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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The bread man inspects his product.
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The bread man inspects his product.

morocco055

  • Muslim family outing on a Sunday afternoon. Their holy day observed on Friday.
  • Tangier Jazz Band
  • A rooftop glimpse of Tangier's Harbor
  • Live chickens are sold at La Medina.
  • A potluck dinner....the chickens & the eggs...
  • La Medina, the open marketplace, never ceased to amaze me.
  • The bread man inspects his product.
  • The bread man makes some dough.
  • Tangier Beach from a hilltop
  • Another colorful rooftop scene of Tangier's diverse assortment of architecture
  • A magic carpet shop in the Kasbah
  • A "flying carpet" shop in the Kasbah...<br />
Now, perhaps I can truly become a frequent flyer & save $$$ on airfare!
  • Take your pick of local fruits, veggies & relishes at La Medina.
  • A mosque for women...So, why are these men loitering outside?
  • My protective guide, Mohammed, led me places in his city I would not have otherwise seen. This fortress once safeguarded this ancient city. The panorama from this sea wall of sorts was fabulous.
  • Mother camel nuzzles her little one.
  • Middle of town rush hour...
  • Behold, Aladdin's magic lamps and polished furnishings.
  • A vendor peddles melons at La Medina.
  • The Mosque in Tangier's heartland.
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