From my original archive
Morocco
Destination overview
About this destination
Morocco lies in northwestern Africa, with Atlantic and Mediterranean coastlines. Rabat is its capital, while Casablanca is an important economic centre. The Atlas and Rif mountains create a contrast with coastal plains and desert regions.
Arabic and Amazigh are official languages. Historic medinas in cities such as Fez and Marrakesh preserve rich urban traditions. Courtyards, markets and craft workshops reveal varied architectural and cultural influences.
Agriculture, maritime trade and caravan connections have shaped different parts of the country. Its landscapes and regional food traditions reflect a meeting of Mediterranean, Atlantic, African and Amazigh histories.
My connection
Tourist visit.
Original archive notes and photographs
My original travel notes
Morocco is a country in North Africa that borders the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It has a varied landscape that includes mountains, deserts, oases, and beaches. It is known for its rich history, culture, and architecture that reflect its Arab-Berber heritage and its influences from Europe and Sub-Saharan Africa.
Morocco has a population of about 37 million people, of which about 72% are of Arab origin and 21% are of Berber origin. The official languages are Arabic and Berber, but French is widely used as a second language. The majority of the population is Sunni Muslim, but there are also small minorities of Christians and Jews.
Morocco has a moderate quality of life and well-being, according to various indicators. It has a developing economy that relies on agriculture, tourism, industry, and remittances. It has a low life expectancy, a high fertility rate, and a high infant mortality rate. It also struggles with poverty, illiteracy, corruption, human rights violations, and political instability.
Personal memories
During a cruise, we stopped in Casablanca and visited Marrakech and Rabat. I was pleasantly surprised by the roads, fruit markets, stalls, spices and Moroccan cuisine.
As I already knew from meeting Moroccans elsewhere, people were friendly. Some were a little crafty, particularly in tourist areas, but I took that as part of the experience.
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