sister city, Ceuta, the other Spanish enclave remaining in North Africa. The city has been under Spanish control since 1496, although it has been an important port city in the Mediterranean since Phoenician times. Now many of this outpost’s inhabitants are Spanish military troops.
If you plan on spending the day in Melilla, start by exploring the old city’s medieval fortifications and enjoying the views of the Mediterranean from its ramparts. Dial in with your cell phone to get an audio walking tour of the old city; you can get the numbers for each city section by calling the Tourist Information Office at 952-67-54-44 or visiting the information kiosk in Plaza de España before you start your tour. (more…)
Morocco may conjure images of sand dunes, dusty mountain trail heads and steamy medina alleyways, but that doesn’t mean those are your only travel options. In fact, not only does Morocco have an extensive coastline to explore, but its coastal cities are some of the most beautiful in the country.
Whether you’re looking for sand or surf, a holiday in Morocco can provide it all. Here are some of the must-see cities on the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts.
Sidi Ifni – In the far south you’ll find Sidi Ifni, a former Spanish port city that still wears much of its history on its sleeve. The town’s art deco architecture is one of the main tourist draws, but don’t overlook the dramatic seaside cliffs and roaring surf below.
Mirlift – Just north of Sidi Ifni is the tiny fishing village of Mirlift. Easily reached by taxi or bus from Tiznit (15 km down the road), it’s an easy day trip, and one that promises a mellow atmosphere. Stroll along the wide sands, collect shells and beach glass or explore the caves on the northern edge of the beach. (more…)
Written and photographed by JBT Director, Lucas Peters, the 2nd edition of Moon Morocco is a detailed, full-colored country guidebook. Guaranteed to inspire travel lust, this edition is a wonderful companion for you while you’re in the planning stages or already in-country.
The 1st edition of Marrakesh & Beyond is a handy pocket-sized traveler. A complimentary guidebook to Moon Morocco, this guide dives deeper into the mysterious souks of the famed “Red City.” With a detailed shopping guide, handy fold-out map, and itineraries for day-tripping from Marrakesh, Lucas brings us another great resource for Morocco!
