Before visiting Morocco, I hadn’t heard much about this North African country. It is bordered by the Atlantic, the Mediterranean, and the Strait of Gibraltar to the west and north, as well as the Sahara desert and Algeria to the south and east. So, I turned to the internet to find out what to expect, when I visit Morocco.
As usual, the results were a mix of wildly differing opinions.
Conflicting Reviews
Searching for reasons to visit Morocco online can leave you more confused than enlightened. You’ll find dazzling reviews (“Visit Morocco, and you’ll wonder where it’s been all your life!”). Mixed opinions (“Morocco is great, but you have to haggle over prices in the souks, which can be exhausting”). Foodie reviews (“Why you must eat a beef tagine before you leave the Kingdom of Light!”), and random articles tied to the writer’s profession or hobbies. “I am a professional photographer: here are all the picture-perfect places to visit in Morocco”.
These reviews are all great, but for me, they didn’t quite tell the story of the Moroccan people are. They don’t describe the general vibe, and what one should expect to see as an African in another African country.
My Experience
So, here’s my opinion of what you’ll most likely notice after a few hours in Morocco. It might not resonate with you, but I hope it gives you a new perspective on this country.
But first, a quick disclaimer…
My short stay in Morocco meant I did not get to explore the country as I would have loved to. However, I saw enough to give me a general idea about the country and its people. I spent only 5 days in Morocco, and I did not get to experience the more laid-back charm of the cities of Essaouira and Fez (or Fes if you like). I also didn’t get to see the stark beauty of the desert town of Merzouga. While I toured the more popular cities of Tangier, Casablanca, and Marrakech, my visit cannot give a conclusive summary of this beautiful country. Nevertheless, here’s everything I noticed in just a short amount of time.
The Rich Culture
From the moment we landed in Casablanca, I got the impression that Morocco is a kingdom of ancient traditions and long-held cultural values. This is evident in the homogeneous architecture and the prevalent craftsmanship seen in the designs on the ceilings and walls. The furniture and accents in homes, hotels, and other commercial establishments, and the handcrafted items available for sale in souks all over the cities. Moroccans are incredibly proud of their culture and traditions, and it shows everywhere and in everything.
A Feast for the Eyes
Everywhere you go, it is common to see hand-designed patterns on the walls and ceilings, such as the stunning designs at La Musee des Confluences in Marrakech.
Beauty and Skincare
Moroccan traditions extend to beauty and skincare. You’d have heard of argan oil and its numerous benefits, but, in Morocco, you would see it in action everywhere you go. Argan oil, known for its numerous benefits, is used extensively. In Tangier, vendors offered customised body oils featuring argan oil and other ingredients like cloves, rosemary, and black seeds.
With an underlying pride and a hint of emotion in their voices, all said the same thing: their formulations are potent and would work because they use age-old recipes. Recipes inherited from their parents who in turn learned it from their parents who unsurprisingly were taught by their own parents …Their pride in these age-old recipes was evident!
Culinary Delights
Moroccan cuisine is definitely a highlight! It doesn’t matter if you’re in a 5-star hotel restaurant, a Michelin-endorsed dining establishment, or a street café. You’ll be served traditional Moroccan dishes, including the famous tagines. One of my most profound memories was being welcomed by hotel staff in traditional attire, serving mint tea and delicious sweets. This experience rivaled my first taste of beef tagine in a quaint restaurant in Chefchaouen.
An Active Lifestyle
Moroccans are walkers. The cities are designed with narrow alleyways and strategically placed amenities, encouraging walking. Taxis are mostly for tourists or those who cannot walk due to distance or health reasons. This lifestyle contributes to the fitness of older locals. The life expectancy in Morocco is between 73-74 years, but judging from the energetic crowds, it just might be closer to 80.
The Verdict
If you’re wondering whether to visit Morocco this summer or next, I’ll say, “Go!”
Because the pictures show a fabulous country to vacation in.
You’ve heard so much and want to see if the hype is true.
You crave authenticity and adventure in your travels.
But ultimately, go because you will learn so much, from the importance of preserving culture and traditions to the beauty of taking pride in who you are and being unapologetic about it.