1. Travel

MOROCCO, Gateway to Africa (Tanger)

Centuries ago, Moors, Phoenicians, and many other ethnic groups coveted Tanger because of its strategic location at the mouth of the Mediterranean. Pirates lurked about the sea from the 1300s through the 1800s and beyond. Nowadays, ferries and commercial vessels arrive and depart daily from the busy port. The Iberian Peninsula is only about 6.5 nautical miles from this “Gateway to Africa.”

In 1777, US relationships began with Morocco, the first country to recognize American independence. Recently, the two friends signed a free trade agreement.

The main draws in Tanger are the La Medina and the nearby Kasbah, the Islamic city itself or its soul. The sprawling concrete fortress which once protected rulers’ homes and upper-end businesses is also called the Kasbah.

Beggars, rich men, and pickpockets frequent the bustling Medina or huge open marketplace. There one's senses are tested as tantalizing aromas waft from bread carts and herbal shops. The chant of the Muslim prayer caller resonates at least five times a day. Local cuisine and hot tea is tangy and delicious. The touch of cottony kaftans or wool and silk woven Berber carpets is soothing. The colorful sights of live rabbits, native garb, and intricate architecture invite the visitor to pause.

To learn about my zany experience, check:

http://www.gallagherstravels.com
Destination: Morocco
"Cavorting in the Kasbah"

To arrange a tour, contact:
* http://www.moroccodestination.com
(703) 707-6449
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This man with gentle eyes is one of many beggers found roaming the streets of Tangier. As an after thought, after giving him a few coins, I asked his permission to photograph him.
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This man with gentle eyes is one of many beggers found roaming the streets of Tangier. As an after thought, after giving him a few coins, I asked his permission to photograph him.

morocco109

  • This man with gentle eyes is one of many beggers found roaming the streets of Tangier. As an after thought, after giving him a few coins, I asked his permission to photograph him.
  • CAMEL ROCK 2 near Hercules Cave, outside Tanger, Morocco
  • Tangier Harbor
  • A vegetable vendor in La Medina, the open marketplace where tantalizing aromas and other rarities drive a woman pleasantly "mad."
  • A marketplace shopper garbed in a kaftan, the traditional dress.
  • A green pepper vendor peddles his cargo in La Medina.
  • A young mother amuses his children in the Kasbah.
  • Canine respite at the beach near Hercules Cave.
  • Nordin, the spice vendor, showcases his wares.
  • The enticing aroma from French bakeries wafts into the streets.
  • Ah, the snake charmer. For the right amount of dirhams, he will perform just for you.
  • A holy man goes to market.
  • After carousing the market, how about a fine dish of fresh chicken & veggies atop couscous?
  • Look closely. One of these camels is "grinning."
  • The 40 thieves, from whom  Ali Baba, may emerge from these earthen pots.
  • Within Hercules Cave, one can view the raging sea.
  • Here's a fuller view of the unbridled sea from Hercules Cave.
  • There is familiarity in Tangier like this beautiful duo of hibiscus.
  • Ah, a guide at Hercules Cave. Walk over here & for a few more dirham, I will tell you more about the wonders of this cave. Ha.
  • Baby Camel at Hercules Cave
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