Morocco - the gateway to Africa filled with some seriously rich diversity, flavour and colour. However, I'm biased of course to this wonderful place I call home. But you will be please to know, it's not only me who thinks this.
Lonely Planet have just revealed the Top 10 Countries to Visit next year and guess who landed in the number 9 spot? Yep, you got it! Morocco.
Why? Well Morocco is all about having a moment. Sitting and enjoying moments with friends. Indulging in glorious food whilst sharing stories of a lifetime with family. Morocco has everything from beaches to snow top mountains, the buzz of city life to serenity across vast desert lands. Why not visit and take a moment for yourself?
Here are just some of the reasons why:
#1 The People
Moroccans certainly have their own flair about them. They are passionate and cheeky but most importantly they are the most welcoming bunch with the warmest of hearts. Moroccans just love to host guests not only does it give them an opportunity to strike up conversation but also showcase their excellent cooking skills that just comes so naturally to them. Morocco is a safe and peaceful country and I believe this is a result of the countries wonderful habitants. Made up of both Arabic and Berber communities, Morocco is known for being one of the most tolerant Arab nations. With their friendly nature, communication is rarely a problem with French and English being widely spoken in tourist areas. Yet even out in rural places communication can still be achieved as words are spoken from the heart and through the eyes. It is actually quite magical the relationship that can be built with simply emotion.
#2 The Food
As mentioned above, Moroccans just seem to have a natural ability to put together exquisite dishes. Whilst bread and meat are a staple part of a Moroccan diet, those who are gluten free and vegetarian (like myself) never fear, you won't be left hungry. With an abundance of spices available throughout Morocco, the food is never lacking flavour, with or without meat. Traditionally, cous cous is served on Fridays and the rest of the week you could be indulging in pastilla, bissara, harira or one of the many flavours of tajine - sweet or spicy. All leaving you with bellies full of love. Click here for more info on Morocco's must try food.
#3 The Ability to Cater to Everyone's Need
Whether it is dipping your toes in a fresh ocean or hiking to the tops of mountains that influences your chosen holiday destination - Morocco has it all and #Marrakech seems to be a good starting point for it all. With the Atlas Mountains and beautiful waterfalls one way, a surfing hot spot in the other way and a modern cosmopolitan city with a buzzing old Medina in a different direction. You can find a life full of sound, flavour and colour all swirling round the people that create the buzz in Jemaa El-Fnaa square. Or escape to the serenity and peace in the High Atlas where only the chirps of the birds and leaves in the wind will be heard. There are three separate ranges, each offering a variety of hiking experiences for those of all levels. Jbel Toubkal is the highest mountain, easily reached rom Marrakech.
#4 Rich History
As you move from city to city throughout Morocco, the stamp of previous settlers can be clearly seen. As the Roman Empire, the French and the Spanish at some point all claimed the country as their own, when Morocco regained independence in 1956, the country kept little pieces of cultural influence from the previous rulers. Berbers are the original habitants of Morocco and are still living in high volume, particularly in Marrakech. Known as the Red City, Marrakesh is famous for its old medina with its many souks, ancient palaces like Badi Palace and Bahia Palace, the Koutoubia Mosque and Saadian Tombs all with their own historical story.
#5 Mesmerising Architecture
The cultural diversity thats has ventured through Morocco over time have contributed to the magnificent architecture that can be seen all over the country. From majestic mosques to traditional riads Morocco has many buildings to appreciate. Zellige - the traditional tile work that features on many Moroccan structures can only be admired.
Are you tempted yet?
Morocco has so much to offer and these are just a few of the reasons why Morocco should be your next holiday destination. Depending on when you visit, expect to find music, dance and traditional storytelling, vibrant souks and steam baths. Take a moment in Morocco. Take a moment at Manira Palm.