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MOROCCO
Morocco is found in the Northwestern corner of Africa, with a population of almost 34 million people. It is approximately 172,000 square miles and is the 57th largest country in the world (just a little larger than California). Arabic is the native language here, French a close second and English a third.
Moroccan cuisine is as delicious as it is diverse (and its considered one of the most diverse in the world, as it is a blend of Berber, Spanish, Corsican, Portuguese, Moorish, Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and African. The herbs and spices make the Moroccan dishes stand out: mint, saffron, curries as well as things such as fresh olives, oranges, lemons and figs. Chicken is the most popular dish, followed by beef and lamb. Well known dishes from this area include couscous, tajine, and pastilla (often stuffed with pigeon but as they say in the US...tastes like chicken). And lets not forget the divine mint tea served everywhere, made of green tea, fresh mint leaves and sugar. For those of you in the south with a passion for sweet tea...the fresh mint takes this tea to a whole new level of yumminess!
There is a bit of poverty to be found in Marrakesh - 40% of its population. As a result, homeless folks and beggars are around, but pose no threat (besides your occasional offer of a coin here and there - its all about good karma). The residents of Marrakesh are known for their graciousness and we experienced just that. In all the travels we've made over the years, no location can compare to the service and generosity we were extended in our short visit here. There is a definite pride and passion with the residents here, and they always wear beautiful smiles on their faces while singing the saying, "As you like....". Marrakeshi's are eager to please and they do it in the biggest of ways. I cannot say enough about the people of Marrakesh. If the beautiful architecture and scrumptious foods don't hook you, the people will.
The Sahara Desert lies just on the outskirts of Marrakesh and its possible to venture out on camel for camping trips, should time permit (which it did not for us). The High Atlas mountains can be spotted on the Marrakesh horizon and are ski-able during the winter (highest peak is around 14,000 feet). And then there is the ocean, as well as lush green national parks. So I ask....what does Morocco not offer?
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