Travel

Can you see Spain from Tangier?

The Best Things to Do in Tangier, Morocco

You know about Morocco, but do you know about Tangier? Rich in history, this important port guards the Strait of Gibraltar and is Europe’s gateway to Africa. For historical reasons, Tangier has a seedy reputation but this is no longer justified. These days, Tangier is a thriving and interesting city, with a multicultural identity and a relaxed lifestyle. I went to Tangier as a child and only vague memories of it. However, on my recent trip, I had great pleasure in rediscovering this beautiful place and I have a list of the best things to do in Tangier, Morocco.

Babouches are my favourite thing to buy in Morocco

Morocco Shopping Guide: the Best Things to Buy

Morocco is a fascinating and exotic destination with many different reasons to visit. With a rich and ancient artisan tradition, the temptation of unbridled shopping is everywhere. The markets are full of items for sale and it’s hard to know where to start. Also, the handmade arts are strongly valued in Morocco and contemporary artisans are adapting age-old know-how in order to craft beautiful wares. Indeed, you have the choice between an artisan or a modern shopping experience. With many trips to Morocco stamped in my passport, I have crafted the ultimate Morocco shopping guide to help you decide how to spend your money.

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Tetouan: the Most Interesting Street Photography in Morocco

Tetouan… The name may not be familiar if you are planning a trip to Morocco, but I’ve had it at the back of my mind for a long time. I remember it from an epic road trip with my father in the early 1980s. We drove from Portugal to Morocco in an old-style red Toyota and went through Tangier and the Rif Mountains. I don’t remember much from Tetouan, only that I had been there. And since, the name intrigued me and I had to go back. I only took an overnight stop in Tetouan on my road trip from Tangier to Chefchaouen but that was enough to charm me. Tetouan has been described as a “jewel of a town at the foot of the Rif Mountains” and I couldn’t put it better myself…

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How to Get Close to the Controversial Spanish Islands of Morocco

Travelling through the North of Morocco, I took the measure of the Spanish influence of Morocco. Spanish is still widely spoken in places like Tangier, Chefchaouen and Tetouan, which was a surprise to me… But there is an even bigger remnant of Spanish influence in Morocco. Believe it or not, there are islands or rock-fortresses gently nestled against the Mediterranean Coast where the Spanish flag still flies. It’s been like this since the 15th Century and is a serious point of contention between the two nations. They cannot be visited but here are a few tips on how to get close to the controversial Spanish Islands of Morocco.

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12 Things to Do in Super Cool Essaouira, Morocco

When thinking of Morocco, most people picture the Sahara desert and a bunch of camels… This is true but Morocco is incredibly diverse and the Atlantic Coast is part of the adventure. Essaouira, the “Windy City of Africa” is a romantic and lively stopover in your Moroccan itinerary. With its history as a commercial hub and a hippy hangout, Essaouira is a place to be, for enjoyment and experience. Whilst it doesn’t have as many stand-out historical features as other places, Essaouira is easily worth a couple of days. I love the chilled vibe of Essaouira and it’s one of my favourite places in Morocco. The Atlantic Ocean is a powerful force and offers a lovely respite from the heat of Marrakech Here are 12 things to do in super cool Essaouira, Morocco.